- Agriculture funding reduced by 3%, but key programs like RKVY and Natural Farming see increased investments.
- New schemes like DADP and Mission for Pulses aim to improve agricultural productivity.
- Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma destroys ₹27 crore worth of poppy fields to combat drug cultivation.
Despite a 3% reduction in the overall agricultural budget for 2025-26, the government has focused on enhancing natural farming initiatives.
Meanwhile, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma made headlines for his strong stance against illegal poppy cultivation in Goalpara district. Over 170 bighas of poppy, valued at ₹27 crore, were destroyed by Assam Police in January.
Assam CM Tackles Poppy Cultivation as Union Budget Shifts Focus to Sustainable Farming
The Union Budget for agriculture in 2025-26 has seen a decrease in overall funding, with an allocation of Rs 1,27,290 crore, down from Rs 1,31,195 crore in the previous year. However, the government has prioritized natural farming, with the National Mission on Natural Farming receiving a significant 500% increase in funding. Additionally, other important schemes such as the Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY) and the Krishonnati scheme have seen notable increases, signaling a shift towards sustainable agricultural practices.
In a bid to enhance agricultural productivity, the government has launched several flagship schemes. The Prime Minister Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana (DADP) aims to improve crop intensity and agricultural output in 100 districts. The scheme will support 1.7 crore farmers in areas with low productivity, providing them with resources for irrigation, credit access, and post-harvest storage facilities.
To bolster pulses production, a new six-year Mission for Aatmanirbharta in Pulses was introduced, with a focus on increasing self-reliance in the production of Tur, Urad, and Masoor. The government is also setting up a Makhana Board to improve production, processing, and marketing of this important crop, especially in Bihar. These initiatives are designed to enhance food security and strengthen the agricultural sector.
On the ground in Assam, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma’s bold actions against illegal poppy cultivation have garnered attention. Over 170 bighas of poppy fields in Goalpara district were destroyed, worth an estimated ₹27 crore. Sarma’s social media post condemned the cultivation of illegal drugs, delivering a strong message that such activities will be actively dismantled by local authorities.
The Union Budget’s emphasis on natural farming and agricultural growth comes alongside a crackdown on illegal activities, like poppy cultivation, as seen in Assam. The dual approach aims to promote sustainable practices while ensuring the safety of communities.
“Dear Local Pablo Escobars, Sorry to spoil your planned Udta Assam party!” – Himanta Biswa Sarma
