Union Budget 2026: FM Sitharaman unveils livestock, fisheries and high-value crop initiatives

In a bid to boost rural incomes and create jobs beyond traditional farming, Union finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Sunday announced a slew of initiatives for livestock, fisheries and high-value agriculture while presenting the Union Budget 2026-27 in the Lok Sabha.Highlighting the importance of livestock for small and marginal farmers, Sitharaman said it contributes nearly 16% of farm income. She announced a loan-linked capital subsidy scheme to increase veterinary professionals by over 20,000 and support private sector veterinary colleges, hospitals, diagnostic labs and breeding centres. For fisheries, the government will develop 500 reservoirs and Amrit Sarovars and strengthen value chains in coastal areas, with market access facilitated through startups, women-led groups, and Fish Farmers Producer Organisations.The budget also proposes a credit-linked subsidy programme for animal husbandry entrepreneurship, alongside modernisation of livestock enterprises and creation of integrated dairy, poultry and livestock value chains.On high-value crops, Sitharaman announced a Coconut Promotion Scheme to replace ageing trees with high-yielding varieties in key coconut-growing states. “About 30 million people, including nearly 10 million farmers, depend on coconuts for their livelihood,” she said, noting India is the world’s largest producer.A dedicated programme for cashew and cocoa aims to make India self-reliant in production and processing, enhance export competitiveness, and transform them into premium global brands by 2030.Sandalwood cultivation and post-harvest processing will be promoted in collaboration with state governments to “restore the glory of the Indian sandalwood ecosystem,” reflecting the crop’s cultural and economic significance.For hilly regions, the government will support the rejuvenation of old orchards and high-density cultivation of walnuts, almonds, and pine nuts, emphasising value addition and youth engagement.The initiatives aim to improve productivity, boost farmer incomes, and expand employment opportunities across agriculture and allied sectors.(With inputs from PTI)