By A Staff Reporter
New Delhi: As the Union Budget 2025 approaches, there is growing anticipation around reforms in the agriculture sector. Scheduled to be presented on February 1, this will be the first full budget of the Modi government’s third term. Expectations are high, particularly regarding measures to address long-standing challenges faced by farmers and enhance the agriculture industry’s overall efficiency.
Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan has already initiated pre-budget discussions with various stakeholders, including agricultural organizations, entrepreneurs, and industry representatives, focusing on increasing farmer incomes and resolving sectoral challenges. A pre-budget meeting at Krishi Bhavan included representatives from NABARD, CII, PHD Chamber of Commerce, and other key organizations, as well as Agriculture Secretary Debesh Chaturvedi.
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The meeting highlighted vital concerns such as value addition in agriculture, export promotion, expansion of agricultural research, and the protection of farmers’ interests. It also delved into possible reforms to strengthen the sector and manage domestic expenditure.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently released 109 new crop varieties developed by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), aimed at boosting production and farmer income. These advancements have raised hopes for greater emphasis on innovation and technology in this year’s budget.
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The budget is expected to outline measures to modernize the sector, improve exports, and strengthen safety nets for farmers. Whether these initiatives will translate into tangible benefits for farmers and address their pressing issues remains a key question. All eyes are on February 1 as the nation waits to see if the central government’s proposals will finally bring transformative change to Indian agriculture.