New Delhi, Jan. 21 -- India's agriculture sector, employing about 42.3% of the population and contributing 18.2% to the GDP, is a key driver of rural development and economic growth. But it faces challenges such as climate change, inconsistent crop yields, and lack of adequate modernization. As a result, the agriculture industry will closely monitor the upcoming Union Budget for FY26.

The agriculture budget has seen a 379% surge over the past decade, from Rs.27,662.67 crore in 2013-14 to Rs.1,32,469.86 crore in 2024-25. The upcoming budget is expected to include further allocations to encourage farmers to boost cotton production through the Bhawantar scheme, a pilot for which is already on. This reflects a larger shift towards supporting...