Chennai, 06 August (H.S.): Tamil Nadu Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister R. Vinoth will present the State’s Agriculture Budget for 2026-27 in the Legislative Assembly on Thursday, amid expectations of measures aimed at easing farmers’ debt burden, improving crop returns and strengthening resilience against climate-related challenges.
The separate Agriculture Budget comes a day after Finance Minister N. Marie Wilson presented the Revised Budget Estimates for 2026-27, the first Budget of the TVK government led by Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay.
A possible waiver of cooperative crop loans is expected to be among the key issues in focus. Farmers’ organisations have sought waiver of loans availed up to February 28, 2026, and are awaiting details on whether the government will announce a comprehensive relief package.
Higher procurement prices for major crops are another key demand. Paddy and sugarcane are expected to receive particular attention, with farmers seeking enhanced incentives over existing support prices, reduction in cultivation costs and prompt payment for produce procured by government agencies.
Measures to strengthen procurement centres and make the procurement process easier for farmers could also figure prominently in the Budget.
Climate-related risks are expected to form another important component of the government’s agricultural strategy. Erratic rainfall, drought and changing monsoon patterns have affected cultivation and farm incomes in several parts of Tamil Nadu.
The government is likely to focus on irrigation infrastructure, water conservation and drought mitigation, particularly in the Cauvery delta and drought-prone southern districts. Farm mechanisation, storage facilities, technology adoption and development of food processing and allied sectors could also receive attention.
The Revised Budget presented on Wednesday earmarked ₹14,984 crore for the Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Department.
With the TVK government undertaking its first major budgetary exercise after assuming office, the Agriculture Budget will be closely watched for concrete measures to fulfil its commitments to farmers while laying out a longer-term roadmap for improving agricultural productivity and rural incomes.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman
