1. Recent State Policy Updates
Maharashtra Announces ₹5,000 Crore Irrigation Expansion Plan
The Maharashtra government has approved a major irrigation expansion project covering 12 drought-prone districts in Vidarbha and Marathwada. The scheme aims to bring an additional 8 lakh hectares under assured irrigation by 2027, benefiting over 15 lakh farmers.
Punjab Introduces Incentive Scheme to Curb Stubble Burning
The Punjab government has launched a ₹2,500 per acre incentive for farmers who adopt in-situ crop residue management instead of burning paddy stubble. The scheme is backed by a ₹1,200 crore fund and includes free distribution of Happy Seeder machines through cooperatives.
Andhra Pradesh Extends Farm Loan Waiver to Cover Allied Sectors
The state government has expanded its farm loan waiver scheme to include loans taken for dairy, poultry, and fisheries activities. Loans up to ₹2 lakh per farmer will be waived, covering an estimated 28 lakh beneficiaries across the state.
2. Key State Agricultural Schemes
Karnataka Launches "Organic Karnataka" Mission
Karnataka has set a target to bring 10 lakh hectares under certified organic farming by 2028. The mission provides ₹10,000 per hectare subsidy for organic certification, free soil testing, and market linkage support through state-run organic outlets.
Tamil Nadu Deploys 500 Drone Sprayers for Pest Management
The Tamil Nadu Agriculture Department has procured 500 drone sprayers to be deployed through Custom Hiring Centres across all districts. Farmers can hire drones at ₹400 per acre, significantly reducing pesticide use and labour costs.
3. Farmer Movements & Demands
Rajasthan Farmers Demand Legal Guarantee for MSP
Farmer organizations in Rajasthan have intensified their demand for a legal guarantee on Minimum Support Price (MSP) for all 23 notified crops. A state-wide rally was held in Jaipur, with representatives from over 400 farmer unions participating. The state government has agreed to form a committee to study the feasibility.
UP Sugarcane Farmers Protest Over Pending Dues
Sugarcane farmers in western Uttar Pradesh have staged protests over pending cane price arrears from sugar mills. The state government has directed mills to clear dues within 30 days or face action under the Sugarcane Control Order. Pending dues are estimated at over ₹8,000 crore.
4. State Agriculture Budget Highlights (2025–26)
| State | Agriculture Budget (₹ Crore) | Key Allocation |
|---|---|---|
| Uttar Pradesh | 12,500 | Irrigation, PM-KISAN top-up, FPO support |
| Maharashtra | 9,800 | Drought relief, horticulture, drip irrigation |
| Punjab | 6,200 | Crop diversification, stubble management |
| Karnataka | 7,400 | Organic farming, sericulture, horticulture |
| Andhra Pradesh | 8,100 | Loan waiver, aquaculture, natural farming |
| Tamil Nadu | 5,900 | Mechanization, FPOs, price stabilization |
| Madhya Pradesh | 7,800 | Soybean MSP, irrigation, soil health cards |
| Rajasthan | 6,500 | Water conservation, dryland farming, MSP |