As the Union Budget 2026 approaches, expectations are running high among farmers across India. The budget, scheduled to be presented on February 1, 2026, is being closely watched by the farming community, especially amid rising agricultural input costs and persistent inflation. At the center of these expectations is the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) scheme, under which farmers are currently provided annual financial assistance of ₹6,000.

Farmers and agricultural experts believe that the existing support amount is no longer sufficient to meet today’s farming expenses. As a result, one of the biggest demands ahead of Budget 2026 is an increase in the PM-KISAN payout, with many hoping the government will raise it to ₹10,000 per year.

PM-KISAN Scheme: A Quick Overview

The Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi scheme was launched in December 2018 with the objective of providing direct income support to small and marginal farmers. Under the scheme, eligible farmers receive ₹6,000 annually, paid in three equal installments of ₹2,000 each. The amount is transferred directly into the beneficiaries’ bank accounts, ensuring transparency and timely support.

Since its introduction, PM-KISAN has played an important role in offering financial relief to farmers, particularly those with limited landholdings. However, with changing economic conditions, many now feel that the scheme needs to be revised to remain effective.

Why Farmers Are Demanding a Higher Amount

Over the past few years, the cost of farming has increased significantly. Prices of essential inputs such as fertilizers, seeds, pesticides, diesel, and agricultural machinery have risen steadily. In addition, labor costs and transportation expenses have also gone up, putting further pressure on farmers’ incomes.

In this context, farmers argue that the current assistance of ₹6,000 per year is too low to make a meaningful difference. Increasing the PM-KISAN amount could help farmers invest more confidently in better seeds, modern equipment, and improved farming techniques, ultimately leading to higher productivity and better yields.

Impact Beyond Farmers: Boost to Rural Economy

An increase in PM-KISAN support is expected to have a ripple effect beyond individual farmers. Higher cash transfers could strengthen rural purchasing power, leading to increased spending in local markets. This, in turn, would benefit small businesses, traders, and service providers in rural areas.

Economists believe that stronger rural demand can contribute positively to overall economic growth, especially at a time when balanced development between urban and rural regions is crucial. Therefore, a revision in the PM-KISAN payout could act as both a social welfare measure and an economic stimulus.

Why Expectations Are Higher This Time

Discussions around increasing PM-KISAN benefits have surfaced in previous budgets as well, but expectations are particularly high ahead of Budget 2026. Rising inflation, climate-related challenges, and fluctuating crop prices have made farming more uncertain than ever. Against this backdrop, farmers are looking to the government for stronger policy support.

With agriculture remaining a key pillar of India’s economy and a major source of employment, experts argue that prioritizing farmers’ income in the budget would send a strong positive signal.

February 1: A Crucial Date for Farmers

Farmers’ organizations and rural households are now eagerly awaiting February 1, when Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will present the Union Budget 2026. The key question remains whether the government will announce an increase in PM-KISAN assistance and address the long-standing demand of the farming community.

If the budget includes a higher allocation for the PM-KISAN scheme, it could bring much-needed relief to millions of farmers. Until then, hopes remain high and all eyes are firmly fixed on the upcoming budget announcements.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. Farmers and readers are advised to rely on official government announcements for final policy decisions.