Upcoming Union Budget to focus on boosting pulses and oilseeds production

12-Nov-2025 06:02 PM

New Delhi. Farmer organizations and agricultural economists have urged the Central Government to announce specific measures in the upcoming Union Budget to increase domestic production of pulses and oilseeds, thereby reducing dependence on foreign imports of pulses and specialty oils and providing Indian farmers with opportunities to earn better incomes.

In a pre-budget meeting with the Finance Minister earlier this week, farmer organizations stated that the credit limit for the agricultural sector should be increased. This will facilitate the procurement of resources.

It is noteworthy that, as is customary, the Finance Minister has initiated pre-budget discussions with various sectors.

This began with a meeting with the agricultural sector on November 10, 2025, attended by a total of 14 representatives from farmer organizations and economists. The Secretary of Economic Affairs and the Secretary of Agriculture were also present at the meeting.

The Union Budget for the financial year 2026-27 (April-March) is expected to be presented in the Lok Sabha on February 1, 2026. Farmers' organizations are not new to the need to increase pulses and oilseeds production.

This was strongly advocated last year, and the Finance Minister made some significant announcements in the budget. This included the launch of a Pulse Self-Sufficiency Mission. This six-year mission called for a special focus on pigeon pea, black gram, and red lentils.

Furthermore, a plan was also emphasized to increase the production of oilseeds and oil palm. To this end, a mission for edible oilseeds is being implemented. India remains the world's largest importer of edible oils and pulses.