By Admin 
Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, while presenting her ninth consecutive budget in the Parliament, has made several important announcements for farmers and agriculture related sectors. In the Union Budget 2026, the government has clearly indicated that now the focus in farming will be increased not only on traditional crops but also on high-value crops, so that the income of farmers can be increased. The Finance Minister said that the government is working towards diversifying agricultural production, increasing productivity and creating new employment opportunities in rural areas. In such a situation, let us now tell you how those cultivating sandalwood, cashew, cocoa, walnut, almond and coconut will benefit and how they will get help from the government for this.
Government’s big focus on coconut-cashew and cocoa
During the budget speech, the Finance Minister said that India is the largest coconut producing country in the world and about three crore people are dependent on its cultivation and related works. Keeping this in mind, the government has announced a special scheme to increase coconut production and improve productivity. Under this scheme, new and better varieties of trees will be planted by removing non-productive trees in major coconut producing states. Besides, separate programs have also been proposed for cashew and cocoa. So that India can become self-reliant in the production of raw cashew and cocoa and exports can be promoted.
Sandalwood cultivation will regain its old glory
The Finance Minister also emphasized the cultural and economic importance of Indian sandalwood. He said that sandalwood is not just a crop but a part of the cultural identity of the country. The government will work with the states on sandalwood cultivation, conservation and value chain development, so that its lost dignity can be restored. This is expected to increase the income of farmers and communities dependent on forest sector.
Crops like walnuts and almonds will get support
Nuts and high value crops have also been given attention in the Union Budget 2026. The Finance Minister said that farmers will be encouraged to invest in nutritious and high value crops like walnuts, pine nuts and almonds. Especially in North East and other suitable areas, farmers will be encouraged for this. Whereas Nirmala Sitharaman said that small and marginal farmers have been kept at the center in this budget. The objective of the government is to permanently increase the income of farmers through such schemes, so that farming can become a profitable and sustainable profession.
Also read-Bamboo cultivation will become a strong source of income in Bihar, the government is giving 50 percent subsidy.