Telangana agriculture allocation tops Rs.23,179 crore, irrigation Rs.22,615 crore
Hyderabad: The Telangana government allocated Rs.23,179 crore for agriculture and Rs.22,615 crore for irrigation in the 2026-27 Budget, Finance Minister Bhatti Vikramarka Mallu said in his budget speech on Friday.
The Telangana agriculture allocation reflected the State’s focus on strengthening the agrarian economy. The government aimed to improve farmer incomes and expand irrigation infrastructure. It also planned to promote sustainable farming practices.
The Finance Minister said Telangana emerged as a leading State in agricultural productivity. This was due to consistent policy support and irrigation expansion. He added that farmers remained central to the State’s economy.
Under the Rythu Bharosa scheme, farmers received Rs.6,000 per acre per season. This amounted to Rs.12,000 annually for two crops. The support aimed to reduce input costs and ensure financial stability.
The government also provided Rs.500 per quintal incentive for fine paddy. Farmers could earn an additional Rs.12,500 per acre per season. This increased to Rs.25,000 annually for two crops.
Telangana recorded strong paddy production. Cultivation covered over 1 crore acres, with output reaching 284 lakh metric tonnes. The State also exported rice to global markets.
Telangana agriculture allocation strengthens irrigation and diversification
The Telangana agriculture allocation worked alongside major irrigation investments. The government prioritised completion of pending irrigation projects. It also focused on restoring existing infrastructure.
Lift irrigation schemes and reservoir works were taken up across regions. These projects aimed to improve water availability and distribution. The government said it was addressing delays in inherited projects.
Desiltation of reservoirs was also planned. Many projects had lost storage capacity due to silt. The State will follow national guidelines to restore efficiency.
Crop diversification remained a priority. The government promoted horticulture crops such as mango, chilli and turmeric. Expansion of oil palm and micro-irrigation systems was also planned.
Tribal agriculture received attention under the Indira Soura Giri Jala Vikasam scheme. The government will provide solar pump sets with full subsidy. Over 2 lakh farmers are expected to benefit.
The State also encouraged plantation of forest-based crops in tribal areas. This aimed to improve incomes and support environmental conservation.
Food security remained a key focus. The Public Distribution System supplied fine rice to over 3 crore beneficiaries. The government expanded coverage by issuing new ration cards.
Overall, the Telangana agriculture allocation aimed to boost productivity, ensure water security and improve farmer incomes through integrated support and infrastructure.