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Union Budget 2026: Jammu’s Basmati farmers seek MSP relief ahead of February 1

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As the Union Budget approaches, basmati rice farmers in Jammu’s RS Pura sector near the International Border are looking to the Centre for much-needed support.

The region is known for its premium basmati rice, celebrated for its aroma, taste and long, slender grains. Yet farmers say cultivating the crop has become increasingly unviable due to the lack of a Minimum Support Price, as basmati is categorised as a high-value commercial crop.

Without MSP protection, growers say they are forced to rely on private traders, leaving them vulnerable to price volatility and reduced earnings. Ahead of the Budget, farmers are calling for basmati rice to be brought under the MSP umbrella or for the government to create a formal procurement mechanism that ensures stable and fair prices.

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will present the second full Budget of the Modi government’s third term on February 1. Farmers in RS Pura say they are keenly awaiting announcements they hope will strengthen their incomes and secure the future of basmati farming in the border region.

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