Budget may help improve farm profitability, say industry leaders

Pune: Industry has welcomed the thrust on agriculture and allied sectors in the Union budget presented today and hope it will improve farm profitability.

Sanjiv Bajaj Chairman, CII Western Region and MD & CEO, Bajaj Finserv Ltd,“I congratulate the FM for adopting a holistic approach towards Union Budget encompassing - Aspirational India, Economic Development and Caring Society. The thrust on Agriculture & Allied sectors, Infrastructure, MSMEs, Entrepreneurship, Clean Energy, Digitization and Education will bode well for the Indian economy. The abolition of Dividend Distribution Tax, one of the long-standing demand of CII is welcome. Rationalisation of personal income tax is a good move, however its benefits need to be seen in view of foregone exemptions. While the stimulus provided to affordable housing is commendable, more could be done to boost the sector.”

D Narain, Senior Bayer Representative, South Asia and Managing Director & CEO, Bayer CropScience Limited said, “We welcome the continuing emphasis on agriculture and healthcare in the Union Budget. These sectors are foundational to both welfare and the economy.


The focus on irrigation, warehousing, crop insurance and credit availability will go a long way to increase farm profitability in India and improve the lives of significant number of farmers. The allocation of Rs. 69,000 crores for the healthcare sector too is a commendable step.

We remain confident that with a supportive policy environment, all stakeholders can work together towards effective implementation of the initiatives outlined.”