Chandigarh, Feb 1: Punjab Finance Minister Advocate Harpal Singh Cheema stated on Sunday that the Union Budget 2026 has overlooked the critical needs of Punjab and Haryana farmers.
Reacting to the financial proposals, the Finance Minister noted that the central government failed to provide concrete assistance for market infrastructure or any increase in the Agriculture Infrastructure Fund, leaving the region’s farming community in a state of disbelief.
The Finance Minister mentioned that while the budget introduces support for high-value crops like sandalwood and cashew, it offers no similar roadmap for the crops specific to North India’s agro-climatic conditions.
He added that the reduction in the urea subsidy from Rs 1,26,475 crore to Rs 1,16,805 crore further complicates the situation for those providing food security to the nation.
“The farmer of Punjab feeds the nation, yet the Union government is continuously neglecting investment in systems that ensure food security,” the Finance Minister said.
“This budget clearly shows the Centre’s bias and its continued indifference towards the farmers of foodgrain producing states.”
Beyond agriculture, the Finance Minister noted a lack of support for the middle class, pointing out that inflation is rising while tax relief remains absent. He mentioned that the increase in Securities Transaction Tax (STT) would adversely affect common citizens trying to protect their savings.
“There is nothing for ‘Aam Aadmi’ in this budget,” he said.
“Zero tax relief in today’s times when incomes are not increasing and inflation is eating up savings of the common man.”
The Finance Minister also voiced concerns regarding the 16th Finance Commission, stating that the vertical devolution remains stagnant at 41 percent.
He added that Punjab has been completely left out of the budget speech, which he described as a snub to the state’s contribution to the country.
