Budget 2026’s focus on AI and digital advisory can strengthen farm productivity: Syngenta India

Susheel Kumar

Country Head & Managing Director, Syngenta India

February 1, 2026

Syngenta India says Union Budget 2026’s focus on AI-led agriculture, including Bharat-VISTAAR and rural entrepreneurship, can strengthen farm productivity and resilience, while noting the need for continued policy support for innovation and exports.

Syngenta India welcomes Union Budget 2026 for its emphasis on AI-led agriculture, particularly through initiatives such as Bharat-VISTAAR, which recognise the role of digital advisory in improving farm-level decision-making, productivity and resilience.

The Budget’s focus on self-help–led entrepreneurship and rural enterprise development is a positive step towards creating local capability and employment across the agricultural value chain. Together with digital tools and advisory platforms, such measures can help strengthen last-mile delivery and adoption of improved farming practices.

At the same time, the industry had expected measures such as the restoration of the 200% weighted tax deduction on R&D, the introduction of a PLI-type incentive scheme, and reduction of customs duty on agrochemical exports, which were not part of this Budget. Syngenta India believes these remain important enablers for innovation and export competitiveness and looks forward to continued engagement with policymakers.