Budget Allocates Tk 1,062.5 Crore for Expanded Farmer Card Programme

The government has announced a major expansion of its Farmer Card programme in the proposed national budget for FY2026-27, aiming to strengthen social protection for marginal and landless farmers while accelerating agricultural development across the country.

Under the initiative, 4.25 million farmers in 100 upazilas will receive Farmer Cards, with a proposed allocation of Tk 1,062.5 crore for the programme.

The announcement came on Thursday as Finance Minister Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury presented the proposed national budget of Tk 938,000 crore, the largest in the country's history, during a parliamentary session presided over by Speaker Dr. Hafiz Uddin Ahmed.

Support for Marginal and Landless Farmers

In his budget speech, the finance minister said the programme reflects the government's commitment to placing farmers at the center of national economic development.

The Farmer Card initiative, officially launched on April 14 during the Bengali New Year celebrations, is expected to be gradually expanded nationwide to include all eligible farmers.

Under the scheme, landless and marginal farmers will receive Tk 2,500 in direct cash assistance annually, providing financial support for agricultural activities and improving their livelihoods.

Long-Term Agricultural Development Plan

The government views the Farmer Card programme as a key component of its broader agricultural transformation strategy.

Officials believe the initiative will help strengthen rural economies, improve financial inclusion among farmers, and enhance agricultural productivity through targeted government support.

Budget Size and Deficit

The proposed FY2026-27 budget outlines total expenditure of Tk 938,000 crore against a projected revenue collection target of Tk 695,000 crore.

As a result, the government anticipates a budget deficit of Tk 243,000 crore.

To finance the deficit, the government plans to mobilize funds from both domestic and external sources, including:

• Tk 116,000 crore from foreign loans and international grants.
• Tk 127,000 crore from domestic borrowing and other internal financing sources.

According to the finance minister, the government intends to maintain a balanced financing strategy while continuing investments in agriculture, social protection, infrastructure, and economic development.

//DBTech/SI/MI/OR//