EXCLUSIVE: Karnataka Planters' Association Demands Climate-Linked Insurance for Coffee in Union Budget 2026

In a strategic move ahead of the Union Budget 2026, the Karnataka Planters' Association, representing key agricultural stakeholders, has formally petitioned the government to implement regulatory reforms that would integrate coffee, tea, and rubber into the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY). This initiative seeks to establish a climate-linked insurance framework, with the government subsidizing 80% to 90% of premiums, thereby mitigating financial risks associated with climate volatility. The proposal underscores a critical need for enhanced risk management in the plantation sector, which is increasingly vulnerable to erratic weather patterns and environmental shifts. Analysts highlight that such a measure could bolster economic resilience, stabilize farmer incomes, and promote sustainable agricultural practices. The inclusion of these crops under PMFBY would not only provide a safety net for producers but also align with broader national objectives of climate adaptation and food security. This development reflects a growing consensus on the necessity of proactive policy interventions to safeguard India's agricultural economy against emerging climatic challenges.