The Indian government is considering increasing cash support to small farmers by 33% in order to gain support from this crucial voting bloc ahead of elections. The plan would raise the annual direct cash transfer to small farmers from Rs 6,000 to Rs 8,000, costing the government an additional Rs 200 billion. Farmers make up a significant portion of the population in rural areas, and their support is vital for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's re-election bid.