Karnataka's Sugarcane Saga: Farmers Protest and Government Response
Revised Procurement Price Announcement
Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah declared a new procurement price for sugarcane in response to continuing farmers' protests. The updated rate is set at Rs 3,300 per tonne, supported further by government assistance. The initiative seeks to calm discontent among farmers who are calling for fair compensation for their crops.
Background and Negotiations
The protests have been centered at Gurlapur Cross in Mudalagi taluk and continued for nine consecutive days. Farmers have demanded Rs 3,500 per tonne, excluding harvesting and transport charges. Through discussions with farmer leaders and sugar factory representatives, the government reached a revised proposal reflecting both economic and industry considerations.
Government Measures and Industry Response
The new plan includes an extra payment of Rs 100 per tonne, divided between sugar factory owners and the government, to help ease farmers' concerns. While the majority of factories have accepted this offer, a few still show resistance to the government's rate structure.
Chief Minister's Statement
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah emphasized the state government's determination to address larger issues in the sugar industry, including Fair and Remunerative Price (FRP) and Minimum Support Price (MSP), through consultations with central authorities.
Author's Summary
The Karnataka government’s revised sugarcane pricing aims to balance farmers’ demands with industrial realities, highlighting a step toward resolving the prolonged agricultural unrest.