Will PM Modi Intervene in Karnataka's Sugarcane Crisis?
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Synopsis
In a critical move, the Karnataka Cabinet, under Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, seeks Prime Minister Modi's intervention to address the escalating sugarcane crisis affecting farmers. With widespread protests underway, the government is determined to advocate for farmers' rights and revise critical policies impacting the sugar industry.
Key Takeaways
- The Karnataka Cabinet is actively seeking Prime Minister Modi's intervention on the sugarcane crisis.
- Siddaramaiah plans to engage with both sugar factory owners and farmer leaders.
- The Cabinet passed a resolution to address farmers' grievances and the effects of central policies.
- Discussions on FRP fixation and sugar export restrictions are crucial.
- Efforts for transparency include digital weighing machines in factories.
Bengaluru, Nov 6 (NationPress) The Karnataka Cabinet, led by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, convened a lengthy meeting at Vidhana Soudha to address the pressing crisis affecting sugarcane farmers, which has ignited significant protests across northern Karnataka.
In a press briefing following the meeting, the Chief Minister revealed his plans to engage with sugar factory owners on Friday morning and to meet with farmer representatives later in the day.
Siddaramaiah stated that the Cabinet has resolved to reach out to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to request an urgent discussion regarding the farmers’ grievances and the repercussions of central government policies on the sugar industry.
“The FRP has been established by the BJP-led Central government. It is crucial for farmers not to be misled by the contradictory actions of BJP leaders in the state, who have historically let them down,” he remarked, questioning the absence of Union Minister Pralhad Joshi at the farmers’ protest meeting.
The Chief Minister highlighted that the Cabinet has passed a resolution to engage with the Prime Minister about the implications of central policies concerning sugar export limitations and FRP determination. “I have been vigilant about the ongoing protests in Belagavi, Bagalkote, and other regions. Officials have been instructed to communicate with both sugar mill operators and farmers,” he added.
Siddaramaiah mentioned that the Belagavi Deputy Commissioner has successfully urged factory owners to offer Rs 3,200 per tonne for 11.25 percent recovery and Rs 3,100 per tonne for 10.25 percent recovery, exclusive of harvesting and transportation costs.
“Nevertheless, the opposition is attempting to politicize this matter, leading to misunderstandings,” he said, clarifying that the state’s influence on sugarcane pricing is minimal. “The Centre determines the FRP annually. The state’s obligation is solely to ensure the payment of FRP, fair weighing, and prompt settlements,” he stated.
“The determination of FRP is entirely the Centre’s duty under the Essential Commodities Act. The recovery rate was raised to 10.25 percent for 2022-23, which has been unfair to farmers,” he explained, noting that the last sugar MSP was set at Rs 31 per kg in 2019 and has yet to be updated.
He criticized the Centre for halting sugar exports and for its biased ethanol policy. “Karnataka has the capacity to produce 270 crore liters of ethanol, yet the Centre has allocated only 47 crore liters for 2024-25,” he remarked.
Additionally, he stated that his government has implemented digital weighing machines in sugar factories and APMCs to promote transparency. “In 2024-25, sugar mills processed 522 lakh metric tonnes, and farmers received Rs 19,569 crore,” he noted.
“Despite this, opposition parties continue to mislead naïve farmers. Our administration is committed to dialogue and democratic processes,” Siddaramaiah asserted.
He concluded by stating that the Cabinet has resolved to implore the Prime Minister for immediate intervention to adjust the FRP, decrease the recovery rate, and authorize sugar exports. “No matter the challenges we face, our government will unwaveringly support farmers,” he affirmed.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize the gravity of the situation faced by Karnataka's sugarcane farmers. The Cabinet's decision to seek intervention from the Prime Minister underscores the need for a coordinated response to agricultural crises. It is vital for both state and central governments to engage constructively with farmers to find viable solutions that uphold their rights and livelihoods.
NationPress
06/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main issue causing the sugarcane crisis in Karnataka?
The sugarcane crisis is primarily due to inadequate pricing policies set by the Central government and restrictions on sugar exports, which have led to widespread protests among farmers.
What actions is the Karnataka government taking to address this issue?
The Karnataka government is seeking an urgent meeting with Prime Minister Modi to discuss farmers' demands and the impact of central policies on the sugar sector.
What is the significance of FRP in this context?
FRP, or Fair and Remunerative Price, is crucial for ensuring that sugarcane farmers receive fair compensation for their produce. The Central government determines the FRP, which affects farmers' incomes.
How has the opposition reacted to the government's response?
The opposition has been accused of politicizing the crisis and creating confusion among farmers, despite the government's efforts to address their concerns.
What measures has the Karnataka government implemented for transparency?
The Karnataka government has installed digital weighing machines in sugar factories and APMCs to ensure fair weighing and transparency in transactions.
