Has Karnataka BJP's Rs 3,300 per tonne sugarcane price been hailed as a victory for farmers?
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Synopsis
In a pivotal moment for Karnataka's sugarcane farmers, the BJP praises the newly set price of Rs 3,300 per tonne, achieved after intense protests. This decision marks a significant victory for farmers and highlights ongoing tensions between the government and agricultural stakeholders. What led to this crucial change in policy?
Key Takeaways
- Karnataka's sugarcane price is now set at Rs 3,300 per tonne.
- The decision comes after prolonged protests from farmers and their associations.
- The BJP expressed strong support for the farmers' cause.
- Chief Minister Siddaramaiah dedicated time to address farmer concerns.
- The government and factory owners will jointly contribute to the new price.
Bengaluru, Nov 7 (NationPress) The Karnataka BJP President and MLA B.Y. Vijayendra expressed his approval of the significant decision made during a pivotal meeting between sugarcane farmers and factory owners, which was overseen by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah.
Addressing the media, Vijayendra noted that for several days, sugarcane farmers, the State Farmers' Association, and the Hasiru Sene (Green Army) had been peacefully protesting at Gurlapur Cross in Mudalagi taluk of Belagavi district.
He characterized the decision made on Friday as a triumph for the farmers and their organizations, acknowledging their unwavering efforts.
"The Chief Minister convened this meeting today, but I believe it should have taken place one or two months earlier. When farmers had to resort to street protests and the agitation began to spread to other districts, we also visited the protest site to show our solidarity. It was only after that visit and the escalating protest that the government finally acted and organized this meeting," Vijayendra remarked.
"The Chief Minister even canceled all his scheduled engagements in Tumakuru to facilitate this meeting. I wholeheartedly support the decision made during it," he added.
“During today’s meeting, several Cabinet ministers criticized me. They questioned why I had to visit the protest site and accused us of inciting the farmers. However, we arrived five days after the protest commenced,” he clarified.
“Even after five days, neither the in-charge minister, the Sugar Minister, nor any other official had shown concern or visited the protest site. That’s when we decided to go and extend our support,” Vijayendra explained.
“Our intent was not to engage in politics or provoke the farmers; I made that clear during the protest meeting. I went there as the son of a farmer leader, Yediyurappa, genuinely concerned for the farmers,” he asserted.
“I did not go there for political advantage or to side with sugar factory owners,” he stated, adding that he would bring all these points to the Chief Minister’s attention.
“The State Government owes farmers Rs 50 per tonne. Each year, via molasses, ethanol, and power generation, the government generates around Rs 30,000 crore in revenue. Distributing Rs 50 per tonne to farmers would only cost approximately Rs 300 crore — merely about 1% of that revenue,” Vijayendra highlighted.
Rajya Sabha member Iraanna Kadadi was also present during the discussions.
After the backlash from sugarcane farmers, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah held an extended seven-hour meeting and announced a decision to set the sugarcane price at Rs 3,300 per tonne.
Following the meeting, the Chief Minister conducted a press conference in Bengaluru to announce the government’s decision on Friday.
A delegation will be sent to the Centre to discuss related issues, with agreement from both farmers and factory owners, Siddaramaiah stated.
Sugarcane farmers and associations in Belagavi and nearby districts in north Karnataka had protested for nine days, with the BJP expressing its support for the agitation.
The protesting farmers at Gurlapur Cross in Belagavi celebrated the announcement with firecrackers.
CM Siddaramaiah confirmed that both the government and factory owners will contribute Rs 50 each, ensuring that farmers receive Rs 3,300 per tonne.
Point of View
This decision represents a crucial intersection of agricultural policy and political strategy. The government has responded to public dissent, suggesting a recognition of farmers' struggles. As the country's agricultural backbone, supporting farmers is essential for sustained national growth and stability.
NationPress
07/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the main outcome of the meeting between sugarcane farmers and the government?
The meeting resulted in the government setting the sugarcane price at Rs 3,300 per tonne, which is viewed as a significant victory for farmers.
Why were farmers protesting in Karnataka?
Farmers protested due to delayed responses from the government regarding fair pricing for sugarcane, leading to agitation across various districts.
What role did the BJP play in supporting the farmers' protests?
The BJP provided support during the protests, with leaders visiting the protest sites to show solidarity and advocate for farmers' rights.
How did the Chief Minister respond to the protests?
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah held an extensive meeting to address the farmers' concerns, ultimately leading to the price announcement.
What is the significance of the Rs 50 allocation mentioned by Vijayendra?
Vijayendra emphasized that the government owes farmers Rs 50 per tonne, highlighting the disparity between government revenue from sugarcane products and the compensation to farmers.
