Bengaluru, Nov 8 (NationPress) Karnataka's Chief Minister Siddaramaiah revealed on Saturday that the government plans to soon issue an order stating the price of Rs 3,300 per quintal for sugarcane within the state.

This statement was made by CM Siddaramaiah to the press in Bengaluru following a ceremonial garlanding of the statue of Saint Kanakadasa on the occasion of Kanakadasa Jayanti.

When questioned about the sugar factory owners, including BJP leader and factory owner Murugesh Nirani, who argued they could only afford to pay Rs 3,200 per quintal, CM Siddaramaiah clarified that such claims were unfounded. He mentioned that the price had been mutually agreed upon during discussions.

“There is no discrepancy between what is announced and what is executed. Initially, factory owners were reluctant to accept Rs 3,200 until the intervention of the Deputy Commissioner of Belagavi. Following this, they came to an agreement. Furthermore, the government will contribute Rs 50, while the factories are to match this amount,” the Chief Minister explained.

He noted that the official order would be released soon. Minister for Sugar Shivananda Patil will soon meet with sugarcane farmers to make a formal announcement, as stated by CM Siddaramaiah.

Additionally, the government is organizing further meetings to resolve other contentious matters between sugarcane farmers and factory management.

In reference to Kanakadasa Jayanti, CM Siddaramaiah emphasized that the government is commemorating the event with respect across all districts, taluks, and gram panchayats. He asserted that the Congress-led government is dedicated to spreading the messages and values of Kanakadasa.

“Kanakadasa was not only a devout follower but also a visionary advocating for social transformation. He composed numerous works and was a devoted disciple of Lord Krishna. When he visited the pilgrimage site at Udupi and was denied entry, his profound faith moved the Lord himself to grant him darshan. Such was his greatness,” CM Siddaramaiah remarked.

“We are honoring the birth anniversary of Kanakadasa. Born into the Kuruba (shepherd) community, he transcended to become a universal figure. We all belong to humanity. Those who embody compassion are indeed human; those who lack it are unworthy of the title of human beings,” he added.

He further stated that Kanakadasa conveyed his ideals through his keertanas, devotional songs, and writings, and the government is celebrating him for his invaluable contributions.