Tensions flared across the sugar-producing regions of North Karnataka as thousands of sugarcane farmers took to the streets on Wednesday, demanding a fair and higher procurement price for their produce. Major highways in Belagavi, Bagalkot, Vijayapura, and Haveri districts were blocked as protests intensified, disrupting traffic and local transport for several hours.Farmers’ organizations are pressing the state government to fix the Fair and Remunerative Price (FRP) at ₹3,500 per tonne, rejecting the current offers of around ₹3,200 from sugar mills. Protest leaders argue that rising input costs, labour charges, and fuel expenses have made current rates unsustainable for cultivators.
The agitation, spearheaded by several regional farmers’ unions, saw tractors and bullock carts forming long convoys on key roads. Police were deployed to manage traffic and ensure law and order, though the demonstrations remained largely peaceful.Government officials stated that discussions are underway with mill owners and farmers’ representatives to reach a mutually agreeable price. However, unions have warned that if their demands are not met soon, they will intensify
Karnataka is India’s third-largest sugarcane-producing state, after Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh. With the crushing season set to begin, the standoff over prices could delay operations at several mills, affecting both farmers’ income and sugar supply in the state.
Industry experts caution that prolonged disruptions may impact the state’s sugar output and lead to logistical bottlenecks. The resolution of this issue will be crucial for maintaining stability in both the sugar and ethanol sectors this season.
