Sugarcane growers threaten agitation over MSP

Bangalore, Oct 20 (UNI) Karnataka Sugarcane Growers Association has threatened to launch statewide agitation if the State government failed to take immediate steps to fix a 'scientific' Minimum Support Price (MSP).

Talking to newspersons Association President Kurbur Shanthakumar said as the government was adopting delaying tactics in the matter, farmer association had chalked out agitational programmes to press its demands.

''Chief Minister B S Yeddyurappa had promised in August meeting with us and asked the sugar factories to pay Rs 160 per tone in addition to MSP. But nothing has happened. The farmers have received no money,'' he caimed.

Meanwhile, the farmer leader suggested to the State government to arrange for a foreign tour to Brazil for cane growers to learn about sugarcane cultivation.

He also demanded setting up of a separate Sugarcane Development Authority which can oversee ensuring uniform rules and avoid confusion over fixing of MSP every year.

UNI MSP RS AKM 1813