Sugarcane growers threaten to launch 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 step to fix a 'scientific' Minimum Support Price (MSP).

Association President Kurbur Shanthakumar today alleging that the State government was adopting delay tactics in the matter, he said that Farmer association had chalked out agitational programmes.

"Chief Minister B S Yeddyurappa had promised in August of meeting 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 said.

Meanwhile the farmer leader suggested the State government to arrange for a foreign tour to Brazil for the 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 GM1759