Sugarcane farmers welcome Central committee, but will not end protest till MSP and FRP are revised

Sugarcane growers block the road at Ram Mandir Circle in Kalaburagi on October 14, 2026. They are demanding minimum price of ₹5,500 per tonne of sugarcane, and fulfilment of their other demands. | Photo Credit: ARUN KULKARNI

Sugarcane farmers in Karnataka seeking fair prices for sugarcane have welcomed the Union Government’s decision to form a committee to look into their demands. However, they have decided to continue their protest till the government announces revised Minimum Selling Price for sugar and Fair and Remunerative Price for sugarcane.

Chunappa Pujeri told reporters in Mukti Mathi near Belagavi on October 15 that farmers welcome the formation of a four-member committee headed by agriculture scientist Ramesh Chand. “It is good that the committee has representation of all stakeholders. It has been told to look into MSP, FRP, and all related issues. We hope the committee gives its report soon, and that the Union Government implements it. However, this is no reason for us to withdraw the protest. We will continue till the Centre announces a MSP of at least ₹60 per kg of sugar and ₹5,500 of FRP for sugarcane.”