Full Breakdown
Karnataka Launches Scientific Study to Address Sugarcane Farmers' Pricing and Transparency Demands
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Background: Highway Blockades and Price Demands
On October 13, 2026, sugarcane growers in Karnataka staged a “rasta roko” protest, blocking the Pune-Bengaluru National Highway in Belagavi, Bagalkot, Vijayapura and Dharwad districts. They demanded a revision of the Minimum Support Price to INR60 per kg, an increase in the Fair and Remunerative Price to INR5,500 per tonne, and greater transparency in weighing, recovery calculations and profit-sharing from sugar-related by-products.
Government Response: Planned Scientific Assessment and Joint Committee
Following a high-level meeting in New Delhi chaired by Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan and Union Food Minister Pralhad Joshi, Karnataka’s Sugar and Textiles Minister Rudrappa Lamini announced a state-wide scientific study. The study will examine optimal harvesting periods, district-wise recovery rates, weighing accuracy, laboratory testing of cane quality and post-harvest wastage. Its findings will be submitted to a proposed joint committee that will include representatives from Karnataka, Maharashtra, the Centre, sugar mills, agricultural scientists and farmers’ organisations.
“We need a scientific assessment of the stage at which sugarcane should be harvested so that farmers get the best possible weight and recovery. Harvesting practices should not reduce farmers’ income. Karnataka will study regional conditions and present a comprehensive position to the joint committee,” — Rudrappa Lamini, minister
Official Statements & Responses
- Rudrappa Lamini, Karnataka Minister of Sugar and Textiles, said the objective is a “permanent, scientific and transparent framework” rather than a temporary fix.
- Pralhad Joshi, Union Food Minister, urged farmers to withdraw their agitation, noting that the Government of India is working with multiple ministries and state governments.
- Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Union Agriculture Minister, affirmed that the Centre will obtain information from state governments before determining prices.
- D K Shivakumar, Karnataka Chief Minister, said the matter requires consultation with other states before a decision is reached.
Data & Statistics
- Farmers’ price demands: INR60 per kg (MSP); INR5,500 per tonne (FRP).
- Existing framework: The Centre sets the FRP; Karnataka has a legal provision for an Additional Sugarcane Price above the FRP.
- Proposed review: The state will examine the State Advised Price and other regional models to assess predictability of returns.
What’s Next: Committee Formation and Study Timeline
The scientific assessment will be completed and presented to the joint committee, which is expected to be constituted shortly after the October 13 announcement. The committee will review recommendations on harvesting schedules, recovery rates, weighing mechanisms, pricing models and revenue-sharing arrangements.
On-the-Ground Reports
Farmers maintained road blockades despite police discussions, insisting the agitation will continue until their demands are met. Some protesters set up tents, provided food and water to stranded travelers, and called for the resignation of Union Food Minister Joshi, accusing him of ignoring their grievances.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We need a scientific assessment of the stage at which sugarcane should be harvested so that farmers get the best possible weight and recovery. Harvesting practices should not reduce farmers’ income. Karnataka will study regional conditions and present a comprehensive position to the joint committee,” — Rudrappa Lamini, minister
The initiative aims to balance growers’ income stability with the viability of the sugar industry by grounding policy decisions in region-specific scientific data and transparent mechanisms.