Fri Nov 07 13:40:48 UTC 2025: Here’s a news article summarizing the text, presented as a hypothetical “The Hindu” report:
The Hindu
Karnataka Minister Criticizes Center’s Silence on Sugarcane Farmer Protests
Mysuru, November 7, 2025, 7:10 PM IST
Karnataka Revenue Minister Krishna Byre Gowda today sharply criticized the central government for its perceived inaction regarding the ongoing protests by sugarcane farmers in the state. Farmers are demanding a higher Fair and Remunerative Price (FRP) for their sugarcane.
Speaking to presspersons in Mysuru, Mr. Byre Gowda emphasized that the power to address the farmers’ core concerns – specifically, setting the FRP, increasing ethanol blending mandates, and easing sugar export restrictions – rests exclusively with the central government.
“The authority to fix the FRP, enhance ethanol blending, and ease sugar export restrictions rests entirely with the Centre and not with the States. Sugarcane prices will rise if the use of ethanol is increased. Similarly, sugar prices depend on the Centre’s export and import policies,” he stated.
The State government has sought an appointment with Prime Minister Modi to discuss the situation and seek a resolution. Mr. Byre Gowda also noted that the state government had already held discussions with sugar factory representatives in an attempt to mediate.
“All efforts are being made to resolve the crisis. If the Centre revises the FRP as demanded, we can direct the factories to comply,” he said.
He questioned the Centre’s silence and asked, “Is the Centre sleeping when farmers are out on the streets seeking a fair price? Is it not its responsibility to address their concerns?”
The Minister reiterated that the state government is actively trying to manage the situation, but the key levers for change lie with the central government’s policies.
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