Fri Nov 07 11:49:49 UTC 2025: News Article:

Sugarcane Farmers Block Pune-Bengaluru Highway in Karnataka, Demand Higher Prices

Belagavi, Karnataka – November 7, 2025 – Sugarcane farmers blocked the Pune-Bengaluru National Highway near Hattargi in Belagavi district today, causing damage to several vehicles and disrupting traffic. The protest stems from the farmers’ demand for a price of ₹3,500 per tonne of sugarcane, including cutting and transportation charges.

The blockade follows a postponed “Belagavi bandh,” initially planned for today. Farmer leaders had agreed to delay the strike after assurances from Sugar Minister Shivanand Patil that Chief Minister Siddaramaiah would announce a remunerative price following discussions with factory representatives.

Despite the postponement, a group of farmers attempted to block the highway, first using tractors on the service road. While police initially convinced them to allow traffic flow, the protesters later blocked both the highway and service roads at another location. When some vehicles attempted to pass, farmers resorted to throwing stones, leading to vehicle damage. The Karnataka State Reserve Police eventually dispersed the crowd and cleared the blockade.

The farmers have been protesting for nine days, seeking ₹3,500 per tonne plus cutting and transportation costs. The central government-mandated Fair and Remunerative Price (FRP) is ₹3,550 per tonne for factories with a 10.25% sugar recovery rate, including cutting and transportation.

Union Minister for Sugar Pralhad Joshi has placed the responsibility for resolving the pricing dispute on the State Government, stating that it is up to them to clarify the confusion regarding whether the FRP includes cutting and transportation costs. He criticized Chief Minister Siddaramaiah for blaming the Centre, stating that the Chief Minister must engage with factory owners and farmers. Joshi defended the Centre’s actions, highlighting measures like sugar export allowances and sugarcane-based ethanol purchases by Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs).

BJP MLA Ramesh Jarkiholi, whose family owns or manages sugar factories, stated his support for both farmers and factory owners, calling for a swift resolution to the issue.

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