Karnataka Farmers' Crisis Deepens Amidst Political Contention

Karnataka's Deputy Chief Minister, D K Shivakumar, criticized the Centre's lack of cooperation in aiding farmers during the ongoing winter legislative session. He urged the opposition to unite in pressing the Centre for crop procurement. The BJP announced a protest, while maize growers demand increased procurement rates.

On Tuesday, Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar voiced his frustration over the Centre's non-cooperation with the state to address pressing farmers' issues. During the ongoing winter session of the legislature, he urged the opposition to align with the government to pressure the Centre on crop procurement and regional advancement.

Mr. Shivakumar questioned the Centre's reluctance to release funds for crop procurement under the Minimum Support Price (MSP) scheme. The winter session is currently taking place in Belagavi, where the BJP plans to stage a protest against perceived injustices towards farmers, which Mr. Shivakumar called out as lacking in substantial action.

Citing unresolved dilemmas facing sugarcane and maize producers, Shivakumar underscored the urgency of state-Centre cooperation. He highlighted the ongoing distress in the sugar industry, urging for decisive MSP adjustments. Meanwhile, maize growers protest for better procurement prices, with the state increasing procurement from 20 to 50 quintals per farmer at Rs 2,400 per quintal.

(With inputs from agencies.)