Bagalkot: With Karnataka’s new sugarcane crushing season approaching, farmers are bracing for another battle over remunerative prices. But growers in Mudhol, the epicentre of last year’s agitation, are charting a different course: clear last season’s dues before negotiating the price for the new season.Farmers have demanded an additional Rs 300 per tonne as the second instalment for cane supplied during the 2025 crushing season. They have submitted representations to the district minister and deputy commissioner, insisting that the amount be paid before fresh price talks begin.Last season, the final price was fixed at Rs 3,300 per tonne, comprising an initial Rs 3,200, besides Rs 50 each from govt and sugar factories.Farmers say rising sugar prices and increased revenues from by-products should translate into better returns for cane growers.Last year’s price dispute had escalated into violent clashes, drawing national attention. Near the Samirwadi sugar factory in Bagalkot district, tractors loaded with sugarcane were set ablaze amid the agitation.Unlike growers elsewhere who often protest after govt announces a price, Mudhol farmers have traditionally negotiated directly with sugar factories. Their demands are based on cultivation and production costs and yield, with growers presenting a united front before factory management.When negotiations hit a deadlock, the district administration steps in to mediate. Farmers say this model has helped them secure prices above the fair and remunerative price (FRP) fixed by govt.Farmer leaders said factory owners who are also legislators, ministers and MPs had enough political influence to seek a higher minimum price for sugar.“If they take to the streets demanding an increase in the minimum price of sugar, farmers will stand firmly behind them. They have the authority and influence to raise the issue, but are not doing so directly,” the leaders said.They said their immediate focus was on the “injustice” faced by cane growers, and the next phase of the agitation would be decided shortly.For now, Mudhol farmers remain firm: settle the outstanding dues first, and talk about the new season’s cane price later.
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