Karnataka CM seeks PM intervention on infrastructure and sugarcane crisis
Chief Minister DK Shivakumar has requested Prime Minister Narendra Modi to address state issues including Bengaluru's infrastructure and irrigation projects.
Karnataka Chief Minister DK Shivakumar has requested Prime Minister Narendra Modi to intervene in addressing the state's infrastructure, irrigation, and sugarcane farmer concerns, according to ANI. The appeal followed an exchange of letters between the two leaders during Kannada Rajyotsava.
In a response to the Prime Minister's greetings, Shivakumar requested a special financial package for Bengaluru to manage pressure on roads, public transport, and civic infrastructure caused by a growing population. He also asked for more funding and housing targets from the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, alongside the provision of defence land at suitable rates to help reduce traffic.
Regarding water, the Chief Minister sought early clearances for the Mekedatu, Kalasa-Banduri, Upper Bhadra, Upper Krishna, and Yettinahole projects. He also asked for help in speeding up proposals under the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY) and the Accelerated Irrigation Benefits Programme (AIBP).
Shivakumar also addressed the agitation by sugarcane farmers in North Karnataka, who have been conducting padayatras towards Hubballi. He noted that the crushing season has not started, causing mature sugarcane to lose weight and sugar content.
The Chief Minister urged the Centre to revise the sugar Minimum Selling Price, which has been Rs 31 per kg since February 2019, and to implement separate pricing for commercial and domestic sugar. He also requested a review of ethanol supply tender exclusions and an increase in cane-based ethanol prices.