Farmers demand uniform sugarcane pricing across Maharashtra
A delegation led by Krantikari Shetkari Sanghatana submitted a memorandum seeking a Rs 4,200-per-tonne rate and drought relief.
A delegation of farmers met Maharashtra Cooperation Minister Babasaheb Patil in Latur on Monday, November 9, to demand uniform sugarcane pricing across the state. According to The Hindu, the group also requested a Rs 2 lakh incentive for borrowers and increased relief for drought-affected areas.
The delegation, led by Krantikari Shetkari Sanghatana state president Rajiv Kasbe, submitted a memorandum in Ahmedpur. They questioned why sugarcane growers in Marathwada and other regions are allegedly not receiving the Rs 4,200-per-tonne rate provided to farmers in western Maharashtra.
Kasbe stated that the price of the crop should be determined by considering the earnings sugar mills make from sugar sales and by-products, including ethanol, bagasse and molasses. He emphasised that farmers throughout the state deserve fair returns and equal treatment.
The group requested Rs 1 lakh per hectare in financial aid for cultivators facing drought, along with a Rs 1 lakh special package for families of agricultural labourers. They also asked for a Rs 2 lakh incentive grant for farmers who consistently repay their loans.
To address alleged harassment by microfinance companies, the delegation called for a strict law similar to one in Karnataka to control arbitrary interest rates and stop coercive recovery methods. Other demands included doorstep fodder for livestock and permanent drinking water facilities in drought-hit regions.
Kasbe said the organisation will continue its agitation and follow-up until farmers receive fair prices, borrowers are protected from harassment, and drought-hit families receive sufficient relief.