Centre raises sugarcane FRP: Karnataka BJP sees it as relief, slams state govt over unpaid dues

Bengaluru, May 6 Leader of the Opposition R Ashoka on Wednesday welcomed the Union Cabinet’s decision to increase Fair and Remunerative Price (FRP) of sugarcane to Rs 365 per quintal for the 2026–27 season, terming it a major relief for farmers.

In a statement, R. Ashoka said the decision would benefit nearly 8 to 10 lakh sugarcane growers in Karnataka and around 5 crore farmers across the country. He described the move as a historic step that would enhance farmers’ income and strengthen the agricultural sector.

The BJP leader also slammed Congress-led Karnataka government, alleging that it had failed to fulfil its promises to sugarcane farmers.

He said the government, led by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, had assured an additional Rs 100 per quintal for sugarcane last year but had failed to pay even its share of Rs 50, as well as ensure the remaining Rs 50 from sugar mills.

Accusing the state government of following an anti-farmer policy and making “empty promises,” Ashoka said that while the state continued to delay payments, the Union government under Prime Minister Narendra Modi was consistently working towards increasing farmers’ income.

Union Minister for Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution Pralhad Joshi, speaking to the press, had informed about the extended support to sugarcane growers by the Centre, approving an increase in the FRP.

Joshi said, "Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Union Cabinet has approved an FRP of Rs 365 per quintal for sugarcane for the 2026–27 season, based on a recovery rate of 10.25 per cent. The decision is expected to benefit around 8 to 10 lakh farmers in Karnataka."

The minister stated that an additional incentive of Rs 3.56 per quintal will be provided for every 0.1 per cent increase in recovery. Even if the recovery rate is 9.5 per cent or lower, farmers will receive a minimum support price of Rs 338.3 per quintal without any deduction.

Nearly 5 crore sugarcane farmers and their families across the country are likely to benefit across the country, with around 8 lakh farmers in Karnataka alone.

He added that the move would not only support farmers but also benefit sugar mills and over 5 lakh workers employed in the sugar industry.

The increase in FRP reflects the government’s commitment to strengthening both the agricultural sector and the sugar industry, he said.

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