Bengaluru, 22 Oct (H.S.): Karnataka Chief Minister, D.K. Shivakumar on Thursday said a meeting with sugarcane farmers would be held on October 26, with sugar factory owners also invited, as Karnataka sought the Centre’s intervention over issues affecting the sector and the prevailing drought.

Speaking to reporters before leaving for Delhi, Shivakumar said Union Minister Pralhad Joshi had initially agreed to attend the meeting but subsequently expressed his inability to participate. However, Joshi had assured the State that necessary steps would be taken at the Central level, he said.

“We have called a meeting of sugarcane farmers on October 26 and have invited factory owners as well. Pralhad Joshi had also made efforts in this regard,” Shivakumar said.

He said the Union Minister had advised the State government to proceed with the discussions despite his absence and promised support in addressing the issues raised.

“Initially, he said he would attend. Later, he informed us that he could not come for certain reasons. He asked us to continue with the meeting and assured us that all necessary action would be taken,” Shivakumar added.

According to Shivakumar, Joshi also said he would issue instructions to the Central government officials concerned to facilitate further action on the matter.

The October 26 meeting will bring farmers and factory owners together for discussions, while the State continues to pursue assistance from the Union government.

Shivakumar stressed that the problem extended beyond Karnataka and affected several other states, making Central intervention necessary. He said some officials had been sent to take the matter forward.

He also said the State had sought the Centre’s involvement in addressing Karnataka’s drought situation.

His remarks indicated that the government was pursuing discussions with stakeholders alongside engagement with the Centre. However, he did not elaborate on the specific measures sought or the agenda for the meeting.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman