Sambhal: Farmers in several villages of Sambhal staged a protest on Tuesday, burning sugarcane crops symbolically to press for their demand of Rs 600 per quintal for the crop. The protest was organised under the call of Bhartiya Kisan Union, Bhaskar reported.
Large numbers of farmers gathered in villages including Bhadrola and Mandawali Rasoolpur, as well as nearby areas. Raising slogans against the government, they said the current price of sugarcane is not sufficient in view of rising cultivation costs.
Farmers said the cost of growing sugarcane has increased due to higher prices of fertilisers, seeds, pesticides, diesel and labour. They added that production expenses have gone up sharply, but the crop price has not been revised accordingly, causing financial losses. They pointed out that the average yield is about 20 to 25 quintals per bigha.
During the protest, the farmers burnt sugarcane in a symbolic gesture and warned that their agitation would be intensified if their demand is not met soon. Leaders said sugarcane is the main source of income for many families, and without a fair price, it has become difficult to meet household needs.
The farmers also demanded that the government announce a profitable price for sugarcane and ensure timely payment. They expressed dissatisfaction over delays in payments, saying it has forced many of them to borrow money and face financial pressure.
The leaders said that if no positive steps are taken soon, a larger protest will be organised from the tehsil level to the district headquarters. The demonstration remained peaceful, and the farmers pledged to continue their united stand.
