Congress leader calls for a minimum of ₹300 per kg of tobacco

Congress leader M. Lakshmana has called for a minimum price of ₹300 per kg for tobacco amid concerns among farmers over declining prices at auction platforms in the State.

Mr. Lakshmana, a Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) spokesperson who unsuccessfully contested the 2024 Lok Sabha election from Mysuru-Kodagu constituency, visited the tobacco auction platform at Kaggundi village in Periyapatna taluk on Tuesday and interacted with farmers and Tobacco Board officials to enquire about tobacco prices.

Auctions for the current season commenced on October 23. The Mysuru region cultivates the superior-grade Flue-Cured Virginia (FCV) tobacco, which is exported to different parts of the world.

He alleged that tobacco-buying companies had formed a cartel and that the Union government appeared to be acting under the influence of dominant companies. The Tobacco Board, which oversees tobacco auctions, functions under the Union Ministry of Commerce and Industry, he said.

Despite several agitations by farmers and himself during the 2025-26 season, farmers in the region were severely exploited, Mr. Lakshmana alleged.

Although tobacco does not fall under the direct purview of the State government, three letters were written to Union Minister Piyush Goyal by the then Chief Minister Siddaramaiah following initiatives taken by Periyapatna MLA K. Venkatesh, former Hunsur MLA H.P. Manjunath and Mr. Lakshmana.

In addition, meetings were convened by the Deputy Commissioner and companies were warned against unfair trade practices, he said.

The Congress has now decided to urge Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar to convene a meeting with Tobacco Board officials and representatives of tobacco companies participating in the auctions.

Mr. Lakshmana has also proposed holding a meeting with Mysuru district in-charge Minister Yathindra Siddaramaiah to issue appropriate directions and warn companies against any “unfair practices”.

He said he had learnt from officials that around 90 million kg of tobacco is expected to be harvested this year.