Coffee Farmers in Hassan Seek Support from Union Minister Amidst Crisis
New Delhi/Hassan: Coffee farmers from Hassan district met with Union Minister Piyush Goyal, led by former Chief Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy, to discuss the challenges posed by the SARFAESI Act and the ongoing crisis in the coffee sector. During their meeting at the Parliament House on Monday, the farmers expressed that small and medium-sized coffee growers are facing severe hardships due to the act. They highlighted their inability to fight legal battles against foreign bidders participating in online auctions due to financial constraints.
The delegation, which included former ministers and legislators, conveyed that many coffee farmers have already lost significant assets due to the Sarpaesi Act. Kumaraswamy urged the Finance Minister to intervene and help alleviate the farmers’ plight.
In response, Minister Goyal assured the delegation that his department would investigate the issues raised and that he would advocate on their behalf with the Finance Minister. Kumaraswamy also brought attention to the human-wildlife conflict affecting coffee farmers, particularly in regions like Hassan, Kodagu, and Chikkamagaluru, where elephant attacks on crops have resulted in human casualties. He mentioned that he had previously discussed this issue with Union Forest Minister Bhupender Yadav and requested further assistance.
Goyal responded positively, promising to engage in discussions with the Forest Minister promptly to address these pressing concerns.
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Atul Chaturvedi 
