Karnataka leader asks Modi for meeting on farmer issues and dry weather

Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar announced that he is seeking a meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi to talk about problems faced by sugarcane farmers and dry weather conditions in the State. He plans to invite Opposition leaders to join an all-party group for this discussion. Speaking to reporters at the Mysuru airport, Mr. Shivakumar noted that Opposition leaders previously stated they were willing to be part of the group and he expects them to keep their promise. He also urged protesting farmers to end their agitation and talk things over instead.

Context

Droughts and farmer protests over crop prices are common challenges in many Indian states, often requiring cooperation between state and central governments. State leaders frequently seek central assistance and all-party consensus when dealing with major agricultural crises.