Tobacco auctions halted again as farmers protest sharp fall in prices

Farmers in Karnataka protested the continued decline in tobacco prices, forcing the closure of auction platforms and causing disruptions to the market. Tobacco farmers are demanding a meeting with Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman to address their concerns about the tax burden on tobacco products and urge increased procurement from traders. The price of tobacco has fallen significantly since the imposition of excise duty and an increase in GST, leaving many farmers struggling to sell their produce.