Kolhapur : In a bid to stabilise sugar prices ahead of the festive season, state government is likely to advance Maharashtra ’s sugar cane crushing season by around 15 days, allowing mills to begin operations from Oct 15 instead of the usual Nov 1.
Government Considers Early Sugar Market Intervention
The government is contemplating an early introduction of fresh sugar into the market as prices remain high, despite recent measures taken by the Centre. Officials noted that this move could alleviate supply pressures at a time when demand is expected to increase.
The decision will ultimately be made by a committee led by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis.
“Instead of a monthly release quota, mills may be asked to sell their quota within 15 days. The countyry currently has an estimated 35 lakh tonnes of sugar stock, but consumption is expected to increase substantially during the festival period. Later, during Navaratra, which starts on Oct 11, the demand for sugar rises from the eastern states. Autade said rainfall deficits in parts of Solapur and Marathwada, which account for nearly 40% of Maharashtra’s sugar production, could affect recovery rates.
Advancing the crushing season will help fresh sugar reach the market earlier and may help keep prices under control,” the official said. The idea is to ensure better market regulation and prevent supply disruptions,” he said. Industry observers said supplies remain tight and a sharp fall in prices is unlikely immediately. “What matters is how much cane ultimately reaches the mills, the yield per hectare and sugar recovery from the cane,” he said. By Nov, some of that crop may not be mature enough to deliver optimum sugar recovery,” he said.
“The opening stock this year is expected to be lower than usual. Ganeshotsav is approaching. Then there is Dasara and Diwali. Experts say that to ensure adequate sugar availability, a decision to advance the crushing season is likely to be taken. Sugar expert Vijay Autade cautioned that acreage alone does not determine sugar output.
“Many farmers in flood-hit areas planted sugar cane late last year.