Mumbai: Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief Sharad Pawar demanded that as India’s sugar industry is facing an unprecedented crisis, the government must allow them to sell ethanol. Also, the losses of Rs 8 per kg while exporting sugar should be borne by the Central government.
Addressing the concerns raised by several stakeholders at the meeting organised by Maharashtra Rajya Sahkari Sakhar Sangh in Mumbai, former agriculture minister Pawar said, “There will be a bumper crop of sugar next year too. Hence, sugar mills will have to plan well in advance. We have many issues about ethanol. Therefore, molasses must be preserved.”
“We need to look at this industry positively. Thousands of farmers are dependent on this industry. These farmers have no other option of cash crop other than sugar cane. The government must actively deal with the issues the industry is facing,” said Pawar.
Many sugar mill barons have raised concerns over the Central government’s decision to import sugar.
“India is helping developing countries by providing financial aid. Instead of funds, the government should supply sugar. It will reduce the stock by 20 to 25 metric tonnes and will also help sugar factories to export raw sugar.
The sugar mills are facing a loss of Rs 8 per kg as price of sugar in international markets is Rs 8 less than Indian market. “If the government compensates the losses, it will be a great help for the sugar mills,” he advised.
