Only 19 of 55 Sugar Mills in Maharashtra Start Crushing
Protests by sugarcane farmers hinder operations as only 19 mills begin crushing in Maharashtra for the 2026-27 season.
Only 19 out of 55 sugar mills in Maharashtra have started crushing operations.
Farmers are demanding higher prices for sugarcane and have disrupted traffic.
A committee has been formed to address farmers' concerns, but protests continue.
In Maharashtra, only 19 of the 55 sugar mills have initiated crushing operations for the 2026-27 season, amidst ongoing protests by sugarcane growers. As of Thursday, four mills commenced operations, following 15 that began on October 8. The official crushing season kicked off on October 1, but many mills are still performing traditional pre-season rituals, with expectations that around 30 more will begin operations in the next few days.
The protests stem from farmers' demands for a higher fair and remunerative price for sugarcane, alongside calls for an increase in the minimum selling price of sugar and ethanol. These demonstrations have significantly disrupted traffic on the Mumbai-Bengaluru National Highway and obstructed access to several mills. Some protesters have even entered factory premises, raising concerns about the continuity of operations.
In response to the unrest, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has urged protesters to cooperate to facilitate an early start to crushing. The production from the 19 mills currently operational is anticipated to help stabilize sugar prices in the market. Maharashtra and Karnataka are recognized as the second and third largest sugar-producing states in India, respectively.
Union Food Minister Pralhad Joshi and Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan have engaged with farmers' groups in Delhi following threats to block national highways. To address the farmers' grievances, a committee led by former NITI Aayog member Ramesh Chand has been established. However, farmer organizations have dismissed the panel and pledged to persist with their protests.
Looking ahead, the ongoing agitation poses challenges for the sugar industry as the season progresses. With a significant portion of mills yet to start operations, the situation remains fluid, and further developments are expected in the coming days as negotiations between farmers and authorities continue.
