Centre sets up panel to study problems of sugarcane farmers
Representatives of sugarcane farmers from Karnataka and Maharashtra had met Union Ministers demanding that the government must increase remunerative returns to sugarcane farmers
The Union Government on October 13, 2026, formed a four-member panel to investigate issues faced by sugarcane farmers and propose "appropriate measures" to address their concerns. The panel, led by former NITI Aayog member Ramesh Chand, includes representatives from Karnataka and Maharashtra, who demanded higher remuneration for sugarcane farmers.
The panel will examine the demand for an increase in the ex-mill Minimum Selling Price (MSP) of sugar, considering cultivation costs, market realisations, and the financial viability of sugar mills. Key areas of examination include testing and reporting sugar recovery, transparent verification of recovery, and sugarcane weighment practices at sugar mills, including calibration, inspection, and verification mechanisms.
The committee will also evaluate the financial impact of current practices on cane prices payable to farmers and consider any other relevant matters.
The committee will consult all stakeholders, including farmers' representatives, sugar mill associations, State Governments, and experts, to finalize its report with findings and specific recommendations. The report will be submitted for consideration by the competent authority as soon as possible.
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