Sugarcane Farmers' Demands Under Review As Centre Forms Panel On Prices, Weighment & Recovery

New Delhi, October 14: The Indian government has formed a committee to review concerns raised by sugarcane farmers and propose solutions for their issues. Led by former NITI Aayog member Prof Ramesh Chand, the committee comprises representatives from various government departments and organizations. The panel will assess demands for higher remuneration for sugarcane farmers, considering cultivation costs and other relevant factors.

It will also analyze the need to revise the Minimum Selling Price (MSP) for sugar, taking into account production costs, market realizations, and the financial viability of sugar mills. Key areas of examination include testing and reporting methods for sugar recovery, ensuring transparent verification of recovery, and the accuracy of weighment practices at sugar mills.

The committee will also assess the impact of mechanized harvesting on sugarcane weight and the losses incurred due to mechanized harvesting. Stakeholder consultations will be conducted with farmers, mill associations, state governments, and other experts to gather necessary insights. The committee will submit its findings and recommendations to the relevant authorities as soon as possible.

Prof Ramesh Chand, a renowned agricultural economist, has been appointed as the chairperson of this committee, bringing his extensive expertise in agricultural development, farmer issues, food security, market policies, and pricing.