Politics · India Bureau
Sugar mills struggle as Maharashtra, Karnataka farmers press wage demands
Only 15 of Maharashtra's 55 sugar mills have commenced crushing operations as sugarcane growers intensify protests over inadequate support prices. The delay threatens to disrupt the new crushing season across India's second and third largest sugar-producing states.
LSN India ·
Sugar production in Maharashtra and Karnataka has stalled as farmers' agitations over cane support prices continue to disrupt the 2026-27 crushing season. According to sources on Thursday, just 15 mills in Maharashtra have begun full operations since October 8, while 40 others have completed pre-season rituals but remain idle due to ongoing protests.
The situation is more severe in neighboring Karnataka, where no mills are currently operational despite the commencement of the season in October. Sources indicated that only eight of the state's 28 mills typically function during the special season, with all currently halted by the agitation.
Industry observers suggest the limited output from Maharashtra's operational mills may help moderate sugar prices in the near term. However, prolonged production delays pose risks to both farmers and processors if the standoff persists into the peak crushing months.
The central government has constituted a committee to address farmers' grievances regarding cane pricing, though details of its recommendations remain unclear. Maharashtra and Karnataka together account for a substantial share of India's sugar output, making any extended production disruption significant for domestic supply and pricing.