Politics · India Bureau
Sugar prices should rise, over-40s should quit: MP minister
A senior Madhya Pradesh minister has stirred debate by suggesting sugar should become significantly more expensive and that people above 40 years old should avoid consumption entirely, citing health concerns.
LSN India ·
Kailash Vijayvargiya, Madhya Pradesh's Parliamentary Affairs Minister, defended rising sugar prices on Wednesday, arguing that the commodity should cost even more than current levels. Speaking to reporters, the BJP leader claimed that sugar prices have actually been falling steadily, countering opposition criticism over festival-season cost increases.
Vijayvargiya suggested a tiered pricing approach for sugar distribution, with subsidized rates reserved for children through government fair-price shops while restricting access for elderly citizens. He contended that 90 per cent of people no longer consume sweets regularly, citing his own dietary habits as an example. "I don't eat sweets at all," the minister said.
The statement reflects broader health concerns about sugar consumption among older populations. Vijayvargiya referenced medical opinion, particularly from Ayurvedic practitioners, that people above 40 years of age should avoid sugar entirely due to associated health risks. The comments came amid opposition party criticism of rising sugar prices ahead of major festivals, when demand for sweets typically peaks in India.