Panaji: The Goa government has launched a fresh attempt to revive Sanjivani Sahakari Sakhar Karkhana Limited (SSSK), the state’s only sugar factory, which has been closed since 2019. A new feasibility study is underway to explore the production of high-value sugar products such as organic sugar, sulphur-free sugar, and jaggery in line with global market trends.
The Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Cell is preparing a new tender for an integrated sugar and distillery unit, which will be floated by the end of September. Plans also include setting up an ethanol production unit as a subsidiary, reported DajiWorld.
PPP Cell director Rajan Satardekar said the feasibility study was carried out by a private agency and that the new tender would be designed to attract more bidders. “There is growing demand for premium sugar types like organic, sulphur-free, and jaggery. The plan is to position the factory in line with this demand,” he explained.
Earlier efforts to restart the factory failed. In 2022, two firms responded to the Request for Qualification (RFQ), but neither qualified. In 2024, no bids were received. The government hopes the revised plan, with a wider scope and diversification, will generate more interest this time.
With the new tender expected by the end of September and a strategy focused on value-added products, the state government is aiming to breathe new life into Goa’s sugar industry and encourage farmers to return to sugarcane cultivation.
