Belagavi: Deputy commissioner Nitesh Patil has issued notices to 13 sugar mills in Belagavi district, instructing them to “give priority to settling the outstanding amounts owed to sugarcane growers.” The issuance of these notices comes after complaints from sugarcane growers, indicating a proactive stance by the administration in addressing the concerns of the agricultural community, reported The Times of India.
The 28 sugar mills in the Belagavi district serve as the primary sugar production hubs in the state.
According to the media report, a total of Rs 508.5 crore is owed to sugarcane growers by 13 mills in Belagavi district for sugarcane deliveries.
DC Nitesh Patil stated that out of the 28 sugar factories, 15 have already settled their dues with the growers, leaving 13 factories with pending payments. The sugar director and the sugarcane development commissioner have issued a final warning to these factories.
“Under the Karnataka Sugarcane Act, if the factories fail to clear the cane bills within 14 days of receiving sugarcane supplies, they will be required to pay an interest at a rate of 15% on the outstanding amount to the growers for the subsequent period.” In case of continued delay in payment, action will be recommended to the government.
