Mahottari: Sugarcane farmers from Mahottari and the wider Madhesh region have voiced strong concerns over the federal government’s decision to exclude subsidies for sugarcane cultivation in the upcoming fiscal year 2082/83. The omission in the new budget marks a significant policy shift, ending a seven-year-long financial support system that was crucial for growers, reports Khabarhub.com.
Farmers say the subsidy—calculated per quintal of cane delivered to mills—helped offset low market prices and high input costs. “The government subsidy was a major support for us. Its exclusion from this year’s budget is concerning,” said Mahendra Mahato, a farmer from Bardibas-9.
Veteran farmer Arun Giri from Ramnagar, Bhangaha-4, echoed the sentiment. “We’ve never received a fair price for our produce. Now that the subsidy has also been dropped, it’s time we consider alternative crops,” he said, noting that even delayed subsidies had helped cover vital expenses.
Adding to farmers’ worries is the uncertainty surrounding the Rs 70 per quintal subsidy promised for the current fiscal year 2081/82. Although the Treasury and Accounts Control Office has recommended Rs 2.17 billion for 14,533 farmers linked to Everest Sugar Industry, no timeline for disbursement has been provided.
Last year, a similar subsidy of Rs 2.03 billion for 14,444 farmers was only released just before Dashain, leaving many anxious about history repeating itself.
Naresh Singh Kushwaha, President of the Sugarcane Producers’ Association, warned that the sector is at a tipping point. “Without a clear commitment in the budget, this farming is no longer sustainable,” he said.
Farmers are now urging the government to reconsider its decision and ensure continued support for sugarcane farming, which remains a vital source of livelihood in the region.
