Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis will soon meet Union Cooperation Minister Amit Shah to discuss the growing crisis in Maharashtra’s sugar sector, Cooperation Minister Babasaheb Patil informed the Legislative Council, assuring that the state will seek the Centre’s support to address the industry’s pressing issues, Loksatta reported.
The assurance came after senior legislator Satej Patil raised concerns over the deteriorating condition of sugar factories in the state. He pointed out that although the sector generates nearly ₹8,000 crore in revenue for the government, many mills are struggling to survive.
According to Satej Patil, 210 sugar factories began operations in the current crushing season, but 27 have already shut down and another 50 are likely to close soon. In previous years, mills operated until May, but a decline in sugarcane production has forced early closures this season.
He also said that lower sugar recovery has weakened the financial position of mills, affecting their ability to pay the Fair and Remunerative Price (FRP) to farmers. Despite these challenges, the Sugar Commissioner’s office has issued notices to 45 factories for pending FRP dues amounting to Rs 1,860 crore. Patil urged the government to intervene, warning that more factories could face closure if the situation is not addressed.
In response, Babasaheb Patil said the government would convene a meeting with sugar mill owners during the ongoing session to discuss the sector’s key problems. The major issues identified would then be placed before the Chief Minister for further action.
He said the Chief Minister would take up the matter with the Centre and, along with industry representatives, meet Amit Shah to seek support and find a solution. The minister assured the House that steps would be taken to frame a clear policy to address the difficulties faced by sugar factories across the state.
