Ahilyanagar (Maharashtra): A dispute over sugarcane prices is growing in the district, with a farmers’ union warning of potential protests if their demands are not met. The Swabhimani Shetkari Sanghatana has stated that farmers will take action if they do not receive a fair price for their crop, reports daily Pudhari.
The state’s sugarcane harvesting season is set to begin on November 1st. While sugar factories have permission to start operations, farmers say they are struggling financially. They point out that the cost of fertilizers, seeds, and labor has increased significantly, yet most local factories paid only between 2,700 and 3,200 rupees per tonne for their last crop. Many farmers are also still waiting for a second payment from these factories.
There is a clear difference in what factories are offering. Some, like Pravera, Ganesh, and Sangamner, are paying a better rate of 3,000 rupees or more. However, others, including Gangamai, Jnyaneshwar, and Kedareshwar, are paying much less, between 2,700 and 2,850 rupees.
A leader from the Swabhimani Shetkari Sanghatana said, “Sugar factories are making good money from sugar and ethanol, but they are not sharing this profit with the farmers who grow the cane. This is unjust.”
The union has presented a list of demands. They want the government to ensure farmers receive a minimum price of 3,300 rupees per tonne for the new season. They also demand that factories immediately stop any practices that lead to farmers receiving less money for their cane.
The union has made a direct appeal to all farmers. They are asking them not to begin cutting or transporting their sugarcane until the government officially announces a fair price. The union warned that if a satisfactory price is not declared, they will call for a complete stop to all harvesting and transport starting November 1st.
The announcement was made at a meeting attended by the union’s district leaders, including Raosaheb Lavande, Balasaheb Fatangade, and Dattatray Funde, along with other local representatives.
