Saharanpur: Sugar mills in the district are yet to clear Rs 211.58 crore in cane payments to farmers, leaving many growers struggling to manage daily expenses and festival preparations, Amar Ujala reported.
With Holi and Eid around the corner, farmers say the festive spirit is missing as they wait for their long-pending dues. They say while festivals may somehow be observed, the absence of payments has made it difficult to pay children’s school and college fees, arrange weddings or invest in the next crop.
Officials said that among the district’s eight sugar mills, the highest outstanding amount of Rs 120 crore is pending with Bajaj Sugar Mill Gangnauli. This is followed by Rs 50.71 crore at Kisan Sahkari Sugar Mill Nanauta, Rs 28.36 crore at The Kisan Cooperative Sugar Mill Sarsawa, Rs 21.21 crore at Daya Sugar Mill Gagalheri, Rs 11.56 crore at Bidvi Sugar Mill and Rs 7.73 crore at Shermau Sugar Mill.
A farmer from Badhedi Koli village in the Nagal area, said sugarcane is his main crop, but delayed payments from the mill have caused serious financial strain. He said his two children are pursuing higher education and their fees are substantial. In addition to social responsibilities, he also needs funds to invest in the next cropping season.
Another farmer from Isakpur village, said he recently contributed to his sister’s wedding expenses and still has to pay his children’s school fees. With crop investment also pending, he said the delay in payment from Bajaj Sugar Mill has forced him to borrow money to meet household expenses. He added that Holi passed without much celebration due to lack of funds.
Farmers have urged authorities to ensure early clearance of dues so that they can manage their household needs and prepare for the upcoming cropping season.
