Moradabad: Sugar production in Moradabad Division has increased by about two per cent this season even though the sugarcane crushing season is still in progress, Amar Ujala reported.
By this date last year, mills in the division had produced about 150 lakh quintals of sugar. However, by March 10 this year, production has already reached 161 lakh quintals, which is 11 lakh quintals more than the same period last year.
At present, 18 sugar mills in the division are continuing cane procurement and crushing. Officials say the total production figure may rise further once the season ends.
This season, 23 sugar mills started crushing operations in the division. However, the cooperative sugar mill at Bilaspur and four mills of the Rana Group located in Belwara, Bilari, Karimganj and Majhawali have already completed their crushing season. The remaining 18 mills are still operating.
Deputy Cane Commissioner Harpal Singh said most mills are expected to finish crushing by the end of March, while two to four mills may continue operations until the first week of April.
Officials said improved sugar recovery in sugarcane has helped increase production this year.
Last season, sugar recovery from cane remained between nine and 10 per cent. This year, the average recovery has crossed 11 per cent, and some mills have reported recovery levels of 12 to 13 per cent. Officials believe this improvement in recovery has led to higher sugar output and the trend may continue until the end of the season.
