Demand to Allow Ethanol Production by Jaggery Units in Karnataka

15-Sep-2026 01:02 PM

Mysuru: In Karnataka, a leading sugarcane and sugar-producing state in South India, there is a growing demand to permit jaggery manufacturing units to produce ethanol. Sugarcane growers argue that with high sugar prices, the government is likely to prioritize sugar production, making it doubtful whether sugar mills will be granted permission to divert sugarcane components for ethanol production. Ethanol production is essential for blending with petrol. In this context, allowing jaggery units to produce ethanol would ensure that sugar production remains unaffected.

A long series of festivals is approaching, which could lead to an increase in the demand, consumption, and price of sugar. Boosting production and stock levels is crucial to ensure adequate supply and availability. Under these circumstances, increasing ethanol production from jaggery and grains would be beneficial. Karnataka is a major producer of jaggery.

The President of the Karnataka State Sugarcane Growers' Association states that the financial benefits of ethanol production should not be restricted to large sugar mills alone. Local jaggery manufacturers should be granted permission to produce ethanol and provided with the necessary technology. According to the President, ethanol produced by jaggery units should be approved for use as domestic cooking fuel and for powering farmers' vehicles and tractors. This would benefit sugarcane growers.