Sugarcane acreage in Haryana reduced by 15%, sugar mills will face supply shortage

22-Nov-2024 09:32 AM

Sugarcane acreage in Haryana reduced by 15%, sugar mills will face supply shortage
The reduction in sugarcane acreage in Haryana, dropping by 15% to 3,04,309 acres from 3.59 lakh acres in the 2023-24 season, is expected to significantly affect the sugar industry in the state. This decrease in acreage is largely attributed to adverse weather conditions, such as floods in regions like Shahabad, Narayangarh, and Yamunanagar, which have impacted sugarcane production. Additionally, the increasing profitability of competing crops like paddy, wheat, and poplar is incentivizing farmers to shift away from sugarcane cultivation.

As a result of the reduced sugarcane supply, the state's 14 sugar mills—comprising both cooperative mills (located in places like Panipat, Rohtak, and Karnal) and private mills (in Narayangarh, Bhadason, and Yamunanagar)—are likely to face operational challenges. Some mills, such as Saraswati Sugar Mill in Yamunanagar and the cooperative mill in Karnal, have already begun crushing, but the low availability of sugarcane could force many mills to close earlier than usual this season.

This shortage is not only problematic for the mills but could also affect local employment and sugar prices in Haryana. With the decrease in sugarcane acreage, mills will need to find ways to manage the reduced supply and ensure that the industry remains viable amid these challenges.