In a major decision for the welfare of sugarcane farmers, the Yogi Adityanath-led government in Uttar Pradesh has announced a significant hike in the sugarcane support price. The Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, Yogi Adityanath, has approved a 30 rupee increase per quintal in the sugarcane price for the crushing season of 2025-26. This historic price hike is expected to bring a major relief to the farmers of the state.
Historic Increase in Sugarcane Support Price in Uttar Pradesh
The Uttar Pradesh government’s new price structure for sugarcane has set the rate for early variety sugarcane at 400 rupees per quintal and the general variety at 390 rupees per quintal. This increase in the support price is being hailed as one of the most significant decisions taken by the government for the welfare of the farmers. As a result of this increase, the state’s sugarcane farmers will receive an additional payment of approximately 3,000 crore rupees. This decision is expected to give a major boost to the agricultural sector in the state, which is crucial to the state’s economy.
Government’s Support for Sugarcane Farmers Since 2017
The Yogi government’s efforts to support sugarcane farmers are not new. Since coming to power in 2017, the government has increased the sugarcane support price four times. Over the past eight years, the state government has made record payments to sugarcane farmers. A total of 2,90,225 crore rupees have been paid to sugarcane farmers under the current government. In contrast, between 2007 and 2017, the previous government had paid only 1,47,346 crore rupees, highlighting a major difference in the approach towards farmer welfare. The current government’s approach has resulted in an additional payment of 1,42,879 crore rupees to the farmers, compared to the previous government’s tenure.
Growth of the Sugar Industry in Uttar Pradesh
Uttar Pradesh continues to lead as one of the largest producers of sugarcane in India. Currently, the state has 122 operational sugar mills, making it the second-largest producer of sugar in the country. Over the last eight years, the government has been instrumental in strengthening the sugar industry. During this period, four new sugar mills have been established, six closed mills have been revived, and the capacity of 42 mills has been expanded. This expansion of the sugar industry has attracted an investment of approximately 12,000 crore rupees, which has not only provided better facilities for the farmers but has also helped boost the local economy.
Smart Sugarcane Farming System and Elimination of Middlemen
In line with the government’s vision for transparency and efficiency in the sugarcane industry, the Yogi government has implemented a “Smart Sugarcane Farmer” system. This online system has digitized the sugarcane procurement process and eliminated the need for middlemen. Through this system, farmers now receive their payments directly into their bank accounts via Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT), ensuring faster and more transparent transactions. The elimination of middlemen has been a significant step in improving the income of farmers and preventing exploitation by intermediaries.
Uttar Pradesh Leads in Ethanol Production
Uttar Pradesh has also made remarkable strides in the ethanol production industry. The state has emerged as the leading producer of ethanol in the country. Over the years, ethanol production in the state has seen a dramatic increase, from 41 crore liters to 182 crore liters. Additionally, the number of distilleries in the state has grown from 61 to 97. This growth in ethanol production has not only contributed to the state’s economy but has also supported the national goal of reducing dependence on fossil fuels and boosting the use of renewable energy sources.
The latest decision to increase the sugarcane support price marks a major step in strengthening the agricultural sector in Uttar Pradesh. This price hike will directly benefit the sugarcane farmers, providing them with better earnings and improved financial stability. The government’s continuous efforts to modernize the sugarcane industry, eliminate middlemen, and promote ethanol production showcase its commitment to the welfare of farmers and the state’s economic growth. With these progressive steps, Uttar Pradesh is on track to become a model state for agricultural reforms and industrial growth. The increased support price, along with ongoing improvements in the sugar industry, will ensure that farmers in the state continue to thrive.
