Patna: Bihar has stepped up action against sugar hoarding and black marketing amid rising sugar prices. Sugarcane Industries Minister Sanjay Kumar has directed officials to take strict action against traders found holding more than 400 tonnes of sugar.
The minister said adequate sugar stocks are available with the state’s operational sugar mills and warned that attempts to create an artificial shortage will not be tolerated.
FIR for Excess Sugar Stock
Officials have been directed to register FIRs against sugar traders found violating the 400-tonne stock limit.
The move follows concerns that excessive stockholding by traders or sugar mills could reduce market availability and push up prices despite sufficient supplies in the state.
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Joint Teams to Inspect Stocks
Sugarcane Industries Department Secretary Dharmendra Singh has directed the District Magistrates of West Champaran, East Champaran, Gopalganj, Samastipur and Sitamarhi to conduct physical verification of sugar stocks.
Joint inspection teams comprising a senior Deputy Collector and a Sugarcane Officer will check stocks held by sugar mills as well as traders.
The teams will also monitor sugar sales and ensure that traders and mills follow the prescribed stock limits.
Sugar Mills Get Seven-Day Stock Window
The department has instructed sugar mills to regulate their sugar sales and stock levels.
After selling sugar, mills will be allowed to retain the remaining stock on their premises for a maximum of seven days. Violations could invite action from the authorities.
400-Tonne Limit Effective Till November
The department said the Centre has raised concerns that some sugar mills and traders may resort to hoarding, potentially creating an artificial shortage in the market.
A 400-tonne stockholding limit for sugar traders came into effect nationwide from August 1 and will remain applicable until November 30, 2026.
Bihar authorities have been asked to ensure strict compliance with the order and initiate legal action against those who violate the prescribed limit.
Drive Aims to Control Prices
The inspection drive is aimed at preventing illegal stockpiling and ensuring that adequate sugar reaches the market.
With the government maintaining that sufficient stocks are available, the action is also intended to prevent artificial shortages and unnecessary price increases.
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