Lucknow: The Uttar Pradesh government has officially kicked off the 2025-26 sugarcane crushing season, marking a significant milestone for farmers across the state. This year’s season comes with a historic ₹30 per quintal increase in sugarcane prices — the steepest hike in recent years — reinforcing the Yogi Adityanath government’s continued commitment to strengthening the sugarcane economy and ensuring farmer welfare.
53 Mills Issue Indents, 21 Begin Operations
According to the Sugarcane Department, out of 122 sugar mills in Uttar Pradesh, 53 mills have already issued sugarcane indents, while 21 mills — including one cooperative and 20 private sector mills — have commenced crushing operations.
Region-wise, the active mills are spread across the state as follows:
- Saharanpur Division: 5 mills
- Meerut Division: 8 mills
- Moradabad Division: 2 mills
- Lucknow Division: 6 mills
Another 32 mills have completed the necessary formalities and are expected to begin operations soon, while the remaining 69 mills will start crushing in the coming days.
Historic Price Hike to Benefit Farmers
The Yogi government’s announcement of a ₹30 per quintal increase in the state-advised price (SAP) for sugarcane has been widely welcomed by farmers. This move not only ensures higher income for cane growers but also demonstrates the administration’s focus on agricultural growth and rural prosperity.
Officials said that the decision would inject substantial liquidity into the rural economy, benefiting lakhs of farmers and ensuring better returns for their hard work.
Timely Operations to Aid Wheat Sowing
Sugarcane Commissioner Ministhy S. stated that timely crushing operations would enable farmers to clear their fields promptly for wheat sowing, maintaining the state’s robust agricultural calendar.
“All mills have been instructed to ensure timely payments to farmers as per government norms. Payments have already begun in several districts, and strict action will be taken against mills delaying dues,” the Commissioner added.
UP’s Sugar Industry: A Growth Driver
Uttar Pradesh remains India’s largest sugar-producing state, contributing over 45% of the country’s total output. The government’s proactive policies, coupled with improved mill efficiency and farmer support measures, have positioned the state as a model for sugarcane reforms and value chain modernization.
The early start of the 2025-26 crushing season reflects the state’s preparedness and focus on ensuring timely procurement, smooth operations, and farmer-centric governance.
