Samastipur, Bihar: State Sugarcane Industry Minister Krishnanandan Paswan stated that the goal is to make sugarcane production and its related businesses the best in the country. To achieve this, the department has launched several schemes aimed at increasing sugarcane yield, ensuring farmers’ prosperity, and creating employment opportunities. As part of these efforts, the government is providing subsidy for setting up jaggery processing plants. Additionally, the government is committed to raising awareness among farmers about sugarcane production and resolving their concerns, reported Live Hindustan.
The minister made these remarks on Thursday while addressing scientists, sugarcane farmers, and business owners at the Vidyapati Auditorium of the university. The occasion was a state-level workshop on the challenges of increasing sugarcane productivity in Bihar. He highlighted that to strengthen the sugarcane sector, the government has revived the Riga Sugar Mill, which had been closed for several years. Under the Jaggery Promotion Scheme, new processing units are also being established.
State Sugarcane Commissioner Anil Kumar Jha mentioned that promoting the jaggery industry across Bihar would boost both sugarcane-based farming and industries. Vice-Chancellor of Dr Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, Dr P.S. Pandey, stated that the university is continuously working on developing improved sugarcane varieties for farmers’ benefit. He added that the university, in collaboration with the state government, is actively involved in sugarcane processing, value addition, and marketing.
The event was welcomed by Sugarcane Research Institute Director Dr Devendra Singh, while Deputy Director Arvind Kumar delivered the vote of thanks. Also present were Dr S.N. Singh, Dr Navneet Kumar, Dr Minanullah, Dr D.N. Kamat, and Dr Balwant Kumar. Later, the minister inspected an exhibition showcasing different sugarcane varieties, agricultural equipment related to sugarcane farming, and value-added products.
