The cost of sugarcane cultivation in Andhra Pradesh is higher compared to major sugar-producing states, primarily due to the high labor costs, said the Minister.
In response to an unstarred question in the Lok Sabha, the Minister of State for Food and Consumer Affairs, Nimuben Jayantibhai Bambhaniya, stated, “Water availability is limited in uplands especially in north costal districts and Chittoor district. Cost of cultivation is more in Andhra Pradesh compared to major sugar producing states especially due to high labour cost. In Andhra Pradesh most of the sugar factories are located in coastal area. Sugar recovery is low due to inadequate cane crush and climatic conditions i.e., less diurnal variation in the temperatures between day and night time.”
In the state, out of total 29 sugar mills, 5 sugar mills are operational during current Sugar Season 2024-25 (Oct – Sept). Remaining 24 sugar mills could not take up crushing operations due to non-availability of sufficient sugarcane, other financial problems.
Out of 5 working sugar mills in the State, only 4 sugar mills are producing ethanol. Ethanol production during 2023-24 season was 3.43 crore liters and estimated ethanol production during 2024-25 is 4.58 crore liters.
“Generally the Sugar mills in the state of Andhra Pradesh are providing seed, fertilizers, pesticides, support for harvesting, transportation and drip irrigation td their cane growers on subsidy / free of cost / interest free basis, depending oil their financial condition. State Government is extending financial assistance to the cooperative sugar factories whenever necessary,” she further added.
