The Karnataka government has decided to revise the start date for cane crushing in sugar mills in the state’s northern region for the 2024-25 season, preponing it to November 8, 2024, from the previously scheduled date of November 15.
In a government order issued on November 5, 2024, the state’s authorities took into account several factors, including the concerns of farmers and sugar mills, and the logistical challenges arising from the delayed commencement of the crushing season.
Earlier, the government had issued an order that mandated all sugar mills in the northern part of Karnataka to begin crushing only after November 15, 2024, to ensure the welfare of both sugarcane farmers and the mills. However, following objections from several mills and a petition filed in the High Court, the government has now brought the date forward.
The government received multiple representations from stakeholders, including the Karnataka State Farmers Association and farmers in the Sangur Sugar Mill region, who urged for an early start. The delays, they argued, were causing economic hardship.
The revised date aims to balance the needs of both the sugarcane farmers and the mills. With the new directive, all sugar mills in northern Karnataka must now begin crushing from November 8, 2024, instead of November 15.
In the revised order, the government highlighted that it would continue to monitor the situation closely to ensure the interests of all stakeholders are safeguarded, and directed officials to ensure that mills comply with the new start date.
The decision is expected to provide relief to farmers who feared crop loss due to delayed crushing and ensure the smooth operation of sugar mills in the northern region.
