Kolhapur: In recent years, the global sugar industry has faced prolonged challenges due to oversupply and low prices. Despite the difficulties, several established players in the industry refrained from significant actions. However, amidst contrasting scenarios, one individual not only entered the sugar industry deeply but also carved out a distinctive position through visionary leadership—Manasing Khorate.
Taking over the reins of the financially troubled sugar mill in Chandgad tehsil of Kolhapur district four years ago in 2019, Khorate has since successfully managed its operations. Going a step forward, in November 2023, the Atharv Intertrade Group, led by Manasing Khorate, acquired ownership of Solapur’s Lok Shakti Sugars. Joining forces with his son, Prithviraj Khorate, the second generation of the Khorate family has now become actively involved in the sugar industry. Prithviraj Khorate has played a significant role in the acquisition process of Lok Shakti Sugars.
Khorate, who hails from Kolhapur, began his career as a chemical engineer with a private chemical factory as a production officer. He spent a few years in the factory and worked rigorously until he managed the entire unit as a factory manager. His experience and audacious goals pushed him to try his luck over doing something on his own. He initially began with exports in oxalic acid which is also produced from sugarcane, sugar and many alternative sources. Progressively, Khorate, Director of Atharv Intertrade Pvt. Ltd started to export sugar. Though he had a tough time being a new player in the industry, within a short span, he managed to become a prominent broker with leading companies. Later, people in the sugar fraternity even encouraged him to step into domestic trade after seeing his impressive dynamics in exports.
In 2019, the Atharv Intertrade Private Limited company took a lease on Daulat Sugar Mill (Halkarni) for 39 years, ensuring its efficient operation. Through its dedicated efforts, the mill has provided relief to thousands of farmers and mill workers.
The acquisition process of Lok Shakti Sugars involved eight competing companies, where Atharv Intertrade Group stood out due to its competitive bid. Prithviraj Khorate played a pivotal role in the acquisition process of Lok Shakti Sugars, demonstrating significant leadership.
