Sugarcane Crushing Season Begins in Uttar Pradesh
The 2025-26 sugarcane crushing season started in Uttar Pradesh on Tuesday. Authorities have instructed sugar mills to pay farmers promptly for sugarcane according to the current season's regulations.
Current Operations in Sugar Mills
State Sugarcane Development Minister Laxmi Narain Choudhary reported that crushing has commenced in 21 sugar mills, including one cooperative and 20 private sector mills.
The state’s total of 53 sugar mills have issued purchase indents for sugarcane. Among operational mills:
- 5 of 19 in Saharanpur region
- 8 of 16 in Meerut region
- 2 of 23 in Moradabad region
- 6 of 19 in Lucknow region
Another 32 mills have completed formalities and issued indents, and will start crushing in the next few days. The remaining 69 mills are expected to begin operations soon.
Support for Farmers
The minister confirmed that sugar mills have started paying the dues of sugarcane farmers for the season. Timely crushing will help farmers clear their fields early for wheat sowing.
Significance
Uttar Pradesh remains India's largest sugarcane producer, cultivating on approximately 70 lakh acres.
"Timely operation of sugar mills will facilitate farmers by clearing fields for wheat sowing." — Laxmi Narain Choudhary, State Sugarcane Development Minister
Author’s summary: The sugarcane crushing season in UP has officially started with 21 mills operating; timely payments and operations aim to support farmers and maintain the state’s lead in sugarcane production.