Sugar mills across several regions are reportedly scaling down the number of procurement centers due to ongoing delays in payments to sugarcane farmers. According to industry sources, mills struggling with liquidity issues have found it increasingly difficult to clear dues to growers on time.
As a result, many have chosen to reduce the number of cane collection points for the upcoming crushing season, citing operational and financial constraints. Farmers, however, have voiced concerns over the move, saying it will force them to travel longer distances to deliver their produce, adding to their transport costs and logistical challenges.
Officials from the sugar industry have urged the government to intervene and provide financial relief or soft loans to help mills settle pending dues. They warn that if the situation persists, it could impact both cane cultivation and sugar production in the next season.
