Sugarcane Farmers Abandon Crop in Droves as State's Agricultural Landscape Transforms

Strategic Insights -

As the closure of the Sanjivani sugar factory at Dharbandora in 2019-20 left farmers without a primary buyer, a significant transformation of the agricultural landscape in the state ensued. With nearly 60% of farmers abandoning sugarcane cultivation, the latest data shows that 43% of cultivators shifted away from sugarcane farming in 2024-25 alone. This crisis has led to a steady acceleration of sugarcane farmers transitioning to alternative crops, with vegetable cultivation becoming increasingly remunerative.

Key Takeaways:

  • The closure of the Sanjivani sugar factory in 2019-20 led to a 60% abandonment of sugarcane cultivation among farmers.
  • From 676 sugarcane farmers in 2020-21, the count plummeted to just 497 in 2024-25.
  • Farmers are shifting to diverse vegetable crops, including brinjal, okra, and cluster beans, which offer quicker returns and a ready market.
  • Only 298 farmers currently undertake sugarcane cultivation, representing just over 43% of the original farming community.
  • Govt has provided substantial financial support to affected farmers, disbursing over Rs 44 crore in special assistance from 2020-21 to 2024-25.
  • Assistance rates range from Rs 3,000 per tonne initially to Rs 2,200 per tonne in the current year.
  • A notification issued in May has ensured continued support for remaining sugarcane cultivators, with assistance based on fair and remunerative price guidelines set by the National Cooperative Sugar Federations.

Statistics:

  • 60% of sugarcane farmers have abandoned cane cultivation over the last four years.
  • 43% of cultivators shifted away from sugarcane farming in 2024-25 alone.
  • 676 sugarcane farmers in 2020-21 reduced to 497 in 2024-25.
  • 298 farmers currently undertake sugarcane cultivation, representing just over 43% of the original farming community.
  • Over Rs 44 crore in special assistance disbursed to affected farmers from 2020-21 to 2024-25.
  • Assistance rates ranging from Rs 3,000 per tonne initially to Rs 2,200 per tonne in the current year.

Sources:

  • Govind.Maad@timesofindia.com
  • Agriculture department official (no name mentioned)
  • National Cooperative Sugar Federations (no date mentioned)
  • Govt of (State) (no date mentioned)