New policy in the works to boost Maharashtra’s sugar sector
Maharashtra Cooperation Minister Babasaheb Patil announced plans for a new sugar industry policy to boost rural growth, ensure timely farmer payments, and promote sustainable cane production. Speaking at WISMA’s 2025 awards, he highlighted joint government support, while WISMA President B. B. Thombre noted private mills now hold 55% sector share.
Maharashtra’s Cooperation Minister Babasaheb Patil stated that a new policy to promote the sugar industry will soon be introduced, recognizing the crucial role the sector plays in strengthening the state’s agricultural and rural economy. He made this statement while speaking at the “Sugar and Bio-Energy Awards 2025” ceremony organized by the West Indian Sugar Mills Association (WISMA), reported Agrowon.
Present at the event were Sugar Commissioner Siddharam Salimath, WISMA President B. B. Thombre, Vice President Neeraj Shirgaonkar, General Secretary Pandurang Raut, DSTA President B. S. Bhad, and WISMA Executive Director Ajit Chougule.
Minister Patil emphasized the joint efforts of both central and state governments in supporting the sugar industry. “This industry has brought employment opportunities and prosperity to rural areas,” he said. “To further this progress, the government is planning to implement a new, forward-looking policy. Better days lie ahead for the sugar sector.”
He also stressed the importance of compliance within the industry, particularly regarding timely payments to farmers and salaries for workers. Highlighting sustainable practices, Patil urged sugar mills to prioritize efficient sugarcane production with minimal water usage while maintaining soil health.
During the event, WISMA President B. B. Thombre reflected on the association’s origins. “In 2005, five of us, Gopinath Munde, Nitin Gadkari, Babanrao Pachpute, Haribhau Bagde, and I, founded WISMA. What started with just five members now represents 133 private sugar mills,” Thombre said. He added that WISMA has always worked in the interest of farmers, maintaining no distinction between cooperative and private mills. Today, private mills account for 55% of the total business in the sugar sector, he noted.
As part of the ceremony, Minister Patil honored several sugar factories for their performance and contributions.
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Source : Chinimandi
