Gujarat: Shah announces revival of three Sugar Mills benefiting 10K+ farmers
Union Home Minister Amit Shah emphasized the revival of three Gujarat sugar mills as a major boost for over 10,000 farmers. Implemented through Indian Potash Limited, the initiative integrates ethanol production, modern farming techniques, and cooperative empowerment. He highlighted increased agricultural budgets, fertilizer subsidies, and credit expansion under PM Modi, ensuring sustainable and profitable farming.
Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Amit Shah addressed a program focused on the revival and modernization of three sugar mills in Gir Somnath and Valsad, Gujarat. He emphasized that this initiative, fulfilling Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s commitment, will significantly benefit over 10,000 farmers in the region.
Shah highlighted the Modi government’s efforts to support the agricultural sector through cooperative initiatives. The revival of these sugar mills, executed through Indian Potash Limited (IPL), underscores the government’s vision to integrate energy production with farming. With cooperatives holding 60% of IPL’s share capital, this initiative strengthens the cooperative movement and empowers farmers.
By incorporating ethanol production into sugar mills, the government is helping farmers transition from being solely food producers to energy producers, reducing India’s reliance on petroleum imports and positioning the country as a future global biofuel supplier.
Amit Shah explained that the revival of these mills is the result of collaborative efforts between Indian Potash Limited, the State Cooperative Bank, the Gujarat government, and the central government. Beyond modernizing sugar mills, IPL has introduced several farmer-friendly measures, including advanced sugarcane seeds, mechanized harvesting, drone-based fertilizer spraying, and drip irrigation systems. Additionally, ethanol and gas production facilities have been set up, ensuring sustainable and profitable sugarcane farming.
A key aspect of the initiative is the emphasis on producing ethanol, compressed biogas, and organic fertilizers from sugarcane. Shah pointed out that the Modi government has prioritized farmers’ welfare through various measures. He cited a sixfold increase in the agriculture budget—from Rs 22,000 crore in 2013-14 to Rs 1.37 lakh crore in 2023-24. Similarly, agricultural credit has expanded from Rs 8.5 lakh crore to Rs 25.5 lakh crore, demonstrating the government’s commitment to empowering farmers financially.
Shah also addressed fertilizer subsidies, stating that despite rising global prices, the Modi government has kept Di-Ammonium Phosphate (DAP) prices stable for Indian farmers through subsidies over the past decade. This policy ensures that farmers have access to affordable fertilizers, enabling them to maximize productivity. Other farmer-oriented schemes, including credit cards, drip irrigation support, and organic farming incentives, further contribute to their long-term prosperity.
Amit Shah commended Indian Potash Limited for spearheading the revival of the sugar mills and enhancing the livelihoods of thousands of farmers. He expressed confidence that once these mills operate at full capacity, they will open new economic opportunities for farmers in Gujarat. Emphasizing water conservation, he urged farmers to adopt drip irrigation techniques, aligning with the government’s vision for sustainable agriculture.
In conclusion, Shah reiterated that under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership, the cooperative sector is witnessing unprecedented growth. The modernization of these sugar mills is a testament to the government’s focus on agricultural and cooperative development.
With ongoing initiatives, farmers are not only improving their income but also contributing to India’s energy security through ethanol production. The revival of these mills marks a significant step toward fulfilling the government’s commitment to rural and agricultural development, ensuring a prosperous future for farmers in Gujarat and beyond.
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Source : Indian Cooperative
