India’s sugar production crosses 261 LMT 2025-26 SS; Crushing operations nearing end
India’s sugar production reached 261.75 lakh metric tonnes as of March 15, 2026, about 10% higher than last season, according to the National Federation of Cooperative Sugar Factories Limited. Higher cane availability and improved recovery supported output, even as crushing operations gradually wind down across major producing states including Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh and Karnataka.
The National Sugar Federation- NFCSF, announced the sugar production update as of 15th March 2026. The data suggests that while crushing operations are nearing completion in several key sugar-producing states, overall output and recovery have improved due to higher cane availability and better efficiencies. Total sugar produced is 261.75 LMT compared to 237.15 LMT in the corresponding period last season, registering a growth of about 10%.
A total of 540 sugar mills operated during SY 2025-26, compared with 533 mills in SY 2024-25. However, only 173 mills are currently working, significantly lower than the 200 mills operating at the same time last year.
In Maharashtra, the sugar production rose to 98.50 LMT, compared to 78.60 LMT in SY 2024-25. The average recovery stands at 9.50%, slightly higher than 9.45%last season.
In Uttar Pradesh, sugar production has increased slightly to 81.50 LMT, compared to 80.95 LMT in the previous season, supported by improved recovery.
The average sugar recovery in the state has risen to 10.15%, up from 9.60% last year.
Sugar production in Karnataka has increased to 45.80 LMT, compared to 39.10 LMT in SY 2024-25, with the average recovery improving to 8.65% from 8.50%.
The association report suggests that the crushing season is gradually getting over, particularly in western and southern states, as compared to the northern counterparts.
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Source : Chinimandi
