Sugarcane Speculation and Supply Policy 2024-25: A Boon for Farmers

Key Highlights

• Priority for small sugarcane farmers with contracts up to 72 quintals.
• New farmer members get supply benefits.
• Slips issued phase-wise for paddy and plant sugarcane.
• Mechanical harvesting was introduced for the first time.
• The toll-free number for farmer support: is 1800-121-3203.

The Uttar Pradesh government has released the Sugarcane Speculation and Supply Policy for the 2024-25 sugarcane crushing season, aiming to support the state's sugarcane farmers. Known for being the top producer of sugarcane in India, Uttar Pradesh has introduced several new provisions in this policy, designed to make the selling process smoother for farmers. Small farmers, in particular, will benefit from these updates.

Also Read: Sugarcane Karan 17: High-Yielding, Disease-Resistant Variety

Key Provisions of the 2024-25 Sugarcane Policy

The UP government has included various farmer-friendly features in this policy. Some of the most important ones include:

1. Benefits for New Farmers: For the first time, new members of the sugarcane committees will receive the advantage of sugarcane speculation. They will be entitled to supply either up to the average sugarcane yield of the sugar mill they are associated with or 65% of the district’s productivity – whichever is higher.
2. Phase-wise Slips for Farmers: Farmers growing paddy or autumn crops will have their supply slips issued in the 6th phase. Farmers with sugarcane plants will receive their slips in the 7th phase.
3. Membership for New Farmers: New members who join the sugarcane committee by September 30, 2024, will have their records reviewed. If eligible, they will be granted membership by the rules, and a final calendar will be published by November 15.
4. Small Farmers to Get Priority: The policy focuses on small farmers, those holding contracts of up to 72 quintals. These farmers will be prioritized in the supply process:
   • Slips for paddy sugarcane will be issued from sides 01 to 03.
   • Slips for plant sugarcane will be issued from sides 07 to 09.
5. Mandatory Slip Issuance for Small Farmers: Small farmers with contracts of up to 36 quintals will receive their slips for paddy sugarcane in the first fortnight, and for plant sugarcane in the seventh fortnight.
6. Drip Irrigation Benefits: Farmers using drip irrigation will get preference in additional auctions, although rejected varieties of sugarcane will not be included.
7. Additional Bonding for Farmers: For the first time, paddy and autumn crop farmers will receive free additional bonding in the 6th phase of supply.

What is Sugarcane Speculation?

In simple terms, sugarcane speculation refers to the amount of sugarcane a farmer is allowed to supply. This includes the basic quota, additional bonding, and an increase of up to 85% of the total sugarcane produced. The policy ensures that small farmers in Uttar Pradesh also benefit from this system.

Sugarcane Slip Calendar

Farmers are provided with a sugarcane slip calendar, which includes key details about the sale of their sugarcane such as:

• The sugar mill’s name
• Date and quantity of the slip
• Price of the slip

Farmers can easily access this information through a mobile app, which can be downloaded from the Google Play Store. The app includes information for all sugar mills in Uttar Pradesh.

Mechanical Sugarcane Harvesting

For the first time, the new policy allows for mechanical sugarcane harvesting. Sugar mills interested in launching this as a pilot project must gain consent from farmers and discuss relevant factors like harvesting rates and additional material concerns. Afterward, the Cane Implementation Committee will review the proposal before approval.

Toll-Free Support for Farmers

To resolve any complaints farmers may have, the government has set up a control room. Farmers can dial a toll-free number: 1800-121-3203, to register their complaints and seek assistance. The Sugarcane Development Department is committed to ensuring a smooth crushing season for 2024-25.

Also Read: Sowing Area Reaches 109.23 Million Hectares: Could This Lead to a Bumper Harvest?

CMV360 Says

The new Sugarcane Speculation and Supply Policy for the 2024-25 season aims to relieve sugarcane farmers, especially smallholders significantly. The policy is structured to ensure that farmers can sell their sugarcane efficiently, with priority given to those utilizing modern farming methods such as drip irrigation. With these new provisions, Uttar Pradesh continues to lead in sugarcane production while focusing on the well-being of its farmers.