Sugar Times Team
Articles by Sugar Times Team
Renowned Agricultural Scientist Dr. S. N. Sushil Appointed as Director of ICAR-IISR Lucknow
The Indian Institute of Sugarcane Research (IISR) has officially appointed renowned scientist Dr. S. N. Sushil as its new Director. Dr. Sushil assumed his leadership role this past Thursday at the institute’s Lucknow headquarters.
Successful Demonstration of ‘Super 27’ Sugarcane Harvester in Uttar Pradesh Sugar Mills
Super Cane Harvester Machines Pvt. Ltd. recently conducted a successful live field demonstration of its “Super 27” sugarcane harvester at several sugar mills in Uttar Pradesh. The event was attended by a large number of farmers, sugar mill officials, and industry representatives who observed the machine’s performance under actual field conditions. During the demonstration, the […]
DESMI introduces pump technology designed for liquefied CO2 infrastructure
New DesCan pump developed from operational experience to support safe and reliable transfer of liquefied CO2 in emerging CO2 hubs, terminals and transport systems As carbon capture and storage (CCS) projects move from pilot phase to large-scale infrastructure, the safe and reliable handling of liquefied CO2 is becoming a critical part of the value chain. […]
SugarNXT 2026 Signals a High-Tech, Low-Cost Future for India’s Sugar Industry
India’s sugar industry is moving into a new phase—becoming more efficient, technology-driven, and aligned with the country’s clean energy goals. This transformation was highlighted at SugarNXT 2026, a two-day conclave organised by the Indian Sugar & Bio-Energy Manufacturers Association. The event brought together policymakers, industry leaders, and technology experts to discuss how innovation is reshaping […]
War, Weather & Waste: ISMA's SugarNXT 2026 Puts India's Sugar Sector Under the Microscope
From shrinking demand forecasts to zero-waste factory models, India's premier sugar industry conference tackles the sector's most pressing challenges head-on New Delhi, April 7, 2026 — India's sugar and bio-energy sector gathered at Hotel Taj Mahal, Mansingh Road, New Delhi for ISMA's SugarNXT 2026 Conference — a platform that this year carried unusual urgency, with […]
Subsidy on Sugarcane Seeds: Dhampur Bio Organics Urges Farmers to Increase Sowing
Sarabjit Singh Saini, Unit Head of Dhampur Bio Organics sugar mill located in Meerganj, has appealed to farmers in the region to increase sugarcane cultivation. He said the mill is offering subsidies on sugarcane seeds to encourage farmers to expand their sowing area. According to him, the initiative aims to support farmers and ensure adequate […]
India’s Sugar Production Reaches 272.31 Lakh Tonnes: ISMA
India’s sugar production has increased by around 9% in the 2025–26 sugar season, reaching 272.31 lakh tonnes as of March 31, 2026, according to the Indian Sugar and Bio-Energy Manufacturers Association. During the same period last season, sugar output stood at 248.78 lakh tonnes, indicating a noticeable improvement in production across major sugar-producing regions. However, […]
India May Need to Ban Sugar Exports to Raise Ethanol Blending Beyond 20%
India may have to ban sugar exports if it decides to increase ethanol blending with petrol beyond the current 20% level, according to a recent report by Fitch Solutions. The report stated that although India has already achieved the E20 blending target, the country is likely to consider expanding its ethanol mandate further. However, doing […]
Sugar Industry Seeks Cap on Exports to Boost Ethanol Supply
A section of India’s sugar industry has urged the government to cap sugar exports at around 1 million tonnes so that more sugar can be diverted for ethanol production, which is required to increase fuel blending beyond the current 20% level. According to a senior industry official, global market conditions have made it difficult for […]
India’s Sugar Output Likely to Fall Below Demand for Second Consecutive Year
India’s sugar production is expected to remain below domestic consumption for the second year in a row, mainly due to lower sugarcane yields and early closure of sugar mills, according to trade officials. Industry estimates suggest that sugar production in the current 2025–26 marketing season (ending in September 2026) is unlikely to exceed 28 million […]
Farmers Protest in Deoria Demanding Restart of Baitalpur Sugar Mill
Farmers in Deoria staged a strong protest on Saturday demanding the immediate reopening of the Baitalpur Sugar Mill. The demonstration was organized under the banner of the “Chini Mill Chalao Sangharsh Samiti.” A group of farmers gathered and submitted a memorandum addressed to the Chief Minister through the local administration. In the memorandum, they urged […]
Global Warning on Ethanol Expansion: India May Need to Limit Sugar Supply, Prices Could Rise
As India moves towards expanding ethanol blending beyond the 20% (E20) target, a global agency has cautioned that the country may have to impose stricter controls on sugar exports. While this could help stabilize domestic prices, it may reduce global sugar supplies and potentially push international prices higher. According to a report by BMI, a […]
India’s First Whole Cane Harvester Demonstrated by Wave Industries in Bulandshahr
In a major step towards full mechanization in sugarcane farming, Wave Industries Pvt. Ltd. successfully demonstrated India’s first whole cane harvester in collaboration with Super Cane Harvester. The initiative aligns with the vision of the company’s Managing Director, Shri D.S. Bindra, who aims to achieve complete mechanization in sugarcane cultivation—from planting to harvesting. The demonstration […]
From Ethanol to Bio-Isobutanol: The Next Phase of India’s Biofuel Journey
If the first phase of India’s biofuel development was centred on ethanol, the next stage is expected to focus on advanced biofuels, particularly those that can be used in diesel engines. While ethanol has easily blended with petrol, replacing or blending fuels with diesel is more challenging. Diesel engines require fuels that can work smoothly […]
India’s Sugar Production Reaches 272.31 Lakh Tonnes in 2025–26 Season: ISMA
India’s sugar production has increased by about 9% in the ongoing 2025–26 sugar season, reaching 272.31 lakh tonnes as of March 31, 2026, according to the Indian Sugar and Bio-energy Manufacturers Association. During the same period last year, production stood at 248.78 lakh tonnes, indicating improved output across major sugar-producing regions. Despite the rise in […]
Malkpur Sugar Mill Ends Crushing Season; Farmers Await ₹350 Crore in Dues
Baghpat: The crushing season at Malkpur Sugar Mill in Badaut concluded on Saturday. However, farmers are still waiting for payments amounting to around ₹350 crore, which remain pending. According to reports, the mill currently has a sugar stock worth nearly ₹200 crore, along with sufficient quantities of molasses and other by-products. Despite this, farmers have […]
Allegations of Under-Weighing at Uttam Sugar Mill Found Baseless
Nangal (Najibabad), Bijnor: Allegations made by farmers regarding under-weighing at the weighing bridge of Uttam Sugar Mills Ltd. have been found to be unfounded after an official inspection. During the investigation, authorities checked the mill’s weighbridge and confirmed that it was recording accurate and standard weights. In contrast, the weighbridge (Dharmkanta) located in Kamrajpur village […]
India’s E20 Ethanol Drive Aimed at Energy Self-Reliance, Not War: GEMA President
New Delhi, April 4: India’s move to introduce 20% ethanol blending in petrol (E20) is primarily aimed at achieving long-term energy self-reliance and is not a response to geopolitical tensions such as the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, according to C K Jain, President of the Grains Ethanol Manufacturers Association. Speaking to ANI, Jain […]
PM Modi Highlights Ethanol Blending as Key to Reducing Crude Oil Imports
Noida: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday emphasized the importance of ethanol blending in petrol as a major step toward reducing India’s dependence on crude oil imports. He made these remarks while inaugurating the Noida International Airport in Jewar, noting that global energy markets have become unstable due to the ongoing conflict in West Asia. […]
Experts Urge Shift Towards Sulphur-Free Sugar Production in India
Kanpur: Experts have suggested that the Indian sugar industry should start focusing on producing sulphur-free sugar, especially in view of possible disruptions in sulphur supply due to the ongoing conflict in West Asia. The situation could impact the availability and cost of sulphur, which is widely used in sugar processing. At present, nearly 85% of […]
Sugar Production as on March 31, 2026
Crushing season approaching its final phase ensuring comfortable sugar availability As of 31 March 2026 (SS 2025–26), sugar production reached 272.31 lakh tons, compared to 248.78 lakh tons on the corresponding date last year, i.e. around 9% higher. A total of 56 factories are currently operational, versus 95 mills operating at the same time last year. Uttar Pradesh: The state has produced 87.5 lakh tons so far, similar to last year production. At present, 28 mills are operational, compared to 48 mills which operated last year on the corresponding date. Maharashtra & Karnataka: Production has reached 99.3 lakh tons in Maharashtra and 47.90 lakh tons in Karnataka, compared to […]
Cane Development Committee Meeting Held in Tulsipur; Farmers’ Issues Discussed
Tulsipur: The annual general body meeting of the Sahkari Ganna Vikas Samiti Tulsipur was held at MDM Resort, where several public representatives and officials gathered to discuss the committee’s work and issues faced by sugarcane farmers. The event was inaugurated by lighting a ceremonial lamp by chief guest Palturam, along with Kailash Nath Shukla, former […]
Hargaon Sugar Mill Crushes Over 1.90 Crore Quintals of Cane During 2025–26 Season
Hargaon, Sitapur: The crushing season at Avadh Sugar Mill, Hargaon has successfully concluded after operating for 151 days. The mill crushed more than 1 crore 90 lakh 53 thousand quintals of sugarcane during the 2025–26 season. According to Executive Vice President (Cane) Sharad Singh, the crushing season began on 28 October 2025 and ended on […]
Bihar Signs MoU to Strengthen Sugar Industry and Rural Economy
Bihar has taken a major step to boost its sugar industry and rural economy by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) under its “Saat Nischay-3” vision, aimed at building a stronger and more prosperous state. The MoU was signed between the state’s Sugar Industry Department and National Federation of Cooperative Sugar Factories Limited, based in […]
Industry pushes for ethanol as a cooking fuel alternative in India
Stakeholders in India’s petroleum sector have urged major industry players to explore the use of ethanol as a clean cooking fuel for households. The aim is to reduce dependence on imported LPG and expand the use of biofuels across the country. Speaking at an industry event, RS Ravi from Federation of Indian Petroleum Industry called […]
Sugar demand dips as eateries cut back on cooking
India’s sugar consumption has slowed down this month as restaurants, hotels, and large kitchens reduced cooking activity due to a shortage of LPG supplies. This has made it difficult for sugar mills to fully utilise the sales quotas set by the government. With less than a week remaining in March, most mills have managed to […]
Ethanol industry ready to exceed 20% blending, can reduce crude oil imports: AIDA
The ethanol industry in India is fully prepared to supply enough fuel to support blending levels above 20%, according to the All India Distillers Association (AIDA). The industry believes that increasing ethanol blending in petrol will significantly help the country reduce its dependence on imported crude oil. AIDA stated that with the current production capacity […]
SED Executes Efficiency Upgrade at Tirupati Sugars’ Bihar Plant
Mohali, India, 25th March 2026: Mohali, India, March 2026: Spray Engineering Devices Limited (SED) has announced the successful completion of a steam-efficiency upgrade at Tirupati Sugars Limited’s Bagaha facility in Bihar. The modernisation has brought down steam consumption to below 34% on cane, in line with the performance parameters defined for the project. The project […]
India’s Ethanol Market Set to Reach $11.8 Billion by 2034, Driven by E20 Push
India’s ethanol market is expected to grow rapidly over the next decade, reaching a value of $11.8 billion by 2034, according to a new report by IMARC Group. The sector is projected to expand at a strong annual growth rate of 13.95% from 2026 onwards. Strong Growth Backed by Government Policy The growth is largely […]
102 Acres Identified for Proposed Sugar Mill in Bihar’s Nawada
The Bihar government has taken a key step toward setting up a new sugar mill in Nawada district by identifying suitable land, bringing fresh hope to sugarcane farmers and local communities. Around 102 acres of land have been identified in Makhanpur village, located in the Warisaliganj block. The proposal was submitted to District Magistrate Ravi […]
Sugar Sector Faces Deeper Crisis Amid Drought Fears in Maharashtra
The sugar industry in Maharashtra is heading toward a bigger crisis as a severe shortage of sugarcane has forced most mills to shut operations early this season. The situation could worsen further if drought conditions hit during the upcoming kharif season. So far, at least 179 sugar mills have stopped crushing due to a lack […]
GEMA Calls for Ethanol Cookstoves to Boost Clean Cooking Options in India
The Grain Ethanol Manufacturers Association (GEMA) has urged the government to consider introducing ethanol-based cookstoves as an additional clean cooking option for both households and commercial users in India. In a letter to the Prime Minister and other ministers, GEMA President CK Jain suggested that ethanol cookstoves could be used alongside LPG in homes, restaurants, […]
Government Approves Additional 87,587 Tonnes Sugar Export Quota; Sugar Stocks Jump 5%
The Indian government has approved an additional export quota of 87,587 tonnes of sugar for the 2025–26 marketing year (October–September), bringing relief to sugar mills and boosting market sentiment. Earlier, the government had already allowed 1.5 million tonnes of sugar exports for the season. In February, it had also allocated an extra 500,000 tonnes on […]
Bihar Govt Pushes Revival of 120-Year-Old Marhaura Sugar Mill; Tamil Nadu Investors Visit Site
The Bihar government has taken a fresh step towards restarting the historic Marhaura Sugar Mill in Saran district, which has been closed for many years. Now, there are real signs of progress on the ground. A team of investors from Tamil Nadu recently visited the mill to inspect the site and assess its potential. Their […]
Sugar Stocks Rise Up to 4% After Fresh Export Quota Approval
Shares of sugar companies surged on Tuesday after the government approved an additional export quota of 87,587 tonnes for the 2025–26 marketing year (October–September). The decision came following requests from sugar mills and is expected to help reduce surplus stock, support domestic prices, and improve overall earnings for producers. Stocks such as Dalmia Bharat Sugar, […]
SED Secures Repeat Order from Dalmia Bharat Sugar to Boost Energy Efficiency at Jawaharpur Plant
Mohali, India, 16th March 2026: Spray Engineering Devices Limited (SED), a global leader in energy-efficient industrial technologies, has received a significant repeat order from Dalmia Bharat Sugar & Industries Ltd. (DBSIL) to modernise its Jawaharpur sugar unit in Uttar Pradesh. Designed for a crushing capacity of 9,000 TCD, the project aims to reduce steam consumption to approximately 30.9% on cane, drastically lowering operating costs, […]
India’s Food Exports Close to ₹5 Lakh Crore, Says Piyush Goyal
Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal on Tuesday said that India’s annual exports of food and agricultural products are approaching the ₹5 lakh crore mark, highlighting the strong growth in the country’s agri-export sector. Speaking at the inauguration of the 40th edition of AAHAR – The International Food & Hospitality Fair in New Delhi, the […]
All India Sugar Trade Association: India’s sugar mills under pressure from multiple challenges, farmers may be affected, says Praful Vithalani
India’s sugar industry, which has spent the past decade transforming itself from a cyclical commodity sector into a diversified industry linked to ethanol production, is now facing growing pressure from several challenges. According to Praful Vithalani, Founder Chairman of the All India Sugar Trade Association (AISTA), recent policy changes and global developments are putting sugar […]
ICRA Limited: Global sugar prices fall on Brazil surplus; outlook for India remains stable
Kolkata: Global sugar prices have dropped significantly due to excess supply from Brazil, but the outlook for India’s sugar industry remains stable, according to a report by ICRA Limited. The report noted that international sugar prices in the 2025–26 sugar season have stayed below the cost of production and below prevailing domestic prices in India. […]
Indian Sugar and Bio‑Energy Manufacturers Association urges Prime Minister’s Office to speed up ethanol blending beyond 20% amid global energy uncertainty
New Delhi: The Indian Sugar and Bio‑Energy Manufacturers Association (ISMA) has urged the Prime Minister’s Office to accelerate India’s ethanol blending programme beyond the current 20 per cent level, proposing a gradual increase to 22%, 25% and even 27% in the coming years. According to sources, ISMA recently wrote to the government highlighting that ongoing […]
LPG Supply Disruptions Highlight Need to Expand Ethanol Use: Balrampur Chini MD
Vivek Saraogi, Managing Director of Balrampur Chini Mills, has said that recent disruptions in LPG supply underline the need for India to explore wider use of ethanol. According to him, ethanol should not be limited only to fuel blending, but can also be used for household cooking and various industrial purposes. He pointed out that […]
IPL to Revive Badamba Cooperative Sugar Mill in Odisha with ₹360 Crore Investment
The long-shut Badamba Cooperative Sugar Mill in Odisha is set to be revived after more than 15 years, offering fresh hope to thousands of farmers in the region. Indian Potash Limited (IPL) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Government of Odisha to modernise and expand the mill with an estimated investment of […]
SED to Modernize Jaggery Production with Bihar’s First MVR-Based Industrial-Scale Plant
Mohali, India, 10th March, 2026: Spray Engineering Devices Limited (SED), a global leader in energy-efficient industrial technologies, continues to drive the technological evolution of India’s agro-industry with the announcement of a new industrial-scale project in Bihar. The company has secured a turnkey Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) contract from Harsidhi Agro Food and Biofuels Private Limited to establish a 475 TCD […]
SED to Deliver 22.5% Steam-Efficient Refinery System for Bindals Papers Mills
Mohali, India, 11th March, 2026: Spray Engineering Devices Limited (SED), a global leader in energy-efficient industrial process technologies, has secured a major order from Bindals Papers Mills Limited (BPML) to modernise its sugar refinery in Bijnor, Uttar Pradesh. The project will transform the facility’s traditional white sugar production into refined sugar, powered by advanced systems that drastically cut energy waste. […]
India’s Agricultural Exports May Reach $55 Billion by 2025; Government Stands Firm on Protecting Farmers
India’s agricultural exports are expected to touch $55 billion by 2025, according to Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal. The announcement highlights the rising global demand for farm products from India and marks an important milestone for the country’s agriculture sector. At the same time, the government has made its position clear on agricultural imports. […]
Automatic Jaggery Plant Opens in Gopalganj, Boosting Opportunities for Farmers
A modern automatic jaggery manufacturing plant has started operations in Gopalganj, which is expected to support sugarcane farming and create new income opportunities for local farmers. The plant, run by Harshvardhan Industries, was inaugurated on Sunday in Khalgaon village in the Panchdeori block by K. Senthil Kumar, Additional Chief Secretary of the state’s Sugarcane Industry […]
India’s Sugar Output Estimate Cut to 28.3 Million Tonnes Due to Weather Impact
The All India Sugar Trade Association (AISTA) has lowered its estimate for India’s sugar production in the 2025–26 season to 28.3 million tonnes, down 4.4% from its earlier forecast of 29.6 million tonnes. The revision comes after poor weather conditions affected crop yields in major sugar-producing states. According to AISTA, gross sugar production is expected […]
Government Working on Sugar Industry’s Demands, Says DFPD Secretary
The Government of India is actively working on several requests made by stakeholders in the sugar industry. The goal is to prevent excess sugar stocks from piling up while also ensuring that sugarcane farmers receive their payments on time. This was stated by Sanjeev Chopra, Secretary of the Department of Food and Public Distribution (DFPD), […]
E20 Petrol to Become Mandatory from April 1; Maize Farmers Expected to Benefit
The Government of India has decided to make 20% ethanol-blended petrol (E20) mandatory across the country starting April 1, 2026. This move is expected to create new opportunities for maize farmers because maize is widely used in the production of ethanol. As demand for ethanol increases, the demand for maize is also likely to rise, […]
Rajya Sabha MP Arun Singh Inaugurates Ethanol Plant in Mirzapur, Says It Will Support Green Energy
Arun Singh, a Rajya Sabha Member of Parliament, inaugurated the Brajdev Ethanol Plant in Mirzapur, Uttar Pradesh. The plant is expected to benefit local farmers who grow rice and maize in the region. The ethanol plant will also create employment for around 1,000 people. Ethanol produced here will be supplied to cities such as Mughal […]
Balrampur Chini Wins First Major Order to Supply Eco-Friendly Bioplastics to Lucknow Cantonment Board
Balrampur Chini Mills Ltd has secured its first large institutional order for eco-friendly bioplastic products. The order comes from the Lucknow Cantonment Board, marking an important step in the company’s new green business journey. The company, which is one of India’s leading sugar producers, is expanding into the bioplastics sector. It is setting up a […]
India may allow limited Chinese equipment imports as sugar output seen falling
India is expected to produce less sugar this year than earlier projected, as heavy rainfall in key producing states has reduced sugarcane yields, farmers and trade officials said. The lower output could restrict exports from the world’s second-largest sugar producer. Traders say the country may find it difficult to export even half of its allocated […]
Amit Shah launches cooperative projects worth ₹265 crore in Gujarat
Gandhinagar: Union Cooperation Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday launched and laid the foundation for cooperative sector projects worth ₹265.30 crore in Gujarat. The projects were unveiled during a meeting of cooperation department ministers from all states held in Gandhinagar. According to an official statement, Shah inaugurated a newly built ethanol distillery plant at Nandod in […]
India’s Sugar Output Surges to 225 LMT by Mid-Feb; ISMA Flags Need for MSP Revision
New Delhi: India’s sugar production has reached 225.06 lakh metric tonnes (LMT) as of February 15, 2026, marking a significant rise compared to 197.35 LMT recorded during the same period last year, according to the Indian Sugar & Bio-Energy Manufacturers Association. The ongoing 2025-26 sugar season (SS) reflects steady crushing progress across major producing states, […]
ICAR-IISR Lucknow Celebrates 75th Foundation Day: Milestones in Sugarcane Innovation and Farmer Support
The ICAR-Indian Institute of Sugarcane Research (IISR), Lucknow, celebrated its 75th Foundation Day with great enthusiasm on February 16, 2026, marking a significant milestone in India's sugarcane research and agricultural innovation. The event highlighted the institute's pioneering contributions to sugarcane farming, farmer welfare, and sustainable agriculture over the past 75 years. Chief Guest Prof. K.K. […]
ICAR-IISR’s 75th Foundation Day Celebration to be Held on 16 February 2026 | Lucknow
ICAR–Indian Institute of Sugarcane Research (IISR), Lucknow will celebrate its 75th Foundation Day with great enthusiasm on 16 February 2026 at the Institute’s auditorium. The occasion will highlight the Institute’s historic achievements in sugarcane research, innovation, farmer welfare, and sustainable agricultural development. Established in 1952, the Institute is commencing its 75th “Mithaas Amrit Mahotsav” celebrations […]
Wave Group Flags Off Distribution of 10 MTP Machines to Boost Sugarcane Mechanization
Wave Group continues to strengthen mechanization in sugarcane farming, with a focus on making the entire process—from sowing to harvesting—fully mechanized. This initiative is guided by the vision of the Group’s Managing Director, Mr. D. S. Bindra Ji, and is being implemented under the leadership of Vice President Mr. Manoj Ji. As part of this […]
Meerut News: Sugar Mill Releases Payments to Sugarcane Farmers
Updated: Tuesday, February 3, 2026 Mawana: The Mawana Sugar Mill has released sugarcane payments worth ₹28.42 crore for cane supplied between January 17 and January 23. The amount has been transferred to the concerned cooperative societies and is expected to reach farmers’ bank accounts shortly. According to Pramod Balyan, Senior General Manager (Cane and Administration), […]
Budget Announces Revival of Closed Sugar Mills in Madhubani District
In the Bihar Budget, the state government has announced that old and closed sugar mills will be restarted in a phased manner under the “Samriddh Udyog, Sashakt Bihar” initiative of Saat Nischay–3. This has raised fresh hope for the reopening of the Lohat, Sakri, and Raiyam sugar mills in Madhubani district. A key highlight of […]
Chini Kum Raises ₹1 Crore, Launches Zero-Sugar Beverages in India
New Delhi:As Indians grow more cautious about sugar intake, a new beverage brand, Chini Kum, has entered the market with a range of zero-sugar, low-calorie drinks, backed by ₹1 crore in pre-seed funding. The brand is launching its products through its direct-to-consumer (D2C) platform and has made an exclusive debut on Swiggy Instamart, targeting urban […]
India’s Sugar Stocks Fall 11% Despite Higher Production
Updated: February 3, 2026 India’s sugar stock levels fell by 11% year-on-year to 74.49 lakh tonnes as of January 31, even though sugar production rose sharply this season. A year ago, stocks stood at 84.61 lakh tonnes. This decline has come despite 17% higher sugar production and 4% lower consumption during the October–January period of […]
Praj Successfully Demonstrates Ethanol-to-Jet Technology at SAF Demo Plant
Praj Industries has successfully demonstrated its Ethanol-to-Jet (EtJ) technology at its fully integrated Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) demonstration plant located at Praj Matrix, the company’s R&D centre. The achievement marks an important step toward making lower-carbon aviation fuels commercially viable. The demonstration uses Axens’ Jetanol™ technology and confirms the readiness of Alcohol-to-Jet (AtJ) solutions as […]
Uttar Pradesh Government Launches Major Push to Boost Sugarcane Farming
Lucknow: The Uttar Pradesh government has stepped up efforts to strengthen sugarcane farming and sugar production in the state. Under the leadership of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, a key meeting was held chaired by Sugar Industry and Cane Development Minister Laxmi Narayan Chaudhary to discuss ways to increase productivity and modernise cane cultivation. The meeting […]
Sugar Industry Disappointed with Budget: Output Rises, No Relief on MSP or Ethanol Prices, Cane Dues Mount
India’s sugar industry has expressed disappointment with the Union Budget, as it failed to address long-pending demands related to minimum selling price (MSP) of sugar and ethanol pricing, even as sugar production has risen sharply and cane payment arrears continue to grow. Sugar production in the country has increased by around 18% compared to last […]
India Emerges as a Global Ethanol Leader; SAF and Biogas Are the Next Big Test
Hyderabad: Over the past decade, India has made remarkable progress in the biofuels sector, drawing global attention for its success—especially in ethanol blending. However, the next phase of growth will depend on how quickly the country advances in Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), biodiesel blending, and compressed biogas (CBG). This was stated by Y.B. Ramakrishna, a […]
India’s Sugar Output Touches 19.5 Million Tonnes by January, Says ISMA
India’s sugar production has jumped sharply in the early part of the 2025–26 season, reaching 19.5 million tonnes by January 31, according to the Indian Sugar and Bio-energy Manufacturers Association (ISMA). This marks an 18.35% increase compared to 16.47 million tonnes produced during the same period last year. The rise has been driven mainly by […]
Ethanol Made from Maize in Bahraich Boosts Farmers’ Income
Bahraich: Farmers in Bahraich district who cultivate maize are seeing a steady rise in their income, leading to an increase in the area under maize cultivation. The maize purchased from local farmers is being sold to the Parle sugar mill in Parsendi, where it is being used to produce ethanol. As a result, farmers no […]
India’s Sugar Production Likely to Rise 13% to 29.6 Million Tonnes in 2025–26
New Delhi, January 29, 2026: India’s sugar production in the 2025–26 season is expected to increase by 13 percent to 29.6 million tonnes, after excluding the quantity diverted for ethanol production, according to the All India Sugar Trade Association (AISTA). In its first estimate for the season ending in September 2026, AISTA said net sugar […]
Ethanol Blending Saves $19.30 Billion in Foreign Exchange, $500 Billion Investment Opportunity Seen in India’s Energy Sector
New Delhi: Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Hardeep Singh Puri said that India has saved $19.30 billion in foreign exchange over the last decade through ethanol blending in petrol. During the same period, farmers received direct payments worth $15 billion, highlighting the dual benefit of the policy for both the economy and the agricultural sector. […]
Bharati Balaji on Union Budget 2026: Reducing Risk and Boosting Confidence in India’s Ethanol Sector
Bharati Balaji, Director and General Counsel of the All India Distillers’ Association (AIDA), has shared her views on Union Budget 2026 and its impact on India’s ethanol and bio-energy sector. She explained that the Budget signals an important shift—from simply expanding production capacity to reducing market and demand-related risks for the industry. According to Balaji, […]
Morna Sugar Mill to Be Expanded, Minister, MP and MLA Thank the Government
The expansion and modernization of the Morna Sugar Mill in Muzaffarnagar has been officially announced. The decision has been welcomed across the region, as it is expected to bring significant benefits to sugarcane farmers and strengthen the local economy. Following the announcement, ministers, Members of Parliament, and local MLAs expressed their gratitude to the state […]
Anupshahr Sugar Mill Pays ₹62.54 Crore to Farmers, Cane Dues up to December 2025 Cleared
The Kisan Cooperative Sugar Mill Limited, Anupshahr, located in Jahangirabad area of Bulandshahr, has provided major relief to sugarcane farmers during the 2025–26 crushing season. The mill management has so far transferred a total of ₹62.54 crore directly into the bank accounts of 14,447 sugarcane-supplying farmers. According to General Manager Himanshu Gupta, the full payment […]
UP Government Approves Expansion Budget for Morna Sugar Mill, Farmers and BJP Workers Celebrate
The Uttar Pradesh government has approved the budget for the expansion and modernization of the Ganga Kisan Cooperative Sugar Mill located in Morna, Muzaffarnagar. The decision has brought a wave of happiness across the Bhopa region, especially among farmers. To celebrate the announcement, BJP workers distributed sweets at the residence of District Panchayat President Dr. […]
Tripura Government in Talks to Set Up Bamboo-Based Ethanol Plant: CM Manik Saha
Agartala: The Tripura government is in discussions with a business group to set up a bamboo-based ethanol production plant in the state, Chief Minister Manik Saha said on Thursday. The move is part of the state’s broader push to boost industrial growth and attract new investments. The chief minister shared this information while inaugurating the […]
India’s Sugar Production Likely to Rise 13% in 2025–26: AISTA
India’s sugar output is expected to see a strong increase in the 2025–26 season, with production estimated at 29.6 million tonnes, according to industry body AISTA. This represents a 13% rise compared to the previous season and reflects growing optimism within the sugar industry. The estimate applies to production excluding sugar diverted for ethanol blending. […]
Bihar Government Announces 50% Subsidy on Sugarcane Seeds, Plans 25 New Sugar Mills
Patna: The Bihar government has rolled out a series of measures to strengthen the state’s sugarcane sector and improve farmer incomes. Officials said sugarcane farmers owning up to five acres of land will now receive a 50% subsidy on sugarcane seeds, helping reduce cultivation costs. The announcement was made by K. Senthil Kumar, Additional Chief […]
Uttar Pradesh Leads the Country in Sugar Recovery Growth This Season
Lucknow: Uttar Pradesh has recorded the highest increase in sugar recovery during the current sugarcane crushing season, overtaking Maharashtra, India’s largest sugar-producing state. According to data from the National Federation of Cooperative Sugar Factories (NFCSF), sugar recovery in Uttar Pradesh rose from 9.05% in 2024–25 to 9.80% this season, marking an increase of about 8.28%. […]
IPL’s Parvinder Singh Gahlaut on Expanding Beyond Fertilisers into Dairy, Cattle Feed, Sugar and Rural Warehousing
New Delhi, January 30, 2026:Indian Potash Limited (IPL), a company best known for promoting balanced fertiliser use since the 1950s, is steadily transforming into a full-scale agri-ecosystem player through farmer-focused diversification. Under the leadership of Managing Director Parvinder Singh Gahlaut, IPL is expanding into rural warehousing, dairy, cattle feed, sugar and distillery operations, with the […]
Economic Survey 2026 Warns: Ethanol Push May Hurt Pulses and Oilseeds
New Delhi, January 29, 2026:India’s ethanol-blended fuel programme has delivered major gains for energy security, saving the country over ₹1.44 lakh crore in foreign exchange and replacing nearly 245 lakh metric tonnes of crude oil by August 2025, according to the Economic Survey 2026. However, the Survey cautions that the rapid expansion of the ethanol […]
Praj Industries Successfully Shows Way to Make Sustainable Aviation Fuel from Ethanol Using Axens Jetanol™ Technology
New Delhi, January 30, 2026:Praj Industries has achieved a major milestone in green aviation fuel by successfully demonstrating an Ethanol-to-Jet (EtJ) process at its Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) demonstration plant using Axens Jetanol™ technology. The breakthrough was announced at the Wings India 2026 event, where officials from India’s aviation regulator and key industry representatives highlighted […]
Bihar to Revive Closed Sugar Mills, Expand Industrial Base: Deputy CM Samrat Choudhary
Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary has announced that all closed sugar mills in the state will be revived soon, as part of a broader push to expand industrial activity and create local employment opportunities. Speaking in Chhapra on Wednesday, Choudhary said the state government is setting up industries on a large scale to ensure […]
Agri Industry Pushes for Tax Relief, Biofuels and Infrastructure Support Ahead of Budget FY27
As the Union Budget for FY27 approaches, India’s agriculture and allied sectors are calling for tax relief, higher funding for biofuels and stronger infrastructure support to help farmers cope with climate pressures and raise rural incomes. The demands come at a crucial time, as India moves toward its 2030 agriculture goals and prepares the foundation […]
Brazil Clears First Wheat-to-Ethanol Plant, Expanding Biofuel Feedstocks
Brazil has approved its first ethanol plant based on wheat, marking a significant move to diversify raw materials used in the country’s biofuel sector. The Brazilian National Agency for Petroleum, Natural Gas and Biofuels (ANP) has granted permission for the project, which is located in Santiago municipality in Rio Grande do Sul state. The plant, […]
Piccadily Sugar Board to Review Q3 FY26 Results on January 20
Piccadily Sugar & Allied Industries Limited has announced that its Board of Directors will meet on January 20, 2026, to consider and approve the company’s unaudited standalone financial results for the third quarter of FY26. In a filing dated January 12, 2026, submitted to BSE Limited, the company said the board will review financial performance […]
India’s Sugar Output Up 22%, But Rising Cane Prices Worry Industry: ISMA
India’s sugar industry has recorded strong growth in the 2025–26 season so far, backed by good sugarcane availability, better on-field productivity and smoother crushing operations across key producing states. However, rising sugarcane prices are emerging as a major financial concern for mills. According to the Indian Sugar & Bio-Energy Manufacturers Association (ISMA), all-India sugar production […]
Bio-CNG Seen as New Growth Engine for Sugar Industry at STAI Seminar in Kolhapur
Kolhapur hosted an all-India seminar by the Sugar Technologists’ Association of India (STAI) on January 19, focusing on the role of Bio-CNG in the circular economy and its potential to strengthen the sugar industry. Around 150 delegates from across the country attended the event, underlining rising interest in clean energy solutions and sustainable industrial practices. […]
India’s Sugar Production Jumps 22% by Mid-January 2026, But Mills Face Rising Financial Pressure
India’s sugar sector is showing steady progress in the 2025–26 crushing season, supported by adequate sugarcane availability, improved productivity, and smooth operations across major producing states. As of 15 January 2026, all-India sugar production reached 159.09 lakh tonnes, up nearly 22% from 130.44 lakh tonnes at the same time last year. The number of operational […]
Punjab Sugar Mills Face Severe Cane Shortage Amid Labour Crunch and Falling Yields
Punjab’s sugar mills are struggling with a serious shortage of sugarcane this crushing season, caused by an acute labour shortage, declining yields, and a shrinking area under cultivation. Industry officials report that the availability of migrant harvesters from Uttar Pradesh and Bihar—traditionally crucial for cane harvesting—has dropped by 35–40%, severely disrupting operations and reducing cane […]
Additional Chief Secretary Reviews Operations at Baghpat Sugar Mill, Focus on Crushing and Farmer Payments
Baghpat: Veena Kumari Meena, Additional Chief Secretary of the Sugar Industry, Cane Development and Excise Department, conducted a detailed inspection of The Kisan Cooperative Sugar Mill in Baghpat, reviewing crushing operations, sugarcane supply and the payment system for farmers. During her visit, she toured the mill premises to assess crushing capacity, machinery condition and the […]
Bajaj Sugar Mill Trains 75 Staff Members in Identifying Improved Sugarcane Varieties
Lakhimpur Kheri: Bajaj Hindusthan Sugar Limited organised a sugarcane variety identification training workshop at its mill auditorium in Gola Gokarnnath to strengthen technical knowledge among field staff. As part of the programme, 75 sugarcane development workers and managers from the mill and cooperative societies were trained by retired scientist Dr Avadhesh Kumar Dagar. The objective […]
DCM Shriram Sugar Supports Farmers with Modern Farm Machines in Hariyawan
Hardoi: In a step towards making sugarcane farming more modern, efficient and profitable, DCM Shriram Sugar Mill in Hariyawan (Hardoi) distributed advanced agricultural machinery to 21 selected farmers. The machines were handed over during a programme held at the mill premises by Chief Operating Officer Ashutosh Tripathi. The equipment distributed included 13 MTP machines, five […]
Bajaj Sugar Mill Buys Over Half of This Season’s Cane Without Paying Farmers, Old Dues Still Unpaid
Lakhimpur: Farmers supplying sugarcane to the Bajaj Sugar Mill in Lakhimpur are facing severe financial distress, as the mill has purchased more than 50% of this season’s cane without making any payments, while crores of rupees from the previous season are still pending. The mill began operations for the current crushing season on November 10, […]
Karnataka Sugar Mills Face ₹4,000 Crore Loss After Higher Cane Price Order
Sugar mills in Karnataka are staring at losses of around ₹4,000 crore following a state government order mandating higher payments to sugarcane farmers. In an order dated November 8, 2025, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah directed sugar mills to pay farmers ₹400 per tonne more than the Centre’s Fair and Remunerative Price (FRP) for sugarcane. While the […]
ISMA Calls for GST Cuts and Stronger Policy Support to Boost Biofuels and Clean Mobility
The Indian Sugar and Bio-energy Manufacturers Association (ISMA) has urged the central government to simplify and reduce GST rates and provide focused policy support to promote biofuels and clean mobility in the country. Speaking in Pilibhit on Wednesday, ISMA said these measures would help cut carbon emissions, protect farmer incomes, reduce India’s dependence on imported […]
Biofuel Industry Seeks Big Budget Support as Sugar Sector Faces Pressure
India’s biofuel industry is calling for a major increase in government funding in the upcoming budget as it struggles with weak prices and limited growth in ethanol production. The Indian Sugar & Bio-Energy Manufacturers Association (ISMA) has urged the government to allocate between ₹15,000 and ₹20,000 crore to support advanced biofuel projects. ISMA Director General […]
Bihar’s Industrial Growth Gets a Boost as Two New Ethanol Plants Come Up in Motipur
Bihar’s industrial development is set to gain fresh momentum with the construction of two new ethanol plants in the Motipur Industrial Area of Muzaffarpur district. The projects are progressing rapidly and are expected to significantly strengthen the state’s ethanol production capacity. Once operational, the two new units are likely to create direct employment for around […]
India’s Ethanol Industry Struggles with Surplus as Demand Stalls, Exports Not Viable: GEMA President
India’s ethanol industry is facing a growing surplus as domestic demand has stopped rising and exports are not a practical option, according to CK Jain, President of the Grain Ethanol Manufacturers Association (GEMA). Speaking on the issue, Jain said ethanol consumption in the country has levelled off at around 1,200 crore litres, even though production […]
ISMA Launches “SugarNXT” to Drive the Future of India’s Sugar Industry
New Delhi: The Indian Sugar & Bio-energy Manufacturers Association (ISMA) has introduced “ISMA SugarNXT”, a forward-looking initiative aimed at shaping the next phase of growth, innovation, and sustainability in India’s sugar and bio-energy sector. ISMA SugarNXT has been conceptualised as a future-ready platform that focuses on technology adoption, policy dialogue, sustainability, ethanol blending, and global […]
ISMA Showcases India’s Sugar and Bioenergy Growth at IndusFood, Strengthens Ties with Fiji
The Indian Sugar & Bio-Energy Manufacturers Association (ISMA) participated in the 9th edition of IndusFood, India’s leading agri and food & beverage trade fair. The event was organised by the Trade Promotion Council of India with support from the Department of Commerce, Government of India. During the event, ISMA took part in a special session […]