Bengaluru, 29 August (H.S.) The sharp rise in sugar prices has prompted sugarcane farmers in Karnataka to renew their demand for permission to produce ethanol at local jaggery units, arguing that the move would improve farmers’ incomes and reduce their dependence on large sugar mills.

The demand comes amid allegations that the diversion of sugarcane for ethanol production has reduced the availability of sugar in the domestic market. Food industry representatives have urged the government to intervene immediately to control prices. The Centre, however, has rejected claims that its ethanol-blending policy is responsible for the price increase.

The Karnataka State Sugarcane Growers’ Association said the benefits of ethanol production should not be restricted to large sugar factories. Its president, Kurubur Shanthakumar, urged the government to provide jaggery units with the necessary technology and licences to manufacture ethanol.

He suggested that ethanol produced by these units could be promoted as an eco-friendly household cooking fuel. Farmers could also use it to operate their vehicles and tractors. Public sector oil companies currently procure ethanol at around ₹65 a litre, and access to this market could substantially raise farmers’ earnings, he said.

Allowing jaggery units to manufacture ethanol would also give farmers an alternative to sugar mills, which growers have repeatedly accused of delaying payments and offering inadequate prices for sugarcane. Shanthakumar alleged that even when governments fixed procurement prices, mill owners frequently challenged the orders in court and obtained stays.

Karnataka produces approximately 600 lakh metric tonnes of sugarcane every year. However, only around 30 lakh to 40 lakh metric tonnes are supplied to local jaggery units, while the overwhelming share is purchased by sugar factories.

The State currently has nearly 15,000 jaggery units. The association estimated that the number could increase to about 50,000 if the government permits them to manufacture ethanol, potentially creating additional employment and strengthening the rural economy.

---------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman