Ruling and opposition parties, along with various farmer organizations in Maharashtra, are strongly advocating for the reversal of the Centre’s decision to ban sugar exports. They argue that this ban will exacerbate the financial woes of cooperative sugar factories, making it challenging for them to cope with the current circumstances.
Notable figures like NCP leader Dilip Walse-Patil emphasize that despite a surplus in sugar production, continuing the export ban is unjustifiable. They stress the importance of allowing exports to ensure that factories can meet the Fair and Remunerative Price (FRP) obligations to farmers. Immediate permission for exports is urged by leaders to alleviate the situation.
The sudden ban on sugar exports by the government is viewed as a severe blow to Maharashtra’s sugar mills, according to NCP (SP) legislator Jayant Patil. The equation of excess stock, increased FRP, and no exports is seen as a formula for financial disaster. The decision is criticized as rushed and poorly planned, with calls for an urgent rollback to prevent further harm.
Leaders of the All India Kisan Sabha (AIKS) are also pressing for the lifting of the export ban to safeguard the sugar industry. They suggest that India should adopt an export-oriented strategy to support farmers by accessing global markets facing reduced sugar production. Criticism of the ban as detrimental to farmers and the industry’s financial health is echoed by various stakeholders.
