In a bid to provide substantial relief to sugarcane farmers ahead of the impending elections, the government is gearing up to make a significant announcement regarding the price of sugarcane purchase. CNBC Awaaz has learnt from sources that the government may increase the sugarcane procurement price to ₹340/quintal from ₹315/quintal earlier during the upcoming cabinet meeting.
The procurement price will only increase for the crops with a recovery rate of 10.25.
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) is scheduled to convene tomorrow, February 22, to deliberate on this crucial matter. It is anticipated that a decision will be made regarding the augmentation of the sugarcane procurement price (FRP).
Traditionally, the government determines the FRP around June or later in the year. However, this time, a departure from the norm is expected as the government contemplates advancing this decision. These revised prices are likely to be applicable for the forthcoming sugar season of 2025-26.
For the ongoing sugar season of 2024-25, the government had previously elevated the FRP of sugarcane by ₹10 per quintal. Consequently, the sugarcane purchase price surged from ₹305/quintal to ₹315/quintal.
The FRP stands as the minimum price at which sugarcane must be procured from sugar farmers. This mechanism is governed by the Sugarcane (Control) Order of 1966. The Commission of Agricultural Costs and Prices (CACP) annually formulates recommendations for FRP, encompassing various agricultural commodities including sugarcane. Subsequently, the government evaluates these recommendations before implementation.
The increase in FRP directly translates into a boon for farmers, empowering them with higher prices for their sugarcane yield. This forthcoming decision holds the potential to significantly benefit sugarcane farmers across the nation, offering them a vital lifeline amidst economic uncertainties.