India produces record over 5,000 lakh metric tons of sugarcane in sugar season 2021-22

NEW DELHI : The Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution on Thursday said that a record more than 5,000 Lakh Metric Tons (LMT) sugarcane was produced during the 2021-22 sugar season. “Of the 5,000 LMT produced, 3574 LMT of sugarcane was crushed by sugar mills to produce 394 LMT of sugar (Sucrose) out of which 36 LMT sugar was diverted to ethanol production and 359 LMT sugar was produced by sugar mills," the ministry added. India emerged as the world’s largest producer and consumer of sugar as well as world’s 2nd largest exporter after Brazil in sugar season (Oct-Sep) 2021-22. “With a view to prevent cash loss to sugar mills caused due to subdued sugar prices, Government of India in June, 2018 introduced the concept of Minimum Selling Price (MSP) of sugar & fixed MSP of sugar at Rs. 29/ kg which was revised to Rs. 31/ kg w.e.f 14.02.2019," the ministry said. Timely intervention of the Central Government since last 5 years is crucial in building the sugar ...