State-Level Committee Formed to Support Sugar Mills Financially; Report to Be Submitted Soon: CM Devendra Fadnavis

Mumbai, March 2026 : Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Tuesday announced the formation of a state-level committee to address the financial challenges faced by sugar mills in Maharashtra. The committee, constituted under the direction of the Chief Secretary, has been asked to submit its report at the earliest.

The Chief Minister issued these directions during a meeting held at the Vidhan Bhavan to review issues concerning the sugar industry. The meeting was attended by Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Ajit Pawar, Water Resources Minister Radhakrishna Vikhe-Patil, Cooperation Minister Babasaheb Patil, Public Works Minister Shivendrasinhraje Bhosale, Chief Secretary Rajesh Kumar, and other senior officials, along with representatives of sugar industry bodies and legislators.

Fadnavis said that considering the financial difficulties faced by sugar factories, it is essential to prepare a comprehensive action plan to ensure adequate financial assistance ahead of the upcoming crushing season. He directed that the state-level committee should include secretaries from the Cooperation, Agriculture, and Finance departments, along with the Sugar Commissioner, Industries Secretary, and the Managing Director of the State Cooperative Bank.

The committee has been tasked with conducting a detailed study of the issues faced by sugar mills, identifying the nature of their problems, suggesting solutions, and exploring alternative arrangements. Based on its recommendations, the state government will consider formulating a financial package to support the industry.

The Chief Minister also emphasized the need for a regulatory framework for large jaggery and khandsari (traditional sugar) projects. He instructed officials to prepare a draft policy in this regard and submit it within 15 days.

He reiterated that the state government is committed to strengthening the sugar sector and is ready to take policy decisions to resolve its challenges.

Fadnavis further said that efforts will be made to seek support and concessions from the central government. A delegation of sugar industry representatives will soon hold discussions with the Centre to address their concerns and secure additional assistance.

Senior officials from various departments, including water resources, energy, agriculture, finance, and cooperation, were also present at the meeting.