Coop sugar factories to be modernised, cane production to increase

Tirupati, Oct 28 (UNI) All cooperative sugar factories in Andhra Pradesh would be soon modernised with an investment of Rs 266 crore, sanctioned by the Centre.

State Sugar Minister J Geetha Reddy announced during the 2nd day of 22nd meeting of Sugar Cane Research and Development Workers of Andhra Pradesh, organised jointly by Acharya N G Ranga Agricultural University and State Commissionerate of Sugar here.

She alleged that the previous government was close to the cooperate sugar factories and privatised many profit making ventures.

However, some of the factories, which were on the privatisation stage were revived by the Congress government and are now making profit of Rs 33 crore, she informed.

She also stressed on the need for conducting more interactive sessions with scientists to find solutions to problems facing the cane farmers.

Besides carrying innovative research activities to tackle issues relating to sugar industry she said, the mindset of the farmers should be changed by holding awareness programmes on new methods of cultivation.

Speaking on the occasion, State Agriculture Minister N Raghuveera Reddy, also the Chief Guest of the function said, funds were ready for carrying out research on sugar cane and doors were open for any help in increasing its production.

Price increase was not a solution, instead the cultivators should concentrate on higher yield, he added.

Director of Sugar Cane Industry A Vidya Sagar asked scientists to develop better varieties of sugar cane in the laboratories.

Also present on the occasion was Principal Scientist (sugar cane) from Regional Agricultural Research Station, N V Naidu who urged the government to bring out a definite working policy on funding for research by the sugar factory managements in the state.

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