Union Govt sugar policy under big traders pressure: NCP MP Mandlik

Kolhapur, Dec 3 (UNI) NCP MP Sadashivrao Mandlik today alleged that the recent imposition of a ban on sugar exports bears eloquent testimony to the fact that the Union Government's sugar policy is influenced by big traders.

Addressing a press conference here, Mr Mandlik lamented that big political party leaders are neglecting agricultural issues and opposing any hike in sugar rates under the pretence that this would consequently lead to inflation, adversely affecting the interests of sugarcane farmers.

He demanded the immediate withdrawal of the ban on sugar exports saying this is the only solution to the woes of sugarcane farmers.

The international prices of sugar were normally below the domestic prices, but during 2005-2006 the international prices of sugar have surpassed the domestic price, he pointed out and stressed that this is a God-sent opportunity for the sugar industry in India.

However, the Union Government banned sugar exports in July 2006 to control domestic prices, resulting in a steep fall in sugar prices. Now they have fallen below the cost of production, he lamented.

The survival of the entire sugar industry is now dependant on the withdrawal of the ban on sugar-exports, he warned.

The NCP leader also said that the Government ought to speedily finalise the basis for fixing the SMP of sugarcane so that there is no bone of contention between the owners of sugar factories and sugar cane growers.

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