UP CM Yogi Adityanath Orders Strict Action Against Sugar Hoarding Ahead Of New Crushing Season

Lucknow: Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Saturday reviewed the availability of sugar in Uttar Pradesh and directed officials to take strict action against hoarding and black marketing, particularly ahead of the new sugarcane crushing season beginning October 15.

State Sugar Mills Hold Over 179 Lakh Quintals Of Stock For Market Supply

The state currently has 179.38 lakh quintals of sugar available with sugar mills. Of this, cooperative sugar mills have 23.60 lakh quintals, corporation-run mills have 5.28 lakh quintals and private sugar mills have 150.50 lakh quintals in stock.

During the review, Yogi directed officials to ensure that sugar dealers do not hold stocks beyond the prescribed period. No dealer will be allowed to store sugar for more than 30 days, officials were told.

Action Ordered Against Dealers Stocking More Than 400 Tonnes Of Sugar

The chief minister also ordered action against dealers found holding more than 400 tonnes of sugar at a time. Officials have been asked to regularly monitor stocks and take action against those attempting to create an artificial shortage or manipulate prices through excessive stocking.

Strict action under the Essential Services Maintenance Act will be taken against those violating the prescribed norms, according to the directions issued during the review.

Sugar Availability Monitoring Intensified Ahead Of New Crushing Season

The government has stepped up monitoring of sugar availability as the state prepares for the new crushing season. Sugar mills are scheduled to begin crushing operations from October 15.

Yogi also reviewed the payment of sugarcane dues to farmers and highlighted the payments made during the current period. According to the government, 48 lakh farmers have been paid Rs 3,217 crore.

The chief minister directed officials to ensure that sugar mills continue to make timely payments to farmers and that there is no disruption in the supply of sugar in the market.

With the new crushing season approaching, the government is also keeping a watch on sugar stocks held by mills and dealers to prevent hoarding and black marketing and ensure adequate availability for consumers.