KATHMANDU: In a move aimed at addressing longstanding issues faced by sugarcane farmers and the sugar industry, the Minister for Industry, Commerce, and Supply, Damodar Bhandari has proposed the formation of a special task force to create a sustainable, long-term solution. The announcement came during a meeting with officials from the Nepal Federation of Sugarcane Producers’ Association at the Ministry of Industry.
Bhandari said that the government is committed to resolving the challenges faced by both sugarcane farmers and sugar producers. He directed that the task force provide actionable solutions within 15 days.
In response to ongoing complaints, Bhandari urged the industry to foster a supportive environment for sugarcane farmers, noting the government’s positive stance toward the sugar sector. He expressed the need for a unified approach to enhance the sugarcane farming sector and to resolve industry challenges without frequent government intervention.
During the meeting, Shashikant Agarwal, President of the Nepal Federation of Sugarcane Producers’ Association, outlined critical issues affecting the industry. He called on the government to curtail the illegal importation of sugar from India and to facilitate the distribution of improved seed varieties to sugarcane farmers.
Agarwal further highlighted issues with molasses storage and export, stating the requirement for sugar mills to retain 50% of molasses produced from November to March. He pointed out that this restriction has led to a surplus, limiting the domestic sale of molasses and complicating export efforts.
The proposed task force will aim to address these pressing issues, fostering cooperation between the government, farmers, and the industry in pursuit of a stable and productive sugar sector in Nepal.
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