Report of the Task Force on Sugarcane and Sugar Industry

Abstract

The Report of the Task Force on Sugarcane and Sugar Industry, released by NITI Aayog in March 2020, examines the structural challenges facing India's sugarcane and sugar sector and proposes long-term reforms to improve its economic viability, reduce dependence on government support, and address environmental concerns. The industry directly and indirectly supports the livelihoods of over 5 crore farmers and their families and employs about 5 lakh workers, making it a critical component of the rural economy. However, persistent surplus sugar production, rising sugarcane prices, declining sugar prices, mounting cane arrears, and excessive water use have created significant sustainability challenges.