Description

Sugarcane farming in Uttar Pradesh has emerged as one of the most profitable and employment-generating agricultural sectors in India. The state stands as the largest sugarcane producer in the country, accounting for nearly 45% of the national output. With vast stretches of fertile land, reliable irrigation, and growing demand from the sugar and ethanol industries, sugarcane has become a backbone of the rural economy in Uttar Pradesh.
Why Sugarcane is a Preferred Crop in Uttar Pradesh
Sugarcane is a long-duration but high-return crop. Farmers in Uttar Pradesh prefer it over other crops due to:
• Consistent market demand
• Government-backed pricing support
• Multiple by-products (sugar, jaggery, ethanol, molasses)
• Year-round employment in farms and mills
Major sugarcane-growing districts include Saharanpur, Shamli, Bijnor, Lakhimpur Kheri, Bareilly, and Gorakhpur. These regions benefit from rich alluvial soil and favorable climatic conditions for sugarcane cultivation.
Best Practices in Sugarcane Farming
Farmers in Uttar Pradesh are increasingly adopting scientific and sustainable farming techniques to improve yields and soil health. Some of the most effective practices include:
• Use of Early-Maturing Varieties: Co 0238, Co 0118, and CoS 08272 offer higher yields and better sugar recovery within 10–11 months.
• Improved Planting Techniques: Trench planting and paired-row systems increase root growth and plant spacing.
• Water-Efficient Irrigation: Drip and sprinkler systems reduce water waste and lower input costs.
• Integrated Nutrient Management: Balanced use of fertilizers, compost, and biofertilizers ensures long-term soil fertility.
• Intercropping Models: Farmers often intercrop with mustard, potato, or lentils during the early growth phase to enhance income from the same land.
Role of Sugar Mills and Industrial Integration
Uttar Pradesh has over 120 operational sugar mills, which are closely integrated with farming communities. These mills:
• Purchase cane directly from registered farmers
• Offer cashless and transparent payment systems
• Provide guidance on pest control and crop management
• Promote ethanol production under the National Ethanol Blending Program
The state’s ethanol production capacity has expanded rapidly, boosting demand for sugarcane and ensuring price stability for farmers.
Government Support for Sugarcane Farmers
Recognizing the importance of sugarcane farming in Uttar Pradesh, both state and central governments have introduced several farmer-friendly initiatives:
• Fair and Remunerative Price (FRP): Ensures a minimum income per quintal of sugarcane
• Direct Bank Transfers: Enable timely and transparent payments from sugar mills
• Subsidies on Inputs: Fertilizers, seeds, and irrigation systems are provided at concessional rates
• Soil Health Cards: Help farmers make informed fertilizer and cropping decisions
• Promotion of Organic Farming: Through training programs and financial incentives
Key Challenges and Solutions
While sugarcane farming is profitable, farmers still face issues such as:
• Late Payments: Due to financial stress on sugar mills
• Water Scarcity: Especially in regions with poor irrigation infrastructure
• Pest Infestations: Like borers and white grub
• Soil Fatigue: From continuous mono-cropping
Solutions lie in the diversification of crops, adoption of climate-resilient practices, and forming Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) for better negotiation power.
Conclusion
Sugarcane farming in Uttar Pradesh is more than just a crop—it is a way of life for millions of rural households. With rising ethanol demand, increasing focus on green energy, and strong institutional support, the future of sugarcane farming looks promising. By embracing modern technologies and sustainable practices, farmers can ensure better productivity, profitability, and environmental balance.
As the state continues to lead in sugarcane output, it sets an example for how agriculture can evolve into a dynamic, industrially linked, and forward-looking sector. for more details visit www.fasalkranti.in