The decrease is primarily attributed to lower output in the states of Maharashtra and Karnataka, as reported by the Indian Sugar Mills Association (ISMA), the industry body. The sugar marketing year in India spans from October to September.

 

 

As per ISMA’s statement, sugar production up to December 15 in the ongoing 2023-24 marketing year stood at 74.05 lakh tonnes, compared to 82.95 lakh tonnes in the corresponding period of the previous year. The number of operational factories remained unchanged year-on-year at 497. Notably, sugar factories in Maharashtra and Karnataka initiated operations around 10-15 days later this year compared to the previous one.

 

In Uttar Pradesh, sugar production increased to 22.11 lakh tonnes by December 15 in the 2023-24 marketing year, compared to 20.26 lakh tonnes in the corresponding period of the previous year. However, sugar output declined in Maharashtra to 24.45 lakh tonnes from 33.02 lakh tonnes. In Karnataka, production dipped to 16.95 lakh tonnes from 19.20 lakh tonnes, according to ISMA data.