MSP Hike, Sugar Exports: Murugesh Nirani Thanks Union Minister Pralhad Joshi
Central Committee Recommends 70-75% Ethanol Revenue Share for Farmers
ಹೋಮ್ ಪೇಜ್


Bengaluru, Jan. 24: Former minister and BJP state vice president Murugesh Nirani has expressed gratitude to Union Minister for New and Renewable Energy Pralhad Joshi on behalf of sugarcane growers and sugar factories in Karnataka for the central government's decision to increase the Minimum Selling Price (MSP) of sugarcane and permit sugar exports.
Addressing a press conference with representatives of sugar factories at a private hotel in the city on Friday, Nirani said, "The central government's decision has provided significant relief to both sugarcane farmers and sugar mills. I extend my heartfelt appreciation to the government and Union Minister Pralhad Joshi for their proactive efforts in supporting the sugar industry."
He highlighted the challenges faced by the sector, stating, "Despite offering higher prices to sugarcane farmers, sugar mills have been facing financial difficulties due to lower sugar prices. We had repeatedly appealed to the government to allow sugar exports and revise sugar pricing. After detailed discussions with Union Minister Pralhad Joshi, the Centre has now approved the export of 10 lakh tonnes of sugar, which will be a major boost for sugar factories. Likewise, the MSP hike will benefit farmers significantly."
Nirani also emphasized the future prospects of ethanol blending, stating, "Currently, ethanol is blended only with petrol, but in the coming years, it will be mixed with diesel as well. Over the next decade, we will witness a shift toward vehicles running on ethanol fuel, replacing conventional petrol and diesel vehicles. Moreover, the government has approved the blending of 5% ethanol with jet fuel for aviation purposes. Preparations are underway to facilitate this transition, which will provide further impetus to ethanol production."
Speaking on the benefits for farmers, Nirani revealed that a committee appointed by the central government has recommended that sugarcane farmers receive 70-75% of the revenue generated from ethanol production, while the remaining 25% would be allocated to sugar mill management.
Call for Timely Payment of Electricity Dues
Murugesh Nirani also urged the government to clear pending electricity bill payments to sugar factories engaged in power generation through co-generation.
"Sugar factories generate electricity through co-generation and supply it to the government. However, the delay in payments for the past six months has put the factories under financial strain. The government must take immediate steps to resolve this issue and ensure timely payments to support the industry," he stressed.