BY Kavita Sharma
Photo Credit: The Suncity News
Patna, June 2, 2026: A high-level delegation of the Bihar Sugar Mills Association (BSMA), led by its Secretary Naresh Bhatt, met Bihar Agriculture Minister Vijay Kumar Sinha and highlighted the pressing challenges being faced by sugarcane farmers across the state.
The delegation submitted a memorandum seeking urgent intervention to address issues related to fertilizer availability and waterlogging in sugarcane fields.
During the meeting, the delegation informed the minister that Bihar currently has 10 operational sugar mills that are directly associated with nearly 2.5 lakh sugarcane farmers.
Sugarcane cultivation is spread across approximately 2.6 lakh hectares in the state.
The delegation emphasized that the crop is presently passing through its crucial “Grand growth Period,” a stage during which sugarcane requires a substantial supply of urea fertilizer for optimal growth.
According to the memorandum, the shortage of urea has begun affecting crop health, with sugarcane leaves turning yellow in several areas, raising concerns about reduced productivity and potential financial losses for farmers.
In addition to fertilizer shortages, the delegation also highlighted the problem of waterlogging in sugarcane-growing regions, which is adversely impacting crop development.
Minister directs officials to ensure priority supply of urea to farmers associated with the sugar industry:
Taking immediate note of the concerns raised, Agriculture Minister Vijay Kumar Sinha assured the delegation that the government is committed to protecting farmers’ interests and preventing any damage to standing crops.
The minister stated that there is no overall shortage of fertilizers in Bihar and directed the Principal Secretary and the Director of the Agriculture Department to make special arrangements for the timely and adequate supply of fertilizers to sugar mills and candy cane farmers.
He instructed officials to prioritize distribution in sugarcane-producing areas to ensure that crops receive the necessary nutrients during this critical growth phase.
The minister also advised farmers to conduct soil testing before applying fertilizers and to use fertilizers according to the specific nutrient requirements of their fields.
He encouraged greater adoption of organic and natural manures as sustainable alternatives to excessive dependence on chemical fertilizers.
Permanent solution planned for waterlogging:
Addressing concerns related to waterlogging, Vijay Kumar Sinha said that the government would work towards developing an effective drainage system in coordination with the Minor Water Resources Department.
He emphasized the need for a long-term solution and directed officials to improve inter-departmental coordination to address the issue comprehensively.
To expedite the process, the minister instructed that a special joint meeting be convened soon involving senior officials from the Agriculture Department, Minor Water Resources Department, and Cooperatives Department.
Reiterating the government’s commitment to the farming community, the Agriculture Minister stated that addressing farmers’ concerns remains one of the highest priorities of the state government.
He said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Samrat Chaudhary, the government is working continuously to ensure that farmers receive all necessary support and assistance.
EOM.
