Farmers’ body seeks reopening of sugar factories in Vizianagaram district

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Farmers from various mandals have urged the government to initiate steps to reopen the sugar factories in the district ahead of the Kharif season. A few years ago, due to various reasons, major factories located at Bhimasingi , Seethanagaram and other places closed. The sugar factory at Sankili near Rajam has also reduced crushing activity over the past few seasons.

Farmers are a worried lot, with the Sankili sugar factory reducing crushing. Farmers in the region have been growing sugarcane for decades. During the peak years, sugarcane was cultivated in nearly 35,000 acres. This has drastically come down to 3,500 acres at present and is expected further drop in the ensuing Kharif season.

Loksatta Party State president Bhisetti Babji has urged the Minister for MSME Kondapalli Srinivas to initiate steps for the revival of the sugar factories, as they provide livelihood to many people in Jami, Bobbili, Seethanagaram and others places.

AP Ruthu Sangham secretary B. Rambabu urged the government to protect farmers’ interests and encourage sugarcane cultivation in the district. He asked officials to hold meetings with farmers’ and public representatives to discuss the revival of sugar factories in the district.