India has reported a substantial four-fold surge in sugar production, reaching 12.85 lakh tonnes as of November 5 in the ongoing 2026-27 sugar season. This significant increase from 3.20 lakh tonnes during the same period last year is primarily attributed to the early commencement of crushing operations across major sugar-producing states.
According to data from the Indian Sugar & Bio-Energy Manufacturers Association (ISMA), 184 sugar mills have initiated operations nationwide, a notable rise compared to 154 mills active at this point in the previous season.
Maharashtra Leads Early Season Output
Maharashtra has emerged as the leading contributor to this early-season production boom. The state has seen 136 mills begin crushing, yielding an impressive 10.78 lakh tonnes of sugar. This marks a substantial jump from 101 operational mills and 1.23 lakh tonnes produced during the corresponding period last year.
Other states are also contributing to the national output:
- Uttar Pradesh: 19 mills in the western and central regions have commenced operations, producing 20,000 tonnes. More factories are expected to start soon, particularly after Diwali for central UP.
- Karnataka: Seven factories, continuing from a special season, have reported 90,000 tonnes of production. Main-season operations are anticipated to begin shortly after resolving farmer-related issues.
- Tamil Nadu: Seven factories from a special season have produced 64,000 tonnes.
- Gujarat: 12 mills are operational.
- Telangana: Three mills have started crushing.
ISMA anticipates a further increase in both the number of operational mills and the pace of sugar production in the coming weeks, especially as more factories in Uttar Pradesh and Karnataka join the crushing season.
Comfortable Domestic Supply Assured
Deepak Ballani, Director General of ISMA, affirmed that India is well-positioned to meet its domestic sugar requirements. This confidence is bolstered by the higher early-season production figures and substantial carryover stocks from the previous season.
"With approximately 36 lakh tonnes of carryover stocks from the previous season and fresh production gathering momentum, the country is in a comfortable position to meet its domestic sugar requirements," Ballani stated, highlighting the robust supply outlook for the nation.
He further added that production is projected to increase significantly as more factories across key sugar-producing regions become active.