Sugarcane is a long-term crop, and farmers must begin sowing now for the crop to be ready for the crushing season, typically held in December. However, without any clear direction from the government on the factory’s reopening, farmers are uncertain whether they should return to sugarcane cultivation. Many farmers who had previously shifted to alternative crops, particularly paddy, are now unsure of their next move.
In addition to the Mutyampet unit, two other Nizam Deccan Sugars Limited units in Bodhan (Nizamabad) and Munjojupalli (Medak) were also closed after a lay-off announcement in December 2015. The Congress party, which promised during the 2023 Assembly elections to reopen these factories, formed a cabinet sub-committee led by IT and Industries Minister D. Sridhar Babu to address the issue. After visiting the factory and consulting with farmers, the committee submitted a report, and based on it, the government cleared bank loans under a one-time settlement.
The state government had committed to reopening the Mutyampet unit by the next crushing season. However, no repairs or installation of new machinery have begun, and no funds have been allocated for these works. Farmers remain in the dark, unsure of whether the factory will reopen in time for the season.
Sugarcane farmer K. Rejireddy expressed concerns, stating that if the factory does not reopen, farmers will face severe hardships. He urged the government to clarify the situation through awareness programs, offering subsidies, and ensuring the supply of quality seeds to encourage farmers to return to sugarcane cultivation.
