Maharashtra sugar mills ramp up early crush ahead of Diwali

A quarter of Maharashtra's sugar mills are set to begin crushing operations this week to address sugar shortages ahead of Diwali. The early start aims to boost supplies in the market as prices have climbed approximately 4% due to limited inventory and ongoing farmer protests.

Mililers expect freshly produced sugar to reach retailers after October 20 once crushing activity ramps up. Farmers are pressing for faster sugarcane harvesting despite concerns over crop quality, as lower sugar content in harvested cane is pushing for quicker processing.

The supply crunch comes at a critical time for retailers and consumers ahead of the major festival. Industry officials believe the accelerated mill operations will help normalize supply levels and potentially ease price pressures in the coming weeks.