Chandigarh, June 2: The Punjab government has cleared 100% of sugarcane dues for the first time in the state’s history during the 2025-26 crushing season. Under the administration led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, cooperative sugar mills across the state successfully processed a record procurement of 167.20 lakh quintals of sugarcane, resulting in total direct payments of ₹695.36 crore transferred straight into the bank accounts of local cultivators.
This complete clearance marks a significant shift in the state’s agricultural landscape, aimed at providing stable financial security to families trying to break away from the traditional wheat-paddy crop cycle. To support this ongoing transition toward sugarcane, state cooperative mills provided localized assistance, distributing high-quality seeds, subsidized field machinery, fertilizer, and specialized soil-testing resources alongside training seminars to boost crop yields.
“The payments deposited into our accounts have greatly increased farmers’ enthusiasm,” stated Pal Singh, a veteran cultivator and Sarpanch of Huthian village who is tied to the Batala Sugar Mill. “Earlier, payments used to arrive in smaller instalments over time. Now farmers have received their dues directly in their accounts, which has encouraged many of us to move beyond wheat and paddy.”
Agricultural departments noted that the timely distribution of full financial dues has successfully revived local confidence in alternative farming. By eliminating long-standing payment delays, the administration intends to foster rural economic growth and generate sustainable employment within the domestic sugar manufacturing sector.
Growers attributed much of the season’s smooth handling to the cooperative efforts of public sector employees. Lakhbir Singh, a long-time farmer from Alowal village, affirmed that the dedication of the mill staff combined with structural state changes brought immense relief to landowners. He maintained that consistent, reliable distribution schedules will naturally motivate more agricultural communities to permanently expand their sugarcane acreage.
