Sugar crushing season hits final phase, production reaches 274.8 lakh tons

The sugar production reached 274.8 lakh tons, compared to 254.96 lakh tons on the corresponding date last year, i.e. around 8% higher, as of 15 April 2026 (SS 2025–26). A total of 19 factories are currently operational, versus 38 mills operating at the same time last year, said a statement by the Indian Sugar and Bio-energy Manufacturers Association (ISMA).

Uttar Pradesh: The state has produced 89.26 lakh tons so far, against last year production of 91.10 lakh tons. At present, 6 mills are operational, compared to 22 mills which operated last year on the corresponding date.

Maharashtra & Karnataka: Production has reached 99.3 lakh tons in Maharashtra and 48.10 lakh tons in Karnataka, compared to 80.88 lakh tons and 40.40 lakh tons, respectively, during the same period last year. All the factories in both the states have closed their operations for the main season. However, few mills in Karnataka will also operate in the special season from June/July’2026.

Additionally, some mills in Tamil Nadu will also continue their operations in the special season.

Following table gives state-wise details of sugar production this year vis-à-vis last year:

(Note: Above sugar production figures are after diversion of sugar into ethanol)