SANGUEM
Chief Minister Pramod Sawant’s announcement in the State Assembly that the Sanjivani Cooperative Sugar Factory will be revived under the PPP model this year has brought cautious optimism among farmers, even as doubts persist over its actual implementation.
The factory has remained shut for six years, and in the absence of any directive from the Agriculture Department promoting fresh sugarcane cultivation, farmers are unable to secure certification or access crop loans. This has led to a steady decline in sugarcane farming, with many shifting to alternative crops.
Farmers have appealed to the government to expedite the revival process and provide a written assurance on sugarcane procurement, which would enable banks and financial institutions to extend crop loans to farmers.
They stress that simultaneous efforts must be made to encourage cultivation, ensure irrigation support, and bring fallow land under use.
Uncertainty also remains over whether the existing plant will be repaired or a new facility established, especially since earlier proposals such as an ethanol plant have yet to materialise. Farmers emphasise that without immediate planning and groundwork, the revival plan may fall short.
PENDING PAYMENTS
Despite an existing government scheme to procure sugarcane for two years, farmers claimed that payments for the crop harvested this season remain pending.
Progressive farmer Harshad Prabhudesai from Netravali in Sanguem stated that even four months after harvesting, dues have not been cleared.
“Farmers are currently in need of funds for intercultural operations, but delays in payment have added to the financial strain. Of the approximately 166 farmers involved, only 50 to 60 had their sugarcane harvested, while the remaining crop reportedly went unattended,” said Prabhudesai.
Prabhudesai welcomed the chief minister’s announcement and expressed hope that it would translate into timely action.
He remarked that while earlier governments had ensured the factory’s continuity in the interest of farmers and workers, the six-year closure has proved detrimental. He urged the authorities to act decisively to restore confidence among the farming community.
