Sugarcane farmers in Ambala district are facing severe financial distress as sugar mills have failed to clear outstanding payments amounting to crores of rupees. The delay in payments has pushed many farming families toward economic uncertainty, creating widespread anxiety across the agricultural community.
Mounting Dues and Farmer Agitation
The situation has reached a critical point with total outstanding payments exceeding ₹50 crore for the current crushing season. Farmers who supplied their sugarcane to mills are now struggling to meet basic expenses, including upcoming crop preparations and household needs.
According to reports from the ground, the payment delay has affected hundreds of farming families across Ambala district. Many farmers rely on these payments to fund their next agricultural cycle and manage family expenses, making the current situation particularly dire.
Government Intervention and Mill Responses
Government authorities have stepped in to address the growing crisis. The District Cane Officer has been actively monitoring the situation and pushing mills to clear pending dues. Officials confirm that regular meetings are being conducted with mill management to resolve the payment issues.
One major sugar mill in the region has reportedly cleared some payments recently, but significant amounts remain outstanding. Mill authorities have cited various operational challenges and market conditions as reasons for the delay in settling farmer dues.
Farmer Protests and Future Concerns
Frustrated by the continuous delay, farmer groups have begun organizing protests and demonstrations. They argue that the payment delays are unacceptable, especially when they have fulfilled their commitment by supplying quality sugarcane to the mills.
The uncertainty has also raised concerns about the upcoming sowing season. Without timely payments, farmers fear they won't have sufficient funds to prepare for the next crop cycle, potentially affecting future sugarcane production in the region.
Local farmer leaders have warned of intensified agitation if payments are not cleared promptly. They emphasize that farming operations cannot sustain such prolonged payment delays, and immediate government intervention is necessary to protect their interests.
The situation remains tense as farmers continue to wait for their rightful payments while managing their daily agricultural activities under financial constraints.
