Sugar Shortage Fears Rise as Prices Climb to ₹65/kg Ahead of Festive Season

As the Indian festival calendar draws near, demand for sweets, prasad and other confections is expected to soar. Yet consumers in Bihar are confronted with a steep sugar price increase—from ₹45 to ₹65 per kilogram—within a single month.

The state’s sugar industry minister highlighted that Bihar’s operational sugar mills collectively hold ample reserves, yet market prices continue to climb. He ordered a comprehensive audit of mill inventories and dealer stockpiles, warning that any breach of the 400‑tonne limit will trigger legal action.

Experts point to a mix of factors: lower domestic sugar production, higher diversion of sugarcane to E20 ethanol, and logistical hiccups. Simultaneously, there are concerns about speculative hoarding by dealers, which could exacerbate the price pressure. The government’s joint inspection teams will determine whether the surge reflects a genuine supply crunch or manipulative practices.