Revival of Sakri and Raiyam Sugar Mills Gains Momentum; Prime Minister to Lay Foundation Stone on November 20, State Targets 25 New Sugar Mills
Patna: Bihar's long-awaited revival of the Sakri and Raiyam sugar mills is set to move forward, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi scheduled to lay the foundation stone for the restoration of both mills on November 20. At the same time, the Bihar government has accelerated work on its ambitious plan to establish 25 new sugar mills across the state. The government believes these initiatives will provide sugarcane farmers with better market access, strengthen agro-based industries, and generate large-scale employment opportunities.
The announcement was made during a press conference held at the Information Building in Patna on Wednesday, where officials of the Sugarcane Industry Department outlined the government's roadmap for reviving Bihar's sugar sector.
Foundation Stone to Be Laid on November 20
Speaking at the press conference, Sugarcane Industry Minister Sanjay Kumar said that the foundation stone for the restoration of the Sakri and Raiyam sugar mills will be laid on November 20.
He described the project as a major milestone for Bihar's sugar industry and said the state government has been making continuous efforts to revive closed sugar mills while attracting fresh investment into the sector. The restoration is also expected to boost the local economy in the surrounding regions.
State Aims to Establish 25 New Sugar Mills
The Bihar government has set an ambitious target of establishing 25 new sugar mills across the state.
According to officials, the objective is not only to increase sugar production but also to promote the development of sugarcane-based industries and strengthen Bihar's agro-industrial economy. The new mills are expected to expand industrial activity in sugarcane-growing regions and provide farmers with more marketing opportunities for their produce.
Better Market Access for Sugarcane Farmers
Minister Sanjay Kumar said that the revival of closed mills and the establishment of new ones will provide sugarcane farmers with improved market access.
With processing facilities located closer to farming areas, transportation costs could be reduced, enabling farmers to sell their crops more efficiently. The government expects that stronger processing infrastructure will also encourage higher sugarcane production across the state.
Employment Opportunities Expected to Grow
The establishment and revival of sugar mills are expected to create both direct and indirect employment opportunities.
During the construction phase, a significant number of jobs are likely to be generated. Once operational, the mills are expected to employ technical staff, machine operators, maintenance personnel, administrative employees, transport workers, and others associated with the sugar industry.
Production Targeted Within One to Two Years
Dharmendra Singh, Secretary of the Sugarcane Industry Department, said the government aims to begin production at the Sakri and Raiyam sugar mills within one to two years after the foundation stone is laid.
He added that the department will closely monitor construction and related activities to ensure the projects are completed within the planned timeline.
Focus on Expanding Sugarcane Cultivation
Officials said that ensuring an adequate supply of sugarcane is essential for the success of the mills.
Accordingly, the government is simultaneously working to expand the area under sugarcane cultivation. Farmers are being encouraged to grow more sugarcane through awareness programs, improved farming practices, and the promotion of high-yield crop varieties.
Agriculture and Industry Expected to Benefit Together
Experts believe that if the sugar mills become operational as planned, both the agricultural and industrial sectors will benefit.
Sugarcane farmers will have better marketing opportunities for their produce, while Bihar's food processing and agro-based industries are expected to expand, contributing to stronger rural economic development.
Investment in the Sugar Sector to Increase
The state government believes that fresh investment in the sugar industry will give a new boost to Bihar's industrial growth.
Authorities also plan to attract private investment and encourage the adoption of modern technology in sugar manufacturing. The broader objective is to restore the sugar industry as one of Bihar's key industrial sectors.
Local Development Expected to Accelerate
Regions where new sugar mills are established or existing mills are revived are expected to witness improvements in infrastructure, including roads, electricity, transportation, and other public facilities.
The projects are also likely to stimulate local businesses, logistics services, small industries, and other economic activities, contributing to overall regional development.
A New Beginning for Bihar's Sugar Industry
The revival of the Sakri and Raiyam sugar mills, along with the plan to establish 25 new sugar mills, is being viewed as a significant step toward revitalizing Bihar's sugar industry.
If the projects are completed on schedule and sugarcane production expands as planned, Bihar's sugar sector could witness substantial growth in the coming years. The initiatives are expected to enhance farmers' incomes, generate employment, attract investment, and strengthen the state's industrial economy.
