Sugarcane farmers from Punjab and Sindh have decided to boycott sugarcane supply to mills after failing to secure a higher price for their crop. The decision was taken during a large Jirga held on Sunday, where growers from both provinces gathered to discuss the ongoing price dispute.
Farmers warned that they would not harvest their crop unless the government fixed the official rate at Rs. 600 per maund. They said the current offer of Rs. 400 per maund was not acceptable. The leaders stressed that the decision to boycott sugarcane supply was necessary to protect growers from further losses.
During the gathering, several farmers expressed strong frustration over what they described as unfair pricing. They claimed that sugar sold for Rs. 120 per kilogram last season, while they received only Rs. 400 per maund. This year, sugar prices have increased to Rs. 200 per kilogram, yet the rate offered to growers remains unchanged.
Farmers said the low rate did not match the rising production cost. They pointed out that fertilizer and diesel prices have increased sharply, making sugarcane cultivation more expensive. According to the growers, continuing harvest at current rates would push many farmers into financial difficulty.
Some speakers at the Jirga issued a symbolic warning, saying they would burn their standing crops rather than accept what they called pressure from the “sugar mills mafia.” They urged unity among farmers and directed all growers, big and small, not to harvest their fields until the government meets their demand.
Farmer leaders said the boycott sugarcane call would remain in effect until authorities agree to revise the official support price. They emphasized that a fair rate was essential for the sustainability of the sector and the livelihood of thousands of families.
The meeting ended with a unanimous stance that the protest would continue if their demands were ignored. Growers said they were prepared for a long struggle to secure a price they consider just and viable.
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