Sugarcane Cultivation and Sugar Industry in India: Historical Perspectives

Sugarcane had been one of the most important and celebrated crops cultivated widely in India since time immemorial. Its cultivation and uses are mentioned in ancient Indian literature as well as in the descriptions in important books written during the reign of various kings as also in the descriptions given by various travelers who visited India during different periods. Ancient Indian literature (Puranas, etc.) mention about gur and sharkara made from sugarcane juice. The earliest record of establishment of first sugar factories in India dates back to 1610 by Captain Hippon at Masulipatam and Petapoli on the Coromandel Coast, and subsequently one at Surat on the West Coast by Captains Best and Dowton in 1612. Sugarcane is grown by a large number of farmers its command area supply, marketing and payment to the farmers, etc., have been regulated by various Acts and Sugarcane Control orders promulgated and amended by the Government from time to time. Sugarcane development has received due importance both at the national level as well as at the state (Province) levels. The rapid developments in sugarcane cultivation and sugar industry in the country have earned India a prestigious position among sugar producing nations in the world. Today it maintains the second position, next to Brazil. The Sugar Industry has become a pivot for the socioeconomic transformation of rural India.