Govt plans to review 6-decade-old sugar production, pricing norms

The food ministry plans to revamp the nearly six-decade-old regulation regarding production, storage and pricing of sugar to align it with technological advancements.

In this regard, the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution has issued the draft 'The Sugar (Control) Order, 2024'.

The ministry proposes to review the Sugar (Control) Order of 1966 due to the technological advancements in the production process.

"...there are multiple changes in the sugar sector which necessitates the revamping of existing the Sugar (Control) Order, 1966," said the ministry while issuing the draft.

The draft order details power the government to regulate production of sugar as well as restrict its sale, storage and disposal by producers and dealers.

The ministry has invited stakeholders' comments on the draft by September 23.

On power to regulate price of sugar, the draft says: "The Central Government shall, at the time of issuing any order regarding price of sugar for sale...tak