The number of sugarcane farmers in Uttar Pradesh has risen steadily, reaching 48,03,084 bonded farmers in 2024‑25. The state government’s digital platforms and modern governance have driven unprecedented growth in sugarcane output and farmer payments.

  • Uttar Pradesh is now India’s largest sugarcane‑producing state.
  • Bonded farmers total 48,03,084 in 2024‑25.
  • Digital portals and the e‑Ganna app have streamlined surveys, reservations and payments.

Historical Background

A decade ago, Uttar Pradesh’s sugarcane sector struggled with delayed payments, cumbersome paperwork and limited technology access, causing productivity to plateau in many districts.

Explosive Growth in Production

Production rose from about 1,364 lakh tonnes in 2015‑16 to an estimated 2,362 lakh tonnes in 2025‑26, accounting for nearly half of India’s total sugarcane output. Correspondingly, the number of bonded farmers grew to 48,03,084 in 2024‑25.

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Digital Reforms

Uttar Pradesh Cane Commissioner Ministhy S. explained, "Integrated platforms such as the Smart Ganna Kisan Portal, the e‑Ganna mobile app and SMS‑based cane slips have transformed a paper‑driven system into a real‑time digital ecosystem, enhancing transparency and accountability across the supply chain."

"Digital reforms have dramatically improved transparency and accountability in the sugarcane sector." – Ministhy S., Cane Commissioner

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that this digital overhaul not only boosts farmer incomes but also strengthens Uttar Pradesh’s ethanol output and overall agricultural competitiveness.

Did You Know?: Uttar Pradesh produces almost half of India’s total sugarcane, making it a critical hub for both sugar and ethanol industries.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is the current sugarcane production volume in Uttar Pradesh?
  • How many bonded sugarcane farmers are there in the state?