Sugarcane is one of the most important cash crops in India. It maintains the country’s food security and provides direct and indirect employment to people at large. India is the world’s second-biggest maker of sugarcane after Brazil. Whereas Maharashtra produced 138 lahks of sugarcane in 2022-23.
Sugarcane is a multipurpose yield that delivers sugar, jaggery, Khansari, molasses, and paper. It mostly grows in Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Bihar, Gujarat and Karnataka because of its climatic conditions. Find out the ultimate guide for sugarcane production in India below and boost your sugarcane farming with Kubota MU4501, the ideal companion for efficient cultivation and harvesting. Experience increased productivity and superior performance with Kubota’s advanced technology, ensuring sweet success in your sugarcane production journey.
Top Sugarcane Producing States in India
Did you know that Maharashtra holds the top place for the largest sugarcane-producing state in India? In 2022-23, Maharashtra impressively harvested 138 lakh tonnes of sugarcane. Fascinating, right?
- A fascinating aspect of sugarcane production in India is the remarkable collaboration between Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka, and Maharashtra. Collectively, these three states contribute an astounding 80% to the nation’s total sugarcane production.
- It’s truly impressive to witness how these states synergistically work together, leaving a significant imprint on the country’s sugarcane industry.
- Speaking of Maharashtra, this state consistently produces an astonishing 61.32 million tonnes of sugarcane annually. That’s an incredible amount, showcasing the remarkable agricultural prowess of Maharashtra.
- Learning about the incredible scale of sugarcane production in these states is fascinating. The contribution of Maharashtra, along with Uttar Pradesh and Karnataka, is truly remarkable and plays a vital role in India’s overall sugarcane industry.
Top Varieties Of Sugarcane in India
Due to India’s favourable climatic conditions and fertile soil, sugarcane has different varieties. Majorly sugarcane varieties are divided into three 3 categories: early maturing, mid-late maturing and late maturing. Below we have mentioned varieties of sugarcane along with its technical factors.
Technical Aspect for Sugarcane Production
This blog post will explain every detail related to Sugarcane Production. Also, it will describe the suitable climate, land preparation, harvesting and weed management for sugarcane farming.
Ideal Climate and Soil For Sugarcane Farming
Sugar cane grows best in warm, humid climates with temperatures ranging from 21°C to 27°C, and the average annual rainfall ranges from 75 cm to 100 cm.
- Deep rich loamy, alluvial, and lava soil is considered best for sugarcane cultivation. In addition, there should be a proper drainage system in the field.
- Sugarcane is a crop that grows for a long time. It can grow in practically any type of soil holding moisture. Nitrogen, phosphorus, and calcium must be present. Farmers can use tractors like John Deere 5405 to maximise their sugarcane yield.
Field Preparation for Sugarcane
When the soil moisture level is attained, the field should be ploughed using a disc plough or a rotavator.
- The field is undisturbed for 8 to 10 days to allow for decay. Cross-ploughing is then done, which is optionally followed by harrowing.
- These steps can be repeated to obtain a well-prepared seedbed for sugarcane planting.
Planting Method And Irrigation
Large-scale cane field operations best suit implementing subsurface drip irrigation (SDI) systems.
- Compared to on-surface systems, SDIs offer several advantages, including reduced labour needs, safeguarding against agro-machinery interference, and improved water usage efficiency.
Manure And Fertilizer Management In Sugarcane Farming
Before final ploughing, distribute 12.5 tons of farmyard manure (FYM) per hectare on the sugarcane field for best results.
- Typically, a well-decomposed FYM includes 0.5% nitrogen (N), 0.2% phosphorous pentoxide (P2O5), and 0.5% potassium oxide (K2O).
- A well-balanced nutritional composition can be achieved by blending pee and cow manure, supporting healthy sugarcane development.
- While cultivating it, for the prevention of weeds in the field, weeding should be done from time to time as required with the help of an Ace Tractor for efficiency.
What Are The Main Uses Of Sugarcane Besides Sugar Production?
Sugar cane has several uses besides sugar production. These include:
- By-product: Sugarcane processing by-products such as straw and bagasse (sugar cane fibre) can produce cellulosic ethanol, a second-generation biofuel. Other cane products include molasses, rum and cachaça (Brazilian alcohol). The plant itself is also used as straw and cattle feed.
- Medical use: Sugar cane has traditionally been used medicinally for various reasons, including antibacterial, diuretic, and laxative—treatment for stomach problems, cancer, and sexually transmitted illnesses.
- Industrial use: Sugarcane by-products are used in industrial applications. For example, filter mud contains waxes that can be used to make polishes and insulation.
- Fermentation: Sugarcane can be used in fermentation as a source of fermentable sugars. Butanol, acetone and ethanol are produced during fermentation and can be separated by distillation. This also applies to solvent production.
- Agricultural uses: Sugarcane wastes and byproducts can boost sugarcane yield and soil health. It is an organic fertiliser and soil conditioner.
Sugar cane has many other uses besides sugar production, including biofuel, medical, industrial, and agricultural.