Experts talk on challenges in cane cultivation & allied inds

Harvesting losses and challenges in post-harvest operations

Cane harvesting is associated with a huge amount of inherent losses due to poor operation, management, improper techniques, and inadequate infrastructure in harvesting, transportation, and storage of harvested canes. About 25 to 50% of sucrose is lost yearly in the conventional harvesting of Sugarcane. There is a need to adopt the latest technologies, machines, and tools for efficient harvesting and transportation of the harvested canes to reduce these losses.

Majority of cane producing regions are faced with a critical shortage of labour during the harvesting period which escalates cost of production. There is therefore a need to encourage machine harvesting and adoption of semi-mechanized harvesting systems like trash cutter and loaders.

How can we increase productivity of sugarcane cultivation & allied inds?

Sugarcane cultivation and allied industries can be made more productive by adopting the following measures:

Use improved varieties: Improved varieties of sugarcane with high yield potential, resistance to pests and diseases, and good quality should be used.

Adopt best management practices: Best management practices, such as proper land preparation, timely planting, adequate irrigation, and fertilization, should be adopted to ensure good crop growth and yield.