The National Federation of Cooperative Sugar Factories Ltd (NFCSFL), the apex body of sugar cooperatives in the country, has strongly contested a report in The New York Times, which alleges severe exploitation of labor in the sugar industry. The NFCSFL claims that the report is far from the truth, dismissing it as a misrepresentation that exaggerates issues like debt bondage, child marriage, and forced hysterectomies among women laborers.
At a press conference held in Delhi on Thursday, NFCSFL President Harshvardhan Patil acknowledged that while isolated extreme cases might have occurred, the overall content of the article does not reflect ground realities.
He explained that significant efforts are underway to modernize the industry, including a large-scale plan to reduce manual cane-cutting operations by deploying 10,000 cane-harvesting machines funded by the National Cooperative Development Corporation (NCDC). He stated that this mechanization initiative would gradually replace traditional manual labor practices.
In a press release issued after the conference, NFCSFL highlighted that India’s sugarcane production is divided into tropical (South Indian states) and subtropical (North Indian states) zones, each with distinct harvesting systems. In the southern region, manual sugarcane harvesting is a long-standing tradition managed by contractors (Mokadams), who recruit skilled laborers from villages.
These laborers, although not directly employed by sugar mills, benefit from several welfare measures initiated by the mills. In northern states, farmers cut and deliver their cane directly to mill gates.
NFCSFL emphasized that sugar mills provide a range of facilities for laborers, including proper shelter, timely wage payments, free education for migrant children, medical care, and health insurance. During harvesting seasons, mills organize medical camps offering free treatment for issues like eye care, cancer screenings, and child health. Special attention is given to women workers, particularly pregnant and lactating women, who receive round-the-clock medical assistance.
Manual harvesting, though labor-intensive, ensures minimal cut-to-crush time, thereby maximizing sugar recovery from the cane. This traditional practice has enabled South Indian states like Maharashtra and Gujarat to achieve high sugar recovery rates, timely payments to farmers, and minimal cane arrears. Additionally, sugar mills contribute ?120 crores annually to Maharashtra’s “Gopinath Munde H&T Labourers Welfare Board,” which provides hostels, healthcare, and education for migrant workers and their families.
The welfare of laborers is further safeguarded under the Inter-State Migrant Workmen (Regulation of Employment and Conditions of Service) Act, 1979, which ensures their access to education, health care, and social security. Sugar mills also implement government food distribution schemes, providing food directly to laborers and their families throughout the year. During the Diwali season, laborers and their families are treated to festival sweets and celebrations, fostering a sense of community and appreciation.
The sugar industry supports over 700,000 families, providing crucial employment and livelihood opportunities for rural communities. During the COVID-19 pandemic, sugar mills played a vital role by setting up COVID care facilities, distributing sanitizers, and supplying oxygen, thereby saving countless lives. The industry also ensures that workers have access to regular medical check-ups, health cards, and treatment for injuries such as snake or dog bites.
NFCSFL asserts that the sugar industry remains committed to the welfare of its labor force and continuously works toward improving their living and working conditions while striving for greater efficiency in the sector.