Government won't give nod for new sugar co-ops in Marathwada: Maharashtra CM

MUMBAI: Senior Shiv Sena leader and transport minister Diwakar Raote has found support from an unexpected quarter over the issue of approval for new cooperative sugar factories in Marathwada in view of the acute water scarcity.
When Raote asked chief minister Devendra Fadnavis about the need to examine the issue, the CM was quick to respond, saying no permissions would be granted for new cooperative sugar factories."Permission will be granted only for those units which agree to use drip irrigation system," Fadnavis said.
Known for his blunt remarks, Raote launched an attack on sugar barons, blaming the large number of factories for the water shortage in Marathwada. "When major parts of the state are facing shortage of drinking water, can we afford new cooperative sugar factories which are water guzzlers? In my opinion, the cabinet should take a decision and new units should not be granted permission," Raote said.
Strongly supporting Raote's plea, an agitated Fadnavis said it was unfortunate that no cabinet member was showing resolve to find a solution. "You (cabinet members) raise problems and blame other departments. There is lack of coordination among the agriculture, cooperation and water resources departments in tackling the situation. No one is taking responsibility to implement drip irrigation schemes in drought-prone areas despite 90% subsidy. Cabinet members are playing the blame game and it appears they have absolutely no control,'' Fadnavis said.
In the recent past, the CM had for the first time expressed strong displeasure over the style of functioning and casual approach of his cabinet colleagues, including his trusted aides. "All benefits, licences to sugar factories which are not promoting drip irrigation should be stopped with immediate effect. If any person with a new proposal approaches the government, he should be asked to take over the old factories,'' Fadnavis said.
Out of 195 sugar factories in Maharashtra, 54 are in Marathwada, but less than a dozen are operational.