Bhubaneswar: Odisha Food Supplies and Consumer Welfare Minister Krushna Chandra Patra has attributed the recent rise in sugar prices partly to the diversion of sugarcane toward ethanol production. He said the increase is being witnessed across the country and is not limited to Odisha.

Patra said the diversion of sugarcane for ethanol production has affected sugar availability, contributing to higher prices in the domestic market.

The minister also pointed to supply disruptions, crop damage caused by heavy rains and floods, and changes in the movement of agricultural produce as factors behind rising prices of onions and vegetables.

Sugar prices in Odisha have increased significantly in recent weeks, adding to household expenses. Prices of onions and several vegetables have also climbed amid disruptions to supplies.

Patra said heavy rainfall and flooding had damaged crops in several areas, affecting the supply and transportation of agricultural commodities to markets.

The state government is closely monitoring market conditions and keeping a watch on possible hoarding. Patra said action would be taken against traders found exploiting supply shortages through hoarding or other unfair trade practices.

“We are monitoring the situation,” Patra said, expressing confidence that prices would gradually ease as weather conditions improve and supplies of essential commodities return to normal.

The minister’s remarks come amid growing concerns over rising food prices in Bhubaneswar and other parts of Odisha, where consumers are facing higher costs for several daily-use commodities.