Lecture Notes _ Geography of India _ Sugarcane Cultivation in India

India stands as one of the world's largest producers of sugarcane, driven by a combination of favorable geographical and economic factors. This vital crop supports both the agricultural sector and the economy, with key producing areas strategically located to maximize growth and yield, significantly contributing to the nation's sugar industry.
Factors Suitable for Sugarcane Cultivation in India

#### Geographical Factors:
1. **Climate**: Sugarcane thrives in tropical and subtropical climates, requiring warm temperatures (20-30°C) and high rainfall (1000-1500 mm annually).
2. **Soil**: Well-drained, fertile alluvial, loamy, and black soils are ideal. They provide good moisture retention and nutrients necessary for growth.
3. **Length of Growing Season**: Sugarcane requires a long growing period, ideally 10 to 18 months uninterrupted by frost.
4. **Water Availability**: Proximity to rivers, canals, and underground water sources is crucial for irrigation, especially in regions with dry spells.

#### Economic Factors:
1. **Market Accessibility**: Proximity to sugar mills and market facilities influences production viability and profitability. Accessible transport infrastructure boosts trade and reduces costs.
2. **Labor Availability**: Sugarcane farming is labor-intensive. Regions with abundant labor supply support efficient cultivation and harvesting.
3. **Government Policies**: Favorable policies, subsidies, and support from the government enhance profitability and encourage farmers to grow sugarcane.
4. **Competing Crops**: Economic viability is influenced by the relative profitability of sugarcane compared to other crops in the region.

Major Sugarcane Producing Areas in India
1. **Uttar Pradesh**: The largest producer, accounting for about 40% of India's total sugarcane. Major districts include Meerut, Bijnor, and Modinagar.
2. **Maharashtra**: Significant contributor, particularly in areas like Pune, Ahmednagar, and Kolhapur. Favorable climatic conditions and well-established sugar factories drive production.
3. **Karnataka**: Known for regions like Mandya, Mysore, and Bellary, it benefits from suitable soil and irrigation practices.
4. **Tamil Nadu**: Primarily in districts such as Tiruchirappalli, Madurai, and Coimbatore, where the climate and government support foster growth.
5. **Andhra Pradesh and Telangana**: Emerging producers with regions like Krishna, Guntur, and Warangal increasingly contributing to output.
6. **Bihar**: Gaining importance with districts like Saran and Gopalganj focusing on sugarcane cultivation.

Conclusion
The combination of favorable geographical and economic factors makes India one of the largest producers of sugarcane globally. The prominent regions are well-suited to meet cultivation demands, ensuring an essential role in the agricultural landscape and economy of the country.