the goan I network
PANAJI
The government is all set to appoint a consultant to look into the viability and feasibility of a new sugar factory, even as complaints pour in about the existing Sanjeevani factory facing a shortage of staff.
Minister for Co-operation Govind Gaude said on Monday that in 10 days, the government would float an expression of interest to start the process for appointment of a consultant to look into the technicalities, feasibility, viability, and financial aspect of a new sugar factory.
Addressing a press conference at the Secretariat, Gaude said the proposed new plant would see to the extraction of sugar as well as ethanol, and if possible, the government would aim for a factory that runs 365 days a year.
He said that as per last few years, extraction of sugar lasted for around 55-70 days of the year. If the new factory dealt in ethanol as well, which can also be obtained from maize which is available throughout the year, then the factory could run all year round.
Gaude said that if the plant became a reality, then it would provide not only revenue for the government but employment for the youth.
As far as the new factory dealing in ethanol is concerned, Gaude said that the decision lay with the government, and that in the Assembly, all legislators, including the Opposition was of the opinion that the feasibility of the existing sugar plant be reviewed, or a switch-over to ethanol be effected. If everything is favourable, the new factory will start by next crushing season “ November 2020.
In answer to the Sugarcane Farmers’ Association, who on Sunday said that 20,000 metric tonnes of sugarcane are required to be transported, Gaude claimed the quantity was 6,350 metric tonnes that was required. The sugarcane farmers have threatened to protest outside the factory on January 8 over the dearth of staff and say they need a minimum of around 300 more workers to help with the harvesting.
