India, Jan. 20 -- Maharashtra's sugar production this year is estimated to be significantly higher than last year, with output already well ahead midway through the crushing season, industry experts and government officials said. Till January 8, sugar production in the state stood at 56.30 lakh tonnes, compared with 37.80 lakh tonnes during the same period last year.

According to data from the sugar commissioner's office, the crushing season is currently underway in 197 sugar factories, including 98 cooperative and 99 private mills. Maharashtra sugar commissioner Sanjay Kolte said the state is likely to maintain its lead in sugar output this season.

"We are hopeful of higher sugar production this year compared to last year. Production s...