Lucknow, Nov. 5 -- Following the Yogi government's recent decision to support sugarcane farmers, the 2025-26 crushing season has officially begun in Uttar Pradesh, officials said here on Tuesday adding, so far, 53 sugar mills have issued indents for cane procurement, and 21 mills have already started crushing operations. The government recently announced a Rs 30 per quintal increase in sugarcane prices (state advised price - SAP) for the new season-the highest hike in recent years. According to sugarcane commissioner Ministhy S, of the 21 mills currently operational, one belongs to the cooperative sector and 20 to the private sector. "Region-wise, five mills in Saharanpur, eight in Meerut, two in Moradabad, and six in Lucknow divisions have started operations. Another 32 mills have completed formalities and are set to begin crushing soon, while the remaining 69 will commence operations in the coming days." she said. She added that all mills had been instructed to ensure timely payment to farmers as per government regulations. Payments have already begun, and timely functioning of sugar mills will help farmers prepare their fields for wheat sowing. HTC...