Hoarding, Artificial Scarcity of Sugar to be Dealt with Sternly: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann
Punjab Has Sufficient Sugar Stock Despite Lower Sugarcane Yield in 2025-26: CM Bhagwant Singh Mann
CHANDIGARH; 25th August 2026:
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Tuesday said that there is no shortage of sugar in the state and the Punjab Government is keeping a regular vigil on its stock, sale and supply to safeguard the interests of the common people. He directed the officers to ensure adequate availability of the essential commodity and take firm action against any attempt to create artificial scarcity or indulge in hoarding.
Chairing a meeting with senior officers, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Punjab already has sufficient stock of sugar and the officers must ensure that adequate stocks are maintained at all times. “Sugar is an essential commodity for every household, and there can be no compromise with its availability. Any attempt to create artificial scarcity or indulge in hoarding will be dealt with firmly,” he said, adding that the officers must also take effective steps to dispel any panic or misconceptions among the people regarding the availability of sugar.
The Chief Minister said that sugarcane production had declined across the country during 2025-26, including in Punjab, due to inclement weather conditions. However, he said that despite the lower yield, Punjab has sufficient sugar stocks and there is no alarming situation in the state.
CM Bhagwant Singh Mann directed the officers to ensure physical verification of sugar stocks held by sugar mills. He also asked them to firmly enforce the stock holding limit on sugar, besides ensuring registration and weekly reporting on the Food Stock Monitoring Portal.
Likewise, the Chief Minister directed the officers to ensure strict implementation of the stock holding limit on bulk consumers of sugar. “The Punjab Government would continue to maintain a close watch on the sale, stock and supply of sugar in the larger public interest,” he added.
Reiterating the firm commitment of his government, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “Every necessary step would be taken to ensure uninterrupted availability of sugar in Punjab and protect the interests of consumers.”
Chief Secretary KAP Sinha, Principal Secretary to CM Dr. Ravi Bhagat, Secretary Cooperation Ajit Balaji Joshi and other senior officers were also present at the meeting.
