OdishaPlus Bureau
The revival of Bolangir and Badamba sugar mills signals a new chapter for Odisha’s cooperative sector and agri-based industry.
In a notable advancement for the agro-industrial sector, the Odisha government has provided in-principle approval to India Potash Limited (IPL) for the revival of two previously inactive cooperative sugar mills within the state.
The two mills in question are the Bijayananda Cooperative Sugar Mills Ltd, located in Bolangir, and the Badamba Cooperative Sugar Industries Ltd, situated in Cuttack.
Both facilities, which have been inactive for more than ten years, are poised to be redeveloped into integrated agro-industrial hubs as part of IPL’s revival strategy. Being the largest importer and distributor of potash in India, IPL is anticipated to leverage its extensive experience in agri-infrastructure to benefit the state.
As per official reports, the state government has instructed IPL to prepare a Detailed Project Report (DPR) that delineates the revival strategy and operational framework. Additionally, the company has been requested to provide the roadmap it utilized for the successful revitalization of cooperative sugar mills in Gujarat, which will serve as a model for restructuring Odisha’s cooperative sector.
To ensure the revival’s feasibility, IPL has sought 40 to 50 acres of land for each unit to create not only sugar mills but also a comprehensive setup for sugar processing and related activities. Furthermore, the company has suggested a minimum sugarcane cultivation area of 15,000 hectares, with 6,000 hectares specifically designated for the Bolangir unit.
In response, the Odisha government has commenced plans to enhance sugarcane farming starting from the 2025–26 financial year, concentrating on expanding acreage and increasing farmer involvement.