Challenges of Sugarcane Farmers in Sindh: A Micro-Level, Qualitative Study of Ghotki District

Abstract

Purpose: In Pakistan, sugarcane possesses significant importance in national agriculture to produce crystalline sugar and sugary production. However, the production is stagnant and faces multiple issues. This study aims to evaluate and solve the challenges that sugarcane farmers face in Sindh, providing evidence from sugarcane-rich district Ghotki. Methodology: We collected the data from sugarcane farmers in four areas of the Ghotki district via five in-depth interviews and five focus group discussions. Findings: The results pointed out that the sugarcane farmers are small landholders, and the sugarcane crop is their only source of livelihood. The significant challenges they faced were the sugarcane production system, land preparation, planting seasons, small landholdings, lack of capital, social problems, transportation, harvesting, and credit shortage. Unique Contribution to Practice and Policy: These findings are crucial for responsible institutions, mainly agriculture extension in the province, to devise policies to improve their livelihoods. If the government takes necessary action on these challenges, production and yield can increase in-country and the national economy by exporting refined crystalline sugar.