Goa hosted the 84th Annual Convention of the Sugar Technologists’ Association of India (STAI) and the International Sugar Expo 2026, bringing together leading sugar technologists, engineers, researchers, manufacturers and industry leaders from across the country.
Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant inaugurated the three-day event, organised from August 18 to 20 at the Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Stadium, Taleigao.
The convention focused on the changing future of India’s sugar and allied industries, with discussions ranging from factory efficiency and artificial intelligence to ethanol, bio-energy, water conservation, climate-resilient sugarcane cultivation and value-added products.
Marking 100 years of STAI’s contribution to India’s sugar industry, the event also showcased technological advancements and innovations aimed at improving efficiency, productivity and sustainability across the sector.
During the programme, the Chief Minister launched the book ‘Modern Sugarcane Management’ and the convention souvenir.
He also presented the Lifetime Achievement Award and Industry Excellence Award in recognition of outstanding contributions to the sugar industry.
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CM Highlights Changing Role of Sugarcane Farmers
Addressing the gathering, CM Sawant highlighted the important contribution of sugarcane farmers to the economy, particularly through the growing use of sugarcane in ethanol production.
He noted that farmers are increasingly contributing not only to food production but also to the country’s fuel needs through ethanol, describing the shift as a move from being ‘food providers’ to ‘fuel providers.’
The role of technological advancements in transforming agriculture was expressed, and confidence was expressed that similar innovations would help modernise and strengthen the sugar industry.
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Sanjivani Sugar Factory Set to Reopen
One of the major announcements from the event was the Chief Minister’s assurance regarding the reopening of Goa’s only sugar factory, the Sanjivani Sahakari Sakhar Karkhana at Tisk, Dharbandora.
The factory has remained closed for the past five years. “After the expo, we will definitely reopen the factory. Next time, we will definitely have a visit to the sugar factory with all the dignitaries,” added CM Sawant.
The proposed reopening could bring renewed hope for Goa’s sugarcane farmers and the wider agricultural sector.
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