The Indian government has withdrawn the draft Sugarcane (Control) Order, 2026, following significant objections from state governments and various stakeholders. The draft aimed to replace the longstanding Sugarcane (Control) Order, 1966, and included proposals to bring the ethanol and khandsari sectors under government regulation. However, this move faced strong pushback from khandsari units and farmers, particularly due to a proposed redefinition of khandsari units that would classify those with over 10 workers and a crushing capacity exceeding 500 tonnes per day as regulated entities. This change could have adversely affected many small-scale, labor-intensive units, which typically provide better prices to farmers compared to sugar mills. BJP MP Sanjeev Balyan emphasized that the decision to withdraw the order demonstrates the government's prioritization of farmers' interests under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership. The Food Ministry had previously circulated the draft for public comments, with a deadline set for May 20.