NEW DELHI: The Centre on Friday said it was closely monitoring the recent rise in sugar prices and rejected claims that the increase was linked to the diversion of sugarcane for ethanol production.

Sugar prices have risen sharply in recent weeks, increasing from ₹48.18 per kg on July 20, 2026, to ₹55.70 per kg on August 20. | India News

Sugar prices rose from ₹48.18 per kg on July 20 to ₹55.70 per kg on August 20, but the government said the increase was not due to diversion of sugar for ethanol production.