Bhubaneswar, Aug. 12 -- The Centre is reportedly considering restricting the amount of sugarcane for ethanol production, beginning in October. As per reports, the move is being considered amid concerns over sugar production in the coming season, particularly because of poor rainfall.

Sugar prices have risen sharply in recent weeks and have reached record levels, raising concerns about availability ahead of the festival season.

Around 3 million tonnes of sugar were diverted towards ethanol production during the current season. This accounts for roughly 10% of India's sugar output. If the government limits such diversion in the next season, the additional sugar could help offset the expected fall in production and improve supplies in the ...