4.2.1.4 Impact on cropping pattern

Pune District as such was described as cultivated area from the view of agricultural.. At the beginning the crops like, Jawar, Wheat, Bajara, Groundnut, Chilli, were grown. Due to availability of Ramganga River water the sugarcane growers increased to the large extent. The survey conducted in the project area indicated that there is no competing crop for sugarcane. High value crops like chillies, fruits and vegetables are grown in few villages. However, area under these crops is very meager. Jawar, wheat, bajra, safflower, sunflower and groundnut are other important crops that provide a source of income. Farmers reported that they are not happy with private traders about the payment received and the price offered to them for these products. Moreover, there is an certainty of the payment from traders and is generally delayed. In case of sugarcane, the first installment is assured within the first 15 days from the date of sugar cane supplied to the sugar factory. Farmers also feel that soyabean, jawar, groundnut, sunflower and wheat fetch less income as compared to sugarcane, soyabean and groundnut crops are also affected due to rains during September and late August. Moreover, in spite of adopting recommended package of practices, the entire crop is lost most of the time leading to loss of income. The agro- climatic conditions and soil type prevailing in the operational area of (CAIL) are very much congenial for healthy growth of good quality sugarcane, sufficient irrigation facility is also available from irrigation Schemes as well as Tube wells existing in the area. Water level of existing wells are reportedly increased because of regular monsoon during past few years and hence there is considerable scope to improve the cultivation practices and shift over to sugarcane. It is also observed

that cultivators in command area are progressive and are aware of sugarcane cultivation practices. In view of above, local farmers other crops wish to switch over to sugarcane cultivation.                

4.3     Impact on Socio-Economic Environment

Like other sugar factories, (CAIL) is located in isolated area. Since the activity of (CAIL) is affected by the way of life of people living in neighboring villages from where it draws sugarcane as well <as its factory labour force, (CAIL) management thought that it would be advantageous to improve the living conditions of people in and around their plant to facilitate mutual and peaceful coexistence. In view of this (CAIL) propose to locally employ about 880 skilled and unskilled workers, of which 425 will be on permanent basis and 455 on seasonal basis. Moreover required manpower with adequate experience is available locally due to already existing sugar units in the Pune district. It will therefore generate employment potential in the local area.