Ethanol Can Transform Annadata into Urjadata, Says CM Dr. Pramod Sawant
Panaji, 19th August, 2026: The 84th Annual Convention and International Sugar Expo 2026 commenced at the Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Indoor Stadium in Goa, bringing together sugar technologists, farmers, industry representatives and experts. The three day event, being held from August 18 to 20, focuses on technological advncement, higher production and new opportunities for the sugar sector.
The opening ceremony featured the launch of a book, along with the release of the industry directory and souvenir. The occasion also saw the presentation of Lifetime Achievement Awards, Industry Excellence Awards and Progressive Farmer Awards, recognising achievements across different areas of the sugar ecosystem. The expo provides a common platform for professionals and stakeholders to exchange ideas and discuss the way forward for the sector.
Speaking at the event, Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant said Goa, traditionally known for its “Sun, Sand and Sea”, is now also becoming associated with sugar, giving the state a new “4S” identity – “Sugar, Sun, Sand and Sea”. Congratulating the awardees, he extended his best wishes to the organisers and all those taking part in the three day programme. He also stressed the need for higher production and better technology, while urging companies and industry representatives to play their part in the nation’s development.
CM Dr. Sawant further highlighted the importance of Atmanirbhar Bharat and Prime Minister Shri. Narendra Modi’s vision of a Viksit Bharat by 2047. Referring to Make in India and Swayampurna Bharat, He emphasised the need to strengthen domestic capabilities and local development. He also spoke about ethanol production and E20, saying the changing role of agriculture can transform the “Annadata” into an “Urjadata”. He noted that India is advancing across different fields and that agriculture and allied activities will benefit from this growth. CM Dr. Sawant also pointed to Goa’s growing recognition for its spiritual and cultural heritage alongside its established identity as a tourism destination.
The programme will continue until August 20, with industry representatives, technologists, farmers and other stakeholders taking part in the convention and expo. The event combines knowledge-sharing and recognition of achievements, with the awards honouring excellence across professional, industrial and farming communities.
Those present on the dais included Shri. Sambhaji Kadu Patil, Director General, Vasantdada Sugar Institute; Shakti Singh, IAS, Managing Director, The Haryana State Federation of Cooperative Sugar Mills Ltd.; Sanjay Awasthi, President, The Sugar Technologists Association of India; Sangamesh Nirani, Executive Director, Nirani Sugars; Sameer Sinha, CEO, Sugar Business Group, Triveni Engineering and Industries Ltd.; R. V. Kumbhar, President, The South Indian Sugarcane and Sugar Technologists Association; Narendra Sawaikar, former Member of Parliament, South Goa; and M. G. Joshi, Managing Director, KalapnaVade SSK Ltd.
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