Bihar Rural Development Minister Shravan Kumar has triggered a debate after his response to questions about the sharp rise in sugar prices went viral on social media.
While discussing the increase in sugar prices, Kumar argued that the impact may be limited because people are consuming less sugar and sweets due to health concerns. His remarks have since drawn criticism and sarcasm online. Media reports quoted him as saying, “Mithai kaun khata hai aajkal, aajkal to sab diabetes ke shikar ho rahe hain” — suggesting that rising sugar prices may not significantly affect consumers because many people are already cutting down on sugar.
The remarks came at a time when sugar prices have risen sharply in several parts of India. Reports indicate that retail sugar prices in Bihar have crossed ₹65 per kg, while prices in some markets have touched around ₹70 per kg.
Why Are Sugar Prices Rising?
The sharp increase has raised concerns among consumers, particularly ahead of the festive season when demand for sugar typically increases.
The Centre has already taken steps to improve domestic availability, including allowing 1 million tonnes of raw sugar to be imported duty-free. The move is aimed at increasing supplies as demand rises.
The government has also said that the recent increase in sugar prices cannot simply be blamed on diversion of sugar for ethanol production. According to the government’s latest figures cited in media reports, sugar production for the current season is expected to be around 306 lakh metric tonnes, below the earlier estimate of about 343 lakh metric tonnes.
Official data also shows a significant recent increase in prices. The government said the average retail price rose from ₹48.18 per kg on July 20 to ₹55.70 per kg on August 20.
Minister’s Comment Sparks Online Debate
Kumar’s argument has become a major talking point because the price increase affects more than households that directly buy sugar.
Sugar is widely used by bakeries, sweet shops, restaurants, beverage manufacturers and food-processing companies. Higher input costs can therefore eventually affect the prices of several products.
Social media users questioned whether lower sugar consumption because of diabetes could really be considered a solution to rising commodity prices. Some criticised the minister for appearing to dismiss the financial burden faced by consumers.
The controversy has therefore shifted the conversation from “Why is sugar becoming expensive?” to whether the minister’s explanation adequately addresses the problem.
The Bihar government’s official website lists Shravan Kumar as a state minister.
