How can we tackle the sugar price rise?

The demand for sugar may be curtailed on an individual level, specifically keeping the health aspect in mind. But what about the industrial demand? Ahead of summer, there is spurt in demand by the ice cream and soft drinks industry. Prices are likely to shoot up further as summer closes in. Certainly one cannot abstain from the pleasures of life such as having an ice cream just to keep prices in check.—Ritu PIn general, Indians are fond of sweets. Moreover demand for sugar is inelastic, therefore any slight rise in prices of sugar won’t lead to a significant change in demand. So it’s not possible for us to reduce intake of sugar. Even diabetics don’t reduce their consumption. In order to tackle the ever increasing prices of sugar, policies of the government need to amended.     —Saurabh SanganeriaSugar is a necessity and is consumed on a daily basis. If prices continue to increase then we will be left with no other option but to avoid sugar. Restaurants, coffee shops and even bakeries have increased their prices because of this. And this is affecting our pockets. I don’t see the prices going down; therefore, I think people need to go slow on their sugar intake now because of two reasons. Firstly, it will be good for their health in the long run. And secondly, with reduction in demand the prices won’t increase so much. —Hetal ShahThe only way we can solve the problem of rise in prices is by exporting less sugar. The dependence of imported sugar will only rise to this problem. I think the prices are hiked because of political reasons. The common man is suffering because of the tussle between ministers. I have already reduced sugar consumption for the sake of health but price hike is adding to it.—Vidya ShastryTo curb the sugar prices, the commodity needs to reach the consumers directly. Since the government controls the supply there is no proof on how the supply is being handled. We also don’t know if the farmers are getting their due. Sugar is a basic item, therefore we have to reduce sugar prices. If the prices keep increasing at this pace, then it may become unaffordable for a section.   —Vinita KandoiCompiled by Meghna Sharma