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The Bombay Sugar Merchants’ Association Limited is the foremost of Sugar Associations in India and is 78 years old organization having strong foothold in Sugar Trade and Industry. The BSMA has been in the forefront as a representative platform for Sugar Trader and consumers where all concerns are brought to solutions. The Association has time and again been the eyes of various Govt. bodies representing and communicating ground level facts, reports and concerns of all verticals of the sugar trade, thus having a very good rapport with center and state departments. Apart representation of commercial matters, the BSMA also has a very active role in participating in various social responsibilities, helping those who are needy. The Charitable trust arm of the association looks into matters where needy people are provided with support. Association is presided by Shri Ashokkumar U Ranawat/Jain for last 18 years under his dynamic leadership Association has reached new heights. He is also a great Social Worker and helping hand of all section of people

GSAA is situated in Ahmedabad. An association focused on fostering healthy relationships between its members, customers, and mills serves as a facilitator for effective communication and cooperation within the industry. It works to establish standards, promote transparency, and resolve conflicts, ultimately enhancing trust and satisfaction among all stakeholders. By promoting ethical practices and providing support mechanisms, such an association plays a crucial role in maintaining the integrity and sustainability of business relationships in the industry.

Kolhapur Karad Sangli Sugar Merchants Association (KKSSMA) is dedicated to the advancement of the sugar industry. They strive to provide accurate information and advocate for policies that support responsible trade, and go ahead with cooperation and harmony.
Our Motto : विना सहकार नाही उद्धार
Their Association is a non-profit trade association representing merchants and brokers from the South Maharashtra region (Kolhapur, Karad, & Sangli). Founded in the mid-90s and registered in 2002, they have been committed to fostering a better understanding of the sugar trade and resolving any issues faced by their members over the years. Their members include leading trade houses and established commission agents who supply pan India and cater to sugar procurement for exports. They are active on the social front as well, organizing and participating in welfare schemes for the needy.

Maharashtra Rajya Sahakari Sakhar Karkhana Sangh Ltd. stands as a formidable force in Maharashtra’s sugar industry. It represents a collective of sugar factories within the state. Founded to promote cooperative efforts in the sugar industry, it plays a crucial role in coordinating and supporting these sugar mills. The Sangh facilitates collaboration, knowledge sharing, and policy advocacy among its member factories.
Please visit http://www.mahasugarfed.org/

National Federation of Cooperative Sugar Factories Limited (NFCSF) was established in 1960 to build a strong and vibrant co-operative sugar sector in India. All the Cooperative Sugar Factories and State Cooperative Sugar Federations across the country are its members. The Federation participates in sugar policy formulation at national and state level and helps set agenda for the development and growth of the sector in India. The Federation advocates, promotes and safeguards the collective interests of its members in accordance with the cooperative principles. In order to enhance capacity, quality and efficiency in the sugar sector, NFCSF also offers Techno-commercial services to establish, expand and modernize sugar factories, within India and Overseas.
Please Visit https://coopsugar.org/

National Sugar Institute (NSI), established in 1936, is a premier institute in Kanpur, India, focused on sugarcane and sugar production. It functions under the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution. NSI offers research, training, and advisory services to the sugar and allied industries.
With a rich history dating back to recommendations in the 1920s, NSI provides technical education and training in sugar chemistry, technology, engineering, and allied fields. They also assist governments in matters related to sugar industries. The institute is known for its rigorous admission process and strives to be a global leader in sugar research and education.
Please visit https://nsi.gov.in/

Sugar King, Sugar Trader’s Group, established in 2015 by founders Jignesh Thakker, Jay Vasant, Piyush Varde, and Joy Shah, comprises over 100 sugar traders from Gujarat and Rajasthan. The group collaborates to support each other in navigating various aspects of sugar trading, including pricing, quality, availability, and transportation.

The Rajasthan Sugar Trader Association plays a pivotal role in supporting the sugar trade across the state. Led by Shri Satyanarayan Ji and Jugal Babu, the association is dedicated to addressing and resolving any concerns or issues that arise within the industry. Whether it’s related to trade disputes, regulatory challenges, or organizing events, the association serves as a reliable advocate and resource for sugar traders throughout Rajasthan. By fostering a collaborative environment and providing essential support, Shri Satyanarayan Ji and Jugal Babu ensure that the interests and welfare of the state’s sugar traders are consistently upheld and promoted.

West India Sugar Mills Association (WISMA), founded in 2003, is a vital organization for private sugar mills in Western India. WISMA fights for its members’ wellbeing by addressing challenges with government regulations, offering technical and commercial guidance, and creating sugar and byproduct marketing opportunities. Recognizing the importance of public perception, WISMA actively promotes a positive image of the industry and fosters research advancements in sugar production. Furthermore, WISMA fosters collaboration among sugar mills, cane growers, distributors, and other stakeholders within the Western Indian sugar industry.
Please Visit http://wisma.in/

Further announcements are on the way...

Speakers

Mr. Praful Vithalani, proprietor of Jagjivan Keshavji & Co, a respected second-gen firm, holds high regard across sectors including Government, sugar industry, and trade. He founded the All India Sugar Trade Association, earning widespread respect. Prafulbhai, as affectionately called, served the Bombay Sugar Merchants Association for over 35 years. He’s a Bombay University alumnus with a Bachelor of Commerce degree.

Mr. Anup Kumar, MD and CEO of Sucden India since 2019, has transformed the company into a preferred merchant for sugar mills, industries, and distribution networks nationwide. With over two decades at Olam Singapore, he brings extensive experience to his role. Anup, a Chemical Engineer from IIT Benares and an IIM Calcutta alum, emphasizes efficient supply chain management and financial returns at Sucden India.

Mr. Atul Chaturvedi, a seasoned expert in Vegetable Oil, Agro Business, and Agri Infrastructure, boasts over four decades of experience. As Executive Chairman of Renuka Sugars Ltd and Senior Advisor of Adani Wilmar, he’s been pivotal in their success. Winner of numerous awards, including “Globoil Man of the Year-2013,” he’s renowned for his contributions to the industry.

Dr. Bakshi Ram, the Former Director of Sugarcane Breeding Institute, ICAR-Coimbatore, dedicated his career to sugarcane research, developing varieties like Co 0238, rich in sucrose. This variety significantly boosts sugar recovery rates in Northern India, elevating national sugar output. Under his guidance, varieties covered 3.14 million hectares in the 2020-21 season, constituting 60% of the country’s sugarcane area.

Mr. Benjamin, a Senior Sugar Trader at Czarnikow, spearheads the VIVE Sustainable Supply Programme in Asia. With 11 years at the company, he’s traded raw sugar, worked in sub-Saharan Africa, and now trades refined sugar in Singapore. Armed with a BSc Hon Degree in Agricultural Business Management, he’s dedicated 7 years to developing sustainable sugar supply chains across Asia, collaborating with global stakeholders.

Ms. Bhavna, Ph.D. in Nutrition from D.U. and INMAS (DRDO), heads Nutrition Science at ITC’s Foods Division. She leads CSR & Sustainability, executes product innovation, supports regulatory policies, and serves on national & international committees for Poshan 2.0 commitments aligned with UNSDG 2030. 

Mr. Bhavesh Thakkar, a second-generation entrepreneur, manages Shri Mahalaxmi Sugars, founded by his father, Mr. Jethmal Thakkar, in 1983. Alongside Mr. Nitin Thakkar, he leads the family-owned business in Kolhapur. With over 20 years of market expertise, Mr. Bhavesh ensures the company continues its growth trajectory, building upon his father’s solid foundation.

Mr. Chris earned a BSc in Brewing and Biological Sciences from Heriot-Watt University in 1981. He began at Traquair House Ales, then worked in micro-brewing and at Hall and Woodhouse. He obtained the Institute of Brewing Master Brewer Diploma and set up breweries in Karachi. Later, he joined William Grant & Sons before moving to America with Alltech and Lallemand Ethanol Technology. 

Dr. Claudiu Covrig, Founder & Lead Agriculture Analyst at CovrigAnalytics, specializes in sugar and ethanol market analysis, trade dynamics, and policy insights. With 18+ years’ experience in research, trading, and academia, he’s been pivotal at S&P Global Platts, Kingsman, and Sucden. His expertise spans market research, futures trading, and renewable energy systems. 

Mr. Falgun Bhatt is a sales and marketing professional with over 14 yrs of experience, 13 yrs of it in the brand and category management function of Food FMCGs within and outside India. Passionate about the branding of agro commodities – the Scale, the Challenge and the Indian Market.

Mr. G K Sood, a seasoned figure in commodities, has navigated various sectors including Oil, Steel, and Agri Industry. Presently advising Godavari Biorefineries and serving on boards like K N Agri Resources and MEIR Commodities. Previously, he chaired Noble Resources India’s Agri division and led Louis Dreyfus Commodities India. With expertise in policy formulation and industrial development.

Mr. Gurdev Gill has led Marex’s global sugar franchise for a decade, shaping it into a premier clearing and executing brokerage. With Robin Shaw, he’s developed comprehensive research products. Gurdev, also active in grains markets, previously worked at European Credit Management. He holds a BSc in Management Science from the University of Manchester.

Mr Jaiprakash Dandegaonkar, former Cooperation Minister of Maharashtra, now chairs various organizations including National Federation of Cooperative Sugar Factories Ltd. Actively involved in rural upliftment through education, sports, and agriculture. Adept in English, Hindi, and Marathi, with a Master’s degree (Gold Medalist). 

Mr. Shri Jitender Juyal serves as Joint Director at the Directorate of Sugar & Vegetable Oils, Department of Food & Public Distribution, Govt. of India. With 8 years of experience in sugar policy and ethanol sector implementation, he holds a B.Sc. (General) from Delhi University and completed a Post Graduate Executive Program in Financial Markets from the National Institute of Financial Management, Faridabad.

Ms. Kona Haque, Group Head of Research at ED&F Man since 2014, previously led agriculture research at Macquarie Bank and worked as a Senior Commodities Editor at the Economist Group. With experience in base metals, grains, and shipping consultancy, she holds an MSc in Economics from LSE and a BSc in Agricultural Economics from Reading University.

Ms. Manisha Gupta, an MBA with a Diploma in International Trade Finance, is the Commodities Editor at CNBC-TV18. With expertise spanning from Crude oil to Corn, she’s renowned for her insightful coverage and policy analysis. Winner of prestigious awards, she leads commodity discussions across CNBC channels and strengthens video coverage on Moneycontrol.com.

Mr. Manoj Balgi is Vice President, Procurement at Britannia and has been with the company since 2009. He is responsible for managing procurement of raw materials, packing materials, capex and projects. Manoj holds a B.E. (Mechanical) from Pune University and a PG in Industrial Management from National Institute of Industrial Engineering.

Mr. Naresh Dhanraj Kella, a Chartered Accountant, serves as Director at State Trading Corporation of India Limited. With 11+ years of expertise in Finance, Audit, and Corporate Laws, he’s a dynamic leader involved in various social, political, and cooperative endeavors. He’s also the youngest Director at Rajkot Nagarik Sahakari Bank Ltd. and actively contributes to the BJP Intellectual Cell and Zalawad Business Forum.

Mr. Niket Doshi representing the third generation of Rameshchandra Bhikhalal & Co., continue to elevate the family-owned agro commodity powerhouse established in 1952. With a strong focus on sugar and jaggery trading, the company thrives domestically and internationally, leveraging extensive market expertise and a stellar reputation for growth in the competitive landscape.

Mr Nilesh Shah, Group President & MD at Kotak Mahindra Asset Management, brings over 30 years of capital markets expertise from ICICI, Axis Bank, and Franklin Templeton. He’s been instrumental in award-winning teams at Franklin, ICICI Prudential, and Kotak Mutual Fund. Nilesh serves on AMFI’s board, SEBI’s CoBoSAC committee, and as a part-time member of the PM’s Economic Advisory Council.

Mr. Peter joined Wilmar in Singapore in 2018 when Wilmar acquired Bunge’s sugar trading business. Before this Peter had been at Bunge for 10 years both having had a range of responsibilities from Futures trading to research and finally heading the Asian sugar business. Peter started his career in sugar at Tate & Lyle in London in 2006.

Mr. Prakash Naiknavare, a seasoned figure in the sugar sector for over 23 years, is currently the MD of NFCSF, representing 258 cooperative sugar mills in India. He oversees member mills, provides technical consultancy, and influences national sugar policies. With a background in Agriculture and extensive global experience, he’s been pivotal in shaping India’s sugar industry.

Mr Raj Paul Bhagria, CEO of AISTA, served in senior roles in the Indian government, specializing in sugar and sugarcane economics. With a background in Indian Economic Service, he advised on pricing policies at CACP. His tenure includes Chief Director, Sugar. Bhagria, a Punjab University Economics graduate with an M.Phil from Glasgow University and a law degree from Delhi University, retired in 2012.

Mr. Rahil Shaikh, MD of MEIR Commodities India Pvt. Ltd., a new agro trading firm, focuses on domestic and global markets in Sugar, Ethanol, Molasses, Edible Oil, Organics, etc. Formerly MD of ED&F Man India, Rahil boasts 25 years’ experience in the Indian sugar industry. He’s revered for expertise, serving as VP of AISTA and as an expert speaker on agri commodities.

Mr Ravi Gupta, Executive Director at Shree Renuka Sugars Ltd., boasts 30 years’ experience across diverse agro commodities like Sugar, Ethanol, and Grains. A Commerce Graduate with a Post Grad in Forest Management, he initiated his career with TRIFED, later holding key roles at Noble (now COFCO), Louis Dreyfus, and others. Gupta’s passion lies in India’s sugar and ethanol industry, notably influencing the Ethanol Blending Policy.

Mr. Roshan Lal Tamak leads Sugar and Ethanol businesses at DCM Shriram Ltd as Executive Director & CEO. With over 30 years in Indian Sugar Sector, he excels in green/brown field projects, acquisitions, and company turnarounds. He prioritizes sustainability, enhancing farmer incomes, and fostering partnerships for agricultural productivity. A seasoned speaker and learner from global practices.

Mr. Sanchayan, Partner at Aavishkaar Capital, oversees their South/South-east Asia impact fund, focusing on climate initiatives and nature-based investments. With 25+ years in fund management and investment banking across Asia/Middle East, he previously worked at Standard Chartered Bank and Bank of America. He holds a Post Grad Diploma from IIM Bangalore and a B.Tech from IIT Kharagpur.

Mr. Santosh, MD at Intellecap, heads the Climate and Agri Solution practice, aiding clean energy entrepreneurs with expertise, connections, and funding. With 15+ years’ experience in BoP market development, focusing on energy access, climate-resilient agriculture, and finance, he previously worked at the World Bank and GIZ. A Math graduate with a postgrad from Indian Institute of Forest Management

Mr. Sanjay Khatal, a seasoned management professional with 40+ years in Agri-inputs and Processed Foods. With a B.Tech in Agricultural Engineering, he’s held key roles in Private, Co-operative, and Public sectors. Currently MD of Maharashtra State Cooperative Sugar Factories Federation Ltd., he’s also Director General of Cogeneration Association of India.

Mr. Sangeet Singla, an Indian Defence Accounts Service member since 2004, became Director in the Dept. of Food and Public Distribution, GOI, in Sep 2020. Currently Chief Director (Sugar Veg Oil) at Directorate of Sugar and Vegetable Oils. Holds an MBA from Kurukshetra University, with prior roles in finance and accounts across Indian Army, Armed Forces, and DRDO. 

Mr. Shekhar Gaikwad, an Indian Administrative Service Officer, brings 25 years of revenue expertise, serving as Joint Secretary in Maharashtra’s Chief Minister’s Office. As District Collector in Sangli, he’s lauded for innovative approaches, teaches at Yashada, Pune, and other institutes, simplifies land laws through books and articles. Gaikwad’s One Time Home Delivery scheme earned him Rajiv Gandhi Administrative Award in 2008

Mr. Siddharth Amin joined Dr. Amin Controllers in 1983 after training at various branches. He gained expertise in supervising loading & discharge of various commodities. With colleagues, he expanded services to include QA, collateral management, assaying, and food testing. He also established AgriMin Control International in Geneva in 2018, inspecting commodities globally.

Mr. Somnath Chatterjee, with 30+ years at FMCG giants like Nestle, excels in commodities procurement, strategic planning, and cost reduction. Specializing in logistics, warehouse, distribution, transportation, and production planning, he holds a post-graduation in humanities, specializing in tea and coffee tasting. He’s undergone management courses on procurement psychology, price risk mitigation, and process management.

Mr. Sudhanshu Pandey, an IAS officer since 1987, boasts 33+ years of diverse senior roles in state, central government, and Indian Embassy Germany. Currently, he serves as Secretary, Food & Public Distribution, after a stint as Additional Secretary in Commerce overseeing trade policy, WTO negotiations, and export promotion.

Mr. Vinamra Agarwal, as Head of Sugar Sales at Dhampur Bio Organics Ltd, is integral to the senior management team. With 5 years of tenure, he transitioned from managing Ethyl Acetate sales to leading the entire sugar sales division. Under his guidance, the company has expanded into new markets and introduced innovative products, earning the prestigious Brand of Asia 2020-21 award. 

Mr. XiangYu Cao is market trade analyst, for Wilmar Sugar Pte. Ltd. He joined the group in 2021, working on global sugar market fundamental research. Before joining Wilmar Sugar, he had extensive experience in Ferrous metals and sugar fundamental research & risk management in Cargill International and Louis Dreyfus, based in Singapore and Switzerland. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering from the National University of Singapore.