Watch: Why has sugar become so expensive?

Sugar prices have surged across India, rising by around 40% in a year, and by as much as 50% in some States. In eight States, including Uttarakhand, Punjab, Madhya Pradesh and Odisha, prices have crossed ₹65 a kilogram. The all-India average retail price of sugar stood at ₹62.47 a kilogram on August 23, nearly 35% higher than the same day last year. On July 23, the average price was ₹48.62. So, why has sugar suddenly become so expensive? And why are people connecting it with Ethanol?