Subacs was launched in 1995-96, by the Union agriculture ministry, as a centrally sponsored scheme in 191 identified districts, scattered over 21 important sugarcane producing states of the country. Now Subacs has stamped a success by recording an increase, in the area and production, to the tune of 4.9 per cent and 12.15 per cent, respectively, within a short span of five years. During this period, unit yield has also improved by seven per cent.

Owing to the relatively slower growth in sugarcane production in the decades of the 90s, it was necessary to launch a special drive for increasing production and productivity as well as improving sugar recovery for sustainable development of sugarcane cultivation in Subacs areas. The Subacs technology was developed and transferred to growers' fields to achieve this goal. The scheme motivated farmers to use better high yielding varieties, maintain quality in seed production, and adopt location specific crop technologies.