The Ministry of Sugar Industry is working to improve sugarcane productivity and support farmers in the Northern Division by assisting 22 farmers in Labasa and 36 farmers in Seaqaqa through the New Farmers and Lease Renewal Program. This program provides eligible farmers with financial assistance covering 30 percent of the lease renewal costs, with a maximum support of $7,500.
During the grant agreement distribution to farmers yesterday, Minister for Sugar Charan Jeath Singh highlighted that the program seeks to alleviate financial pressures on farmers and encourage both new and existing farmers to increase sugarcane production. Singh emphasized that the sugar industry is the largest in the northern division and requires revitalization.
He noted that this government assistance was developed in response to farmers’ concerns regarding the high premiums for lease renewals. Additionally, two farmers from Seaqaqa received help through the Farm Mechanization Grant for Cane Planters and Fertilizer Applicators.
The Ministry also plans to extend assistance to sugarcane farmers in the western division under this program, with a total of 177 farmers in both northern and western divisions having benefited so far.
Seaqaqa farmer Mohammed Janab expressed his gratitude for the government’s initiative, stating that the support has provided significant relief for him and his family, as $5,000 of his $15,000 premium has been covered by the government.