The Ministry of Sugar Industry is taking steps to boost sugarcane productivity and support farmers in the Northern Division by providing assistance to 22 farmers in Labasa and 36 farmers in Seaqaqa through the New Farmers and Lease Renewal Program.
Eligible farmers will receive financial aid covering 30 percent of lease renewal costs, with a maximum assistance amount of $7,500. During the handover of grant agreements to the farmers, the Minister for Sugar, Charan Jeath Singh, emphasized that the program is designed to alleviate financial pressures on farmers and to promote increased sugarcane production among both new and existing farmers.
Singh highlighted the importance of reviving the sugar industry, which is the largest in the northern division. He noted that this initiative comes in response to farmers’ concerns regarding the high premiums associated with lease renewals.
Additionally, two farmers from Seaqaqa received support through the Farm Mechanization Grant for purchasing a cane planter and fertilizer applicator. The Ministry also plans to extend assistance to sugarcane farmers in the western division.
To date, a total of 177 sugarcane farmers from both the north and western divisions have benefitted from this program. One Seaqaqa farmer, Mohammed Janab, expressed gratitude for the government’s support, stating that it has provided significant relief for him and his family, as the government has covered $5,000 of his $15,000 premium.