To tackle the ongoing labour shortage in the sugarcane farming sector, the Ministry of Multi-Ethnic Affairs and the Sugar has introduced assistance for sugarcane planters and fertilizer applicators in the Western Division by providing five Tractor Service Providers (TSPs). These TSPs, based in Ba, Tavua, and Rakiraki, received support through the Ministry’s Farm Mechanisation grant programme.
During the machinery handover event in Ba, the Minister for Multi-Ethnic Affairs and Sugar, Charan Jeath Singh, highlighted the initiative’s dual goals of increasing productivity in the sugar industry and mitigating the challenges presented by labour shortages and high production costs. Mr. Singh emphasized the government’s commitment to prioritizing farm mechanisation as a vital strategy for enhancing sugar productivity.
“The farm mechanisation programme is an essential component of our overall plan to modernize the sugar industry, lower production costs, and enhance yields,” he stated.
Noa Kautoga, president of the Varavu Farmers’ Cooperative, expressed gratitude for the government’s dedication to sugarcane farmers through multiple initiatives. He noted how the mechanisation programme enables farmers to adopt modern methods while addressing severe labour shortages.
Furthermore, the Minister explained that this farm mechanisation grant initiative provides farmers with a 50 per cent subsidy on machinery costs, allowing TSPs to offer their services at reduced rates for activities like cane planting and fertiliser application.
This initiative represents a significant step toward a more sustainable and competitive sugar industry. By promoting modern farming techniques and reducing operational costs, it not only supports farmers but also revitalizes the entire sector, potentially leading to increased economic stability and growth in the region.
In summary, the government’s focus on mechanisation and subsidy provision serves to empower farmers, enhance productivity, and lay the groundwork for a thriving sugar industry. This positive approach reflects a commitment to innovation and support for local agriculture, paving the way for a brighter future for sugarcane farming in the region.
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