A group of sugarcane farmers in Labasa is currently awaiting the release of their planting grants, raising concerns during a visit from Deputy Prime Minister Manoa Kamikamica in Lajonia. The farmers, including Vineshwar Prasad, Sunil Nair, Kamal Singh, and Parmeshwar Pillay, expressed their dissatisfaction with not receiving the grants this year, unlike previous years. They had submitted their applications from August to October and have been left in limbo as they continue to cultivate their crops.
Mr. Prasad shared that while they wait for the grant, he is actively working on four acres of land, and the crops are thriving. He was informed by a Fiji Sugar Corporation (FSC) officer that the Ministry of Sugar has yet to release the funds. Mr. Nair, who has planted sugarcane on his 3.5 acres, echoed this sentiment, urging the FSC and the ministry to expedite the grant process following farm inspections.
Long-term farmer Mr. Pillay emphasized the need for support for the aging farming population, as sugarcane farming is their primary source of income. He, too, has planted sugarcane on his four-acre farm and expressed his desire to sustain his family business.
In response to these concerns, Minister for Sugar Charan Jeath Singh, who recently returned from the COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan, reported that the Ministry of Finance had released the funds to the FSC on November 12 and 18. He indicated that funding is being verified before being disbursed to farmers. Singh acknowledged that last year’s earlier release of funds led to numerous challenges, including issues with germination, and emphasized the importance of thorough application inspections.
This scenario presents an opportunity for the government and relevant agencies to address the farmers’ concerns effectively, potentially leading to improved processes that support local agriculture. By ensuring timely access to grants, they can help sustain the livelihoods of these farmers, who play a vital role in the economy and food security of the region.
In summary, the Labasa farmers remain hopeful for a resolution, and with the right actions from the authorities, they can continue their farming practices efficiently and sustainably.
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