The Ministry of Sugar has launched a new assistance programme aimed at supporting farmers in the sugarcane industry, benefiting a total of 325 individuals. Minister for Sugar, Charan Jeath Singh, announced this initiative during a recent visit to Labasa, where he emphasized the importance of secure land access for the sustainability of sugar farming.
Additionally, Singh revealed that support would be extended to 38 more farmers, with distributions occurring in key mill areas including Labasa, Lautoka, and Rarawai. This programme is not only designed to support new farmers entering the industry but also to help existing farmers expand their operations.
Mr. Singh stated, “Our Government understands that secure land access is vital for the long-term sustainability of the sugar industry.” The Ministry’s ongoing efforts to modernize farming practices include a focus on mechanisation to address challenges such as labor shortages and rising production costs.
As part of this initiative, the government is distributing essential farming equipment, including 12 sugarcane planters and 16 fertiliser applicators, to tractor service providers across the sector. To facilitate this, a 50% subsidy is provided through the farm mechanisation grant, allowing service providers to offer subsidised rates for their services in planting and fertiliser application.
Mr. Singh highlighted that this mechanisation push is pivotal for modernizing the sugar industry while reducing costs and increasing yields. “By making these technologies available to farmers, we are paving the way for a more sustainable and competitive sugar industry in Fiji,” he asserted.
One farmer, Aiyub Khan from Labasa, was among the recipients of the farm mechanisation grant. Mr. Khan expressed his gratitude for the support, which allowed him to secure a sugarcane planter and fertiliser applicator, valued at $9,500. With over 15 years of experience in sugarcane farming and having supplied 27,000 tonnes to the Labasa Mill this year, Mr. Khan views the advancements in mechanisation as a pathway to smarter farming and a solution to the labor shortage.
This initiative reflects a significant step towards revitalizing the sugarcane sector in Fiji, ensuring that farmers are well-equipped and supported to enhance productivity and sustainability in their operations. The ongoing commitment by the government signifies a hopeful future for the sugar industry, with an emphasis on innovation and support for local farmers.
In summary, the Ministry of Sugar’s recent programme provides crucial assistance for farmers, aiming to secure land access, modernize practices, and increase productivity, echoing a promising outlook for the future of sugarcane farming in Fiji.
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