In the Solove Sector of Fiji, a notable success story is emerging that showcases the determination and innovation within the sugarcane farming community.
Sanjay Murti, a 47-year-old father of two and the founder of Isharat Farm Services, has significantly impacted the lives of many cane farmers by providing crucial tractor services. After leaving school in Form 4, he initially worked as a cane harvester and later served as a manager at Food Process (Batiri Citrus Farm).
Mr. Murti discovered a major opportunity in Fiji’s sugarcane sector, particularly stemming from a new initiative by the Fiji Sugar Corporation. In 2022, with support from the Fiji Sugar Corporation Limited and the Ministry of Agriculture, he bravely ventured into becoming a transport service provider.
“I noticed there was a shortage of tractors, which made it hard for farmers to prepare their land,” Mr. Murti remarked. He recognized that many growers could not afford immediate payments for tractor services, so he utilized the FSC’s business plan and work order system to provide his services without requiring upfront cash.
Starting with just one tractor, he drew upon his experiences from Food Process to assist local farmers in land preparation. His commitment to reliable services quickly gained recognition among farmers in the area.
Today, Mr. Murti’s business has flourished, now operating six tractors along with a variety of essential farming equipment, such as disc ploughs, tillers, slashers, and boom sprayers—tools that are vital for sugarcane cultivation.
“Thanks to perseverance and the support from FSC field officials and my team, I was able to grow the business,” he noted. “The work order system enabled me to operate it like a legitimate business, which also benefited the farmers.”
In addition to running his service business, Mr. Murti has also returned to cane farming, cultivating 7.5 acres this year and planning further expansion.