Eighty-eight sugarcane farmers from the western region of Fiji recently received government grants aimed at enhancing productivity in the sugar industry. The grants were presented by Charan Jeath Singh, the Minister for Multi-Ethnic Affairs and Sugar, during a ceremony held in Ba.
The two primary grants awarded are the New Farmers/Lease Premium Grant and the Farm Mechanisation Grant. These initiatives are designed to provide critical resources and support to farmers, helping them improve land access and farming efficiency. To date, the New Farmers and Lease Premium Assistance program has aided a total of 223 farmers.
Minister Singh highlighted that among the 88 farmers receiving support, 52 are located in the Rarawai to Penang Mill area, 13 in Lautoka, and 23 in the Nadi to Sigatoka corridor. He emphasized the importance of secure land access for both new and existing farmers, stating that the government is dedicated to addressing land lease challenges to help sustain the industry.
To combat issues such as labor shortages and high production costs, the government is placing a strong emphasis on farm mechanisation. Singh announced that they are distributing 12 sugarcane planters and 16 fertiliser applicators to tractor service providers in the sugar sector. The Farm Mechanisation Grant will subsidize 50% of the cost of these machines, making it more affordable for service providers, who in turn will offer their services at reduced rates for tasks like cane planting and fertilizer application.
This collaborative effort between the government and the private sector aims to modernize farming techniques in Fiji, ultimately leading to a more sustainable and competitive sugar industry. Singh stated that embracing adaptation and innovation is key to the future success of the sugar sector.
In summary, the grant program not only bolsters productivity and efficiency among sugarcane farmers but also represents a commitment to modernizing the industry. With continued government support and resources, the sugarcane farming community can look forward to a more sustainable future.
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