In the Solove Sector of Fiji, a remarkable transformation is taking place in the sugarcane farming community, exemplified by Sanjay Murti. At 47, Murti, a father of two and the founder of Isharat Farm Services, has revolutionized his life and positively impacted numerous local cane farmers by providing essential tractor services.
Murti began his career as a cane harvester before managing the Batiri Citrus Farm and eventually identified a significant gap in the transportation services needed for sugarcane farming in Fiji. In 2022, with support from the Fiji Sugar Corporation Limited (FSC) and the Ministry of Agriculture, he launched his transport service.
Observing a shortage of tractors that hindered farmers from preparing their land, Murti devised a solution. “Many growers couldn’t afford to pay upfront, but with FSC’s business plan concept and work order system, I could offer services without needing immediate cash payments,” he stated. This approach created a beneficial scenario for both him and the farmers.
Starting with a single tractor, Murti utilized his previous experience to assist local farmers with their land preparation needs. His commitment to providing dependable services quickly garnered attention across the sector. His business has now expanded to include a fleet of six tractors, along with essential farming tools such as disc ploughs, tillers, slashers, and boom sprayers.
“With perseverance and support from FSC field officials and the team, I was able to grow the business,” Murti noted. “The work order system allowed me to run it like a proper business, and the farmers benefited, too.”
In addition to his transport services, Murti has returned to cane farming himself, successfully cultivating 7.5 acres of cane this year and planning for further expansion in the future.