Eighty-eight sugarcane farmers from the Western region were presented with government grants on Tuesday by Charan Jeath Singh, the Minister for Multi-Ethnic Affairs and Sugar, in a ceremony held in Ba.
The grants included the New Farmers/Lease Premium Grant and the Farm Mechanisation Grant, aimed at boosting productivity and providing essential resources to farmers. Mr. Singh highlighted that this initiative has already assisted 223 farmers, enabling them to secure and access land for sugarcane cultivation.
Out of the new recipients, 52 farmers are located in the Rarawai to Penang Mill area, 13 in Lautoka, and 23 in the Nadi to Sigatoka corridor. The minister emphasized the importance of secure land access for the long-term sustainability of the sugar industry and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to resolving land lease issues.
Moreover, recognizing the challenges posed by labor shortages and high production costs, the government is prioritizing farm mechanization as a key strategy to enhance productivity. In line with this, Mr. Singh announced the distribution of 12 sugarcane planters and 16 fertiliser applicators to tractor service providers throughout the sugar sector.
The Farm Mechanisation Grant offers a 50% subsidy on these machines, allowing tractor service providers to make this equipment available at lower costs. This ensures that farmers can benefit from modern farming techniques without financial strain.
By fostering this collaboration between the government and private sector, the program aims to modernize Fiji’s sugar industry, reduce production costs, and increase crop yields. Mr. Singh concluded by stating that the industry’s future relies on its capacity to adapt and innovate.
In summary, the government’s support for sugarcane farmers not only aims to uplift their current conditions but also seeks to create a sustainable and competitive framework for the sugar industry in Fiji. This forward-thinking approach demonstrates a commitment to agricultural advancement and resilience.
Hopeful Comment: With ongoing government support and innovative mechanization efforts, the future looks promising for the sugarcane farmers of Fiji, paving the way for a revitalized agricultural sector that can thrive despite challenges.
Leave a comment