Yesterday, the Minister for Multi-Ethnic Affairs and Sugar, Charan Jeath Singh, awarded grants to 88 sugarcane farmers in the West. The event took place in Ba and was part of a broader initiative to enhance agricultural productivity and provide essential resources to sugarcane cultivators.
The support comprises two primary grants: the New Farmers/Lease Premium Grant and the Farm Mechanisation Grant. To date, the program has already benefited 223 farmers. Mr. Singh highlighted that these grants are instrumental in helping farmers secure land for sugarcane production, which is vital for both new entrants and those looking to expand their operations.
Among the newly supported farmers, 52 are located in the Rarawai to Penang Mill area, 13 in Lautoka, and 23 in the Nadi to Sigatoka corridor. The Minister underscored the importance of secure land access for the sustainability of the sugar industry and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to addressing land lease issues and providing continual support to farmers.
To tackle challenges such as labor shortages and high production costs, the minister emphasized farm mechanisation as a key strategy. As part of this effort, 12 sugarcane planters and 16 fertiliser applicators are being distributed to tractor service providers throughout the sugar sector. By providing a 50% subsidy on the machinery, the government aims to make these tools accessible, allowing service providers to offer their services at reduced rates to local farmers.
This mechanisation initiative is designed not only to modernize the sugar industry but also to lower production costs and enhance yields. The collaboration between the government and private sectors is set to ensure that modern farming techniques are available to all farmers, regardless of their financial resources. Mr. Singh stated, “The future of our sugar industry depends on our ability to adapt and innovate,” emphasizing the positive outlook for the sector.
Overall, this initiative reflects a strong commitment to sustainability and modernization in the sugar industry, paving the way for a more competitive and resilient future for sugarcane farmers in Fiji.
In summary, the grants awarded to sugarcane farmers signify a crucial step towards ensuring a thriving agricultural sector, marked by financial support, modern machinery, and a focus on sustainable practices.
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