To combat the shortage of labor on sugarcane farms, the Ministry of Multi-Ethnic Affairs and the Sugar has provided assistance to sugarcane planters and fertilizer applicators in the Western Division by introducing five Tractor Service Providers (TSPs). This support comes as part of the Ministry’s Farm Mechanisation grant program.
The five TSPs, based in Ba, Tavua, and Rakiraki, received the farm machinery aimed at enhancing productivity within the sugar industry. During the equipment handover in Ba, Minister for Multi-Ethnic Affairs and Sugar, Charan Jeath Singh, stated that the initiative aims to tackle labor shortages and reduce high production costs. He emphasized the importance of farm mechanisation as a foundational aspect of the broader strategy to improve sugar productivity.
“The farm mechanisation programme is vital for modernising the sugar industry, lowering production costs, and increasing yields,” Mr. Singh added. This sentiment was echoed by Noa Kautoga, president of the Varavu Farmers’ Cooperative, who commended the government for its continuous support of sugarcane farmers through various programs.
Kautoga remarked, “Such initiatives like the mechanisation programme assist farmers in implementing modern techniques, which is crucial in addressing the significant labor challenges we face on farms.”
Mr. Singh reiterated the government’s commitment to creating a sustainable and competitive sugar industry through initiatives like the farm mechanisation grant. He noted that the government provides a 50 percent subsidy on the machinery, allowing TSPs to offer services to farmers at subsidized rates, especially for cane planting and fertilizer application.
By investing in farm mechanisation, the government aims to transform the sugar industry landscape, potentially increasing productivity while alleviating labor-related issues.
In summary, this initiative reflects a progressive approach to modern agriculture, addressing both immediate challenges and paving the way for future sustainability. The focus on mechanisation not only enhances productivity but also fosters a more resilient agricultural sector in the region.
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