The Ministry of Sugar has successfully provided assistance to 325 farmers through its newly launched farmers and lease premium assistance program. This initiative is crucial in helping farmers secure land for sugarcane cultivation, thereby reinforcing the backbone of the industry.
During a visit to Labasa, Minister for Sugar Charan Jeath Singh announced that an additional 38 farmers, including 23 from the Labasa Mill area, five from Lautoka, and 10 from the Rarawai mill area, will soon receive support. This program is designed not only to help new farmers but also to ensure land security for existing farmers, enabling them to expand their operations and contribute to the sustainability of the sugar sector.
Minister Singh emphasized the importance of secure land access for the long-term success of the sugar industry. He stated that the government is committed to addressing land lease issues and providing the necessary support for farmers to thrive. In addition to land access, the Ministry is focused on modernizing farming practices to enhance productivity. This includes addressing challenges such as labor shortages and high production costs through farm mechanization.
As part of this strategy, the government is distributing farm machinery, including 12 sugarcane planters and 16 fertiliser applicators, to tractor service providers. This initiative is aimed at reducing labor requirements and increasing efficiency in planting and fertilization processes.
Moreover, the government is offering a 50 percent subsidy on these machines through the farm mechanization grant, making it more affordable for service providers to access this essential equipment. In return, these providers are expected to offer their services to farmers at subsidized rates.
Last week, Mr. Singh highlighted that they have successfully delivered these implements to six service providers in the Northern region, with three more expected to join soon. This mechanization initiative is a key part of the government’s overall strategy to modernize the sugar industry, lower production costs, and enhance yields.
One success story shared was of Aiyub Khan, a Labasa farmer who received a grant worth $9,500 for a sugarcane planter and a fertiliser applicator. Having supplied 27,000 tonnes of sugarcane to the Fiji Sugar Corporation Labasa Mill this year, Khan expressed his gratitude for the support, stating that mechanization is essential to overcoming labor challenges.
This initiative represents a comprehensive effort to not only support existing farmers but also attract new entrants, ensuring the future stability and competitiveness of Fiji’s sugar industry. The focus on modern farming practices can lead to sustainable growth, ultimately benefiting both farmers and the economy.
In summary, the developments in Fiji’s sugar industry showcase a positive move towards modernization, sustainability, and enhanced productivity, setting a hopeful tone for the future of sugarcane farming.
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