Sugarcane farmers in the Wainikoro sector of Labasa have proposed that the Fiji Sugar Corporation (FSC) and the Ministry of Sugar consider implementing an open-access system for planting grants. If accepted, this proposal would allow farmers to apply for the grant at any time of the year.
Farmer Bal Sanju Reddy raised this issue during a visit last week by the Minister for Employment, Productivity, and Industrial Relations, Agni Deo Singh.
Mr. Reddy highlighted the significant variation in planting conditions across different sectors, noting that while some farms are on flat lands, others are situated on hills and slopes. “Some farms have optimal conditions for nurturing crops, while others face difficulties and require more time to grow properly,” he said. Mr. Reddy argued that year-round access to grants would benefit more farmers, explaining that the current system causes some farmers to miss out because various factors hinder planting, leading to missed deadlines.
Senior FSC staff and Agriculture Services Manager (North), Bimlesh Lal, acknowledged Mr. Reddy’s concerns. He mentioned that the proposal has been forwarded to the Ministry of Finance for consideration. “We must wait for their approval or recommendations, as they release the funds based on a quota system,” Mr. Lal said. The quota system distributes funds over a set period, requiring farmers to achieve, inspect, and receive approval for adequate planting in order to qualify for a grant.
FSC board member and farmer Akisi Vinaka noted that many farmers miss out on grants because they could not meet the deadlines. Ms. Vinaka believes that open access to grants would provide significant relief to hardworking farmers.
Mr. Singh advised the FSC to make every effort to support farmers in achieving better sugarcane yields and reassured farmers that FSC staff are doing their best to assist them. Mr. Reddy added that measures should be implemented to prevent misuse of the planting grant, ensuring that deserving farmers receive the support needed to enhance sugarcane supply.