Sugarcane farmers in the Wainikoro sector of Labasa are urging the Fiji Sugar Corporation (FSC) and the Ministry of Sugar to adopt an open-access system for planting grants. This system would allow farmers to apply for grants at any time throughout the year.
Farmer Bal Sanju Reddy brought up the issue during a visit by Agni Deo Singh, the Minister for Employment, Productivity, and Industrial Relations. Reddy highlighted that planting conditions vary significantly between different sectors, with some farms located on flat land and others on hills and slopes.
“Some farms have optimal conditions for nurturing crops, while others face difficulties and require more time to grow properly,” Reddy noted. He argued that year-round access to grants would benefit more farmers, as many currently miss out due to various factors that delay planting and cause them to miss deadlines.
Senior FSC staff and Agriculture Services Manager (North), Bimlesh Lal, acknowledged Reddy’s concerns and mentioned that the proposal has been forwarded to the Ministry of Finance for consideration. Lal explained that approval or recommendations from the Ministry of Finance are necessary as they release funds based on a quota system. This system distributes funds over a set period, requiring farmers to meet certain criteria and deadlines to qualify for a grant.
FSC board member and farmer Akisi Vinaka noted that many farmers miss out on grants due to strict deadlines. Vinaka believes that an open-access system for grants would provide significant relief to hardworking farmers.
Minister Singh urged the FSC to support farmers in achieving better sugarcane yields and reassured them that FSC staff are doing their best to assist.
Reddy also emphasized the need for measures to prevent misuse of the planting grant, ensuring that deserving farmers receive the necessary support to enhance sugarcane supply.