Sugarcane farmers in the Wainikoro sector of Labasa have proposed that the Fiji Sugar Corporation (FSC) and the Ministry of Sugar implement an open-access system for planting grants. If this proposal is accepted, farmers would be able to apply for the grant at any time during the year.
Farmer Bal Sanju Reddy brought up the issue during a recent visit by the Minister for Employment, Productivity, and Industrial Relations, Agni Deo Singh. Mr. Reddy highlighted that planting conditions vary greatly across different sectors, with some farms situated on flat lands and others on hills and slopes.
“Some farms have optimal conditions for nurturing crops, while others face challenges and need more time to grow properly,” Mr. Reddy explained. He argued that year-round access to grants would benefit more farmers since currently, some miss out due to various planting hindrances and deadlines.
Senior FSC staff and Agriculture Services Manager (North), Bimlesh Lal, acknowledged Mr. Reddy’s concerns and stated that they have forwarded the proposal 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 added.
The quota system distributes funds over a set period, requiring farmers to achieve, inspect, and receive approval for adequate planting 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 and believes that open access to grants would provide significant relief to hardworking farmers.
Minister Singh advised the FSC to make every effort to support farmers in achieving better sugarcane yields and reassured farmers that FSC staff are working hard to assist them. Additionally, Mr. Reddy emphasized that measures should be in place to prevent the misuse of the planting grant, ensuring that deserving farmers receive the necessary support to enhance sugarcane supply.