Yesterday, the Minister for Multi-Ethnic Affairs and Sugar, Charan Jeath Singh, presented grants to approximately 88 sugarcane farmers in the Ba region. This initiative is part of the government’s efforts to support and enhance productivity within the sugarcane farming community through two key financial assistance programs: the New Farmers/Lease Premium Grant and the Farm Mechanisation Grant.
The New Farmers and Lease Premium Assistance programme has already benefited 223 farmers, as noted by Mr. Singh. The minister highlighted the importance of providing crucial funds to help farmers access and secure land for their sugarcane operations. The latest assistance will reach farmers in various regions, with 52 from the Rarawai to Penang Mill area, 13 in Lautoka, and 23 from the Nadi to Sigatoka corridor.
Mr. Singh emphasized the government’s recognition of secure land access as vital for the long-term sustainability of the sugar industry. He reassured farmers that the government is dedicated to resolving land lease challenges through ongoing consultation and strategic planning.
Addressing concerns about labor shortages and high production costs, the minister underscored the significance of farm mechanisation. He announced the distribution of 12 sugarcane planters and 16 fertiliser applicators to tractor service providers in the sector, aimed at enhancing efficiency in planting and fertiliser application while reducing reliance on manual labor.
The Farm Mechanisation Grant will subsidize these machines by 50%, allowing tractor service providers to offer their services at reduced rates to farmers. This collaboration between the government and the private sector is designed to make modern farming techniques accessible to all farmers, fostering a supportive environment for innovation in agriculture.
Mr. Singh concluded by stressing that the modernization of the sugar industry is essential for reducing production costs and increasing yields. He remains optimistic about the industry’s future, highlighting that adaptability and innovation are crucial for ensuring its competitiveness and sustainability.
In summary, these initiatives are likely to improve the economic viability of Fiji’s sugar industry while creating a more secure and productive farming environment, promising a brighter outlook for farmers and the industry as a whole.
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