The Minister for Multi-Ethnic Affairs and Sugar, Charan Jeath Singh, announced the distribution of government grants to 88 sugarcane farmers from the Western region yesterday, during a ceremony held in Ba. The two main grants provided are the New Farmers/Lease Premium Grant and the Farm Mechanisation Grant, both of which aim to improve productivity and provide essential resources to farmers.
To date, 223 farmers have received assistance through the New Farmers and Lease Premium Assistance program, which has enabled them to access and secure land for sugarcane cultivation. Mr. Singh highlighted that the latest support will benefit 52 farmers in the Rarawai to Penang Mill area, 13 in Lautoka, and 23 in the Nadi to Sigatoka corridor. This initiative not only aids new farmers entering the industry but also helps existing farmers secure their land tenure, thereby enabling them to expand their operations and contribute to the sustainability of the sugar industry.
The government recognizes that secure access to land is vital for the long-term health of the sugar industry. Mr. Singh emphasized their commitment to resolving land lease issues through ongoing consultations and strategic planning, ensuring all farmers receive the necessary support to succeed. Additionally, he mentioned that a focus on farm mechanization is imperative to address challenges such as labor shortages and rising production costs.
As part of this mechanization effort, 12 sugarcane planters and 16 fertilizer applicators will be distributed to tractor service providers within the sugar sector. These tools will enable farmers to plant and apply fertilizers more efficiently, reducing the need for manual labor and enhancing overall productivity. The Farm Mechanisation Grant provides a 50% subsidy on these machines, making them more affordable for service providers, who are expected to offer their services to farmers at reduced rates, particularly for cane planting and fertilizer application.
This collaboration between the government and the private sector promotes the accessibility of modern farming techniques for all farmers, regardless of their financial resources. Mr. Singh stated that this mechanization program is integral to modernizing the sugar industry, decreasing production costs, and increasing crop yields. He reiterated that adapting and innovating is crucial for the future viability of the sugar industry in Fiji.
This government initiative signals a positive step towards revitalizing the sugar industry in Fiji, fostering growth and sustainability while providing much-needed support to local farmers.
Summary: The government of Fiji is actively supporting sugarcane farmers through grants aimed at improving productivity and securing land tenure. With a focus on mechanization, the initiative seeks to modernize farming methods and address industry challenges, paving the way for a sustainable and competitive future in sugar production.
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