There has been a noticeable surge in applications for the Ministry of Agriculture’s rice farming planting grant for the 2025 season. According to Mukesh Kumar, the chief executive officer of Fiji Rice Limited (FRL), the response this year has exceeded expectations compared to prior years.
A total of 283 farmers from across Fiji have applied for the planting grant, marking an increase of 130 farmers from the previous cycle. Kumar highlighted that there has been a concerted effort to encourage female farmers to access these grants, with 46 women submitting applications this year.
Farmers must plant rice seedlings between November 1, 2024, and January 31, 2025, to qualify for the grant. The ministry has also been active in providing rice farming training programs aimed at motivating iTaukei farmers to engage in the rice industry. This increased interest among iTaukei farmers can be attributed to a rise in the price of paddy, which has gone up from $850 to $1,000.
Moreover, the FRL has been allocated an additional $150,000 by the government for the 2024/2025 financial year to assist farmers through the planting grant. The FRL is implementing an 80 percent rice paddy supply requirement from farmers to boost rice production in the region.
Parmesh Chand, the Permanent Secretary for Civil Service, emphasized the importance of landowners and village communities participating in rice farming, citing the attractive prices in comparison to other cash crops.
During the grant application process, 57 iTaukei farmers also expressed their interest. Kumar reaffirmed the priority of increasing local rice production to reduce Fiji’s rice import bill, which currently stands at $60 million, with self-sufficiency at just 17 percent. The FRL is focusing on enhancing production in Viti Levu, where output has been lower than that of Vanua Levu.
Addressing concerns about potential misuse of funds, Kumar assured that there would be no misuse of the planting grant. The FRL is working closely with the Ministry of Agriculture to monitor the program effectively. A supply chain officer will conduct ground verifications prior to any payments being made, ensuring that only merit-selected farmers receive support.
The guidelines for the planting grant include three categories of assistance tailored to different farming scales, including small, semi-commercial, and commercial farmers. This structured approach lays a strong foundation for sustainable agricultural growth.
Overall, this initiative not only fosters increased participation in rice farming but also aims to enhance food security, reduce import costs, and empower local farmers, particularly women and the iTaukei community, as they contribute to the agricultural landscape of Fiji. This positive momentum indicates a hopeful future for the local rice industry and its farmers.
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