Farmers struggling with prolonged dry weather conditions are being urged to focus on planting vegetables with shorter harvesting periods to help maintain their livelihoods.
This has been highlighted by commercial farmer from Dramasi, Tavua, Balbir Singh, who says farmers should invest in crops such as sweet corn, pumpkin, okra (bhindi) and beans, which can be harvested within four months.
Singh says the Government needs to act quickly and take a proactive approach, as farmers cannot afford to wait until December for assistance.
He says the situation is a national issue and he has full confidence that the Government will reach affected farmers directly and provide the necessary support.
Singh adds that one of the biggest forms of assistance the Government can provide is direct financial support, as cash benefits would allow farmers to address their immediate needs and continue their farming activities.
