There is some relief for sugarcane farmers in Sabeto, Nadi as they have today received Pre-Season Burnt Cane Rehabilitation Grant from Minister for Sugar Industry Charan Jeath Singh.
Singh emphasized that the government’s vision is to restore the sugar industry to its former strength by increasing production and introducing modern farming solutions.
He says they are working to revive this vital industry and bring it back to what it used to be and the government is committed to supporting our farmers and ensuring the future sustainability of sugar.
Singh also reaffirmed the Coalition Government’s Plans to construct a new sugar mill in Rakiraki, with expressions of interest already advertised.
He further highlighted that the Ministry is also addressing the ongoing efforts to address labour shortages through overseas recruitment while also expanding mechanisation where initiatives such as tractor service providers and the introduction of fertilizer applicators are already in place, with specialized harvesters for hilly terrain to be introduced soon.
The Minister also gave a briefing on the support from the Government of India, which has committed to providing 12 drones for fertilizer application and a mobile soil testing laboratory to boost sugar research and innovation.
Singh adds that several government grants and assistance programs are available to support farmers in increasing production and adopting modern practices.
He also encouraged farmers to plant recommended cane varieties based on guidance from the Sugar Research Institute of Fiji, which will continue to provide timely and practical advice to improve productivity.
Singh adds that the future of the sugar industry lies in modernization, research, and farmer support and together, they will build a resilient and thriving sugar sector for Fiji.
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