SUGARCANE farmers in areas affected by Severe Tropical Cyclone Winston have lauded Government’s new cane planting grant policies.
Rarawai Penang Cane Producers Association president Girish Kumar said the new arrangements for paying out grants was a huge boost for farmers in Ba, Tavua and Rakiraki.
“We are really thankful to the Government and all the industry stakeholders who participated in discussions which resulted in this new policy change,” he said.
“The new grant payment will really help farmers who have been affected by TC Winston and now that Government is taking care of all the costs it is a good thing for the industry.”
Mr Kumar said the cost of ploughing one hectare of land was about $360, seeds would cost $140 and tilling the soil was an additional $200.
Sugar Cane Growers Council CEO Sundresh Chetty said $4.6 million set aside in the 2016 Budget and $9m out of $11m allocated in the 2016-2017 National Budget for the sugar industry would be utilised in a revamped cane planting grant facility for farmers.
