The Assistant Minister of Agriculture Viam Pillay has encouraged farmers of Qelewaqa in Labasa to practice intercropping in cane belt areas which is not utilised for cane production.

Mr Pillay lauded the initiative taken by the Qelewaqa cluster team.

“Qelewaqa cluster team are a role model to other farmers in the Northern division.

“These farmers are a few of the many farmers who have taken advantage of the awareness programme organised by the Ministry.

“We have been raising awareness on the benefits of intercropping with our members and the Qelewaqa cluster team has taken the advice and they have reaped their rewards on the hard work.

“As when I was coming down, I saw a lot of watermelon and let me tell you, watermelon is on high demand at the local market,” he said.

Dewan Chand of Qelewaqa who has planted watermelon after undergoing a three day workshop with the Ministry of Agriculture said assistance provided by the Ministry has helped him to provide other revenue for his family.

“I have planted watermelon because it is a fruitful as it is on high demand and with the crop I will be able to make $12k.

“Apart from teaching, this will help me generate other revenue for my family.

“It is also sustainable farming with what I plant on my background, we will be able to eat and sell,” he added.

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