Sugarcane farmers who were unable to afford infarm drainage and road works can now seek assistance from Labasa Cane Producers Association (LCPA).

This is after the Non-Government Organisation launched its infarm drainage subsidised programme in Labasa yesterday.

Assistant Minister for Sugar George Vegnathan officiated the launch at Pravin Chand’s farm at Sarava of Waiqele sector.

Mr Chand was the first recipient under the programme.

Mr Vegnathan advised the sugarcane farmers to make good use of the land and various kind of assistance provided by the Government and such NGOs.

“There is future in sugarcane farming and to those who have continued over so many decades, I thank you for your dedication,” Mr Vegnathan said.

“There are some farmers who have taken up the responsibility from their forefathers to toil the land and supply cane to Fiji Sugar Corporation mills.”

He encouraged the farmers to carry out all the necessary work so that they were ready when the crushing season for 2022 begins.

He thanked association for always being innovative and providing solutions to farmers.

Benefits
Labasa Cane Producers Association executive manager Lakhan Kumar said association members can hire the Lovol six tone excavator for $40 per hour for infarm drainage and road works instead of what they were paying $60 to $80 per hour to private contractors.

“For cane farmers feeder roads the normal charge is $75 per hour but members can pay $50 per hour,” Mr Kumar said.

“Non-members can also take advantage of this assistance by contacting our office on 8818062.

All LCPA members will now benefit one third of the total cost from $60 to $40 that is $20 per hour subsidy.

He highlighted that land preparation and infrastructure were vital for good harvest.

Pravin Chand, 58, said since he was 20 years old he had been farming with his father and they have spent so much money in preparing the land and road.

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