The Ministry of Sugar Industry with the Sugarcane Growers Fund have launched the “Green Cane Incentive Program”, aimed at revolutionising sugarcane practices nationwide.

This initiative, developed in collaboration with the Sugarcane Growers Fund seeks to incentivise farmers who adopt sustainable farming practices, particularly focusing on the reduction of burnt cane.

While launching the incentive program at the Sugarcane grower’s fund office in Labasa, Minister for Sugar Industry Charan Jeath Singh emphasised the importance of this initiative in tackling environmental challenges posed by the burning of sugarcane and its effect on farms and production.

He says, burnt cane not only impacts the quality of sugar produced but also harms biodiversity, soil health, and contributes to environmental degradation and public health concerns.

He says, the program will encourage farmers to harvest green cane.

Sugarcane Growers Fund CEO Raj Sharma says the program is designed for sugarcane farmers to mitigate environmental impacts while ensuring the long-term viability of the sugarcane industry.

The Green Cane Incentive program offers significant benefits to farmers enrolled in the Specialised Loan program under Sugar Cane Growers Fund.

Farmers who harvest 75 percent or more of green cane during the season will receive a 2 percent reduction in their interest rate for the next 12 months.

This reduction lowers their interest rate from 6 to 4 percent, providing tangible financial relief and support for sustainable farming practices.

The program is not only a financial incentive but also a step towards building a more sustainable future for sugarcane farming communities and safeguarding the environment for future generations.