October 24, 2023
The Ministry of
Agriculture and Waterways received two mobile soil testing laboratories valued
at FJ$192,000 from the Government of India.
The Minister for
Agriculture and Waterways, Hon. Vatimi Rayalu, while officiating at the handing
over at the Koronivia Research Station yesterday, said the donation from the
Government of India is a significant milestone in strengthening the
agricultural sector to promote sustainable farming practices.
He said the timely
donation of these two new vehicles, transformed into mobile soil testing
laboratories, will bridge the gap that previously hindered the farmers’ ability
to access soil testing services.
“With only one mobile lab
in the Western Division since 2021, the Ministry has faced challenges in
serving farmers from other divisions. These two new labs will allow us to
provide improved service to farmers in all divisions,” said Hon. Rayalu.
He said the donation
exemplifies the strong bond between the two countries and highlights India’s
commitment to assisting developing nations in their pursuit of agricultural
excellence.
“These facilities allow us
to understand the intricate composition of the soil, enabling us to make
informed decisions regarding crop selection, nutrient management, and overall
soil health improvement.”
However, he said, the
accessibility to such soil testing facilities has always been a challenge,
particularly in rural areas.
“Farmers, who form the
core of our agricultural sector, are often far away from testing laboratories,
making it difficult for them to get accurate and timely analysis of their soil.
This scarcity of information significantly burdens their productivity and
hampers their ability to maximize crop yields effectively,” said Hon. Rayalu.
He stated that one mobile
lab will be based in the Northern Division while the other one will serve the
farmers in the Central and Eastern Divisions.
“Furnished with the
necessary equipment and technology, these laboratories on wheels will bring the
facilities directly to the farmers, unlocking their potential and empowering
them with essential knowledge about the soil on their farms.”
“The data collected from
these labs will help us develop targeted strategies, optimize nutrient
management, and provide tailored advice for farmers nationwide. As a result,
rural farming communities can expect increased efficiencies, reduced costs, and
improved living standards,” said Hon. Rayalu.
He mentioned that
leveraging these mobile soil testing laboratories to their fullest potential
can advance the agricultural industry, protect the environment, and sustainably
nourish people.
“Agriculture is the
backbone of our nation, providing sustenance to our people and contributing
significantly to our economy. Understanding the essential role that soil plays
in the growth and development of our crops, the need for efficient soil testing
facilities becomes necessary,” said Hon. Rayalu.
He added that these mobile
soil testing laboratories symbolize the beginning of a new era for the
agricultural sector, where knowledge and technology intersect to cultivate
prosperity in Fiji’s farming communities.
“This donation not only
alleviates the logistical challenges faced by our farmers but also symbolizes
the deep-rooted friendship and collaboration between Fiji and India. It shows
the Indian Government's unwavering commitment to supporting our agricultural
sector and promoting sustainable farming practices," added Hon. Rayalu.
Hon. Rayalu extended his
sincerest appreciation to the Government of India for its unwavering support
and commitment to fostering collaborative partnerships with nations worldwide.
The Indian High
Commissioner to Fiji H.E Palaniswamy Karthigeyan said agriculture was and will
remain the most important component of a nation’s economy and the role of a
farmer is most important hence the mobile soil testing lab is to empower the
farmers of Fiji to perform better by using modern technologies to enhance
productivity and their livelihoods.
H.E. Karthigeyan
highlighted Fiji's immense potential, specifically in organic farming, and has
reaffirmed India’s commitment to supporting the agriculture sector by offering
expertise, technology, or any required input for further growth.
-Ends-