Young farmer with big ambitions- that is how Vikranth Chandra can be described. Growing up in Naleba, Macuata all his life, Vikranth decided to venture into mix cropping five years ago.

With 15 acres of land, he has embraced a diverse approach to farming, cultivating a variety of crops, including sugarcane, assorted vegetables and rice.

His goal was to create a sustainable and profitable farming operation that would not only support his family but also contribute to the local economy.

Vikranth's journey into farming wasn't easy, but his determination and passion for agriculture kept him going. He invested time in learning about different farming techniques and researching best practices.

"I want to prove that young people can succeed in agriculture, and I believe there are endless opportunities in this field if we embrace innovation and sustainable practices," said Vikranth.

It was a longstanding goal for him to purchase a rice harvester to assist in his rice fields. Not only that, but he was adamant in working towards revitalizing rice in the Northern Division.

The 32-year-old farmer and his wife were overjoyed when they were finally handed their new rice harvester recently which they know, will benefit more rice farmers in their community.

"My goal is to expand my farm, create job opportunities for others, and help feed the nation."

“We are grateful for the support from the ministry and through the Farm Mechanisation Program we paid one third of the total cost of the rice harvester while the ministry paid the remainder. It is truly a happy occasion,” he smiled.

He hopes to expand his rice farm with the available resources that he has and this will enable him to meet his target of establishing commercial rice farming on his farm.

“I hope to acquire leases that are still unutilized in Siberia and the Batinikama areas in Macuata. With the new harvester, I will be able to assist other farmers in the vicinity who wish to hire the machine and of course at a reasonable price,” added Vikranth.

In handing over the machine recently, Minister for Agriculture and Waterways, Honourable Vatimi Rayalu said that Vikranth is committed to inspiring other young farmers in Fiji to take up agriculture as a viable career option.

“We need more farmers in the vicinity to take up rice farming. Rice is a staple food that plays a crucial role in feeding families and supporting the local economy. With the growing demand for rice both locally and internationally, it has become increasingly important for communities to invest in rice farming. However, there is a shortage of rice farmers, and we need more individuals to step forward and take up the challenge,” added Hon. Rayalu.

He added that rice farming offers great potential, not just for those who venture into it, but for the broader community as well.

“It provides jobs, boosts local economies, and ensures food security. Furthermore, with advancements in farming techniques and access to modern tools, rice farming has become more efficient and sustainable.”

“By encouraging more farmers in the area to consider rice farming, we can reduce reliance on imported rice, lower food costs, and ensure that the community remains self-sufficient. With proper support, training, and resources, young farmers like Vikranth can lead the way in inspiring others to explore rice farming as a profitable and impactful career.”

As farmers adopt sustainable practices and improve their techniques, rice farming can become a cornerstone of economic development, benefiting not only individual farmers but their communities and nation as a whole.

Vikranth, through his hard work and leadership, hopes to change perceptions about farming and demonstrate that it can be a profitable and rewarding career path.

ENDS

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