News Desk
SUVA, Fiji — In a landmark meeting that underscores the strengthening ties between India and Fiji, Sugar Minister Charan Jeath Singh and newly appointed Indian High Commissioner Suneet Mehta discussed the potential of drone technology to revolutionize Fiji’s agricultural sector.
The meeting, held at the Girmit Centre in Lautoka, highlighted the transformative power of drones in Indian agriculture and how these advancements could benefit Fiji. With over 29,500 registered drones in India, primarily used for agricultural purposes, the technology has proven to be a game-changer. Drones are employed for pesticide spraying, soil analysis, and real-time crop health monitoring, significantly improving efficiency and reducing costs.
Drones in India have been instrumental in transforming the agricultural landscape. They are used for precise pesticide spraying, reducing the volume of chemicals needed and ensuring even distribution across crops. Soil analysis via drones provides detailed data on soil health, including moisture levels and nutrient content, enabling farmers to optimize fertilization. Real-time crop monitoring with multispectral and thermal imaging helps detect pest infestations early, ensuring timely interventions. Additionally, drones aid in irrigation management by providing data on soil moisture and crop water needs, as well as facilitating seed planting in hard-to-reach areas.
The introduction of drone technology in Fiji promises several advantages. Increased efficiency in farming practices, cost savings through reduced pesticide and fertilizer use, and improved crop yields are among the key benefits. Drones can also help conserve resources by optimizing irrigation schedules and allowing early detection of pests, thus preventing widespread crop damage.
Minister Singh emphasized the importance of modernizing Fiji’s sugar industry through the introduction of drones and farm machinery. He also discussed the potential for collaboration in mobile soil testing laboratories and digitalizing Girmit Records, which document the history of Indian laborers brought to Fiji during the colonial period.
The Girmit system, a term derived from the Hindi word “agreement,” refers to the indentured labor system that brought thousands of Indians to Fiji between 1879 and 1916. The construction of the Girmit Museum at the Girmit Centre aims to preserve and honor this significant chapter in Fiji’s history. Digitalizing the Girmit Records is a step towards making this rich history more accessible to future generations.
High Commissioner Mehta expressed the Indian government’s commitment to addressing challenges within Fiji’s sugar industry and strengthening partnerships in multi-ethnic affairs. The collaboration between India and Fiji in agricultural technology and historical preservation signifies a new era of cooperation and mutual benefit.
As Fiji looks to enhance its agricultural productivity and preserve its rich history, the partnership with India through drone technology and other agro-technologies promises a brighter future for both nations.
India-Fiji relations have seen significant development through various high-level visits and cooperative projects. During the recent bilateral meeting at the 61st Munich Security Conference, Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka and India’s Minister of External Affairs Dr. Subrahmanyam Jaishankar discussed advancing cooperation in key areas such as economic prosperity, climate mitigation, and sustainable development.
The meeting highlighted the progress of significant projects, including the construction of a 100-bed super specialty cardiology hospital and the Indian High Commission Chancery and Indian Cultural Centre Complex in Suva. These projects symbolize the strong bilateral relations between Fiji and India and underscore India’s continued support for Fiji.
