India has donated 12 agricultural drones to Fiji to support sugarcane farmers, improve farming practices and promote the efficient use of agricultural inputs. The drones are expected to help farmers monitor crops more effectively, optimise the application of fertilisers and other inputs, reduce the workload associated with certain farming activities and improve agricultural productivity.
Indian High Commissioner to Fiji, Suneet Mehta, said the technology would enable farmers to use agricultural inputs more efficiently while strengthening crop monitoring. He said India has supported Fiji’s agriculture sector over the years through the supply of seeds, mobile soil-testing laboratories, financial assistance, training and capacity-building programmes for farmers. 
Mehta highlighted India’s recent agricultural assistance to Fiji, including the donation of five metric tonnes of cowpea seeds in September last year. He said the latest drone support is part of India’s broader effort to strengthen Fiji’s agriculture sector and respond to the practical needs of local farmers.
The Indian High Commissioner also said 15 Fijian participants will begin a specialised virtual training programme on the sugar industry in India. The programme is expected to further strengthen knowledge and skills related to sugarcane cultivation and the sugar industry.
Fiji’s Agriculture Minister Tomasi Tunabuna received the drones on behalf of the Fijian government. He said the technology could improve the way farmers apply fertilisers and other agricultural inputs. The Ministry of Agriculture and the Fiji Sugar Corporation will work together to deploy the drones and train personnel and farmers in their safe and effective use. 
Tunabuna stressed the importance of appropriate training, safety measures and continued support to ensure that the drones are used responsibly. He thanked the Government and people of India for the assistance and said the technology is expected to contribute to productivity and the long-term sustainability of Fiji’s agriculture sector, particularly its sugar industry.
