Farmers Rally Over Unpaid Sugar Cane Incentives
Farmers who embraced environmentally friendly fresh-cane cutting practices are expressing frustration over significant delays in receiving promised government payments. These farmers were incentivized with a pledge of 120 baht per tonne for harvested cane, a reward for transitioning away from more labor-intensive traditional methods that often involve burning.
“So far we have not received the money,” stated one farmer who participated in a protest held at the ministry yesterday. Farmer groups, spearheaded by the Thailand Sugarcane Planters Federation, organized the demonstration to address both the delayed payments and their concerns regarding the Cane and Sugar Board. A key point of contention is the exclusion of farmer representatives from this crucial governing body.
Government Pledges Action on Farmer Grievances
In response to the farmers’ petition, officials have indicated that the issues will be escalated. “I will forward these issues to Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul to seek solutions,” Mr. Varawut assured the protesting farmers. He further elaborated that the cabinet had approved a budget of 477 million baht for the Industry Ministry on June 23rd. This allocated funding is designated for farmers who have not yet received their financial assistance, according to Mr. Varawut.
Environmental Benefits of Fresh Cane Cutting Highlighted
The shift to fresh-cane cutting has demonstrably reduced burning, with reports indicating that this practice now accounts for only 3.8% of total harvests. This reduction is crucial in the government’s efforts to mitigate PM2.5 air pollution levels, which are exacerbated by cane burning. Furthermore, the initiative aims to address global concerns over carbon dioxide emissions linked to traditional burning methods, thereby protecting the reputation of Thai sugar exports.
Despite these environmental gains, the lack of timely payment has left many farmers feeling disillusioned. “Many farmers feel they are being deceived,” the farmer added, emphasizing the financial strain caused by the delayed government support.
Concerns Raised Over Cane and Sugar Board Representation
The Cane and Sugar Board had previously called for comprehensive surveys to verify the eligibility of farmers for payments in areas where fresh cane was harvested. However, farmer groups have also voiced accusations against industry permanent secretary Nattapol Rangsitpol, alleging a failure to expedite the process of including their representatives on the Cane and Sugar Board. This board is composed of representatives from the government, farmers, and sugar millers, and equitable representation is considered vital for effective decision-making.
