Onion farm launched

Mauritius is a country where agriculture is one of the key callings. This was said by the minister of Agro Industry and Food Security, Satya Veyash Faugoo at the launching ceremony of the ‘Initiative to Onion Cultivation 2011’ at Nouvelle Découverte on Thursday.

The Mauritius Sugar Industry Research Institute has developed a variety of onion for which the humid climate of Nouvelle Decouverte is favourable. The project will be extended to La Laura, Malenga and Palma areas soon. It is to be noted that this variety of onion sprouts from the earth when ready for harvest. It also has a longer shelf life.

“Farmers need to be empowered through proper training and support,” said Faugoo during the ceremony. “The main problem is finance. This is why my ministry has come up with a scheme for planters to pay only 10 per cent when purchasing seeds.”

“The remainder is paid after harvest. Planters of condiments such as potatoes, onions and garlic also benefit of a 10 per cent grant by the government.”

“Seventy per cent of our food with a total value of Rs 25 billion is imported yearly. We must ensure the health and security of our citizens by providing quality products,” added Faugoo, urging planters to modernise farming practices into a business with the help available from various co-operatives.