Fiji Sugar Corporation Chairman Presses Growers Council CEO on Lack of Performance Indicators

Fiji Sugar Corporation chairman Nitya Reddy has questioned Sugar Cane Growers Council (SCGC) CEO Vimal Dutt on the lack of key performance indicators (KPIs) at the council. Reddy raised concerns about the council's ability to measure its objectives and performance without targets or goals.

Reddy emphasized the importance of KPIs, stating, "Every organisation runs on KPI's, and you have said openly that you have an ideological position that you don't believe in targets". He asked how the council could demonstrate its effectiveness without quantifiable output results, querying, "How can we say the council is doing a good job. If there is no KPI, how do you know how you are doing".

Why this matters: Thesugar industry is a significant contributor to Fiji's economy, and the effectiveness of the Sugar Cane Growers Council has a direct impact on the livelihoods of thousands of farmers and workers. The lack of clear performance indicators can lead to mismanagement and inefficiencies, ultimately affecting the country's economic growth and stability.

In response, Dutt stated that his primary objective is to keep cane farmers happy and grievance-free. "If there are no grievances in the industry, I have achieved my KPI", Dutt said. He emphasized that his role as the voice of the farmers means that his KPI is ensuring growers are grievance-free, saying, "Growers have grievances, issues then I am failing on my KPI".

The sugar industry is a vital part of Fiji's economy, with sugarcane farming and processing providing employment and income for a significant portion of the population. The Fiji Sugar Corporation is responsible for overseeing the industry, while the Sugar Cane Growers Council represents the interests of cane farmers.

The exchange between Reddy and Dutt highlights the differing perspectives on measuring the performance and effectiveness of the Sugar Cane Growers Council. While Reddy advocates for clear targets and quantifiable indicators, Dutt maintains that keeping farmers satisfied and addressing their grievances is the ultimate measure of the council's success.

Key Takeaways

• Fiji Sugar Corporation chairman Nitya Reddy questions SCGC CEO Vimal Dutt on lack of key performance indicators.
• Reddy emphasizes importance of KPIs to measure objectives and performance.
• Dutt responds that his primary objective is to keep cane farmers happy and grievance-free.
• The sugar industry is a significant contributor to Fiji's economy, affecting thousands of farmers and workers.
• The exchange highlights differing perspectives on measuring the council's performance and effectiveness.