Fiji Sugar Corporation (FSC) Board Chairperson Nitya Reddy says he fully sympathises with sugarcane farmers, noting that he is a farmer himself and understands the challenges they face.

Reddy acknowledged that the forecast cane payment may not be sufficient for farmers. However, he explained that the forecast payment is calculated based on the estimated volume of cane expected to be harvested during the season.

He admitted that, despite government assistance and grants provided to the industry, many farmers are still not financially better off.

Reddy also rejected claims that he is a proxy for former Sugar Minister Charan Jeath Singh. In addition, he dismissed allegations circulating on social media that he receives a millions dollars from FSC for his role as board chairperson.

Dr Parmar joined Radio Tarana host Sanjesh Narain and said that any form of migrant exploitation is a serious concern, with mechanisms in place to address such cases.

Dr Parmar said the government is aware of protests being planned ahead of Prime Minister Modi’s visit to New Zealand and that authorities are monitoring the situation.

She also said that, despite the criticism, she continues to believe Te Tiriti courses should not be compulsory for first-year university students.

Labour leader Chris Hipkins says he is sceptical about the prospects of a peace deal between the United States and Iran. Speaking with Radio Tarana host Sanjesh Narain, Hipkins rejected claims that Labour’s pay equity policy was “gold-plated”. He said a Labour government would reverse the National-led coalition’s changes to pay equity legislation. Hipkins also blamed National’s coalition partners for the government’s poor performance in recent political polls. In addition, he commented on why many migrants would like to see the Labour Party return to power.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to visit New Zealand in July, with the trip understood to have been confirmed. However, the exact dates are reportedly being withheld until closer to the visit for security reasons.

ACT MP Parmjeet Parmar has welcomed the visit, arguing that stronger engagement with India could bring economic, trade, investment, education, and people-to-people benefits for New Zealand.

Separately, ACT has promoted changes to immigration settings aimed at supporting rural employers and regional communities through its rural visa policy proposals.

Justice minister-Paul Goldsmith says if people want to see real change in the country they have to stick with the incumbent. He joins Radio Tarana host Sanjesh Narain to talk about Law and Order and retail crime. Hon. Goldsmith says there is still more work to be done and he is happy to continue on his portfolio or take over any other portfolio given by the Prime Minister.

Labour MP for Palmerston North -Tangi Utikere

Deputy Shadow Leader of the House
Spokesperson for Local Government, Transport, State Owned Enterprises, Racing

After long wait Labour has announced a policy to cap public transport fares at $20 a week in main centres and $10 everywhere else if elected. The cap, which would be introduced on 1 July 2027, is $20 in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch, and $10 everywhere else. To talk on this and other matters we are joined by Labour's- Tangi Utikere.

Labour MP Kieran McAnulty joins Radio Tarana host Sanjesh Narain for an interview. McAnulty says the Government has failed to deliver on National’s promise to turn the economy around and ease financial pressures on households. He argues that many New Zealanders continue to struggle with the cost of living and says Labour will keep advocating for greater support for families and individuals facing economic hardship.

ACT MP Dr Parmjeet Parmar says government has delivered a responsible budget. Speaking to Radio Tarana host-Sanjesh Narain, Dr Parmar says government is managing the books in a responsible way resulting in surplus to be recoded earlier than forecast.