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Sri Lanka's Shift to Organic Farming Leads to Significant Crop Declines
Sri Lanka’s Shift to Organic Farming Drops Crop Yields

Sri Lanka’s Shift to Organic Farming Drops Crop Yields

Sri Lanka’s sudden switch to organic farming in 2021 caused major drops in crop yields. President Gotabaya Rajapaksa’s election promise led to a ban on synthetic fertilizers and pesticides. This forced 2 million farmers to adopt organic methods, resulting in a 20% fall in rice production.

The ban also hit tea crops hard, Sri Lanka’s main export. Within six months, domestic rice prices jumped by 50%. The country had to import $450 million worth of rice to make up for lost production.

The fertilizer ban’s impact was severe. Tea production losses alone cost the economy $425 million. This further strained Sri Lanka’s foreign exchange reserves and worsened the country’s economic crisis.

The government tried to help farmers with $200 million in direct compensation. They also gave $149 million in price subsidies to rice farmers. But these efforts weren’t enough to offset the negative effects of the sudden change.

The organic farming shift contributed to rising inflation and currency depreciation. It also increased poverty in the country. Critics say the government didn’t include agricultural experts in planning the change.

There was no gradual transition plan, which made things harder for farmers. The new policy not only hurt crop production but also threatened food security for Sri Lanka’s people.

Sri Lanka’s Abrupt Transition to Organic Farming

President Gotabaya Rajapaksa’s government banned synthetic fertilizer and pesticide imports in April 2021. This move was part of his organic agriculture pledge from the 2019 election campaign. The decision aimed to save foreign exchange and promote organic farming in Sri Lanka.

The policy was implemented without input from leading agricultural experts. Instead, it relied on representatives from the small organic sector and alternative agriculture advocates. This exclusion of agronomists led to widespread criticism of agricultural policy mismanagement.

President Gotabaya Rajapaksa’s Election Promise

During his 2019 campaign, President Rajapaksa promised a 10-year transition to organic farming. This pledge received mixed reactions. Sri Lanka had long relied on synthetic fertilizers and pesticides for crop yields.

Nationwide Ban on Synthetic Fertilizers and Pesticides

The government suddenly banned synthetic fertilizer and pesticide imports in April 2021. This abrupt change left farmers struggling to adapt to organic methods. It led to significant drops in crop yields and food shortages.

The decision to cut fertilizer subsidies made the situation worse for farmers. They faced many challenges during this rapid transition to organic farming.

Exclusion of Agricultural Experts in Policy Implementation

The government’s approach to implementing the organic farming policy faced heavy criticism. Leading agricultural experts and agronomists were left out of the decision-making process. Instead, the policy relied on input from the small organic sector and alternative agriculture advocates.

Many of these supporters were linked to the Viyathmaga civil society movement. This group had backed President Rajapaksa’s election campaign.

Economic and Agricultural Consequences

Sri Lanka’s sudden shift to organic farming caused major drops in crop yields. Rice production fell by 20% within six months of banning synthetic fertilizers. This forced the country to import $450 million worth of rice.

Domestic rice prices jumped by 50%. Food inflation hit 94% in August. As a result, 28% of the population faced food insecurity.

The tea industry, crucial for exports, also took a hit. Tea output decreased by 18% after the ban. This led to lower export earnings.

Other export crops like rubber, coconut, and spices suffered too. This affected household incomes and export revenues.

Farmers struggled due to insufficient organic fertilizer production. The government couldn’t produce enough to replace imported fertilizers. This made it hard for farmers to maintain crop yields.

Protests and economic instability forced the government to partially reverse the policy. They did this for key export crops by November 2021.

The failed policy led to reduced crop yields and tea export losses. It also increased food insecurity in Sri Lanka. The government had to compensate farmers and reverse the fertilizer policy.

Experts suggest a gradual shift to organic farming. This approach should include proper support and training for farmers. It would help minimize impacts on crop yields and food security.

FAO Introduces Good Agricultural Practices to Boost Farmer Incomes
FAO Introduces Good Agricultural Practices in Sri Lanka

FAO Introduces Good Agricultural Practices in Sri Lanka

The UN’s Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) has brought Good Agricultural Practices to Sri Lankan farmers. Over 600 smallholder vegetable farmers in Badulla, Monaragala, and Mullaitivu districts are benefiting. This initiative aims to boost farms, increase agricultural productivity, and enhance farmer livelihoods through sustainable methods.

FAO’s program equips farmers with essential tools and knowledge. It promotes climate-resilient approaches and GAP certification. The results are impressive: 71% of farmers report better crop quality and less pesticide use.

Farmers’ incomes have also improved significantly. 72% saw an increase in total income. 24 farmers made over Rs. 1,000,000 in one season from just 0.25 acres.

More than 150 farmers exceeded Rs. 500,000 in income. This shows the economic impact of Good Agricultural Practices. Chemical fertilizer use decreased by 48% per 0.25 acres, highlighting environmental benefits.

FAO’s work aligns with Sri Lanka’s priorities and UN development goals. Their efforts to empower smallholder farmers through modern practices are promising. This initiative could have a lasting impact on Sri Lanka’s agriculture and farming communities.

FAO’s Initiative Modernizes Farms and Empowers Smallholder Farmers

The FAO has launched a groundbreaking initiative in Sri Lanka to modernize farms. It empowers smallholder farmers through climate-smart agriculture practices. The program provides essential agriculture kits, training, and financial support for sustainable farming.

Providing Essential Agriculture Kits and Training

Over 600 smallholder vegetable farmers in Badulla, Monaragala, and Mullaitivu received tailor-made agriculture kits. These kits include drip irrigation systems, plastic mulch, insect-proof nets, and GI pipes. They enable farmers to implement modern, water-efficient, and pest-resistant farming techniques.

The FAO conducts comprehensive farmer training programs to ensure effective resource utilization. Farmers learn to optimize crop yields and reduce reliance on harmful pesticides. They also gain skills in adopting environmentally friendly practices through hands-on workshops and demonstrations.

Facilitating Capacity Building through Farmer Field Schools

The FAO has established Farmer Field Schools across the targeted districts. These interactive platforms foster peer-to-peer knowledge sharing. They empower farmers to achieve Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) certification.

Farmers gain exposure to innovative techniques like integrated pest management. They also learn efficient irrigation methods, boosting productivity and crop quality.

Offering Cash Assistance to Support Transition

The FAO and World Food Programme provide cash assistance to farmers. This support helps meet their immediate food and nutrition needs. It ensures farmers can focus on implementing sustainable farming practices without compromising their livelihoods.

The initiative’s impact has been remarkable, with 71% of farmers reporting improved crop quality. There’s also been a significant reduction in pesticide and agrochemical usage. Additionally, 72% of farmers have experienced an increase in total income.

Twenty-four farmers made profits exceeding Rs. 1,000,000/- in a single cultivation season. Moreover, 150 farmers surpassed the Rs. 500,000/- mark.

Tangible Outcomes: Improved Crop Quality, Increased Incomes, and Environmental Benefits

The FAO’s Good Agricultural Practices initiative in Sri Lanka has produced remarkable results. Farmers report better crop quality, less pesticide use, and higher profits. The project’s sustainable farming methods have reduced agro-chemical use and improved crop resilience.

Significant Reduction in Pesticide and Agro-chemical Usage

The initiative has greatly reduced pesticide and agro-chemical use among farmers. Over 71% of farmers now use fewer harmful substances, leading to healthier crops. Chemical fertilizer use per 0.25 acres has dropped by 48%, aiding environmental conservation.

Enhanced Crop Resilience and Pest Management with Insect-Proof Nets

Insect-proof nets have revolutionized farming in Sri Lanka. These nets protect crops from pests and diseases, reducing damage and boosting resilience. They also minimize harm from wild animals, maintaining consistent crop quality throughout the season.

Remarkable Increase in Farmer Incomes and Profitability

Good Agricultural Practices have significantly boosted farmer incomes and profits. An impressive 72% of farmers reported higher total income. Over 24 farmers made profits exceeding Rs. 1,000,000 in one cultivation season.

More than 150 farmers surpassed Rs. 500,000 in profits. This shows the potential for financial growth when farmers adopt sustainable practices.

FAO Introduces Good Agricultural Practices to Boost Farmer Incomes

FAO Sri Lanka is committed to modernizing agriculture and improving farmers’ lives. They’ve introduced Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) to smallholder farmers. This has led to better crop quality, higher incomes, and environmental benefits.

GAP adoption has brought remarkable results for farmers. Over 71% saw better crop quality and used fewer pesticides. 72% of farmers increased their total income.

More than 24 farmers made profits over Rs. 1,000,000. Over 150 farmers earned above Rs. 500,000 in one season. Chemical fertilizer use dropped by 48% per 0.25 acres.

An awards ceremony in Thanamalvila celebrated these achievements. It recognized farmers’ accomplishments across three districts. The event highlighted GAP certification’s role in boosting market demand.

Attendees included Australian Deputy Head of Mission, Ms. Lalita Kapur. Provincial Secretary of Agriculture, Mr. Upali Jayasekara, also joined. FAO Assistant Representative, Mr. Nalin Munasinghe, was present too.

FAO and USAID Partner to Revitalize Sri Lanka's Agriculture Sector
FAO and USAID Partner to Revitalize Sri Lanka’s Agriculture

FAO and USAID Partner to Revitalize Sri Lanka’s Agriculture

The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and USAID are teaming up with Sri Lanka’s Ministry of Agriculture. Their $9.2 million initiative aims to boost paddy productivity and diversify crops on marginal land. This collaboration will promote sustainable agricultural development programs in the country.

This partnership arrives at a critical time for Sri Lankan farming. The nation faces challenges after poor harvests in 2022 led to a 50% drop in production. The effort seeks to revive agriculture and support vulnerable farmers across the island.

FAO, with USAID’s support, has already made significant progress in helping Sri Lankan farmers. They provided over 58,700 metric tonnes of essential fertilizers to all paddy farmers within nine months.

The 2023 Yala paddy season sowing covered about 500,000 hectares. This impressive achievement accounts for 92% of the targeted area.

$9.2 Million Initiative to Enhance Paddy Productivity and Diversify Crops

FAO, USAID, and Sri Lanka’s Ministry of Agriculture have launched a $9.2 million initiative. It aims to boost paddy productivity and promote crop diversification in Sri Lanka. This four-year project will help 10,000 farmers in Hambanthota, Vauniya, Anuradhapura, and Kurunegala districts.

The initiative supports farmers in diversifying 1,250 hectares of paddy lands during the Yala season. It promotes sustainable farming practices and growing suitable cash crops. The project also encourages efficient water and fertilizer use on 5,000 acres of paddy.

Streamlining Supply Chains for Smallholder Farmer Support

A key goal is establishing streamlined supply chains for smallholder farmers. This ensures timely access to affordable supplies and machinery. The project aims to boost productivity and profitability in Sri Lanka’s agriculture sector.

The partnership addresses challenges like low labor productivity and the need for diversification. It promotes sustainable farming practices to increase agricultural output. The initiative also aims to boost export earnings and energize the rural economy.

Building on Previous US Support and Donations to Sri Lankan Farmers

The FAO and USAID partnership aims to revitalize Sri Lanka’s agriculture sector. This builds on the US’s vital support for Sri Lankan farmers during the recent economic crisis. In 2022, the US provided crucial fertilizer donations to help paddy farmers.

The US donated 36,000 metric tons of Triple Super Phosphate to Sri Lanka. They also provided 9,800 metric tons of urea during the economic crisis. These fertilizers went to over 1 million vulnerable paddy farmers for free.

Crucial Support for Vulnerable Paddy Farmers

FAO and the Ministry of Agriculture teamed up to distribute the donated fertilizers. They focused on reaching the most vulnerable paddy farmers in Sri Lanka. This effort helped farmers keep their jobs and ensure food security.

The new $9.2 million partnership strengthens US support for Sri Lankan farmers. It focuses on sustainable farming, crop diversity, and efficient resource use. The project aims to boost smallholder farmers’ resilience and profits.

FAO and USAID Partner to Revitalize Sri Lanka’s Agriculture Sector

The FAO and USAID have teamed up with Sri Lanka’s Ministry of Agriculture. Their $9.2 million project aims to boost the country’s farming sector. This initiative will help 10,000 farmers in four districts: Hambanthota, Vauniya, Anuradhapura, and Kurunegala.

The four-year program will improve paddy productivity and crop variety. Farmers will grow cash crops on 1,250 hectares during the Yala season. The project will also promote efficient use of water and fertilizer on 5,000 acres of paddy.

FAO Representative Vimlendra Sharan highlighted the partnership’s importance. He said it combines resources and expertise to build resilience in agriculture. FAO and USAID will work closely with Sri Lanka’s government to ensure success.

This project builds on previous US support for Sri Lankan farmers. In 2022, the US donated fertilizer to over 1 million paddy farmers. The current initiative aims to strengthen agriculture and improve farmers’ lives.

Government Reverses Organic Farming Policy Amidst Food Shortages
Sri Lanka Reverses Organic Farming Policy Amid Crisis

Sri Lanka Reverses Organic Farming Policy Amid Crisis

Sri Lanka’s government has lifted its ban on chemical fertilizers. This reversal comes amid a severe economic crisis and widespread food shortages. The ban, implemented in May 2021, aimed to make Sri Lanka fully adopt sustainable farming practices.

Rice yields, a staple in Sri Lanka, dropped by 40-50% nationwide. This decrease happened during the Maha growing season after the organic policy started. Sri Lanka had to import 300,000 metric tonnes of rice in just three months.

The new policies have hurt Sri Lankan farmers financially. Many can’t afford essential farming inputs, and some have stopped farming altogether. Food inflation is around 30% and expected to rise further.

Foreign reserves have shrunk to $1.8 billion. This makes it hard for the government to afford imports, including fertilizers. Experts call the food crisis a “man-made disaster”.

Increased hardships are expected in the coming months. Children and pregnant women are particularly at risk. The government is trying to address growing concerns about food availability and accessibility.

Impact of Fertilizer Ban on Sri Lankan Farmers

Sri Lanka’s 2021 chemical fertilizer ban has severely affected smallholder farmers. The ban aimed to reduce imported fertilizer dependence and promote organic farming. However, it resulted in widespread crop failures and decreased agricultural output.

Before the ban, 2 million Sri Lankan farmers relied on subsidized chemical fertilizers. The abrupt shift to organic farming left many struggling to adapt. Some farmers experienced a 50-60% decrease in harvests, devastating their incomes.

Many farmers now can’t afford essential farming inputs like pesticides and equipment. This has made it hard for them to maintain their farms and livelihoods.

Inability to Afford Farming Inputs

The fertilizer ban and economic crisis have made it tough for farmers to buy necessary inputs. Many have taken high-interest loans for pesticides and other essentials. This has worsened their financial situation.

Lack of affordable farm subsidies has left many unable to sustain their farms. This has led to widespread poverty and food insecurity in rural areas.

Farmers Abandoning Cultivation

Many smallholder farmers in Sri Lanka have decided to quit farming altogether. Reduced crop yields and increased input costs have made it impossible to sustain their farms.

Farmers are now seeking alternative income sources, often in urban areas. This trend has significantly reduced agricultural output across the country. It’s contributing to ongoing food shortages and economic instability.

Government Reverses Organic Farming Policy Amidst Food Shortages

Sri Lanka’s government has recognized the need to change its organic farming policy. President Gotabaya Rajapaksa admitted mistakes that require fixing to address food security issues. The goal is to boost domestic food production and ease growing protests.

The government has asked the World Bank for help to buy fertilizers. They plan to bring back subsidies for farmers. However, the details of these changes are still unclear.

Farmers remain doubtful about the government’s ability to keep its promises. This is due to the severe shortage of foreign currency in the country.

The chemical input ban has severely impacted crop yields. The last maha seasonal harvest dropped by 37% compared to the previous year. This is the lowest yield since 2003/04.

Food insecurity has affected about 6.3 million people in Sri Lanka as of September 2022. Food inflation has reached a staggering 94.9%.

To tackle the crisis, Sri Lanka secured a $55 million credit line from India Exim Bank. This money will be used to purchase fertilizers.

The government also had to pay $6.87 million for unsuitable organic fertilizer from China. This was due to their short-lived organic farming policy.

IFOAM – Organics International is organizing workshops to support Sri Lanka. These aim to help the country transition to organic agriculture more sustainably. The focus is on reforms that prioritize food security and domestic production.

Economic Crisis Exacerbates Agricultural Challenges

Sri Lanka’s economic crisis has worsened farmers’ struggles after the organic farming policy. Foreign reserves are low, and inflation is high. Shortages of fuel, food, and medicine have become common.

The country’s foreign debt skyrocketed from $11.3 billion in 2005 to $56.3 billion in 2020. In 2021, it reached 119% of the GDP. Sri Lanka defaulted on its debt in April 2022.

Rising fuel costs make it hard for farmers to grow and transport crops. Power cuts disrupt irrigation and milling. The government raised taxes to increase revenue.

Experts warn that food access and affordability will remain big issues. Vulnerable populations may face increased malnutrition. Many farmers are abandoning their livelihoods due to these challenges.

Globally, 193 million people faced food insecurity in 2021. In East Africa, 265 million live on less than $1.90 per day. About 40% of the population there has poor access to food.

A review of recent literature shows urgent need for solutions. These must address the complex issues facing Sri Lankan farmers and the broader population.

Climate-Smart Agriculture Investment Plan Launched to Combat Climate Change
Sri Lanka Unveils Climate-Smart Agriculture Investment Plan

Sri Lanka Unveils Climate-Smart Agriculture Investment Plan

Sri Lanka has launched its first Climate-Smart Agriculture Investment Plan. This plan aims to strengthen farming against climate change impacts. It’s funded by the Green Climate Fund and led by the UN’s Food and Agriculture Organization.

The plan will give farmers sustainable practices and tools. These will help them deal with rising temperatures and extreme weather. The goal is to lessen the harmful effects of climate change on agriculture.

Sri Lanka is one of the top 10 countries at risk from climate change. This ranking comes from the Global Climate Risk Index. Without action, crop yields could drop by 10-12% in dry and intermediate zones.

The plan is a key step towards a stronger future for Sri Lankan farmers. It brings together experts from various fields to create effective strategies. These strategies will match Sri Lanka’s development goals.

The plan promotes ways to reduce climate change effects. It also teaches farmers how to adapt their methods. This knowledge will help them face the challenges of a changing climate.

FAO and Green Climate Fund Collaborate to Enhance Agricultural Resilience

The FAO and GCF are teaming up to boost climate-resilient food systems in Sri Lanka. This effort aims to improve agricultural resilience and support low-emission farming practices. It ensures food security for the growing population while promoting sustainable agriculture.

The FAO predicts food production must increase by 60% to feed 9 billion people by 2050. This initiative is a crucial step towards meeting that goal. It addresses both current and future food security challenges.

Innovative Investment Mechanisms to Bridge Farmers and Investors

The FAO-GCF partnership is creating new ways to connect farmers with investors. They’re attracting private sector funding and green investment initiatives. This helps farmers adopt climate-smart agriculture practices and access needed resources.

Similar projects have shown great success. For example, agroforestry systems on Mount Kilimanjaro increased farmers’ incomes by 25%. This was achieved through coffee cultivation, demonstrating the potential of these investments.

Promoting Youth Entrepreneurship in Agriculture

The collaboration focuses on getting youth involved in agriculture. They work with government bodies, private sector, and academia to create opportunities. This helps young people contribute to low-emission farming and climate-resilient food systems.

Youth involvement ensures long-term sustainability of Sri Lanka’s agricultural sector. It also boosts the nation’s economic growth and stability. This approach addresses both present and future agricultural needs.

Climate-Smart Agriculture Investment Plan Launched to Combat Climate Change

Sri Lanka has launched its Climate-Smart Agriculture Investment Plan to tackle climate change challenges. This initiative, backed by the Green Climate Fund and FAO, aims to strengthen the agricultural sector’s resilience.

Sri Lanka ranks among the top ten countries most vulnerable to extreme weather events. Without proper measures, dry and intermediate zones could face a 10-12% yield reduction in agriculture.

The plan involves various stakeholders, including government bodies, private sector, and academia. It aims to develop innovative investment mechanisms for Sri Lanka’s agricultural landscape. The goal is to connect farmers with investors for climate-smart interventions.

The global agrifood system currently emits one-third of all emissions. Food systems consume about 70% of fresh water resources. Global food demand is expected to rise to feed 9.7 billion people by 2050.

The launch workshop is the first of many planned consultations. Sri Lanka is taking proactive steps to equip its agricultural sector for adaptation and resilience. This approach will help ensure food security while reducing agriculture’s environmental impact.

Key Components of Sri Lanka’s Climate-Smart Agriculture Strategy

Sri Lanka’s Climate-Smart Agriculture Investment Plan aims to boost agricultural resilience and fight climate change. The $140 million plan promotes sustainable farming, ecosystem restoration, and environmental conservation. It focuses on low-emission agriculture, climate-resilient food systems, and attracting green investments.

The plan targets over 470,000 smallholder farmers in Sri Lanka’s dry zone. It covers 11 administrative districts and six provinces. The project is funded through a six-year Investment Project Financing Credit.

Funding sources include $125 million from IDA Transitional Credit and $15 million from other sources. The plan allocates $42 million for agriculture production and marketing. It also designates $92 million for water management and $6 million for project oversight.

Agroforestry is a key priority, integrating trees into farmland to boost ecosystem services. This practice enhances biodiversity and carbon sequestration. Agroforestry helps farmers adapt to climate change by providing shade and reducing soil erosion.

The plan supports agroforestry adoption through training and financial incentives. A Project Management Unit within the Ministry oversees implementation. A National Project Steering Committee provides strategic guidance and coordination.

Monitoring and evaluation are crucial to assess the plan’s outcomes. These measures ensure effective implementation of the action plan.