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Sri Lanka Achieves Record Paddy Harvest in 2024 Yala Season
Sri Lanka Achieves Record Paddy Harvest in 2024 Yala Season

Sri Lanka Achieves Record Paddy Harvest in 2024 Yala Season

Sri Lanka has set a new record for paddy harvest in the 2024 Yala season. The Department of Agriculture reports a total production of 4.5 million metric tons. This exceeds the annual rice need of 2.4 million metric tons, boosting the country’s food security.

Farmers’ hard work and new farming methods led to this success. The agriculture sector has been using modern tech and best practices. These efforts have helped increase crop production significantly.

Sri Lanka is known for its high rice yield in South Asia. The country produces about 3,885 kg/ha annually. Two main growing seasons, Yala and Maha, ensure a steady rice supply.

Government support has been key to this record harvest. About 10% of Sri Lanka’s land is used for paddy fields. This shows how important rice is for the country’s economy and food supply.

Record-Breaking Paddy Production in 2024 Yala Season

Sri Lanka’s 2024 Yala season saw a record-breaking paddy harvest. The country produced nearly 3 million metric tons of rice. This marks a significant boost in domestic rice production.

The government’s support measures led to this impressive yield. Fertilizer subsidies and new agricultural technologies boosted crop productivity. These efforts ensure food security for the nation.

The focus on sustainable practices also played a key role. Farmers adopted methods that improved both quantity and quality of rice.

Metric Tons of Paddy Harvest Recorded

The 2024 Yala season produced 2.6 metric tons of paddy. This contributed to 4.5 million metric tons of total rice production. Sri Lanka now meets its annual rice requirement of 2.4 million metric tons.

The surplus production makes the country self-sufficient in rice. This achievement opens doors for potential rice exports in the future.

Department of Agriculture Confirms Highest Yield

Officials confirmed the highest yield in the 2024 Yala season. The average yield per hectare increased significantly. This success is due to high-yielding rice varieties and efficient fertilizer use.

Farmers applied potassium (K) at the panicle stage. This strategy boosted grain yield and enhanced rice quality.

The record harvest shows Sri Lanka’s progress in food security. It also promotes rural development and contributes to economic growth. The success stems from government initiatives and farmers’ hard work.

Government Initiatives to Support Agricultural Sector

Sri Lanka’s government has taken steps to boost farming and ensure food security. These measures provide financial aid, subsidies, and resources to farmers. The goal is to increase productivity and improve farmers’ lives.

The government allocated 200 million rupees to buy milk powder from Milco (Pvt) Ltd. This supports the dairy industry and maintains a stable milk powder supply. They’ve also arranged for 55,000 metric tons of MOP fertilizer.

This fertilizer will be given to farmers for free. It ensures they have essential nutrients for their crops.

Fertilizer Subsidy Increased to 25,000 Rupees from 2024 Maha Season

The government raised the fertilizer subsidy for paddy farming to 25,000 rupees per hectare. This increase starts from the 2024 Maha season. It helps farmers afford inputs to maintain soil fertility.

The subsidy boost aims to improve crop yields. Farmers can now better manage their production costs.

Rs.4000 Fertilizer Subsidy Provided for Rubber Cultivation

Rubber farming is crucial to Sri Lanka’s economy. The government now offers a Rs.4000 fertilizer subsidy for rubber cultivation. This support encourages growth in this valuable crop.

The subsidy helps rubber farmers maintain healthy, productive plantations. It contributes to the overall success of the agricultural sector.

Ensuring Food Security and Sustainability

Sri Lanka’s record-breaking paddy harvest in 2024 Yala season boosts food security. The surplus rice production meets domestic demand, reducing import reliance. The government modernizes agriculture with new technologies and farming practices.

Surplus Rice Production Leads to Self-Sufficiency

The bumper paddy harvest ensures Sri Lanka’s self-sufficiency in rice. The dry zone contributes 70% of national paddy cultivation. The government aims to increase yield to 9 metric tons per hectare.

New Agricultural Technologies to Boost Yield per Hectare

The government invests in agricultural modernization to double paddy yield. New technologies like precision farming and remote sensing optimize resource use. These advancements help farmers increase yield while reducing environmental impact.

Green Gram Cultivation Program Launched to Meet Domestic Demand

The government started a green gram program for crop diversification. It aims to meet 75% of annual domestic demand. Farmers get free seeds, and import taxes protect local producers.

This initiative supports farmers and reduces import dependence. It further strengthens the country’s food security efforts.

Positive Impacts on Food Security and Economic Growth

Sri Lanka’s 2024 Yala season saw a record-breaking paddy harvest. This success has boosted food security and economic growth. The surplus rice production has reduced imports and conserved foreign exchange reserves.

This achievement is significant given the region’s food challenges. Nearly 371 million people in Asia-Pacific are undernourished. 45% of the population can’t afford a healthy diet.

The government has improved agricultural productivity through various initiatives. These include increased fertilizer subsidies and investment in new technologies. Crop diversification efforts have also contributed to the sector’s economic recovery.

The green gram cultivation program aims to meet domestic demand. It shows Sri Lanka’s commitment to sustainable farming and reducing import dependence. These efforts benefit rural communities by creating jobs and enhancing livelihoods.

Sri Lanka’s success serves as a model for other nations facing similar challenges. The country has prioritized food security and invested in climate-resilient farming techniques. It has also empowered smallholder farmers to build a more sustainable future.

By strengthening its agricultural sector, Sri Lanka is well-positioned for future growth. It can play a leading role in addressing regional food security issues. This contributes to achieving Sustainable Development Goal 2 of ending hunger and malnutrition.

FAO and Norway Collaborate to Enhance Resilience in Fisheries Sector
FAO and Norway Collaborate to Enhance Fisheries Resilience

FAO and Norway Collaborate to Enhance Fisheries Resilience

The FAO and Norad are teaming up to strengthen Sri Lanka’s fisheries and aquaculture sector. This international cooperation aims to boost sustainable fishing and support the country’s blue economy. The goal is to ensure food security and promote responsible practices.

Fish is crucial for Sri Lanka’s protein needs. Over half of the nation’s animal protein comes from fish consumption. However, the industry faces many challenges.

Rising fuel prices and production costs are major issues. Fish loss along the value chain also impacts product affordability. These problems particularly affect low-income groups.

The FAO-Norway project will target three main areas. First, they’ll work to stop illegal and unreported fishing. Second, they’ll increase climate change resilience. Third, they’ll reduce food waste in the fisheries chain.

The project will provide technical support to various groups. These include policymakers, management experts, and industry professionals. Fishers, fish farmers, and fish workers will also receive help.

The aim is to boost Sri Lanka’s fisheries sector through responsible resource use. Marine conservation will play a key role in this effort. This will contribute to the country’s overall socio-economic growth.

Sri Lanka’s Fisheries Sector Faces Challenges

Sri Lanka’s fisheries industry supports 2.5 million coastal residents. It’s struggling amid the country’s economic crisis. The sector provides half of Sri Lankans’ animal protein but faces rising fuel prices and costs.

Economic Crisis Impacts Fisheries Industry

Fuel price hikes have hit the fisheries sector hard. Higher costs make it tough for fishers to earn a living. As a result, fish prices have increased, affecting low-income groups.

Rising Fuel Prices and Production Costs Affect Affordability

Fish is a key protein source for Sri Lankans. But soaring costs have made it less affordable for many households. This raises concerns about people’s nutrition, especially in lower-income groups.

Fish Loss and Waste Along the Value Chain

Sri Lanka’s fisheries face fish loss and waste issues. Poor cold storage and transport lead to post-harvest losses. This reduces fish supply in the market.

Addressing these problems is vital for food security. It’s also crucial for maintaining the sector’s long-term sustainability.

FAO and Norway Collaborate to Enhance Resilience in Fisheries Sector

FAO and Norway are teaming up to boost Sri Lanka’s fisheries sector. They’re focusing on responsible use of resources and building capacity. Their project aims to improve fisheries governance, fight illegal fishing, and adapt to climate change.

FAO delivered two climate-resilient fishing boats to the Ministry of Fisheries. These boats, SL20 and SL23, cost about LKR 9 million. The project also introduced 30 modified fish display stalls across Sri Lanka.

Developing Capacities to Combat Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated Fishing

The project aims to fight illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing. It’s implementing Port State Measures and improving marine resources management. These efforts protect small-scale fishers’ livelihoods and ensure food security in Sri Lanka.

Increasing Resilience to Climate Change

Sri Lanka’s fisheries sector is vulnerable to climate change impacts. The project builds resilience through training and new technologies. Climate-resilient fishing boats are helping the sector adapt to changing conditions.

Reducing Food Loss and Waste in the Fisheries Value Chain

A NARA study found poor maintenance practices among Sri Lankan fish retailers. This leads to significant post-harvest losses. FAO’s new fish display stalls promote better handling and storage practices.

These stalls aim to reduce food loss along the fisheries value chain. The FAO-Norway partnership shows commitment to sustainable fisheries development in Sri Lanka. It addresses IUU fishing, climate change, and post-harvest losses.

This project aims to improve fishing communities’ well-being. It also ensures responsible use of fisheries resources for future generations.

Introducing Technology Upgrades for Sustainability

The FAO is boosting Sri Lanka’s fisheries with new tech upgrades. These aim to tackle issues like post-harvest losses and high fuel use. Advanced cooling, fuel-efficient tech, and AI apps will improve the industry’s sustainability.

Advanced Cooling Systems to Reduce Post-Harvest Losses

New cooling systems on multi-day fishing boats help cut post-harvest losses. These systems keep fish fresh and high-quality. This increases market value and reduces waste.

The upgrade benefits fishermen financially and supports food security. More of the catch now reaches consumers in better condition.

Fuel-Efficient Bulbous Bow Technology to Cut Fuel Consumption

The FAO has added fuel-efficient bulbous bow tech to fishing boats. This design change cuts drag and boosts efficiency. Boats with this tech can save up to 13% on fuel.

Lower fuel use means less cost for fishermen. It also reduces harmful emissions. This tech makes fishing more eco-friendly and cost-effective.

AI-Powered Mobile App for Real-Time Fish Quality Assessment

An AI-powered app now helps assess fish quality in real-time. It quickly checks catch quality against Yellowfin Tuna export standards. The app gives instant feedback on freshness, size, and overall condition.

This tool helps fishers and processors make smart choices. It boosts operations and meets global market needs. The app improves competitiveness and promotes sustainable fishing practices.

Poultry Meat and Egg Production Reaches Self-Sufficiency Levels
Sri Lanka Achieves Self-Sufficiency in Poultry Production

Sri Lanka Achieves Self-Sufficiency in Poultry Production

Sri Lanka’s poultry industry has reached a major milestone. The country now produces enough chicken meat and eggs to meet local demand. Ajith Gunasekara, President of the All Island Poultry Association (AIPA), reports a surge in egg production.

Daily egg production in Sri Lanka has hit 07-08 million. This matches daily consumption needs. In 2021, Sri Lanka produced 2,934.55 million eggs and 236.79 MT of chicken meat.

The chicken population is estimated at 24 million. Local feed sources and better farming practices support this growth. Home cooking waste makes up 40.93% of feed for village chickens.

The industry faces challenges like disease outbreaks. These include Coryza disease, chicken cholera, and chicken pox. However, the sector shows resilience in overcoming these issues.

Village chickens have a 78.32% hatchability rate. In the Batticaloa District, farmers raise an average of 102.2 birds yearly. This success ensures a stable supply of affordable protein.

The thriving poultry sector supports many farmers’ livelihoods. It also employs countless workers in related industries. This achievement offers hope amid Sri Lanka’s economic challenges.

Poultry Industry Growth and Self-Sufficiency

Sri Lanka’s poultry industry has boomed recently, achieving self-sufficiency in production. Farms now meet domestic demand for chicken and eggs. They also export to the Maldives and Middle East, boosting foreign exchange. This growth promotes sustainable agriculture in Sri Lanka.

Increased Egg Production and Market Supply

The poultry industry’s growth has boosted egg production, ensuring steady market supply. Optimal temperatures and artificial lighting have increased egg production by 20-30 percent.

However, temperatures above 28° Celsius can reduce egg production by 10 percent. Despite this, the industry meets Sri Lanka’s growing egg demand.

Daily Chicken Meat Production Surpasses Demand

Sri Lanka now produces 600 metric tons of chicken meat daily. This surpasses the domestic demand of 500 metric tons. The excess has led to self-sufficiency and lower market prices.

Poultry manufacturers have agreed to reduce chicken prices by Rs. 100 per kilo. This benefits consumers and ensures industry sustainability.

Poultry Meat and Egg Production Reaches Self-Sufficiency Levels

Sri Lanka’s poultry industry has hit a major milestone. It now produces enough poultry meat and eggs to meet local needs. This growth comes from smart government plans and tough poultry farms.

Minister Mahinda Amaraweera praised the government’s efforts to boost poultry production. These steps have led to a thriving industry that meets domestic demand for poultry meat and products.

Government Measures to Boost Poultry Production

The government’s active support has been key to achieving self-sufficiency. Importing eggs helped stabilize the market when prices were a concern. Now, with current production levels, egg imports are no longer needed.

Poultry Farms Recover from COVID-19 Setbacks

The poultry industry bounced back from the COVID-19 pandemic. About 3,000 farms closed during the peak due to sales issues. Now, all these farms are up and running again.

This recovery shows how adaptable the industry is. It also proves that government support measures work well. Sri Lanka’s poultry sector is ready to meet growing demand for meat and eggs.

Challenges Faced by Small and Medium-Scale Producers

Small and medium-scale poultry producers in Sri Lanka face significant challenges. Egg prices have dropped to Rs. 30-40, down from Rs. 65 a few months ago. Chicken meat prices have also fallen from Rs. 1,750 to Rs. 850-975 per kilogram.

High production costs, especially for feed, make it hard for smaller farms to stay afloat. They struggle to compete with larger, more efficient farms. Large-scale producers, who have quality certifications, control 90% of the poultry population.

To support smaller producers, targeted interventions are needed. These could include making feed crops more affordable and accessible. Improving processing capacity could help reduce input costs.

Enhancing access to suitable poultry genetics and equipment is crucial. Better veterinary services and financing options are also necessary. These measures can create a more inclusive and sustainable poultry sector.

Agricultural Exports Surge in First Half of 2024, Reports Ministry
Sri Lanka Agricultural Exports Surge in First Half of 2024

Sri Lanka Agricultural Exports Surge in First Half of 2024

Sri Lanka’s agricultural exports have soared in early 2024, outpacing the previous two years. B.L.A.J. Dharmakeerthi, Secretary of Agriculture, credits this to measures addressing the 2023 export decline. This growth occurred despite recent challenging weather conditions.

Key commodities show significant export increases. Tea exports jumped from USD 407.6 million to USD 450.5 million between April 2023 and 2024. Coconut exports rose from USD 212 million to USD 263 million in the same period.

Rubber exports also grew, reaching USD 335 million by April 2024, up from USD 299 million. This surge stems from better crop yields, increased global demand, and advanced farming technologies.

Government support for the rural economy and agricultural production policies have boosted this positive trend. The growth in exports is set to improve Sri Lanka’s trade surplus and economic recovery.

Rising demand for Sri Lankan goods positions the country to strengthen its global trading presence. This opportunity could further enhance Sri Lanka’s role in international commodities markets.

Decisive Actions Fuel Agricultural Export Growth

Sri Lanka’s agricultural sector has shown impressive growth despite recent climate challenges. The government’s proactive measures in 2023 have driven this success. Secretary Dharmakeerthi highlighted the sector’s achievements at a recent press briefing.

Strategic agricultural policies have been key to driving sector growth. These include subsidized fertilizer supply and support for tea cultivation projects. These initiatives have ensured essential inputs and provided financial support to farmers.

Overcoming Challenges and Adverse Weather Conditions

Sri Lanka’s agricultural sector has shown remarkable adaptability despite adverse weather. The government’s timely interventions have helped mitigate these challenges. Subsidies for fertilizers and support for replanting efforts have been crucial.

Proactive Measures Implemented in 2023 Lead to Substantial Growth

The government’s 2023 measures have set a strong foundation for 2024 growth. A special program ensuring adequate fertilizer supply has been implemented. Ongoing support for tea replanting and new cultivation projects continues.

Tea exports to Iran alone reached USD 250.9 million for fuel debt. Coconut exports increased from USD 212 million to USD 263 million, a 24% rise. Rubber exports grew from USD 299 million to USD 335 million by April 2024.

Cinnamon and pepper exports also showed positive trends. These results reflect the sector’s overall growth. They also demonstrate the effectiveness of the government’s supportive policies.

Agricultural Exports Surge in First Half of 2024, Reports Ministry

Sri Lanka’s agricultural exports have soared in the first half of 2024. Favorable commodity prices and increased production volumes have boosted the country’s export performance. The global economic recovery and growing international demand have driven this surge.

Tea Exports Rise from USD 407.6 Million to USD 450.5 Million

Tea exports jumped from USD 407.6 million to USD 450.5 million between April 2023 and 2024. High-quality Ceylon tea is in increasing demand worldwide. Sri Lanka is also expanding its presence in new markets.

Coconut Exports Climb from USD 212 Million to USD 263 Million

Sri Lanka’s coconut exports showed remarkable resilience despite weather challenges in 2023. Coconut-related exports rose from USD 212 million to USD 263 million. This represents a 24% increase in earnings compared to the previous year.

Rubber Exports Increase from USD 299 Million to USD 335 Million

Rubber exports in Sri Lanka grew from USD 299 million to USD 335 million. New planting and replanting projects have expanded rubber cultivation. The government has provided substantial financial support for these initiatives.

Cinnamon and Pepper Exports Show Robust Growth

Cinnamon and pepper exports have also experienced strong growth. Global demand for these spices has increased. Sri Lanka’s reputation for high-quality varieties has contributed to this growth.

Government Supports Private Sector in Advancing Modern Agriculture Technologies
Sri Lanka Boosts Agriculture Tech with Private Partnerships

Sri Lanka Boosts Agriculture Tech with Private Partnerships

Sri Lanka is modernizing its agriculture sector through public-private partnerships. These focus on precision agriculture and digital farming solutions. The government works with the private sector to bring innovation to farmers.

A key project trains farmers’ children to use drones for paddy farming. Agrarian centers provide access to drones. This helps farmers adopt modern practices that improve productivity.

The Department of Agriculture, Sri Lanka Air Force, and Civil Aviation Authority are working together. They’re creating guidelines for using drones in farming. This ensures safe and effective integration of drones into agricultural practices.

These efforts pave the way for precision agriculture techniques. They reduce water usage and allow for precise herbicide application. This approach optimizes resource use and boosts crop yields.

The government also supports agritech startups. These companies offer innovative solutions for sustainable farming. This support creates an ecosystem that fosters agricultural innovation.

Sri Lanka is becoming a leader in digital farming solutions. This attracts investment and drives economic growth in rural areas. The country’s efforts are transforming agriculture and empowering farmers.

Smart Agriculture Revolutionizes Paddy Farming

Sri Lanka is transforming paddy farming with smart agriculture. The country trains young farmers in drone technology through innovative partnerships. This initiative aims to optimize resource use and boost productivity with data-driven decisions.

Public-Private Partnerships Train Farmers’ Children in Drone Technology

Leading companies collaborate with government agencies to promote drone technology in paddy farming. These partnerships offer training programs for young farmers to operate drones for agricultural tasks. Sri Lanka is building a tech-savvy workforce to drive the future of smart agriculture.

Data-Driven Decisions Optimize Resource Utilization and Productivity

Drone technology in paddy farming enables data-driven decision-making for better resource use. Advanced drones gather data on soil moisture, nutrients, pests, and crop health. Farmers can pinpoint problem areas and allocate resources efficiently.

This targeted approach improves crop yields and reduces waste. It leads to more efficient and sustainable farming practices.

Drones Reduce Water Usage and Enable Precise Herbicide Application

Drone technology significantly cuts water usage in paddy farming. Traditional herbicide application uses 300-500 liters of water per acre. With drones, farmers need only 20-40 liters per acre.

This water conservation helps protect the environment. Targeted herbicide application also reduces chemical runoff and safeguards the ecosystem.

Government Supports Private Sector in Advancing Modern Agriculture Technologies

Sri Lanka’s government is backing the private sector to modernize farming practices. The Agricultural Modernization Program aims to upgrade 100 Divisional Secretariat Divisions. The first phase includes 25 divisions, with 75 more in the second phase.

This support is vital for promoting climate-smart agriculture and sustainable farming. It helps farmers adopt new technologies and improve their practices.

Department of Agriculture Collaborates with Air Force and Civil Aviation Authority on Drone Guidelines

The Department of Agriculture has teamed up with the Air Force and Civil Aviation Authority. Together, they’ve created guidelines for using drones in farming.

These rules ensure safe and effective drone use in agriculture. They cover crop monitoring, precision farming, and crop spraying.

The clear regulations encourage private sector investment in drone technology. This promotes innovative solutions for the agricultural sector.

Agritech Startups Provide Innovative Solutions for Sustainable Farming Practices

Agritech startups are crucial in developing sustainable farming solutions in Sri Lanka. AiGrow, with seven years of experience, leads in modern agricultural technologies.

AiGrow runs a greenhouse in Nelumdeniya, Kegalle. They grow tomatoes, bell peppers, lettuce, and mushrooms for export and local markets.

The company also produces green agricultural automation devices. They work with local universities to teach AI applications in modern farming.

By 2050, the world aims to increase food production significantly. Agritech startups like AiGrow are essential in reaching this goal.