President prioritises resolution of farmers’ issues amidst challenges

• During visit to Galamatiyawa village within the Thambalagamuwa Divisional Secretariat promises massive agricultural modernisation program to be rolled out soon, “Smart Agriculture” to attract youth for farming

President Ranil Wickremesinghe underscored the pressing need to address the challenges facing the agricultural sector, affirming a commitment to prioritise the concerns of farmers in the nation’s rebuilding efforts. 

Emphasising the imperative of fostering a competitive agricultural industry geared towards crop exportation, the President announced plans for the imminent launch of the country’s most extensive agricultural modernisation initiative.

President Wickremesinghe shared these sentiments during his participation at a paddy harvesting event in Galamatiyawa village within the Thambalagamuwa Divisional Secretariat, following an invitation from Trincomalee District Member of Parliament Kapila Athukorala.

Highlighting the significance of agriculture in the region, where approximately 9,000 acres of paddy cultivation have been undertaken, with 672 acres dedicated solely to Galamatiyawa village during the Maha season.

In a display of unity, residents, irrespective of political affiliation, ethnicity or creed, convened to express their grievances to President Wickremesinghe. 

Addressing their concerns, the President promptly directed relevant officials to investigate and provide solutions.

Foremost among the issues raised were the urgent need for a canal to ensure adequate water supply for crop cultivation and the installation of an electric fence to safeguard farmlands from elephant intrusions. 

In response, President Wickremesinghe disclosed plans for a comprehensive feasibility study to construct a canal, facilitating water distribution across nine tanks from Vendrasan to Puliyuthukulam. Additionally, he instructed officials to install street lights along area 94 to Palam Patar until the electric fence’s construction commences.

Furthermore, the President outlined initiatives to grant freehold deeds to farming families, allocate land to young agricultural entrepreneurs under the Agricultural Modernisation Project, and secure ample grazing land for dairy farmers. He urged officials to address these demands promptly and positively.

The event witnessed the presence of several distinguished figures, including Ven. Akkaragama Wimalajothi Thera, Governor of the Eastern Province Senthil Thondaman, Chief Secretary of the Eastern Province R.M.P.S. Rathnayake, Trincomalee District Secretary Chaminda Hettiarachchi, and Thambalagamuwa Divisional Secretary J. Sripathi. 

Additionally, officials from Eastern Province line institutions, representatives of farmers’ organisations and a group of residents including farmers from the area also participated in the event.