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Increase yield in coconut

Bringing new land under coconut cultivation and increasing yield is the best action that could be taken to overcome the present crisis in the coconut sector.

The Minister of Plantation Industries, Lakshman Kiriella observed at the Agriculture Research and Training Institute, Colombo (ARTI) when he addressed the refresher course held for Extension Officers of the Coconut Cultivation Board (CCB). CCB is conducting the refresher course in connection with the 100 days revolutionary work in the coconut sector.

The Minister said that with the population explosion, every family is anxious of having a house of their own and this is very particular among those returning from the Middle East.

Citing examples about the hardships faced by farmers in the Hambantota District during the recent drought, Minister emphasized the need to launch a special program in drought stricken districts very soon. He said that he has decided to visit Hambantota and Puttalam districts next month to see for himself the hardships the farmers are undergoing at the moment. He added that every possible step would be taken to improve and up keep the coconut cultivation with the correct advice from the CCB officials. Minister also commended the services of the Extension Officers of the Board.

The Deputy Minister Navin Dissanayake said that political leadership is given to improve the plantation industries in consultation with the Prime Minister, Mr. Ranil Wickremesinghe.

Ministry Secretary, K.A.S. Gunasekera and General Manager, CCB, K. Karunanayake also addressed the inaugural sessions.

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