Chemical fertilizer usage to be reduced

Ishara MUDUGAMUWA

The usage of chemical fertilizer for cultivations will be reduced annually by 10 percent and the usage will be stopped completely within 10 years, said Agriculture Deputy Minister Jagath Pushpakumara in Bopitiya, Pannala.

He was participating at the opening ceremony of the Janatha Organic Fertilizer Production and Marketing Project held at the model coconut garden in Bopitiya, Pannala.

Chemical fertilizer usage badly affects both human and other animals by creating lots of health problems among them.

The Government has allocated Rs 225 million for the production and promotion of the organic fertilizer this year. The Agriculture Ministry plans to enhance organic fertilizer production by 40 percent in this year. The Ministry also conducting islandwide training programs for farmers, officers, schoolchildren with the objective of encouraging farmers to use organic fertilizer.