Japanese assistance for agri- sector in Anuradhapura

Dharma SRI ABEYRATNE

The Japanese government has provided Rs 11 million in agriculture assistance to the Anuradhapura district under the Grant Assistance for Grass roots Human Security Projects scheme (GGP).

The grant aid will be utilised for rehabilitation of the Weliwewa tank in the Mihintale divisional secretariat division. The grant contact was signed by Ambassador to Japan in Sri Lanka Nobuhito Hobo and Rajarata Janasahana Foundation chairman Indika Wickramage in Colombo yesterday . The project, which will be implemented by the Rajarata Janasahana Foundation, aims at improving agricultural livelihood activities of around 300 farming families.

Besides, this project will also contribute to the socio-economic development of the Anuradhapura district, where massive development activities in progress in line with the Deyata Kirula 2012 development projects.

Japanese ambassador Hobo said that when considering Japan's own history of development, it is evident that rural development plays a leading role in the development of the whole country.

He noted that Japan and Sri Lanka commemorates the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations this year

The Weliwewa tank had provided water to paddy fields and gardens in the Minhintale divisional secretariat division. However, there have been leaks in the bund. Due to the leaks, farmers have not been able to cultivate. After rehabilitation of the tank, about 350 acres of paddy fields will be cultivated while providing water to 1,000 acres of home gardens.