Export agriculture crop expansion underway in Matara

P P G Sugathadasa, Thihagoda group correspondent

The expansion of export agricultural crops is successful in the Matara district. Sources at the Export Agriculture Department, Matara District Office said cinnamon, pepper, cardamom, cloves and several other minor export agricultural crops are already been cultivated.

Over 150 hectares of land had been brought under cultivation while over 200 hectares will be cultivated with cinnamon in the Matara district, the sources said.

Planting material for fresh cultivation are supplied by the department.

Programmes have been commenced at Divisional Secretariat Divisions of Hakmana, Akuressa, Kamburupitiya and Mulatiyana, officials said.

The department will also provide cultivation aid to farmers who successfully cultivate their lands. They will also be encouraged to utilise compost manure rather than chemical fertiliser, they said.

Training workshops will also be conducted for farmers by Export Agriculture Department officials.