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News and Events Local Government institutions throughout the island are ready to fulfill the national requirement of organic fertilizer.
The national programme of creating awareness among all local government heads on organic fertilizer programme implemented by the Ministry of Agriculture in collaboration with the Ministry of Local Government was held in Colombo on 12.07.2012 with the participation of all mayors and Pradeshiya Sabha Chairmen supporting the Government. This workshop chaired by the Minister of Agriculture which was attened by the State Minister of Agriculture Shaseendra Rajapaksa and Local Government State Minister Roshan Ranasinghe, Prof.Udith K. Jayasinghe, Secretary to the Ministry of Agriculture also joined this occation. Several Local Government institutions have already commenced their organic fertilizer production programme and the Government is ready to address any issues relating to technology land and concessionary loan facilities etc.
Addressing the local Government Heads, the Minister stated, we are fighting with the trade mafia handling approximately Rs,100 billion transaction relating to fertilizer. That is not an easy task. Everybody try to defeat our effort who receive funds from the fertilizer companies. Therefore, your co-operation to make this endeavor a success is very important. It would be a great strength for the shake of tomorrow in our forward march towards establishing eco friendly agriculture in Sri Lanka. What you need tell us.If you are facing any issues relating to fertilizer contact District Commissioners of Agrarian Development who are ready to help you I whatever way you need. If no solution fourth coming, talk to State Minister Shaseendra Rajapaksha. No fertilizer shortage in the country. That’s a creation of those bent on disrupting any move by the Government. You are always move with the village people. Any issue faced by them are brought to your notice first. Therefore, it is your responsibility to explain actual situation to them. The Government is always behind you to save from any issue. You all are obliged to do that.”
Agriculture State minister Shaseendra Rajapaksha stated,
“Organic fertilizer and micro organism technology(bio fertilizer) is the present trend. First you should refrain from the mentality of chemical cultivation brfore taking to organic farming. However difficult a task it is we must do it. Although not majority, there are large number of farmers already engaged in organic farming. They are successfully applying bio-technology to achieve plant nutrient and for elimination of insect and fungus related to plant diseases. We can overcome any challenge if we think positively. Local government Heads are expected to play a major role in this national endeavor.”
State Minister of Local Government Roshan Ranasinghe,
“Majority of Local Government Institutions have shown great interest and are dedicative to this endeavour. Even at present many local Government Institution are engaged in the production of organic manure. If their issues are properly addressed, this programme could be further strengthened. Those who are in the opposition including the opposition Leader who are demanding fertilizer with their supporters in the street are eating agro production of organic farming. The Government is trying to ensure safe food free from toxin ingredients to people of this country. Support of Local Government bodies is essential to make this programme a good success. Don’t think this as only a programme of the Government.”
Delivering a special lecture on this occasion, Consultant Physicial Dr.Anuraddha Padeniya stated that organic farming is the only solution to the health problems posed by chemical farming. Professor Priyantha Yapa of Sabaragamuwa University stressed the importance of adopting the concept of organic farming.
