TSHDA tackles soil erosion via subsidy

Wednesday, 28 May 2014 00:00 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

By Waruni Paranagamage The Tea Small Holdings Development Authority of Sri Lanka (TSHDA) is to provide a subsidy to smallholders of over 10 years in operation to mitigate soil erosion on the field with a view to increase productivity while supporting the environment. TSHDA Assistant General Manager Development C.J.I.T. Fernando said they have planned to provide Rs 5,000 for each acre under two schemes.

For those who grow tea a beyond quarter-acre initial payments of Rs. 2,500 per acre under the first scheme will be given and the balance will be paid after inspecting their progress. He said these schemes had already been implemented in Galle, Matara and Kalutara Districts, with plans to include other areas in the near future. The tea sector plays an important role in the country’s economy. According to data in the TSHDA Annual Report, the contribution of smallholders to total national tea production in 2013 was 248 million kg. In 2012 the extent of tea growing has increased by 291 hectares compared to 2011. Even if tea production is economically significant, it creates adverse environmental problems, mainly soil erosion, which leads to poor productivity and poor environmental sustainability. Established in 1977 in order to create sustainable developed tea holdings in Sri Lanka, the TSHDA, being the mandated standing body for the development of tea smallholdings, is responsible for increasing productivity, marketing activities and ensuring welfare facilities to small tea holders. The TSHDA is presently calling for applications from small tea holders for the subsidy.