Workshop on new technologies for Siyambalanduwa maize farmers

Tuesday, 4 July 2017 00:00 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Under the maize cultivation project implemented in Moneragala District by the Presidential Secretariat’s National Agri Business Development Program (NADeP) in collaboration with the CIC Grains, a convention of the maize farmers was held at CIC Grains at Siyambalanduwa. A total of 350 individuals engaged in maize cultivation participated in the special convention.

The program was held under the patronage of CIC Agri Business Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer Dr. Keerthi Kotagama. Many officials and distinguished guests participated in the event including officers attached to National Agri Business Development Program (NADeP), including Dr. Yasantha Mapatuna who represents International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), foreign dignitaries as well as several officials representing the senior management of CIC Agri Business.

The key objectives of the program see to the education of small scale maize farmers on agriculture, state-of-the-art technology, and innovation to reduce production cost, acquire higher yield and consequently improve earnings. By 2020, CIC Grains aims to make the country self-sufficient through the development of maize cultivation.

A special workshop on incorporating drone technology in agriculture was conducted by Dr. Manju Gunawardena. He explained how to obtain precise data for studies and data analysis, and also demonstrated the use of a drone camera to inspect an expansive stretch of land instantly. The workshop on drone usage stimulated the interest of all participants, giving them valuable exposure to cutting edge technology and innovation.

Under the sponsorship of Presidential Secretariat’s NADeP program, tools and machinery were also distributed amongst maize farmers as a means of promoting the maize cultivation in the Moneragala District.

Commenting on the occasion, Dr. Keerthi appreciated the service rendered by their affiliated maize farmers as well as the National Agri Business Development Programme (NADeP), and added that these endeavours coincide with the vision of CIC Grains – in its journey to uplift the economy of maize farmers and thereby making a notable contribution towards the national agriculture industry.