Agriculture Ministry partners FAO to boost farming sector amid climate challenges

Monday, 9 December 2024 01:42 -     - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

The Agriculture, Livestock, Lands and Irrigation Ministry has pledged to enhance collaboration with the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) to implement more systematic and effective projects aimed at improving the living standards of the country’s farming communities. 

A high-powered meeting with Agriculture, Livestock, Lands and Irrigation Minister K.D. Lalkantha, along with FAO Representative Sri Lanka and the Maldives Vimlendra Sharan, Deputy Minister Karunaratne, Deputy Minister of Land and Irrigation Dr. Susil Ranasinghe was held at the Ministry this week. Minister Lalkantha acknowledged the urgent need to address challenges posed by climate extremes, including drought and the recent triple floods, which have severely impacted farmers across the country. 

He outlined plans to implement targeted solutions to mitigate drought impacts on agriculture, ensuring that farmers receive the necessary support to maintain livelihoods and food security.

Lalkantha also extended the Government’s commitment to providing subsidies to farmers as part of a broader strategy to strengthen the agricultural sector.  In addition, the Minister emphasised the importance of aligning FAO projects with the Government’s agricultural policies.

During the meeting the FAO has pledged to support the Government’s efforts by providing essential resources, including seeds for rice cultivation, to aid farmers recovering from the recent floods. 

Minister Lalkantha expressed gratitude for the FAO’s contributions, noting that these initiatives are critical for sustaining agricultural productivity and resilience.

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