Rs. 2.5 Billion Subsidy Programme Launched to Protect Coconut Cultivation Amid Dry Weather

The Coconut Cultivation Board has introduced a special subsidy programme to protect coconut cultivation from the potential impact of prevailing dry weather conditions.

Coconut Cultivation Board Chairman Dr. Sunimal Jayakody said Rs. 2.5 billion has been allocated for the programme, which aims to safeguard and increase coconut production while supporting growers and rehabilitating coconut plantations.

He said the current hot weather has not yet significantly affected coconut cultivation. However, a possible intensification of El Niño conditions could have an impact on coconut crops in the future.

Dr. Jayakody said the Coconut Cultivation Board is closely monitoring temperature conditions and developments related to El Niño, while discussions are also underway with relevant stakeholders on measures to protect the industry.

Special attention is being given to coconut plantations in districts including Gampaha, Kurunegala, Kuliyapitiya and Puttalam under the subsidy programme, although growers in other districts will also be eligible for assistance.

Under the programme, coconut growers can receive a subsidy of Rs. 50,000 per acre, up to a maximum of five acres, to install irrigation facilities on their lands. In addition, measures are being taken to provide a subsidy of Rs. 200 per coconut tree for water conservation activities.

The Chairman also said coconut growers can obtain loans through the Coconut Cultivation Board’s “Kapruka” loan scheme.

He urged coconut growers to make use of the available subsidies and financial assistance to protect their plantations and ensure the sustainability of their harvests.

Meanwhile, Dr. Jayakody revealed that Sri Lanka’s annual coconut production increased by 24% during the first six months of this year.