SRI LANKA - Ministry of Finance and Planning

(b) Diversifying agricultural production to raise livelihood activities
Rice is currently grown on 40 percent of all agricultural land. Use of paddy
land during off seasons into higher value commodities is central to raising
agricultural productivity and incomes. Non paddy and un-irrigated lands need to
be encouraged to cultivate maize, soya beans, cowpea, curakan, onions, chilies
and wide range of fruits and vegetables. Prospect for import substitution in
these areas is immense. Hi-tech green houses, dip irrigation and solar power
irrigation methods help putting un-irrigated lands into better use. Floriculture
in intermediate zones can be a great source of income to emerging generation.
Home garden and backyard agriculture are the other important sources to meet
household daily needs.
(c) Creating opportunities for off-farm employment
There is a very real need for a supportive environment for enterprise development
which encourages the growth of labour-intensive industry in rural areas.
Investments in national and provincial roads, irrigations and storages are measures
which will strongly support the development of dynamic rural sector activities,
both on and off the farm through well connected market network.
(d) Rural infrastructure expansions
Rural and farm land access roads (Maga-Neguma), electrification at village level,
telecommunications, minor irrigations and community water supply projects are
central components of rural infrastructure drive of the Government in order to
empower rural economy and make better living. Diversion of resources need to
recognize these priorities and community owned implementation.
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