9 - NSF Digital Library

esources. The Project supported research training and the output fiom
this exchange training programme was 8 PhD's and 17 Master's qualified
scientists. The funding for research has now ceased and final reports
were expected by end of September. SAREC is now funding Phase III of
the project which amplifies the us~ess ofthe research and the need for
dissemination of the research results. A buffalo infiation centre has
been established for this putpose and recently we engaged the services of
a consultant fiom Thailand to advice on setting up of tlus centre. The
duration of third phase is two years. NARESA hopes that the
Department of Animal Production & Health will maintain this centre
thereafk. The exercise ofproducing information in the form of books for
scientists and the handbooks and ledets for fatmer is in progress. The
proceedings of thls workshop should be available in a few months,
perhaps also incorporating the proceedings of a previous workshop held
in 1988189. The farmers have to be appraised of useful scientific
progress, brealang some ineffective traditional practices. The urea
molasses mineral brick has been made available in the project areas, its
usefulness has been demonstrated along with other intensive farming
strategies to increase lactation. We have to learn lessons fiom India
where milk is cheap and consumption is popular. In Sri Lanka milk is
expensive and is becoming more and more expensive.
We need to commercialize the production of the urea molasses
nutrient brick. However, I understand that farmers outside the project
area are also enthusiastically purchasing this brick. NARESA is now
working with the National E n ~ Research ~ g Division (NERD)
hopefilly to stimulate the commercial production of this brick.
At this seminar participants should discuss whether the research
has sigdicance for wider practical application and planned intervention
for the greater good of our rural people. Perhaps the gaps in the local
scientXc knowledge and research wil be filled by the exchange of ideas
at this regional seminar. You have my best wishes for a lively exchange
of views and I thank you for your patient hearing.