President’s Secretary Saman Ekanayake has issued directives to all relevant authorities to expedite the implementation of the agricultural modernization program.
In a crucial meeting held on Thursday (21 Dec.) at the President’s Office, Ekanayake emphasised the need for tangible outcomes and avoiding interruptions seen in previous agricultural initiatives, thereby urging comprehensive guidelines for effective execution.
Addressing provincial heads, district heads, and the leaders of 26 selected Divisional Secretariat Divisions involved in the program, Ekanayake highlighted a proactive approach to swiftly address any challenges that may arise during the program’s implementation.
He assured that issues would be promptly communicated to the relevant line agencies for resolution.
Revealing strategic decisions at the national level, Ekanayake disclosed plans to establish an agricultural innovation secretariat office. This office, alongside the committee led by President Ranil Wickremesinghe and involving Prime Minister and ministry secretaries, will serve as a hub for agricultural modernization knowledge and services. Local agriculture committees are expected to play a pivotal role in this setup.
The President’s directive on legal drafts for private sector involvement in the program was underscored, demonstrating a commitment to broad-based collaboration. The initiative will harness the capabilities of 08 main ministries and will be executed in 26 regional secretariats with support from 08 departments.
During the discussion, Senior Professor Gamini Senanayake offered insights into the current agricultural challenges faced by Sri Lanka, enriching the discourse. Dr. R.H.S. Samaratunga, the Presidential Adviser on Economic Affairs, emphasized that the necessary allocations have been secured through the Presidential Secretariat for enhancing agricultural productivity in 2024, extending beyond research and development.
Dr. Suren Batagoda, Senior Advisor to the President on Food Safety, along with Provincial Chief Secretaries, Heads of Line Agencies, District Secretaries, and Divisional Secretaries participating in the selected program areas, actively engaged in the comprehensive discussion.
The meeting showcased a collaborative effort to propel Sri Lanka’s agricultural sector into a new era of modernization.
