The Hon. Aravinda Senarath

¶ 01 For that purpose, about Rs. 74,000 million was provided in 2025, and we have arranged to provide Rs. 91,000 million in 2026. We are strengthening the irrigation system. Additionally, through the Department of Agrarian Services, Rs. 10,000 million has been allocated to rehabilitate village tanks so that the village farmer can restore them within the local irrigation network. This is a Government’s responsibility. We are uplifting all sectors so the farmer becomes an income earner. We are solving the farmer’s problems.

¶ 02 This morning, the Leader of the Opposition said pepper growers have fallen, rubber growers have fallen, every farmer has fallen, and agriculture has collapsed. Not so. Today the pepper farmer gets Rs. 2,000 per kilogram. Please allow me one minute more. Today, the price of rubber latex per kilogram can reach around Rs. 580. With the plan implemented in 2026, we believe we can further raise their incomes. We are uplifting every sector, including agriculture.

¶ 03 An Hon. Member from Hambantota mentioned the disease affecting coconut palms. We call it the Weligama disease. Though he is not in the Chamber now, I must answer. The Weligama disease affected coconut trees in Matara District more than 20 years ago. Officers fought it and prevented its spread to other districts. Now it is gradually approaching Hambantota. We have decided to grant Rs. 10,000 for each infected coconut tree removed, to save the crop. In some regions of the world, this disease has entirely destroyed coconut cultivation. As a Government, we are planning in every way to solve farmers’ problems. Therefore, we are working to make 2026 a victorious year and an excellent period for farmers. I conclude.

¶ 04 Thank you.