The Hon. K. V. Samantha Viddyarathna - Minister of Plantation and Community Infrastructure

¶ 01 Hon. Speaker, the answer is as follows.

¶ 02 (a) (i) The decline in the production of raw tea leaves is a major problem for the tea industry. Sri Lanka’s tea production peaked in 2013 and has declined since 2015.

¶ 03 (ii) The depletion of base nutrients in tea soils due to long-term cultivation leads to increased soil acidity and infertility. Reduced soil fertility is one factor among several causing yield decline. Dolomite is applied by tea growers to ameliorate acidity.

¶ 04 (iii) The Tea Research Institute (TRI) has confirmed that the use of biochar can rehabilitate soils in tea lands, and further research is ongoing. Adding biochar improves soil structure, microbial activity, water-holding capacity, soil carbon, and nutrient retention, thereby enhancing soil fertility. TRI has found biochar can be produced not only from bamboo but also from other plants.

¶ 05 (iv) TRI is conducting research on how biochar application can increase fertilizer-use efficiency, restore soil health, and further improve soil quality. Upon completion and analysis of results, recommendations and reports will be presented.

¶ 06 The Government has allocated provisions for the relevant research. Studies are also underway regarding suitable raw materials for biochar production.

¶ 07 (b) (i) All institutions in the tea sector have formulated a strategic plan. Under the promotion of integrated nutrient management and water management, necessary measures are being taken. Recommendations from TRI, upon completion of research, will be implemented by the Sri Lanka Tea Board and the Smallholder Tea Development Authority.

¶ 08 (c) Not applicable.