A program to sensitize development officers attached to the Ministry of Agriculture on the existing agricultural development goals in the district was held recently (29) at the District Secretariat Auditorium.

Accordingly, the first lecture on the role of development officers in achieving the existing government development goals was delivered by the Additional District Secretary (Lands) Dilip Nishantha. Subsequently, the role of the Animal Production and Health Department was introduced by its Deputy Director Mrs. A.P.N. Ranatunga. The potentials existing in the district related to animal production were highlighted.

The Kegalle Divisional Secretary Priyangani Pethangoda informed the audience about the duties and responsibilities of officials in effectively conducting development programs. Accordingly, she pointed out the need to go beyond the responsibilities assigned to them and work creatively. Speaking about the Department of Export Agriculture in Kegalle District and its role, its Assistant Director K.P.P. Madushani informed about the current opportunities available in the export market.

The introduction of strategies for creating agri-entrepreneurs was made by the Assistant Director of the Agri-Business Division of the Gannoruwa Department of Agriculture, A.S.N. Roshan and explained the current trends in agricultural products in the local and foreign markets. Also, Mr. K.G.C.D.B. Wijesinghe, Assistant Director of the Agricultural Economics Division of the Department of Agriculture, explained the importance of agricultural business planning.

Furthermore, the introduction of the use of chemical fertilizers in crop cultivation was carried out by the Deputy Director of the Fertilizer Secretariat, Mr. Tennakoon, while the Assistant Director of the Provincial Department of Agriculture, Mrs. K.A. Nilanthi Wijesinghe, reviewed the program and informed the officers.

This program was organized by the District Director of Agriculture, Mr. M.S. Thilakasiri, and the same division.

The District Secretary/Government Agent, Mr. Ranjana Jayasinghe, and a group of officers attached to the Ministry of Agriculture of the Divisional Secretariats participated in the event.