The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations has initiated a fertilizer assistance program aimed at supporting small-scale rice farmers in the Anuradhapura District, whose crops were affected by Cyclone Ditwah. This initiative is designed to help them restore their production in preparation for the forthcoming Yala cultivation season in Sri Lanka.
With a voucher program totaling USD 300,000, the FAO plans to extend its support to 3,489 smallholder farmers, including 1,686 women, whose fields suffered either partial or complete damage during the Maha cultivation season of 2025/26 due to the cyclone.
Beneficiary farmers will receive electronic vouchers (e-vouchers) which can be redeemed for essential fertilizers at Agrarian Service Centers. Those cultivating up to 0.5 acres will receive vouchers worth USD 75 (LKR 23,625), while those farming between 0.5 acres and 1 acre will be allotted USD 90 (LKR 28,350). The vouchers are applicable for fertilizers such as Urea, Triple Super Phosphate (TSP), and Muriate of Potash (MOP).
Mr. Dhammika Ranatunga, Commissioner-General of the Department of Agrarian Development, remarked, “This program exemplifies the strong partnership between FAO and the Government of Sri Lanka in supporting farmers in their recovery from the effects of Cyclone Ditwah. By facilitating timely access to crucial fertilizers before the Yala season, we are helping farmers to restore paddy production and protect the livelihoods of smallholder communities in Anuradhapura.”
Mr. Vimlendra Sharan, FAO Representative for Sri Lanka and the Maldives, highlighted the significance of providing prompt agricultural recovery aid to vulnerable farmers. He stated, “Through this fertilizer voucher initiative, FAO seeks to enable farmers to swiftly return to cultivation, thereby enhancing their production capabilities and contributing to local food security. This also represents the first implementation of a digital fertilizer voucher program by FAO in Sri Lanka, broadening our emergency response mechanisms to ensure timely and adaptable support for farmers.”
In addition to fertilizer assistance, each participating farmer will receive a complimentary technical booklet on Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) in rice cultivation, which offers practical advice on essential phases of rice production. This resource aims to enhance farmers’ productivity and sustainability while promoting efficient use of agricultural inputs.
By integrating timely input assistance with practical guidance, the FAO aspires to aid farmers in overcoming the challenges posed by the cyclone and to maintain rice production in one of Sri Lanka’s vital agricultural regions.
