PROMOTING ORGANIC FARMING IN SRI LANKA: RELEVANCE, BENEFITS, AND CHALLENGES

Abstract

Recently, the concept of organic agriculture has sparked renewed interest worldwide. Agriculture plays a key role in Sri Lankan society, particularly in rural areas. No significant research has been carried out on the role of organic agricultural practices. Most studies in the field of organic farming have concentrated only on the disadvantages of non-organic farming. This study set out to examine the relevance, benefits, and challenges of moving to organic farming practices as a substitution for inorganic farming in Sri Lanka. This research consists existing literature review to identify the relevance and benefit of organic farming practices. Assessment questionnaires on the challenges posed by the transition to organic farming practices were collected from 60 farmers involved in paddy farming in the Hambantota district. Results showed an excessive usage of agrochemicals and fertilizer in the Sri Lankan agriculture sector when compared to the peer countries. Regional countries such as India and China are moving towards a global market by focusing on organic farming. Consumer demand for organic foods is rising in the West. Using literature survey analysis this study shows that Sri Lanka has a great opportunity to enter the global market through organic food production. When compared to the South Asian region, Sri Lanka used a higher level of fertilizer in agricultural activities. Although the government implements the organic concept into the farmland there are many challenges from the field. Most of the farmers did not participate in the induction programs. In contrast, they strongly believe the government should intervene in the market to succeed in this policy. Responsible institutions should identify the necessities of the farming community and organize and conduct training programs according to farmers' requirements. The government can access this program by giving the farmers the support they expect from the government.