Minister of Agriculture, Livestock, Lands, and Irrigation K.D. Lalkantha has announced plans to implement scientific and evidence-based methods for addressing the challenges posed by wildlife, including elephants and other animals that threaten farmlands. During a recent high-level policy discussion, he acknowledged that measures implemented by previous governments had failed to effectively mitigate crop damages caused by wild animals. He emphasized the urgent need for innovative and sustainable solutions to protect farmers and their livelihoods.
The meeting, which included Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Livestock Namal Karunaratne, Deputy Minister of Lands and Irrigation Dr. Susil Ranasinghe, and several agricultural policymakers, focused on immediate and long-term solutions for the farming community. The discussion highlighted the critical need for strategies to manage human-wildlife conflict while preserving agricultural productivity.
Lalkantha reaffirmed his commitment to addressing the immediate challenges faced by farmers, including restoring crops and irrigation structures damaged by wildlife incursions. He emphasized that prompt action is being taken to support affected communities. The meeting also explored practical strategies to provide short-term relief to farmers, such as deploying modern deterrents, improving fencing methods, and educating communities on safe and lawful approaches to managing wildlife.
The minister highlighted the importance of developing a comprehensive long-term plan for wildlife management, which would include habitat restoration, scientific research into animal behavior, and sustainable population control measures to reduce conflicts between humans and wildlife. He stressed that addressing these issues requires a holistic approach, including restoring natural habitats, regulating land use to prevent encroachment, and involving communities in initiatives that promote coexistence between farmers and wildlife.
A coordinated policy framework was discussed, with a commitment to ongoing collaboration between the Ministry, deputy ministers, and other stakeholders. Regular assessments and policy adjustments will be made to ensure the effective management of challenges in the agriculture sector.
Lalkantha noted that the increasing frequency of human-wildlife conflict stems from environmental degradation caused by deforestation, unregulated development, and monoculture plantations that disrupt wildlife habitats. He stressed the importance of addressing these root causes and incorporating technology and scientific research into the solutions. Innovations such as biological pest control, advanced fencing systems, and controlled population management through sterilization programs were identified as promising alternatives to traditional methods.
He reassured the farming community that their concerns are a priority and pledged to create a resilient agricultural ecosystem. By combining immediate relief measures with sustainable long-term policies, the government aims to protect crops, ensure food security, and maintain ecological balance. The minister expressed confidence that this collaborative approach will form the foundation for a progressive and sustainable agricultural policy for Sri Lanka.
