The Ministry of Agriculture has announced plans to implement a comprehensive strategy aimed at controlling the ongoing damage to farmers’ crops caused by wild animals, with a particular focus on monkey. The initiative was discussed during a recent meeting chaired by Agriculture Minister K.D. Lal Kantha, where it was decided to conduct a nationwide survey to determine the size of the roach population in the country. This move comes in response to the increasing threat posed by monkeys and other wild animals to agricultural lands across Sri Lanka.
The decision to conduct the survey is part of a broader effort to protect the country’s vital agricultural sector. According to officials, wild animals, including monkey, are causing significant crop damage, which has had a negative impact on the livelihoods of farmers. The survey will provide valuable data on the distribution and number of monkey, which will help the Ministry of Agriculture develop targeted strategies to mitigate the damage caused by these pests.
During the meeting, it was also agreed to establish a specialized unit within the Ministry of Agriculture dedicated to managing and controlling the populations of animals that damage crops. This new unit will be responsible for monitoring the spread of monkeys and other wildlife, and will work closely with local agricultural agencies to implement preventive measures and control efforts. The unit’s main objective will be to prevent further agricultural losses by reducing the population of these harmful animals.
In addition to addressing the immediate issue of monkey infestations, the program will also focus on educating farmers about effective pest management techniques, providing resources to manage wildlife interference, and working to implement long-term solutions that balance wildlife conservation with agricultural needs.
The initiative highlights the Ministry’s commitment to safeguarding Sri Lanka’s agricultural heritage while ensuring that farmers can continue to thrive in a sustainable and environmentally responsible way.
