History

The origins of the Ministry of Agriculture in Sri Lanka can be traced back to the early 20th century, when the government recognized the importance of agriculture in the island’s economy. Agriculture has historically been the backbone of Sri Lanka’s economy, providing employment for a significant portion of the population and contributing substantially to national income.

Early Development and Agricultural Policies

The first significant steps toward organizing agricultural development in Sri Lanka were made during the colonial era. The British government, which ruled Sri Lanka from 1815 to 1948, introduced several agricultural reforms, including the establishment of irrigation systems, the introduction of modern farming practices, and the promotion of export crops such as tea, rubber, and coconut.

After Sri Lanka gained independence in 1948, the newly established government took steps to modernize the agricultural sector and ensure self-sufficiency in food production. The Ministry of Agriculture was formally established to coordinate and implement policies aimed at increasing food production, improving the livelihoods of farmers, and ensuring sustainable agricultural development.

Post-Independence Agricultural Reforms

In the decades following independence, the Ministry of Agriculture played a crucial role in promoting national food security and supporting rural farmers. Various initiatives were launched to improve land productivity, increase the adoption of modern agricultural practices, and expand the national irrigation infrastructure. The Ministry was instrumental in introducing agricultural policies that focused on increasing rice and cereal production, which are staples of the Sri Lankan diet.

Focus on Irrigation and Infrastructure Development

Sri Lanka’s agricultural sector has long been reliant on irrigation, particularly in the dry zone, where water scarcity can significantly impact agricultural productivity. The Ministry of Agriculture, through its different departments, has worked extensively to improve irrigation systems, repair ancient tanks, and introduce modern water management techniques.

Over the years, the Ministry has also overseen the development of agricultural extension services, which aim to educate and support farmers with the latest techniques in crop cultivation, pest management, and soil conservation.

Recent Developments and Current Role

In the 21st century, the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, Lands, and Irrigation has expanded its mandate to address the challenges of climate change, food security, and sustainable development. The Ministry has launched several programs and initiatives aimed at modernizing the agricultural sector, increasing productivity, and improving the resilience of farmers to climate change. Projects such as the Climate Smart Irrigated Agriculture Project (CSIAP), Agriculture Sector Modernization Project (ASMP), Smallholder Agribusiness and Resilience Project (SARP) and Smallholder Agriculture Productivity Programme (SAPP) are examples of the Ministry’s commitment to ensuring that Sri Lankan agriculture remains viable and competitive on the global stage.

Today, the Ministry continues to lead Sri Lanka’s agricultural policy and development initiatives, with a focus on promoting food security, improving agricultural practices, and empowering farmers. Through innovative projects, partnerships with international organizations, and continuous investment in research and development, the Ministry of Agriculture is striving to build a more sustainable, prosperous agricultural sector for the people of Sri Lanka.

 

History/Background –  Background of the ministry and its evolution

Over the years, the Ministry has also overseen the development of agricultural extension services, which aim to educate and support farmers with the latest techniques in crop cultivation, pest management, and soil conservation.

Name of the Hon. Minister From To
Mr. D. S. Senanayake
1931
1946
Mr. Dudley Senanayake
1946
1952
Mr. P. B. Bulankulame
26 March 1952
1952
Mr. Senator Oliver Goonetilleke
1952
1953
Mr. J. R. Jayewardene
1953
1956
Mr. Philip Gunawardena
12 April 1956
18 May 1959
Mr. C. P. De Silva
9 June 1959
December 1959
Mr. M. D. Banda
23 March 1960
1960
Mr. C. P. De Silva
23 July 1960
1963
Mr. Felix Dias Bandaranaike
28 May 1963
1965
Mr. M. D. Banda
1965
1970
Mr. Hector Kobbekaduwa
1970
1977
Mr. Lionel Senanayake
13 July 1977
Mr. D. B. Wijetunga
Mr. Lalith Athulathmudali
18 February 1989
1990
Mr. R. M. Dharmadasa Banda
1990
1994
Mr. D. M. Jayaratne
19 August 1994
2001
Mr. S. B. Dissanayake
12 December 2001
2004
Mr. Anura Kumara Dissanayake
10 April 2004
2005
mr. Ratnasiri Wickremanayake
27 July 2005
23 November 2005
Mr. Maithripala Sirisena
23 November 2005
2010
Mr. Mahinda Yapa Abeywardena
23 April 2010
2015
Mr. Duminda Dissanayake
12 January 2015
1 May 2018
Mr. Mahinda Amaraweera
29 October 2018
15 December 2018
Mr. P. Harrison
20 December 2018
21 November 2019
Mr. Mahindananda Aluthgamage
12 August 2020
3 April 2022
Mr. Janaka Wakkumbura
18 April 2022
9 May 2022
Mr. Mahinda Amaraweera
12 May 2022
Sep 2024
Mr. Anura Kumara Dissanayake
03 October 2024
18, November 2024
Mr. K. D Lalkantha
18, November 2024
Up to now
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