Joint Venture Plans for NLDB Farms Spark Controversy

Reports have surfaced detailing plans to lease all farms owned by the National Livestock Development Board (NLDB) for a joint venture involving companies from India and Sri Lanka. This venture aims to collaborate on 32,000 acres across 32 NLDB farms, currently undergoing valuation for both land and livestock.

Recent observations by representatives from India’s Amul Company at these farms have sparked discussions about the intended partnership. NLDB Chairman Prof. H.W. Cyril acknowledged that despite the NLDB and Milco’s establishment to bolster domestic animal production, anticipated progress in the sector has not materialized.

Conversely, union representatives of dairy farmers have voiced concerns and staged protests, alleging that the government intends to sell Sri Lanka’s livestock to foreign entities. This controversy has raised debates about the potential implications of involving foreign companies in the country’s agricultural landscape.