Hon. (Dr.) Ramesh Pathirana, Minister of Plantation Industries along with Hon. Douglas Devananda, Minister of Fisheries and Hon. Lohan Ratwatte, State Minister of Plantation Industries opened the new building constructed at the Palmyrah Research Institute, Jaffna by the Palmyrah Development Board on 13th October.
While commenting Hon. Ramesh Pathirana mentioned that the Palmyrah Development Board and Palmyrah Research Institute both implement a number of programs to uplift the Palmyrah industry which has been a traditional industry in the Northern Province. He further stated that studies are being conducted expeditiously necessary for moving to various Palmyrah related products as well as Palmyrah related liquor products. In addition, he further stated the need of initiating a Scholarship scheme through the Palmyrah Development Board for the children of more than 12000 people engaged in the industry by using the economic benefits of promoting the Palmyrah industry. Finally, the Minister of Plantation Industries also mentioned as such;
“We all are siblings living in one country. We have no difference as North and South. So, We as the Government are bound to do all necessary for the welfare of Northerners. And, we do all necessary for the purpose.”
This event was graced by the Officials of the Ministry of Plantation Industries and the District Secretary, Jaffna and the officers including the Chairman of the Palmyrah Development Board and Palmyrah Research Institute and the politicians in the Northern Province.