Analysis of the paddy cultivation pattern in Galle and Matara districts in the Southern province of Sri Lanka

Abstract

This study aims to determine the current trends of paddy cultivation in the Galle and Matara districts in the southern province of Sri Lanka. Moreover, constraining factors for paddy cultivation and the role of extension services to promote paddy farming are also analyzed. The required data was gathered from the field survey carried out using 400 farmers in Galle and Matara districts. The majority of paddy lands have single ownership in both districts while shallow and bog soil was dominant soil types in the paddy fields. Among the factors affecting paddy cultivation patterns, poor water drainage conditions and labor scarcity were the main reasons for the decreasing trend. Bog and shallow soil conditions of paddy lands have created the water drainage issue. The average cost of paddy farming in the Galle and Matara districts was Rs.39444 and Rs.39374 per acre respectively. The highest percentage of the cost is incurred for land preparation while the next highest cost is for paddy harvesting. The government farmer training programs were not sufficiently addressing the farmers' needs and did not contribute to increasing paddy farming in these districts. The frequency of farmer visits by advisory services was 2-3 visits per season, while farmers prefer to meet them at least once a week. Agrarian service centers and community-based organizations were the main farmer assistance services. Farmers expect government assistance mainly for the irrigation facilities to promote paddy farming in Galle and Matara districts.