Background
North Central Province (NCP), located in the heart of Sri Lanka, boasts some of the nation’s most fertile lands. This region is pivotal to the country’s agriculture, producing 25% of its rice and 57% of its maize. However, despite this agricultural abundance, the average household income in NCP is significantly lower than in urban areas, with agriculture contributing only 9.5% to household incomes. To revitalize the NCP’s economy, it’s essential to diversify income sources and generate employment by promoting agricultural and other local industries.
Purpose of Assignment
The assignment aims to provide advice and assistance to the North Central Provincial Council (NCPC) to identify promising products, implement pilot activities, and establish external linkages. This will help develop guidelines to strengthen local industry foundations in the NCP.
Latest News & Updates
Visit to ISB
Out of 26 Divisional Secretariat visited the Industrial Service Bureau (ISB) for sharing experience and insights.
The Industrial Service Bureau (ISB) visit was conducted by the JICA expert in the North Central Province. Representatives from 26 Divisional Secretariats gathered to share their experiences and gain insights on various industrial processes. The event aimed to enhance cooperation and knowledge transfer among different sectors.
Read MoreVisit to TJC Mango Plantation
Horowpothana's TJC Mango Plantation welcomed visitors to showcase their innovative farming techniques.
The visit to TJC Mango Plantation in Horowpothana was organized by the JICA expert in the North Central Province. It highlighted the plantation's use of advanced agricultural practices. Attendees learned about the sustainable methods used for mango cultivation and the steps taken to ensure high-quality produce. The visit also included a tour of the processing facilities.
Read MoreVisit to Capsicum Seed Production
Elayapaththuwa - N.P.C. Divisional Secretariat observed the production of capsicum seeds.
The Capsicum Seed Production visit at Elayapaththuwa was led by the JICA expert in the North Central Province. It offered insights into the meticulous process of seed production. Representatives from the N.P.C. Divisional Secretariat were given a detailed tour of the facilities, showcasing the stages from cultivation to seed harvesting and packaging.
Read MoreExpected Outcomes
Planned Activities
Outcome 1
- Conduct research and analysis on local industries, addressing gender disparities, access to finance, and market opportunities.
- Identify promising products based on research findings.
Outcome 2
- Assess and enhance the functions and capacities of NCPC in supporting local industry development.
- Select communities for pilot activities, focusing on promoting local businesses and women entrepreneurs.
- Implement pilot activities including technical training (e.g., financial access, bookkeeping, marketing, management) and provide necessary equipment.
- Organize events like exhibitions and symposia to foster private sector involvement.
Outcome 3
- Identify relevant actors for local industry promotion within and outside the NCP.
- Define the role of NCPC and support cooperation with stakeholders and entrepreneurs.
- Develop guidelines for regional industrial development, and organize seminars to share experiences with other provinces.
Counterpart Organization
Planning Division
Industrial Development Authority
Industrial Development Department of North Central Provincial Council
Assignment Term
Duration: Three years
Start Date: February 27, 2024
Tentative Schedule
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