The Hon. Governor of the Northern Province, N. Vethanayahan, stated that steps have been initiated to address the difficulties faced by members of the Palm and Coconut Resource Development Cooperative Societies due to the actions of certain dishonest officials and officers in some government departments. He assured that an appropriate solution would be provided in the near future.
Under the theme “Palm Resources are the Strength of Sustainable Livelihoods,” the ‘Tala Week 2026’ exhibition and sales fair, jointly organized by the Department of Cooperative Development of Northern Province and the Northern Provincial Palm and Coconut Resource Development Cooperative Societies, was held at Sangilian Park in Nallur, Jaffna, from 22 July 2026. The five days event concluded today – on Sunday, 26 July 2026, with the final day’s programme.
Speaking at the event, Northern Provincial Commissioner of Cooperative Development Ms. Ahalya Sekarajah announced that the exhibition had generated Rs. 2.4 million in sales revenue. She further noted that the exhibition attracted tens of thousands of visitors, with particularly strong participation from people who had travelled from other provinces to express their support for the initiative.
Addressing the gathering as the chief guest, the Hon. Governor said:
The palm tree is unique because it grows naturally in our region without the need for irrigation or intensive care. We must make the fullest possible use of this valuable natural resource. Today, we have reached a stage where we are striving to maximize the utilization of all available resources, and the palm tree should be no exception.
When I visited the exhibition, I was truly impressed by the innovative thinking reflected in the products on display. Many new products had been developed in line with current market trends and presented in an attractive and marketable manner. This is a remarkable achievement and deserves the highest commendation.
Palm trees, which have long been the backbone of our local economy, are steadily declining due to a variety of factors. It is therefore essential that we significantly increase palm seed planting and undertake sustained efforts to expand palm cultivation. At the same time, the export of palm-based products to international markets continues to grow, with many of these products being exported through local exporters. These cooperative societies make a substantial contribution to the country’s export earnings by generating valuable foreign exchange
I often cite the Palm and Coconut Resource Development Cooperative Societies as exemplary cooperative societies because of their outstanding performance. They are not only operating successfully but are also deeply committed to the welfare of their members. I am aware of the obstacles currently affecting their activities, and I will soon convene a discussion with the Commissioner General of Excise to address these issues and ensure that the necessary barriers are removed, the Hon. Governor said.
The event was attended by Mullaitivu District Additional Government Agent (Land) S. Jayakanthan, Provincial Director of the Department of Industries of the Northern Province S. Krishnenthiran, and Head of the Department of Marketing, Faculty of Management Studies and Commerce of University of Jaffna, Dr. Sivesan Sivanandamoorthy, who participated as special guests.
The event was also attended by Assistant Commissioners of Cooperative Development, Cooperative Development Officers, Presidents of cooperative societies and associations, general managers, employees, society members, prize winning students and many other distinguished guests.
