The Hon. Governor of the Northern Province, N. Vethanayahan, stated that future decisions regarding providing additional assistance will depend on how effectively beneficiaries utilize the support provided by the government and how convert their enthusiasm and efforts into productive capital.
The official inauguration of the paddy cleaning and grading machine of the Mullaitivu District Integrated Model Farmers’ Cooperative Society, located in the Oddusuddan Divisional Secretariat Division in the Mullaitivu District, was held today – Saturday, 14 March 2026. This machine was provided to the society by the Northern Provincial Department of Cooperative Development at a cost of 8 million rupees, funded under the Provincial Specific Development Grant (PSDG).
Delivering the keynote address as the chief guest at the event, the Governor mentioned that at one point his intention to support the cooperative sector had diminished. Although he had previously facilitated assistance to the cooperative sector through various organizations, those resources were not effectively utilized due to management shortcomings, which led to his dissatisfaction with the sector. He pointed out that in the 1970s, the provincial cooperative sector in the Northern Province was among the most successful in Sri Lanka, but it later declined mainly due to a lack of honest administration in some cooperative societies.
However, the Provincial Commissioner of Cooperative Development, who invited him to this event, had informed him that this particular cooperative society operates very efficiently. Upon personally observing its activities, the Governor noted that their excellent performance is truly commendable.
He further stated that the enthusiasm and dedication demonstrated by the members would help them progress to higher levels. He also emphasized that if the cooperative sector functions efficiently, it will help ensure fair prices for farmers’ produce.
The Governor also pointed out that in the future it may not be possible to provide projects through the province as subsidies or outright grants. Although this practice follows new guidelines issued by the Finance Commission, he stressed that the Northern Province has a unique situation compared to other provinces because it was severely affected by the war. Therefore, he assured that efforts will continue to obtain approval for certain special projects by presenting the province’s justifiable needs.
The event was attended by the Mullaitivu District Secretary, Oddusuddan Divisional Secretary, Commissioner of Provincial Cooperative Development of Northern Province, Additional Provincial Director of Agriculture, District Assistant Commissioner of Cooperative Department , the President of the Cooperative Society, members of the board of directors, farmers, and members of the public.
