Puthukkudiyiruppu, September 2 – In a landmark step towards rebuilding the Northern Province and strengthening Sri Lanka’s rural economy, President Anura Kumara Dissanayake inaugurated the Northern Coconut Triangle in Puthukkudiyiruppu today. The launch coincided with World Coconut Day 2025, held under the theme “Ratama Saru Karai Nirathuru – Kapthuru Saviya.”
Addressing the gathering, President Dissanayake reaffirmed his government’s commitment to revitalising the Northern Province, uplifting the livelihoods of its people, and transforming the region into an engine of national growth.
“We are fulfilling the responsibility of revitalising the North and building a stronger economy for its people,” the President said, noting that the trust placed in his leadership during the last Presidential Election would be carried forward through tangible development and reconciliation.
Building a Thriving Coconut Industry
The Northern Coconut Triangle covers the districts of Jaffna, Kilinochchi, Mullaitivu, Mannar and Vavuniya, linking Point Pedro, Silawathura and Kokkilai. Based on expert recommendations from the Coconut Research Institute, the initiative will transform the North into a hub for coconut cultivation and industry.
- Rs. 500 million has been allocated to provide high-yield coconut saplings to cultivators.
- 16,000 acres of new coconut plantations will be developed in 2025, engaging nearly 12,000 farming families.
- Over three years (2025–2027), the cultivated area will expand to 40,000 acres.
- The project is expected to generate an additional USD 70 million annually in export revenue from coconut-based products.
The President also personally presented ownership deeds to farmers in the North, ensuring long-term stability and opportunity in the sector.
Rights, Reconciliation, and Unity
Beyond economic upliftment, President Dissanayake reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to safeguarding land, linguistic, cultural, and human rights of Northern communities, including the right to know about missing loved ones.
He stressed that national unity remains a central pillar of his government:
“Our goal is to build a country free from communal politics. We will not allow the destructive slogans of the past to obstruct the progressive measures now being taken.”
A Broader Vision for the North
The coconut cultivation programme is part of a wider plan to transform the North:
- Establishing industrial zones to create new employment opportunities.
- Developing tourism potential in the region.
- Expanding agricultural support systems, including irrigation and water access.
- Strengthening sports and cultural initiatives to foster unity and reconciliation.
Recognition on the World Stage
At the event, Deputy Director General of the International Coconut Community, Mr. Nuwan Chinthaka, presented President Dissanayake with a certificate of recognition awarded to Sri Lanka. A commemorative magazine marking World Coconut Day 2025 was also officially presented to the President.
The ceremony was attended by religious leaders, foreign delegates, senior ministers including Samantha Vidyaratne, Ramalingam Chandrasekar, Bimal Ratnayake, Upali Samarasingha, and Susil Ranasinghe, along with Northern Province Governor Nagalingam Vethanayahan, officials, and representatives of key coconut industry bodies.
A Foundation for National Transformation
In his closing remarks, President Dissanayake highlighted that while the North has borne decades of conflict and hardship, it now stands at the threshold of renewal. With a disciplined approach to governance, a corruption-free administration, and clear economic priorities, the government aims to build a prosperous and united Sri Lanka respected on the global stage.
“The lives of the people here were overshadowed by conflict for decades. Today, we are building a new foundation – one of peace, trust, and opportunity. Together, let us join in this journey of national transformation.”
