The Palmyrah Development Board (PDB), operating under the Ministry of Horticulture and Community Infrastructure, held a special briefing to present its annual progress and outline future plans for the development of the palmyrah and palmyrah-based industries.
During his official visit to Jaffna, Hon. Deputy Minister Sundaralingam Pradeep met at the PDB Head Office with the Chairman, Mr. R. Raveenthiran, and senior officials for this discussion.
The meeting reviewed the key achievements of 2025 across several areas, including increased palmyrah production, value addition, product diversification, market expansion, improved packaging methods, and quality enhancement. It was noted that a range of newly developed and attractively packaged palmyrah food and value-added products had been introduced to both local and international markets.
Priority action plans for 2026 were also discussed, focusing on expanding research and development activities, upgrading processing centres, strengthening supply chains, increasing export opportunities, and attracting youth and small-scale entrepreneurs to the palmyrah sector.
The event was attended by Northern District Member of Parliament Dr. Pavanandha Raja, Member of Parliament Hon. Rajeevan, the newly appointed Chairman of the Northern Province Cooperative Employees Commission Mr. Prakash, as well as palmyrah producers, exporters, cooperative society members, and officials from the Excise Department.
The briefing concluded with a firm commitment to advancing the palmyrah industry by integrating traditional knowledge with modern techniques at both national and international levels.
