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The National Livestock Development Board will double the daily fresh milk production within three months, National Livestock Development Board Deputy Chairman Lakshman Hulugalle said. The NLDB produces 9,000 litres of milk daily which equals to three percent of national daily milk consumption. In line with short term milk production increasing program, the present daily milk production will be increased to 15,000 litres per day. Israel has expressed its willingness to provide the required technology to Sri Lanka to double the daily milk production following discussions with NLDB officials.

"According to the technology and methods available in Israel, a cow in Israel gives 40 litres of milk daily while a local cow gives eight to 10 litres of milk per day. Therefore, Israel will assist us to increase our milk production to 18 to 20 litres per day using the Israel methods and technology. According to them this is not an unachievable target", Hulugalle said. Under the long-term milk production development program, suitable cows will be imported. Before importing cattle, climate, environment and other related factors will be highly considered.

The NLDB will encourage newcomers, especially youths who are interested in dairy farming. The NLDB will consider the possibility of granting soft loan facilities. The NLDB will seek the assistance of Security Forces personnel to establish dairy farms in the North and the East. Stray cattle in the North and East will be brought to farms which will be established in ideal places, the Deputy Chairman Added.

@ Daily news : By Dharma SRI ABEYRATNE