The Sugarcane Research Institute (SRI) alongside outgrower cooperatives of the Pelwatte and Sevanagala sugar factories officially introduced two climate-resilient commercial sugarcane varieties across Monaragala today, September 30, 2026.

Developed through selective cross-breeding trials over six cultivation seasons, the new cultivars—designated 'SLI-03' and 'SLI-07'—feature deep fibrous root systems that extract subsoil moisture during prolonged dry intervals while demonstrating natural resistance to smut and white-leaf diseases. Laboratory sucrose analysis confirmed that the new varieties achieve an average Brix sweetness rating of 22%, yielding 14% higher refined sugar extraction during factory milling. Cooperative managers announced that distributing certified cane stalks to over 7,000 contracted farming families will bolster local sugar production and insulate farmer incomes against severe dry spells.