The Rubber Development Department (RDD), supported by research insights from the Rubber Research Institute of Sri Lanka (RRISL) in Agalawatta, commenced distribution of agricultural replanting subsidies across the Kalutara District today, September 26, 2026.

Targeting smallholder rubber estates in Bulathsinhala, Palindanuwara, and Matugama, the financial incentive framework provides Rs. 350,000 per hectare for comprehensive replanting and Rs. 300,000 per hectare for new plantings, disbursed across five performance-benchmarked installments. Regional plantation officers affirmed that the scheme is paired with 50% state co-financing for rain guard kits, tapping tools, and intercropping subsidies for banana and passion fruit, directly protecting smallholder farm incomes while elevating national raw latex export revenues.