Issues and challenges in rubber cultivation due to the impact of rainfall: A study based on Mawanella DS Division

Abstract

Rubber (Hevea brasiliensis) is grown globally as a crop plantation. Sri Lanka is the 10th largest producer of rubber in the world and 6th largest in the natural rubber production. Rubber is the second largest commercial crop grown in Sri Lanka. Rubber lands in Sri Lanka are owned by estate holdings and small holdings. Rubber cultivation faces several issues and challenges. These issues commonly decrease the productivity of rubber and decrease the interest to involve in the rubber cultivation. This study is aimed to identify the climatic issues in rubber cultivation in Mawanella DS Division. The primary data was obtained through semi-structured interviews, questionnaire survey and field observation as well as secondary data was obtained through published articles, reports and maps. Analysis of both primary and secondary data reveals the results and discussions. The results of this study summarize the climatic issues and challenges in rubber cultivation in the study area. Distribution of rain guards in concession and implementation of intercropping in rubber land are some recommendations which is essential to increase the productivity and to uplift the economy of regional people.