Sri Lanka is investing Rs 1 billion in the livestock sector under the 2026 National Budget, with the National Livestock Development Board (NLDB) advancing a major programme aimed at strengthening domestic dairy production, under the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, Land and Irrigation, according to the Department of Government Information (DGI) yesterday (10).

According to the DGI, in line with the Government’s policy statement ‘A Thriving Nation – A Beautiful Life’, the NLDB has begun developing 300 acres of its Nikaweratiya Farm  into a fully equipped livestock facility under the initial phase, alongside infrastructure development at five satellite farms.

The board also plans to import 400 Sahiwal cattle, with the first 200 expected during the initial phase. The programme will improve the country’s dairy cattle population through crossbreeding with high-yielding Friesian and Jersey breeds, the DGI stated.

This aims to develop cattle with higher milk-producing potential and greater adaptability to Sri Lanka’s tropical conditions, with improved cattle expected to be distributed through the five satellite farms to support local dairy farmers, the DGI stated.

According to the DGI, a further investment focused on local animal-feed production, with the NLDB planning maize cultivation across three seasons annually. To support this, irrigation facilities are being introduced across 500 acres simultaneously for the first time in the board's history. The system will cover 280 acres through Pivot Irrigation, 100 acres through Solar Sprinkler systems and 120 acres through Hose Reel systems.

The programme also targets 100,000 cattle improvement procedures by 2030, as part of a broader effort to enhance dairy productivity and modernise Sri Lanka’s livestock industry.