24 March 2017 12:00 am
Twenty long-standing farmers were honoured by CIC Seeds (Pvt.) Ltd during a felicitation ceremony held at Shalika Hall, Dehiattakandiya recently.
The ceremony was held with the participation of over 150 farmers who supply seed to CIC representing Mahaweli System-B and C and Hingurakgoda areas.
The felicitation awards and prizes were awarded to 20 loyal and long-standing farmers at this ceremony, which was organised under the corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiative - CIC Manussakama programme. These farmers were felicitated for their long-standing contribution to CIC Seeds by supplying high-quality seed paddy and vegetable seeds since 1998.
Mahaweli System-C Additional GA/Resident Project Manager Wimal Kumara graced this occasion as the chief guest, while CIC Seeds Executive Director/CEO Waruna Madawanarachchi was among the distinguished guests.
Expressing his views at the conclusion of the ceremony, outgrower J.K.J.G. Ranbanda said, “I have been supplying seed paddy to CIC Seeds since year 2000. Previously my income was very low as I was collecting a low harvest. But thanks to the guidance given to me by CIC, I have been able to grow my harvest significantly over time. CIC also purchase our seed paddy on buy-back agreement with a higher price than the open market, which has helped me to earn a better income. Today I’ve become a successful farmer because of the constant support and guidance received from CIC.”
Elaborating his views further, Ranbanda expressed his heartfelt gratitude to CIC Seeds company and stated that this day will be remembered as one of the most significant and memorable days in his life.
Launched in 1992, CIC Seeds has grown to become the leading seed supplier in Sri Lanka today. The company produces seeds in its own farms in Hingurakgoda, Pelwehera and Thalawa. In addition, a significant stock of seeds is annually produced through the farmers registered as outgrowers.
The crops are grown under strict supervision, while the seeds are processed systematically using the state-of-art machinery to ensure optimal quality. In recognition of its optimal quality control measures, CIC Seeds was also awarded with the international quality certification - ISO 9001:2008. In addition, CIC Seeds has also developed seed paddy and vegetable varieties through its research and development unit to suit distinctive environments in different provinces.