The Ministry of Agriculture has launched a new programme to set up fruit gardens in all schools and religious premises in the island.

At one of the inaugural ceremonies, Minister of Agriculture Mahinda Amaraweera said a large number of fruits are being imported by Sri Lanka whereas they can be grown within the country. Moreover, he noted that no one is aware of the pesticides and chemicals that are used in the name of preservation.

This programme intends to curtail imports and grow as many products within the country as possible. According to the ministry, the programme will be implemented through the environmental circles of each school. Students will be assigned to look after every fruit sapling planted within the school premises.