Socio-economic Impact of the Transformation Mechanical Technology in Paddy Cultivation of Sri Lanka

Abstract

This paper investigates the socio-economic impacts of mechanical technology transformation of paddy cultivation in Sri Lanka. Furthermore, the advantages and disadvantages of this transformation process and the new trends are also examined. In 1960s, first time of the history, machines has introduced under the green revolution for paddy cultivation in Sri Lanka. At present, the paddy farmers of Sri Lanka use many machines for paddy cultivation especially in major irrigation areas of Sri Lanka. The study is based on primary and secondary data and information. Both qualitative and quantitative data were collected using semi-structured questionnaires, focused group discussions, field observations and key informant discussions. Perakumpura Grama Niladari Division in Kawudulla Colony of Medirigiriya Divisional Secretariat Division in Polonnaruwa District was selected as the study area, and 50 farmers has been selected for sample survey. 05 focused group discussions were conducted to collect the qualitative data. Both qualitative and quantitative data analyse techniques were applied. The results of the study clearly shows that there no good change of professional paddy farmers but part time cultivators. Major advantage of these machines is high efficiency and it‟s save the time but it causes to create unemployability or underemploybilty in these rural areas. The major disadvantage of the transformation is collapsing the traditional cultural values of Hydraulic Civilization of Sri Lanka.