In the past, I used to worry about the constant price rises in chemicals and fertilizers, dictated by those who live in the city. Now I am not concerned. The higher prices rise, the better it is for me. Last year, Upawansa trained a group of 24 poor women farmers from Sri Lanka's highest village, Shanthi Pura in the mountains of Central Province. The conditions are harsh, with strong winds and little water.
Land is sparse and the farmers have to make careful use of every inch of it.
We all have small plots. After the constant use of fertilizer and chemicals, the soil started losing its fertility. At first it was difficult for us to switch from chemicals and pesticides to organic farming, after being trained at Upawansa's centre. But we persevered and succeeded. Now Upawansa and his team plan to establish small regional centres throughout Sri Lanka to provide information and training about organic farming.