As the Ministry of Science and Technology, our primary focus remains the empowerment of national development through the strategic utilization of indigenous technological expertise. In a significant milestone towards modernizing the agricultural sector, a specialized drone technology workshop was recently convened at the Kurukulawa paddy fields in Wattala. The event was presided over by the Honorable Minister of Science and Technology, Professor Chrishantha Abeysena.

During the workshop, an advanced drone designed for seeding and solid fertilizer broadcasting was demonstrated. This innovative aircraft was designed locally by CodeGen International (Pvt) Ltd, featuring controlling firmware and software entirely developed within Sri Lanka. This technology offers an optimal solution to the pressing labor shortages currently facing the agricultural industry, while ensuring high efficiency and substantial time savings. Furthermore, the introduction of such sophisticated technological tools paves the way for fostering a new generation of "young, smart farmers" adept at leveraging modern digital advancements.

Currently operating with a payload capacity of 3–5 kg, these drones are well-suited for seed broadcasting in the Dry Zone's paddy fields during the upcoming Maha season, as well as solid fertilizer application during the Yala season. Discussions also focused on scaling up production to develop high-capacity drones capable of carrying 25 kg and 50 kg payloads to better serve the agrarian communities in the Dry Zone.

The event was attended by several distinguished dignitaries, including Professor Chandana Jayaratne, Chairman of the Arthur C. Clarke Institute for Modern Technologies (ACCIMT); Dr. Frank Niranjan, Agricultural Advisor to the Minister; Mr. Rohitha Seram, Vice Chairman of the Wattala Pradeshiya Sabha; alongside ministry officials, local government members, the technical development team, local farming communities, and tech enthusiasts.