India and Sri Lanka have agreed to exchange germplasm of selected plants and increase mutual co-operation in agricultural research.
Under this accord, India will get germplasm of some medicinal and aromatic plants from Sri Lanka. Scientific literature pertaining to these plants will also be shared by the two countries.
Sri Lanka, on the other hand, will get from India genetic sources of biotic stress resistance in crops, besides improved varieties and hybrids of guava, grapes and roses.
India will also supply processed semen and embryos of good breeds of goats and sheep to the neighbouring island.
A work plan has been agreed upon to ensure smooth implementation of the accord signed today by Mangala Rai, director-general, Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), and Dhanasena Hettiarachchi, secretary, ministry of agriculture and live-stock, Sri Lanka.
This work plan will be implemented by the ICAR and Sri Lanka
