The President inspected the laboratories and the Green House complex of the institute. The Research Centre conducts research to produce high quality seed potato varieties and introduces them to the farmers at reasonable prices. The institute produces 450 metric tons of seed potatoes annually. It also conducts research into flower plants, vegetables and fruits.

The President had mutual discussions with the staff and the farming community who were present.

Ministers Mahinda Yapa Abeywardena, C.B. Ratnayake, Navin Dissanayake, Parliamentarians Sri Ranga, V. Radhakrishnan, Central Province Chief Minister Sarath Ekanayake, Presidential Chief of Staff Gamini Senarath, Agriculture Ministry Secretary R.M.D.B. Meegasmulla and Agriculture Director General Dr. Rohan Wijesekera were present. (KH)