The team of Plant Pathology have come across a positive mixture of chemicals to control the disease to a considerable extent. More, experiments under field conditions are needed before the recommendation.

A special Scientific Committee Meeting was held at the RRISL, Agalawatta to share the new findings.

Ethephon is the only agrochemical used as the yield stimulant in commercial rubber plantations when low-intensity harvesting systems are practiced. However, the current reliance on imported ethephon formulations presents challenges for the industry in terms of cost, compatibility with local conditions, and availability. Therefore, the Department of Biochemistry & Physiology has taken steps to develop this product with suitable raw materials available in the local market.

The sustainability of the product has been tested on an experimental scale initially and finally on a commercial scale as a PPP over 5 years and performance showed comparable results to the imported formulations. The new formulation has not shown any adverse effects on latex yield, latex physiology, flow parameters, or raw rubber properties. Shelf life studies indicated that the formulations remained stable for 30 months, with no deviations in physical, chemical, or microbiological characteristics. Currently, 1kg of imported formulations costs around Rs. 1,720.00 in the local market. Cost analysis revealed that the total cost of producing 1kg of formulation developed by the RRISL is Rs. 780.00 including market prices of ingredients, labour, electricity, packaging, and machinery.

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A mini latex testing laboratory was established at the RRISL Monaragala sub-station as requested by rubber farmers in the Monaragala and Ampara areas, with funds provided by the Ministry of Agriculture & Plantation Industries (MAPI). Minister, Hon. Mr Mahinda Amaraweera graced the event and declared the laboratory open. The chairman of the Rubber Research Board, Mr. Sarath Chandrasiri Vithana, the director of the RRISL, Dr. Susantha Siriwardena, and official invitees from MAPI, the Rubber Development Department, and regional planters in the Monaragala area participated in the event.