The Sri Lanka Council for Agricultural Research Policy (SLCARP) conducted Annual Dialogue among Heads of the National Agricultural Research System (NARS) and key policy makers in the agriculture sector on the 24th December 2024, at the SLCARP, Colombo 07.  As per the mandated function of SLCARP Act No 47 of 1987, this Dialogue was arranged to provide a platform for agricultural research institutions and the policy makers to identify the constraints in NARS institutes on the financial, human and physical resources. Based on the dialogue, the SLCARP will take necessary actions to make recommendations to the appropriate authorities on identified issue. With the present situation of the country, agriculture Research and Development (R&D) has to play major role to develop the economy of the country. Accordingly, objective of this meeting was to discuss and find better solution to overcome the obstacles for the R&D programes in NARS institutes and develop conducive environment for the Scientists/Research Officers in NARS to carry their mandated functions. The dialogue focused particularly on the areas of:

1.         Identifying the priority research areas

2.         Human resource availability of the institute

3.         Capacity building requirements of the Scientists and Research officers

4.         Any other matters relevant to the institute

The forum enabled an open and constructive exchange of ideas, challenges, and opportunities, fostering mutual understanding between research institutions and policymakers. Based on the insights gathered, SLCARP will formulate actionable recommendations to address the identified issues and enhance the performance of the NARS institutes.  SLCARP will take the lead role to strengthening agricultural research system by bridging gaps in resources and policy alignment, ensuring sustainable and impactful research outcomes for Sri Lanka's agricultural sector.