Transition from rubber to tea in Baduraliya area in the Kalutara district: a case study on perceptions of farmers and economic feasibility

Abstract

This study was carried out in Baduraliya area in the Kalutara district. The sample consisted of 104 farmers including 29 rubber growers who transferred into other crops. A structured questionnaire and participatory tools were employed in the study. The transition from rubber to other crops or uses was 28% and 94% out of it was for tea. The major factors behind this decision were; fluctuating rubber prices, shortage of latex harvesters, disease outbreaks and rain interference. Those who transferred to tea cultivation have mentioned that the involvement in tea does not permit them to engage in another occupation, it reduced leisure time and has adverse impacts on environment. The cash-flow analysis confirmed that the Net Present Value (NPV) and Internal Rates of Return (IRR) values were high for tea although Benefit Cost (BC) ratio was slightly high for rubber. However, tea has better prospects in this area, since the payback period was three years for tea and 10 for rubber. Hence, it is important to take measures to reduce immature period and maximize the economic benefits through intercropping during the immature stage of rubber.