The NSF currently focuses on taking research into practice and transdisciplinary mission-oriented research program (TMORP) which is introduced with the objective of conducting research with the participation of researchers, practitioners and other key stakeholders in the value chain thereby transcending research outputs for the benefits of the society. As the initial step of the process, the Research Division has planned to address the plantation sector and its research gaps with special attention to tea sector.
Keeping in line with this initiative, NSF participated in a discussion with higher officials of the Tea Board. NSF Director General and Head of Research Division attended the discussion with Chairman, Director General and Tea Commissioner of the Tea Board where it has been underlined that there are gaps that needs immediate research interventions. Market diversification, enhancing productivity through technology transfer, good agricultural practices and market research to identify perception of next generation on Ceylon tea have been surfaced as high priority concerns.
In addition, a consultative meeting with a group of scientists and industrialists in the field was also held at the NSF in hybrid mode where shed light on research needs and gaps in their viewpoint. The NSF is now in the process of prioritizing the research needs and gaps which need immediate interventions and at the same time, discussions are to be held with tea growers and planters as well.