The Minister of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development, Sunil Handunnetthi says that the necessary financial provisions for purchasing paddy during the Maha cultivation season have been provided to the Paddy Marketing Board.Speaking on TV Deranas current affairs programme 360 last night (04), the Minister confirmed that the Paddy Marketing Board will soon begin purchasing paddy.He also emphasized that systematic measures are being implemented to curb the rice mafia in the country, ensuring fair pricing for both farmers and consumers.If we set the price below the farmers competitive advantage, it would be unfair to them.
It is clear that the guaranteed price must be determined within this week, Handunnetti stated.Highlighting the governments commitment to both farmers and consumers, he asserted, This is the first government that has taken a long-term approach to protect both the farmer and the consumer.
The Anura Dissanayake-led National Peoples Power government has ensured a process for releasing funds.
The money has been disbursed, and paddy purchases can commence as early as tomorrow, he noted.