Govt urges paddy farmers to sell stocks to State warehouses

Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Livestock, Namal Karunaratne announced that the Government will provide an additional payment of Rs. 2 per kilogramme, in addition to the guaranteed price, for paddy handed over to State-owned warehouses by farmers.

The Deputy Minister urged farmers to direct their paddy stocks to Government warehouses and contribute to efforts to eliminate the rice mafia. He emphasised that the rice processed from these stocks would not be sold in bulk, but instead be distributed to consumers at affordable prices.

He further explained that the guaranteed price for paddy is determined by including one-third of the production cost, excluding the subsidy provided for fertiliser.

Deputy Minister Karunaratne also highlighted plans to amend the Paddy Marketing Board Act No. 14 of 1971, ensuring the proper implementation of the Board’s authority, which has remained largely inactive until now. He assured that the revised Act would protect both farmers and consumers.

The Deputy Minister emphasised that the Government is committed to reviving the Paddy Marketing Board’s role and empowering it to operate effectively to stabilise the market and support the agricultural sector.

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