Govt. allocates Rs. 12 b for fertiliser procurement ahead of cultivation season

Agriculture Minister Mahinda Amaraweera 

Agriculture Minister Mahinda Amaraweera said the Government has earmarked Rs. 12 billion to facilitate farmers in procuring fertilisers for the upcoming cultivation season. 

This initiative aims to bolster agricultural productivity and support the country’s vital farming sector.

The farmers will receive Rs. 15,000 per hectare, allowing them the flexibility to choose between organic or chemical fertilisers based on their specific agricultural needs. 

Amaraweera said that this decision was taken on Wednesday after holding a discussion with representatives from national farming organisations across all 25 districts. The meeting focused on addressing the challenges faced by farmers, with a special emphasis on Government measures aimed at resolving these issues. 

The Minister assured that the Government presently possesses ample quantities of both urea and Muriate of Potash (MOP), commonly known as ‘Bandi’ fertiliser. Additionally, the private sector is poised to supply Triple Super Phosphate (TSP) fertiliser, also referred to as ‘mud’ fertiliser. 

He also disclosed that urea fertiliser will be made available at a price of Rs. 9,000, accessible from both public and private sectors. 

The farming community expressed their preference for higher prices for the sale of paddy, rather than relying on fertiliser subsidies.