Cabinet allots funds to compensate farmers for crop damage in Yala season

Wednesday, 11 October 2023 00:22 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

The Cabinet of Ministers approved the allocation of essential provisions to compensate farmers impacted by the Yala season agricultural setbacks.

The move was made despite the Government's challenging financial circumstances; as the welfare of the farming community remains a top priority.

“Unfavourable weather conditions during the 2023 Yala season have led to significant damage across 58,770 acres of paddy and other vital crops. This distressing situation arose due to the inability to supply adequate water resources. Regrettably, this has adversely affected an estimated 53,965 hardworking farmers who depend on these crops for their livelihoods,” a statement comprising weekly Cabinet Decisions issued by the Government Information Department noted.

Recognising the severity of the situation, the Cabinet of Ministers considered a proposal put forth by the Agriculture Minister Mahinda Amaraweera emphasising the urgency of compensating these affected farmers.