Robust data system essential for strong food security policy framework: Minister

Tuesday, 11 February 2025 02:04 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Trade, Commerce, Food Security, and Cooperative Development Minister Wasantha Samarasinghe

Trade, Commerce, Food Security, and Cooperative Development Minister

Wasantha Samarasinghe, along with members of the Food Policy and Security Committee, convened for the second time yesterday at the Presidential Secretariat.

During the discussion, the critical need for a robust data system to support policy decisions on ensuring food security was strongly emphasised.

The primary objective of the Committee is to implement measures ensuring a safe, healthy, and sustainable food system for all citizens, in line with the Government’s food security policy.

It was underscored that accurate data and information are crucial for making informed policy decisions on food security.

During the meeting, the Minister emphasised that the Government is not willing to continue making decisions without reliable data, and priority will be given to establishing a comprehensive and accurate food information system.

Minister Samarasinghe also highlighted the importance of studying national food consumption patterns to promote better public health and reduce food waste.

He instructed Committee members to take necessary steps to address these concerns.

Several key areas were also discussed, including developing a National Food Security Policy Framework, maintaining an essential food information system, introducing a new program based on internationally recognised standards, and increasing local production and distribution through scientific, evidence-based strategies. The meeting further addressed food security, food pricing, and market management.

Key concerns discussed included ensuring the uninterrupted supply of essential food items during the Sinhala and Tamil New Year season and maintaining price controls on these goods.

A significant portion of the discussion was dedicated to the paddy purchasing process, particularly the loan facilities provided to mill owners for purchasing paddy. The necessity of conducting a thorough review of the quantities purchased under these loan schemes was also emphasised.

The meeting also focused on expanding the Cooperative and ‘Sathosa’ networks to provide essential goods at affordable prices to consumers. Additionally, strategies were discussed to regulate prices and create a consumer-friendly market.

Among the attendees were Secretary to the Prime Minister G.P. Saputhanthri, Senior Additional Secretary to the President Kapila Janaka Bandara, and other Secretaries from relevant Ministries, who also serve as members of the Food Policy and Security Committee.

Discover Kapruka, the leading online shopping platform in Sri Lanka, where you can conveniently send Gifts and Flowers to your loved ones for any event including Valentine ’s Day. Explore a wide range of popular Shopping Categories on Kapruka, including Toys, Groceries, Electronics, Birthday Cakes, Fruits, Chocolates, Flower Bouquets, Clothing, Watches, Lingerie, Gift Sets and Jewellery. Also if you’re interested in selling with Kapruka, Partner Central by Kapruka is the best solution to start with. Moreover, through Kapruka Global Shop, you can also enjoy the convenience of purchasing products from renowned platforms like Amazon and eBay and have them delivered to Sri Lanka.