Govt. to move out of fertiliser distribution
The government is likely to change its plan of action from the next cultivating season by ensuring that subsidies are provided on a limited scale and state agencies move out of the distribution of fertiliser.
Starting from the next cultivating season the government will have to decide on the mode of operation in the distribution of fertiliser, Peradeniya University Senior Prof. Buddhi Marambe told the Business Times.
He noted that the private sector should be allowed to carry out their business and allow the government to carry out the operation of a watchdog.
Commenting on the need to provide subsidies to farmers it was pointed out that this should be granted in a targeted manner and not be opened out for all across the board.
He noted that the reason for the current yellowing of the paddy crop is due to the lack of adequate nutrients being applied on time due to the delay in fertiliser landing in Colombo.
In the meantime, Agriculture Department Director General Malathi Paramasuraman said that while they will not be able to eradicate the nematode infestation of paddy cultivation they are currently working on managing the situation by introducing remedial measures. The increased costs that need to be incurred by farmers for the purchase of the required nutrients for cultivation have resulted in the current crisis due to which the yield levels will drop this Maha season.
The Agriculture Department has also pointed out that although urea and Muriate of Potash (MOP) were provided during this Maha season some farmers have not yet applied MOP to their paddy fields. At present only urea fertiliser is being provided at subsidised rates to paddy farmers. Other fertilisers are provided at high prices in the local market.
In fact the department has also observed that the total amount of MOP sold by Commercial Fertiliser Company and Ceylon Fertiliser Company was only 1800 MT as a result of which it has impacted the growth of the paddy plants.
Hitad.lk has you covered with quality used or brand new cars for sale that are budget friendly yet reliable! Now is the time to sell your old ride for something more attractive to today's modern automotive market demands. Browse through our selection of affordable options now on Hitad.lk before deciding on what will work best for you!