President Maithripala Sirisena says he is not in favour of the statements by presidential candidates on providing free fertilizer to the people.

The President made these remarks during an event today (07 November) to inaugurate buildings at Ambana in Naula. 

Speaking to media at the event the President said that his policy throughout his political career was to reject chemical fertilisers and to use carbonic fertilisers for agricultural activities.

“Providing fertilizers free would only increase the number of kidney patients in the country. This is not suitable whatsoever,” said the president.

Further, the President said that while the farmers may be happy to receive the free fertiliser as an individual who was not contesting elections, Mr Sirisena said that he was completely against the idea.

The President said when the issues of those suffering from kidney diseases are taken into consideration, the researches done by International bodies and other research units of local universities say agrochemicals are the main cause for  kidney ailments.

"Providing free fertilisers is not something good. The agro-economy has to be strengthened. Subsidies must be provided. The poor farmers should be empowered," the President said.

“If chemical fertilisers to be given free to the farmers is being imported, it is better to bring kidneys as well onboard ships that follow these vessels from those countries,"  Mr Sirisena said.