Sri Lanka's Ministry of Agriculture Launches Nationwide Rice Stock Survey to Assess Food Security

Colombo, Oct 27 — In a proactive measure to ensure food security, the Ministry of Agriculture has commenced a comprehensive survey of rice ...

Colombo, Oct 27 — In a proactive measure to ensure food security, the Ministry of Agriculture has commenced a comprehensive survey of rice stocks stored across Sri Lanka. This initiative aims to assess current rice reserves, with a special focus on major paddy-producing districts like Polonnaruwa, Anuradhapura, and Ampara, where storage facilities are critical to the nation's grain supply.

A team from the Consumer Affairs Authority, along with ministry officials, has been deployed to carry out inspections and verify stock levels in these districts. The Ministry underscores that a thorough inspection of paddy warehouses will enable a clear picture of the country’s rice reserves, helping prevent shortages, ensuring stable supply, and potentially alleviating price volatility.

The findings from this survey are expected to be compiled into a report, which will be presented to President Anura Dissanayake on Monday, October 28. This report will be pivotal in guiding future decisions on rice importation, pricing strategies, and inventory management to support both consumers and the agricultural sector.

As Sri Lanka continues to grapple with economic challenges, maintaining a stable supply of essential commodities like rice is crucial. The Ministry of Agriculture’s commitment to transparency and proactive monitoring of the nation’s food supply reflects its dedication to meeting citizens’ needs and fortifying food security.