In a significant move to support Sri Lanka’s agricultural sector, the Department of Agrarian Development has disbursed a fertilizer subsidy to 228,866 farmers across the country. The initiative aims to alleviate the financial burden on farmers and promote agricultural productivity during the current cultivation season.
Subsidy Details
- Two Installments: Each farmer received the subsidy in two payments of Rs. 25,000, ensuring direct financial relief.
- Direct Transfers: The funds were credited directly to farmers' bank accounts, streamlining the process and ensuring transparency.
- Government Allocation: A total of Rs. 4.3 billion has been allocated for the subsidy by the government, emphasizing its commitment to strengthening the agriculture sector.
Further Funding Awaited
The Department of Agrarian Development also highlighted that an additional Rs. 1,776 million is expected from the General Treasury to be transferred to the Department of Agricultural Services. This supplementary funding is anticipated to further bolster agricultural assistance programs.
Boosting Agricultural Productivity
This subsidy is part of a broader strategy to ensure Sri Lanka’s food security and support farmers facing challenges such as rising input costs and fluctuating market conditions. By directly addressing fertilizer costs, the government aims to improve yields and stabilize the agricultural supply chain.
Farmer-Centric Approach
The direct crediting of subsidies into bank accounts has been praised for its efficiency and ability to minimize administrative delays. Farmers across the country have expressed their appreciation for the timely support, which they believe will help sustain their livelihoods and contribute to national food production goals.
Looking Ahead
As the government continues to roll out measures to uplift the agricultural sector, the focus remains on empowering farmers, ensuring sustainability, and enhancing Sri Lanka’s self-sufficiency in food production. The fertilizer subsidy marks another step towards achieving these objectives.
This initiative underscores the critical role of agriculture in Sri Lanka's economy and the government’s dedication to addressing the challenges faced by the nation’s farmers.
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