By: Isuru Parakrama
October 03, Colombo (LNW): In light of the uncertainty occurred surrounding the government’s fertiliser subsidy initiative for paddy farmers, the Election Commission (EC) has clarified it has no objections to the scheme, a report by Daily Mirror disclosed.
The Rs. 25,000 subsidy, aimed at supporting farmers, had faced some controversy, but the EC has given its nod to the current government’s decision.
Saman Sri Ratnayake, the Commissioner of General Elections, told Daily Mirror that the original subsidy plan had been proposed by the previous administration.
At the time, the EC had halted the decision, perceiving it as a potential strategy to favour a candidate ahead of elections.
However, the present government’s move is seen as the continuation of a previously established policy, rather than a new initiative aimed at electoral gain, according to report.
In parallel, the Ministry of Agriculture has officially confirmed the allocation of the subsidy. Secretary to the ministry, M.P.N.M. Wickramasinghe, announced that paddy farmers will receive an allowance of Rs. 25,000 per hectare, ensuring financial relief during the ongoing agricultural cycle.
The fertiliser subsidy, which had been a focal point of debate, is now set to provide much-needed support to the farming community. This financial assistance comes at a critical time, as farmers have faced fluctuating agricultural costs and broader economic challenges.
However, the move raised eyebrows amongst rival political parties, in what they described it as part of the Ruling Party’s political agenda to win the upcoming General Election.
With the EC’s approval, the programme is poised to move forward without any legal or political hurdles, bringing clarity to an issue that had previously been mired in confusion.
