The Hon. Namal Karunaratne

¶ 01 When we took office, we increased the fertilizer subsidy to Rs. 20,000 for two hectares, and extended it to interim (other) crops on paddy lands. We changed the disbursement method: previously funds were given after cultivation began; we decided to release the first round before commencement, in two rounds. There was a risk that some might not cultivate; if so, we could hold back the second round. The first round was credited without issue.

¶ 02 Timelines differ area to area—for example, Kala Wewa versus Parakrama Samudraya command areas—so payments are staggered accordingly. There were delays in the second round due to cyclone “Burevi/Dittya” impacts and over 4,000 vacancies among Agricultural Research and Production Assistants, with expanded workflows. For the second round, we needed confirmation that cultivation commenced; obtaining that amid damages caused delays. Now the process is back on track; all funds for fertilizers have been released, and farmers will receive the balance within the next few days.