The Hon. Namal Karunaratne

¶ 01 Hon. Speaker, regarding fertilizer assistance, Rs. 50,000 is provided per two hectares to farmers, and they may use it for any activity relevant to cultivation—land preparation, harvesting, purchase of fertilizer, agrochemicals, etc. As per information, those funds are being released.

¶ 02 On seed paddy, we have paid special attention. We are purchasing certified seed from the private sector to distribute to farmers, and managing the seed available in state farms to supply as well. Farmers are already concluding cultivation for this season; nevertheless, we are attending to this shortage.

¶ 03 On compensation, there were two instances of damage during Maha. Compensation for the initial damages has been almost entirely paid, with only a few remaining which will be rectified. Subsequently, in January and February, further damages occurred; compensation to those affected farmers will be fully paid within next month. For the first time, we are completing compensation for damages that occurred at the beginning of a season before that season fully concludes. Our attention remains on the seed paddy issue as well.