The Sri Lankan government has procured approximately 27,458 metric tonnes of paddy as part of its agricultural support programme, with plans to reach a target of 39,500 metric tonnes.
The government's paddy purchasing initiative has reached roughly 69 percent of its intended target, with 27,458 metric tonnes acquired so far out of the planned 39,500 metric tonnes, according to Cabinet Spokesman Nalinda Jayatissa. The purchasing campaign currently operates through 105 collection centres nationwide, with an additional 40 centres expected to begin operations in the coming period.
Ampara District has emerged as the largest supplier, contributing nearly half of all purchases at 13,975 metric tonnes. Anuradhapura follows with 4,073 metric tonnes, while smaller quantities have been sourced from Vavuniya, Hambantota, Kilinochchi, and Batticaloa. Officials attribute the continued supply to ongoing harvesting activities in major paddy-growing regions, particularly in Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa districts.
The government has earmarked Rs. 6 billion for the entire purchasing programme, with Rs. 3.302 billion expended to date, leaving substantial funds available for additional purchases as harvesting continues. The programme aims to support local rice farmers by guaranteeing market access for their produce during the harvest season. Officials indicated that procurement efforts will intensify as harvest operations progress in key agricultural zones.
