Farmers across the country are protesting against the government's delay in announcing a minimum guaranteed price for rice, despite repeated promises.
Trade Minister Wasantha Samarasinghe recently stated that the new price proposal will be presented to the Cabinet in the coming week, assuring that it will protect both farmers and consumers. However, his statement has done little to ease frustration, as farmers, consumers, and the opposition continue to criticize the prolonged delay.
Several farmer organizations have condemned the government's inaction, highlighting that the very farmers who voted for the administration now feel betrayed. Muditha Perera, a government official, claimed that authorities are still working to determine the best possible price for farmers.
Despite this, farmers argue that immediate action is needed, as harvesting has already begun. Many report that private traders are currently purchasing paddy at Rs. 90 to Rs. 100 per kilogram, making farming unsustainable. They insist that the government must announce a price without further delay.
The protests are largely directed at Agriculture Minister Lal Kantha and his deputy, both of whom campaigned for fair farmer prices during the elections.
Paddy Marketing Board
Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa has also criticized the government, accusing it of failing to deliver on its promise of a minimum guaranteed price of Rs. 150 per kilogram. He further pointed out the delay in providing fertilizer subsidies, adding that the Paddy Marketing Board has requested funds to purchase paddy from farmers, but the government has yet to act.
Meanwhile, the Gampaha Consumer Protection Authority has conducted raids in the district, uncovering traders hoarding rice stocks, worsening the crisis.
With growing discontent, farmers and opposition leaders are demanding immediate government intervention to ensure fair pricing, stabilize the market, and protect both food security and livelihoods.