By The Pulseline News Desk
Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa has called on the government to disclose the methodology used to determine the guaranteed price for paddy, arguing that farmers and policymakers alike deserve greater transparency in how the price is calculated.
Speaking at a meeting of the Sectoral Oversight Committee on Environment, Agriculture and Sustainable Resources, Premadasa questioned the basis on which the government arrives at a fixed purchasing price for a kilogram of paddy. The committee was chaired by Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) member of parliament (MP) Hector Appuhamy.
“The formula used to determine the guaranteed paddy price must be made public,” Premadasa said, noting that the calculation should reflect the actual cost of production borne by farmers.
He emphasised that a comprehensive pricing formula should consider key production expenses, including the cost of seed paddy, fertiliser, agrochemicals, machinery, equipment and other cultivation-related inputs. Understanding these costs, he said, is essential to ensuring that farmers receive a fair return on their investment and labour.
The Opposition Leader’s remarks come amid ongoing discussions about agricultural productivity, food security and the challenges faced by the farming community due to fluctuating input costs. Farmers have frequently expressed concerns that increases in production expenses are not adequately reflected in paddy purchasing prices.
Premadasa also sought clarification on the country’s annual fertiliser requirements, asking officials to explain the extent to which those needs are being met through government procurement and private-sector imports.
His comments highlighted broader concerns over the availability and distribution of agricultural inputs, which remain critical to maintaining crop yields and supporting the country’s agricultural sector.
The discussion at the committee underscored the importance of transparency and data-driven decision-making in agricultural policy, particularly at a time when ensuring stable food production and protecting farmer livelihoods remain key national priorities.
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