November 01, Colombo (LNW): Agriculture Deputy Minister Namal Karunaratne has announced that the government will reclaim funds from farmers who fail to cultivate their fields after obtaining fertiliser subsidies.

He explained that the amount owed by such farmers will be deducted automatically when subsidies for the following cultivation season are issued. The measure is intended to ensure accountability and encourage the proper use of state assistance intended to boost agricultural productivity.

At present, farmers receive a fertiliser subsidy of Rs. 50,000 for two hectares of cultivated land. In addition, those engaging in intercropping on paddy lands will be granted a separate subsidy of Rs. 30,000 for the same area.

The Deputy Minister stressed that the policy aims to promote more efficient use of agricultural resources and discourage misuse of public funds allocated to support farming communities.