No Risk of Rice Shortage in the Country: Deputy Minister Namal Karunarathne

COLOMBO (News 1st): Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Livestock Namal Karunaratne says there is no possibility of a rice shortage in the country.

Speaking at a media briefing held at the Department of Agriculture in Gannoruwa, the Deputy Minister said that measures will be taken against groups attempting to create an artificial shortage of Keeri Samba rice.

He explained that the harvest from the previous season remains available, while the current season’s harvest is already being collected. 

According to the Deputy Minister, 47,500 metric tons of rice are currently in storage, including sufficient stocks of Keeri Samba. 

He further noted that government warehouses hold more than 12 million kilograms of paddy.

The Deputy Minister stressed that certain groups are deliberately attempting to create an artificial shortage. 

He added that the Consumer Affairs Authority is conducting investigations into the matter and that necessary legal action will be taken.