A covert plan is allegedly in motion to sell paddy lands to local and foreign investors, raising alarms among Sri Lanka’s farming community. Anuradha Tennakoon, Chairman of the National Farmers’ Union, has voiced concerns that the government may be aligning with International Monetary Fund (IMF) proposals to introduce high-tech methods of paddy cultivation, potentially leading to the transfer of agricultural lands to large-scale investors.
Mr. Tennakoon stated that farmers across the country are deeply suspicious of the government’s intentions, fearing that such actions could undermine their livelihoods and disrupt traditional farming practices. He accused the government of conspiring to dismantle the agricultural sector by selling off vital paddy lands to large-scale agribusiness entities, both local and international.
Referring to past actions, Mr. Tennakoon criticized previous administrations for selling the nation’s natural resources to international interests, often at undervalued rates, leaving the local economy and rural communities vulnerable. He warned that repeating such policies would deal a severe blow to the farming industry, which remains a cornerstone of Sri Lanka’s economy.
Farmers have expressed growing unease about the government’s moves, demanding transparency regarding any proposed reforms in the agricultural sector. Many see the potential sale of paddy lands as a threat to food security and rural livelihoods, which are already strained by economic challenges and environmental changes.
The National Farmers’ Union has called on the government to abandon any plans to privatize agricultural lands and instead focus on empowering local farmers to adopt sustainable and efficient cultivation practices. They argue that strengthening the domestic agricultural sector is essential for ensuring food security and protecting the rights of farmers.
As speculation mounts, the government has yet to provide clarity on the matter, leaving the farming community and their advocates increasingly concerned about the future of Sri Lanka’s agricultural heritage.
