Namal Karunaratne, a Member of Parliament representing the National People’s Power, has pledged that by the upcoming agricultural season, Sri Lanka will achieve self-sufficiency in rice production, fulfilling the long-standing aspirations of the nation’s farmers.
Speaking to the media, MP Karunaratne reiterated his staunch opposition to rice imports, stating that the current government has made significant efforts to address the crisis that arose when they assumed power. “When we took over, the government warehouses were empty—not even a grain of rice was stored. We had to initiate several rounds of negotiations with large-scale mill owners under the leadership of the President to stabilize the supply,” he explained.
The MP assured that the upcoming harvest will eliminate the need to import rice from abroad, with the exception of specialized varieties required for the tourism sector. He emphasized that this shift will bolster local agriculture and reduce reliance on imports.
Karunaratne also highlighted the financial toll of past rice importation policies, which he claims have cost the country over 15 billion rupees. “This is a monumental fraud, one that surpasses even the infamous central bank scandal,” he asserted. Complaints have already been lodged, and special investigations are set to begin to uncover those responsible for these financial losses.
The MP expressed optimism for the future, declaring that the government’s policies will not only protect farmers but also ensure food security for the nation. He called on all stakeholders to support the agricultural reforms and policies aimed at revitalizing the sector.
