The opposition says the government through the 2022 Budget, has not tabled proposals that can be practically implemented.
Speaking in Parliament today, Parliamentarian Field Marshal Sarath Fonseka said the government will commence cultivating cotton due to the budget proposal to manufacture fabric required for the textile industry within the country.
MP Fonseka charged the government of concealing its true motives of clearing out forests behind the decision to manufacture fabric.
He said the proposal to expand rubber cultivation also tracks with the statement made by Minister of Irrigation on clearing out a section of Sinharaja Forest Reserve for rubber cultivation.
On a separate note, The Parliamentarian questioned the government on how it aims to make the country a tourist destination considering the current state of the tourism industry.
MP Fonseka said foreigners who visit Sri Lanka are those who are looking for destinations.
He said 80% of Chinese tourist visit the Maldives while a mere 20% visit Sri Lanka due to the cheaper options.
