6.98 million litres of diesel donated by the Chinese government for agricultural purposes will be distributed free of charge to farmers from tomorrow (9) for harvesting.
On a request by the President to the Chinese government, a donation of 10.06 million litres of diesel was granted considering the economic difficulties faced by individuals engaged in the agriculture and fishing sectors.
Accordingly, 6.98 million litres of diesel was granted for agricultural activities while the surplus will be distributed among the fishing community.
Minister of Agriculture, Wildlife and Forest Resources Conservation Mahinda Amaraweera instructed Ministry officials to provide the fuel free of charge during harvesting, as farmers completed cultivation when the fuel stocks were received.
The Minister noted that by the end of January, certain areas will begin harvesting, while the Commissioner General of the Department of Agriculture has made arrangements to launch the distribution of fuel to farmers from tomorrow (9).
The stock of fuel will be provided to farmers through a special voucher under an online system while the official release of the voucher will be completed tomorrow at 11am at the Ministry of Agriculture under the patronage of Minister Amaraweera.
Under the programme, steps have been taken to provide fuel to farmers who cultivate paddy from between half an acre to two hectares and 15 litres of diesel for a hectare and 30 litres of diesel for two hectares.
