The Government has decided to increase the use of organic fertilizer for the cultivation of paddy and other crops by 30 percent next year, said Agriculture Minister Mahindananda Aluthgamage.
Minister Aluthgamage was speaking at a media conference in Kurunegala.
“Both farmers and consumers are faced with problems due to the continuous usage of chemical fertilizers. The use of chemicals has led to many health problems among the people,” he said.
"President Gotabaya Rajapaksa has encouraged farmers to use more organic manure in our food production to protect the people’s health. Accordingly, private companies that come forward in manufacturing organic fertilizer will be provided tax concessions, technology and technical expertise, lands and raw materials. Food and vegetables that are being produced using organic manure would be purchased by the Government at higher prices to encourage farmers with the aim of creating a healthy nation,” he said.