The Department of Agrarian Development has arranged to issue tokens to the farmers to provide fuel donated by the Chinese government.

The Chinese government has donated 6.98 million litres of diesel to be distributed to the farmers and the stocks were handed over to Sri Lankan authorities.

However, distribution activities have been delayed, inconveniencing farmers.

Speaking during a meeting with officials from the Agriculture ministry and the Department of Agrarian Development yesterday (March 01), Agriculture minister – Mahinda Amaraweera has urged officials to take immediate action to expedite distribution activities.

Accordingly, the Department of Agrarian Development had finished issuing tokens in 20 districts within yesterday night.

Speaking, Commissioner General of the Department of Agrarian Development – Mr. H.M.A.L. Abeyratne said that measures have been taken to finish issuing tokens to the remaining 05 districts within today.

Paddy farmers cultivating from 1/2 an acre – 2.5 acres are entitled to this fuel donation with 15 liters of diesel allotted per one hectare of land.

(Source : Ada)