Sri Lanka: Govt. to compensate farmers for crop damage caused by dry weather

COLOMBO (News 1st) - Agriculture Minister Mahinda Amaraweera announced that the President has approved the provision of compensation to farmers who have suffered crop damage due to the prevailing dry weather conditions. 

In response to this decision, Sri Lanka's Agricultural & Agrarian Insurance Board has been directed to initiate the assessment of crop damage.

Additionally, Minister Amaraweera stated that a certain amount of water is being released from the Weli Oya to support the farmers in Embilipitiya. This move is expected to provide protection for approximately 15 to 20 percent of their cultivation areas.

Despite the efforts taken to address the water scarcity, the farmers in Embilipitiya have been continuing their Satyagraha for the 15th consecutive day. Their demands include the provision of water from Samanala Wewa to Udawalawa Reservoir to support their agricultural activities.