Presidential Task Force on Economic Revival and Poverty Eradication convenes.

Colombo (News 1st): The Presidential Task Force on Economic Revival and Poverty Eradication convened at Temple Trees today headed by its Chairman, Basil Rajapaksa. When the importation and distribution of Fertilizer were discussed at the meeting, Former Minister Rajapaksa instructed the officials to take steps to provide fertilizer required for paddy cultivation during the Maha Season to the farmers in a timely manner. He pointed out that timely supply of water and fertilizer to farmers could increase production capacity in a short period of time. It was revealed that the fertilizer requirement for this year is 708,910 metric tonnes. A portion of the fertilizer required for the Maha Season has been provided to farmers and the National Fertilizer Secretariat has stated that stocks are being received for the systematic distribution of the remaining amount. It was revealed at today's discussion that 10% of the fertilizer required for other crops is imported and issued by Government companies and 90% is issued through private companies. Rajapaksa has instructed that an environment be created where farmers can purchase fertilizer at any given time