Deputy Minister of Trade, Commerce, and Food Security, R.M. Jayawardena, stated that all mill owners and storekeepers purchasing paddy during the ‘Maha season’ must register with the government’s Paddy Marketing Board.
He explained that the registration will establish a data system to monitor rice quantities received and ensure rice stocks cannot be concealed.
Jayawardena highlighted that the government is implementing the paddy purchasing programme to maintain a steady rice supply without shortages.
He further noted that the government will announce a fixed price for both paddy and rice simultaneously as part of this initiative.
