2016 Budget, declared that the government would convert the subsidy to a cash allowance of Rs 25,000 per year to encourage farmers to move away from using chemical fertilizers and to ensure that they are given good quality fertilizer, instead of the cheap kind that is often given on the subsidy.

Expressing views at the Government Information Department today (March 03), Ministry of Agriculture Duminda Dissanayeka said that the Government will not take any decision which will make farming community uncomfortable.

He noted that bankrupt opposition political parties and certain government officials were behind the spreading of rumours relating to fertilizer issues.

He further stated that the aim of the Government is to prevent imposition of economic burdens on farmers.