'Budget gives more relief to farmers'

Ariyapala Wansathilake - Kurunegala Central Special

Co-operatives and Internal Trade Minister Johnston Fernando said at Nikaweratiya Divisional Secretariat Office last Thursday that the government has given more relief to the farmers at grass roots level in the 2013 budget.

He stated that the government has allocated Rs 40 million to expand the milk production and dairy farming.

The tax, on imported milk powder will be increased to encourage the local dairy farmers.

Johnston said under the Mahinda Chinthana Vision it is proposed to reach zero level in the import of red onions, maize, green gram, black gram, cowpea, soya beans, ground nuts and gingerly by 2015.

The governments decision is not to give permits in respect of abandoned paddy lands.

Those who like to cultivate such would be allowed to grow short-term corps like fruit trees and vegetables, he said.