News
Govt. planning to hand over agrochemical trade to two multinational companies: Ex-Governor
By Rathindra Kuruwita
The government was now trying to hand over the import of fertiliser to two multinational companies, former Governor of the Uva and Southern provinces, Rajith Keerthi Tennakoon claimed yesterday.
The one-time polls monitor alleged that the government had engineered a fertiliser shortage, destroyed enthusiasm for organic agriculture and created an atmosphere where people would accept any fertiliser.
“Now, the demand for agrochemicals among farmers is at an all-time high. It’s now harder than ever to go green because people are convinced that this is an unsustainable form of agriculture. Recently, Prof. Udith K. Jayasinghe, Secretary to the Ministry of Agriculture claimed that they would repeal the ban on agrochemicals import. I am also aware that an agent for a multinational company is preparing a list of agrochemicals to be imported,” Tennakoon said.
The agrochemicals to be imported would be distributed through Agrarian Service Centres, he said. These centres were a place where farmers could access resources at a reasonable price, but the government was planning to sell fertiliser imported by companies at high prices Tennakoon said.
“I was surprised when I saw some academics, working with the Ministry of Agriculture, claimed they support organic agriculture because I know what their interests are. Now, it’s clear that they were just trying to give several companies the right to import agrochemicals. The Ministry will repeal the ban soon in a way that benefits two companies. I think it’s time that the President ends this fake organic agriculture campaign,” Tennakoon said.
The Secretary to the Ministry of Agriculture has said that the Gazette banning the import of chemical fertilizers was issued on wrong advice. Prof. Jayasinghe said that instead of banning agro-chemicals, the importation of high-quality eco-friendly plant nutrients should be encouraged.
Prof. Jayasinghe was not immediately available for comment.
The Indian Naval Ship (INS) Kuthar which arrived in Sri Lanka on 03 Mar 25 on an official visit, departed the island today (06 Mar).
The Sri Lanka Navy bade customary farewell to the departing ship at the Port of Colombo, following naval traditions.
During their stay in Colombo, crew members of INS Kuthar explored some tourist attractions in Colombo. Additionally, they also engaged in training exchange programmes arranged by the Sri Lanka Navy, aimed at enhancing mutual cooperation.
Further, Indian naval personnel participated in a Visit, Board, Search, and Seizure (VBSS) training programme hosted by the Sri Lanka Navy’s Special Boat Squadron (SBS).
A notable feature on the itinerary was a yoga session conducted by INS Kuthar, which saw naval personnel of both countries participating.
Meanwhile, the enhanced cooperation and interoperability fostered will provide a strong foundation for the Sri Lanka Navy to collectively and effectively respond to emerging trends and challenges in the Indian Ocean Region.
The Pakistan Navy Ship (PNS) Aslat which arrived in Sri Lanka on a goodwill visit on 05 Mar 2025, departed the island today (06 Mar).
The Sri Lanka Navy honoured the departing ship with a traditional farewell at the Port of Colombo, adhering to established naval traditions.
Upon leaving, PNS Aslat engaged in a successful Passage Exercise (PASSEX) with SLNS Samudura. The PASSEX involved training exercises in communication and tactical maneuvering, concluding with the traditional cheer ship salute.
Meanwhile, the Commanding Officer of the ship, Captain Muhammad Azhar Akram called on Commander Western Naval Area, Rear Admiral Chandima Silva and Director General Operations, Rear Admiral Buddhika Liyanagamage, during the visit.
In addition, the crew of PNS Aslat took time off to visit some tourist attractions within Colombo as well. Further, members of the Sri Lanka Navy had the opportunity to attend briefings, detailing the ship’s operational capabilities and functions.
Former Minister Mervyn Silva, who was arrested by officers of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) last night has been remanded until March 17 after being produced before the Mahara Magistrate’s Court this (6) evening.
The former minister and two others were arrested, accused of selling state owned land to a private party on forged documents. The other two suspects have also been remanded till 17th March.
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INS Kuthar sets sail from Colombo
PNS Aslat departs island on successful completion of her visit
Former Minister Mervyn Silva remanded till 17th March
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