The Cabinet of Ministers has approved an increase in the minimum purchasing prices for Samba and Keeri Samba paddy, following a recommendation by the Price Committee to encourage cultivation of these varieties in upcoming seasons.
During the 2025 Yala season, the Paddy Marketing Board purchased Nadu, Samba and Keeri Samba at Rs. 120, Rs. 125 and Rs. 132 per kilogram, respectively.
The Price Committee, appointed by the Secretary to the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, Land and Irrigation, reviewed the prices and recommended adjustments to better support farmers and promote production of the higher-value paddy varieties.
Based on the recommendation, the Food Policy and Security Committee decided to maintain the minimum purchasing price of Nadu paddy of prescribed standard at Rs. 120 per kilogram, while increasing the minimum price of Samba from Rs. 125 to Rs. 130 and Keeri Samba from Rs. 132 to Rs. 140 per kilogram. (Newswire)