Rice shortage fears ahead of festive season

A potential shortage of Nadu and Kekulu rice varieties during the upcoming festive season is a growing concern, according to the Marandagahamula Small and Medium Scale Rice Millers' Association.

The Association's Chairman, B.K. Ranjith highlighted these risks as supply pressures continue to impact the local market.

In a simultaneous move to encourage production, the Cabinet of Ministers decided yesterday to revise the minimum purchasing prices for premium paddy.

The price for one kilogram of Samba paddy will increase from Rs. 125 to Rs. 130, while Keeri Samba will see an adjustment from Rs. 132 to Rs. 140.