Sri Lanka allocates Rs. 3 billion for farmers hit by El Niño drought

The Sri Lankan government has earmarked Rs. 3 billion to compensate farmers affected by drought conditions linked to the El Niño weather pattern. Approximately 84,000 people have been impacted, with preliminary assessments showing that 8,000 acres of land belonging to roughly 7,000 farmers have suffered damage.

Affected districts include Monaragala, Polonnaruwa, Hambantota, Anuradhapura, and Ampara. Eligible farmers cultivating paddy, maize, big onions, potatoes, soybeans, and chillies can receive compensation of Rs. 100,000 per hectare, capped at a maximum of five acres per farmer.

Beyond domestic crop losses, the government is addressing food security concerns regarding potential import disruptions. Officials are discussing contingency measures in the event that El Niño affects agricultural production in India, which could lead New Delhi to restrict or suspend food exports. Sri Lanka remains heavily dependent on India for various food imports.