The Government has purchased 27,458 metric tonnes of paddy out of a target of 39,500 metric tonnes, Cabinet Spokesman and Minister Nalinda Jayatissa stated.

A total of 105 paddy purchasing centres are currently operating, with another 40 centres expected to open.

The Government has allocated Rs. 6 billion for the programme and spent Rs. 3.302 billion so far. Ampara recorded the highest purchases at 13,975 metric tonnes, followed by Anuradhapura with 4,073 metric tonnes.