July 11, Colombo: Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa observing that the consumers are not receiving the benefits from the import of essential food items has instructed the officials not to be confined to plans and implement a practical program to protect the consumers.

The food security committee meeting held at the Temple Trees yesterday (July 10) under the patronage of the President discussed several measures in the sector.

The ways to increase the green gram production locally and milling of paddy stocks available and releasing the rice to the market to maintain a fair price for rice were among the items discussed.

They also focused attention on enlightening the farmers about the use of plastic crates in the transportation of vegetables and increase of liquid milk production.

The meeting also focused attention on widening the garment industry on school and house to house levels.

Ministers Basil Rajapaksa, Arumugam Thondaman, Mahinda Yapa Abeywardena, Johnston Fernando, Kumara Welgama, P. Dayarathne, S.B. Navinna and Jagath Pushpakumara and the Secretary to the President Lalith Weeratunga and Secretaries of Ministries attended the discussion.

(Photo by Nalin Hewapathirana)