The 59th National New Rice Festival commenced under the patronage of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake near the sacred Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi in Anuradhapura.

Beginning with the blessings of the Maha Sangha, farmers with deep devotion prepare and offer their first harvest to the Buddha at this cultural festival.

Addressing the event, President Anura Kumara Dissanayake said that agriculture is bound to become the greatest part of Sri Lanka’s culture, pointing out that the New Rice Festival is its pinnacle and that, through it, the country’s identity and culture are upheld.

Stating that alleviating the poverty of rural people is his intention, and that a strong vision and program are needed for that, he said that a clear deed is being prepared to confirm farmers’ land rights.

The President said that the best example Sri Lanka can give the world regarding sustainable development is the reservoir, but at present, the people have destroyed that tank system.

Therefore, he said, the government led by the subject Minister has taken a decision to restore the country’s small and medium‑scale tank system, though certain conflicts and criticisms may arise in implementing it.

The President assured that he will provide protection for every decision taken by the Ministry of Agriculture in this regard. (Newswire)

The post National new rice festival begins under president’s patronage appeared first on Newswire.