In recent times, a severe shortage of Keeri Samba rice has gripped the market, raising concerns about its availability. Contrary to genuine scarcity, it has been revealed that the shortage is artificially orchestrated by a rice mafia operating within the country. Despite ample stocks of Keeri Samba rice in the nation, certain rice mill owners have deliberately curtailed its supply by concealing their rice stocks. While the cultivation of Keeri Samba saw a decrease in the last Yala season, the stock of paddy and rice remains unaffected, owing to the cultivation in the previous Maha season.
Despite the government’s imposition of a control price for Keeri Samba rice, unscrupulous businessmen are actively engaged in selling it at inflated prices, ranging between 305-310 rupees per kilo.
Fortunately, there is no shortage of other rice varieties, such as Nadu rice and red green rice, commonly consumed by the majority of the population. The country maintains an ample supply of rice and paddy.
Currently, private rice mill owners and rice businessmen possess substantial stocks of Keeri Samba paddy and rice, yet they intentionally limit their market supply to prevent a rise in rice prices.
Addressing the issue, Minister of Agriculture and Plantation Industries, Mahinda Amaraweera, revealed that the Consumer Protection Authority is conducting raids to curb such practices. However, many businessmen continue clandestine activities, selling Keeri Samba at exorbitant prices.
In response to the situation, Minister Amaraweera has instructed the agriculture department to encourage farmers to cultivate more Keeri Samba in the upcoming Maha season.
Simultaneously, the Department of Agriculture has submitted a report to the minister detailing the glucose content in rice. The report highlights that Keeri Samba contains the highest glucose levels among the rice varieties consumed in the country, potentially exacerbating diabetes. However, it also underscores that rice species with bran exhibit the lowest glucose levels.
