The final report of the internal investigation conducted by the Ministry of Agriculture on the alleged controversial nanofertiliser transaction with an Indian company is expected in two weeks, according to Ministry Secretary Janaka Dharmakeerthi.
The Criminal Investigation Division (CID) and the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC) are currently conducting two other investigations into the alleged deal.
However, the Ministry Secretary told The Sunday Morning: “If it is proved that there has been any corruption, I don’t have to wait for the CID report; I can take action.”
A National Audit Office (NAO) report highlighted concerns over the costly importation of nano-nitrogen liquid fertiliser, facilitated by United Farmers Trust Ltd.
The expense of Rs. 711,863,096 for 306,454 bottles was criticised for inflated costs due to bypassing direct procurement from Government entities, leading to prices of $ 12.45 per bottle initially and $ 10 per bottle later, compared to a potential $ 5 per bottle.