Rs 4.8 Billion Spent, Food Production Drops 40%, Results Fail to Deliver

The National Audit Office (NAO) report reveals a 40% decline in local food production during 2022-2023 compared to set targets.Over Rs 4.8 billion was spent over four years to boost local food production, but it was not enough.

The NAO’s latest report assessed the implementation of the Ministry of Agro-Industry and Food Security’s 2016-2020 strategic plan.

The plan aimed to increase food crop and livestock output and improve sector resilience. However, the results have been disappointing.

Production of key foods like potatoes, onions, and garlic has decreased. None of the targeted goals for these crops were achieved, despite financial aid.

The report also highlighted greenhouse farming, seen as a climate change adaptation model.

For 2022-2023, a production target of 16,500 tonnes was set, but actual output was around 10,000 tonnes—a 40% shortfall.

Livestock sectors fare no better. Local milk, meat, and honey production remain low. The industry relies heavily on imported inputs, making it vulnerable to external crises.

Poultry is close to self-sufficiency, but this stability remains fragile.

By the end of 2023, only half of the planned projects had been completed. Additionally, significant portions of subsidies went unused—29% for food crops and 48% for livestock—from 2015 to 2022.

The NAO also criticized planning weaknesses. Goals set by the Ministry of Agro-Industry and Food Security were too ambitious, lacked consultation with stakeholders, and no monitoring committee was established.

Budget allocations did not align with strategic priorities, further hampering progress.

Source: l’Express