### Coal Tender Controversy: Ministry Admits Quality Shortfall 📈

Agriculture Minister K.D. Lalkantha has officially acknowledged the supply of inferior quality coal under a recent state tender, but denied any fraud or corruption in the procurement process. The government maintains that transparent procedures were followed. • Key Admissions & Quality Issues Minister Lalkantha confirmed reports of substandard coal are "true." Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa alleged the 9th shipment from a South African supplier is also below standard. Real-time data reportedly shows power output from this shipment dropped to 250–275 MW, well below the expected 300 MW per unit at the Norochcholai plant. • Financial & Operational Impact Loss Recovery: The government claims established criteria will be used to recover financial losses from suppliers. Economic Risk: The Opposition warns of increased fuel consumption, potential machinery damage, and higher costs for the energy sector, which could burden consumers. Previous Allegations: Opposition MPs previously estimated losses from the coal tender at approximately Rs. 8 Billion to Rs. 10 Billion. • Procurement Stance The administration defends the current process as more structured than previous "Cabinet-led" selections. Details on the supplier’s identity, total volume, and specific financial impact remain undisclosed (based on provisional data).