President Anura Kumara Dissanayake announced that 400,000 additional families will begin receiving Aswesuma (welfare assistance) starting from July.
He made this statement today (April 17) at a public gathering in Mannar as part of the “Victory is Certain, the Village is Ours” rally series.
He also revealed that discussions are ongoing with the Indian government to resume the ferry service between Mannar and Rameswaram. Additionally, the government is prepared to harness Mannar’s wind energy potential while consulting the public and minimizing environmental damage.
Addressing the rally, President Anura emphasized that during the last general election, people from the North, South, East—Tamils, Muslims, and Sinhalese—united in electing the National People’s Power (NPP) government. He called on the public to continue this unity and avoid division in politics moving forward.
He declared that the current administration is built on national harmony, rejecting ethnic divisions of the past. “This is a government of unity that respects the rights of all citizens and treats everyone equally,” he said.
The President reaffirmed Sri Lanka’s sovereignty over its territorial waters and condemned illegal fishing practices, particularly in areas like Pesalai. He said the Navy has been instructed to take action against all illegal activities at sea, and discussions have been held with the Indian Prime Minister to resolve related issues.
He also pledged to reopen the long-closed Mannar–Puttalam road, which would reduce travel distance by approximately 90 kilometers, improving regional connectivity.
Highlighting economic improvements, the President noted that Sri Lanka now holds its largest foreign reserves in over five years, the rupee has remained stable for six months, fuel prices have been reduced, and public sector wages and welfare benefits have been increased.
Recognizing a shortage of Tamil-speaking personnel in public service and the police, he announced plans to recruit 2,000 new officers this year, encouraging Tamil-speaking youth to join the police force. He described it as a dignified job that helps uphold law and peace, with competitive salaries and benefits.
The President emphasized that this is the first administration in Sri Lanka where no public money will be stolen or wasted. “We are building a government free from corruption. Those who stole in the past will be held accountable.”
He concluded by stating that justice will prevail regarding major incidents such as murders and the Easter Sunday attacks. “In every developed country, the law applies equally to all. That is the principle we are building this nation on.”