The Hon. (Dr.) (Ms.) Harini Amarasuriya

¶ 01 Hon. Deputy Speaker, within the existing provision under Item 102‑1‑02‑040‑1501 (Cash Assistance to Low‑Income Families), we propose to allocate Rs. 6,500 million as a new line item titled “Grant for Purchase of School Stationery and Equipment.” Thus, this program can be implemented without an additional burden on Government finances.

¶ 02 The Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Digital Economy and the Ministry of Finance are finalizing the most efficient delivery mechanism — whether direct transfers to bank accounts or a supplier‑based model enabling children to obtain stationery at designated outlets. We plan to provide this annually from next year onward.

¶ 03 In addition, we are strengthening other measures to keep children in school. We will review and improve the school mid‑day meal program, as questions have arisen whether all children have received nutritious meals despite allocations.

¶ 04 We also plan to provide school uniforms for all children in 2025. The full requirement has been granted by the Government of China, to whom we express our gratitude.

¶ 05 While seeking solutions to national challenges, we regret attempts by segments of the Opposition and affiliated media to undermine such efforts — for instance, politicizing the Chinese donation and attempting to create diplomatic issues. We thank the Chinese Ambassador and Government for understanding the political motives behind such attempts.

¶ 06 Our President is presently on a visit to India. The progress of engagements shows how effectively this Government is managing international relations, contrary to narratives that our foreign ties are weak.

¶ 07 Furthermore, there is now unusual interest in the qualifications of our Ministers and Members. We welcome genuine scrutiny; the public has every right to verify whether what we say is true. We are committed to transparency.