The Hon. Chandana Thennekoon

¶ 01 Hon. Presiding Member, recently our Hon. President presented to this Parliament the second Budget of the National People’s Power Government. Through its six objectives—creating inclusive economic growth that benefits all, diversifying exports to increase export income, ensuring debt sustainability, strengthening the productive economy, eradicating rural poverty, and taking the country into a new era through digitalization—he has presented a Budget capable of taking our country towards a new transformation. In fact, scholars across the country have commented very positively on this Budget.

¶ 02 I wish to note especially that this Budget includes a large number of projects aimed at eradicating rural poverty. To name a few, in the irrigation sector, Rs. 91,700 million has been allocated to uplift the entire sector. By restarting BOAD irrigation projects that have stalled midway, we can uplift agriculture and bring its yields into our economy. For the development of canals and schemes like Rajanganaya, Gal Oya, and Minneriya, approximately Rs. 6,500 million has been allocated this time. Such initiatives will help eradicate rural poverty.

¶ 03 Furthermore, to redevelop small rural tanks and our historic ellanga cascade systems, and to relieve communities facing climate change impacts and water scarcity, about Rs. 8,500 million has been allocated. Additionally, funds have been allocated to develop 650 small tanks and 350 canal bunds. We believe these will contribute to the productive economy and also accelerate the agricultural sector.

¶ 04 For decades, previous rulers neglected the human-elephant conflict. In Puttalam, Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, and parts of the Southern Province such as Hambantota, and in parts of Kurunegala District, people are suffering from this conflict. In Kurunegala District, areas like Nikaweratiya, Ambanpola, Galgamuwa, Giribawa, Ehatuwewa, and Polpithigama are severely affected. In recent months, the conflict between elephants and people has intensified. No previous government paid adequate attention. We are grateful to the Hon. President for focusing special attention on eradicating this conflict for rural communities.

¶ 05 The Department of Wildlife Conservation has been approved to procure 294 vehicles and modern technical equipment for field operations. In addition to existing allocations, a further Rs. 300 million has been set aside to build new elephant fences. Staff shortages have especially affected this issue. As an urgent solution, 5,000 Civil Security Department officers will be assigned to this task, and Rs. 375 million has been allocated to provide them fuel and other allowances.

¶ 06 Moreover, Rs. 80 million has been allocated to enhance forests and water sources to provide elephants with adequate food and water. Notably, Sri Lanka has not yet presented a precise scientific approach or solution to the human-elephant conflict. Therefore, an additional Rs. 10 million has been allocated for research. We appreciate the role of representatives from affected areas. Significant funds have also been allocated for rural road development and to improve rural transport to uplift the rural economy.

¶ 07 Housing is another serious rural issue. Under the “A Home for All” programme, this year we plan to build 402 houses in Kurunegala District with allocations in the tens of millions of rupees; 305 have already been completed. For next year, Rs. 10,200 million has been allocated for this programme. This is a significant proposal in the Budget.

¶ 08 In education, large allocations have been made. Rs. 9,000 million for books and supplies for students from low-income families; a Rs. 5,000 allowance per special-needs child; Rs. 11,000 million for development of medical faculties including in universities; and Rs. 11,500 million to upgrade facilities in universities and higher education institutions.

¶ 09 When we assumed office, the monthly Mahapola allowance was Rs. 5,000; it was increased to Rs. 7,500 in the last Budget, and now to Rs. 10,000. The student bursary that was Rs. 4,000 was raised to Rs. 6,500 and now to Rs. 9,000. The “Skilled Student Courage Allowance” was increased by Rs. 2,500. Substantial funds have thus been allocated both to develop the rural economy and to ensure economic sustainability. This Budget includes numerous proposals to enhance domestic production and diversify exports to stabilize the economy. When these are implemented, the Opposition will be left only to keep talking about the Budget. With that reminder, I conclude.

¶ 10 Thank you.