The Hon. Nandana Pathmakumara

¶ 01 Hon. Presiding Member, all religions ultimately aim to build a good person and a good society. Buddhism in particular emphasizes health, well-being, happiness, and contentment. To redirect Sri Lankan society onto a better path, the NPP government under President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, as Minister of Finance, has presented a Budget that targets a prosperous country and a better life.

¶ 02 People now look forward with hope because the country is moving forward. While people work toward these goals, the Opposition has begun to lament—not for any other reason but out of fear, having lost the presidential and parliamentary elections, and foreseeing defeat at the forthcoming local government polls. They know the relief provided and the trust being built will lead to further defeats. Hence their daily noise for evening TV clips. The people know the Opposition’s fate; we too regret their plight.

¶ 03 The Buddha taught: “Arogyaparamā lābhā, santutthi paramam dhanan, vissāsa paramā ñāti, nibbānan paramam sukhan”—the greatest gain is health. For a healthy society, we have increased allocations to the health sector. The Opposition made much noise that the Triposha factory was closed. Instead, we have allocated Rs. 12.5 billion to provide Triposha and other nutritious meals.

¶ 04 A major current challenge is the rise of non-communicable diseases amid an aging population. Significant funds are allocated for NCD treatment, for the “Suwa Sariya” ambulance service, and for hospital management committees. That is why the Opposition is howling today.

¶ 05 From child to elder, the nation must have health, happiness, trust, and good education. We have allocated substantial funds across early childhood, schools, universities, and vocational education, and also for moral education in temples, churches, and kovils to develop humane, values-based citizens.

¶ 06 In the past, many thought only of themselves, seeking to win by defeating others. We now strive to change that mindset—toward love of country, compassion to animals, care for rivers and canals. The Clean Sri Lanka program has been embraced across society—temples, schools, hospitals, and government institutions are transforming. Our shores were cleaned and will be maintained going forward, benefiting citizens and tourists alike.

¶ 07 We focus on agriculture through the “United to the Farmland” program. Our dairy, meat, and even rice needs are not fully met domestically due to decades of neglect of agriculture. Farmers’ children moved away; new entrants dwindled. We will reverse this with a comprehensive plan.

¶ 08 We are also emphasizing attitudinal change across sectors to improve courtesy and efficiency in institutions long plagued by apathy. Guided by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, our goal is not merely to make Sri Lanka a developed nation but a prosperous one. Every program in this Budget serves to beautify and improve people’s lives. We have prepared to deploy these funds efficiently to effect real change.

¶ 09 We will secure a decisive victory at the local government elections because of the trust in this government and its programs. We have considered the needs of children, women, elders, and all communities across the North, South, East, and West. Sports too will be uplifted to restore public confidence, integrating agriculture, health, education, and sports in a unified program for a prosperous country and a beautiful life. I invite all citizens to join in rebuilding our nation. Thank you.