The Hon. (Prof.) Anil Jayantha

¶ 01 We are working within a time-bound framework through the dedicated task force that brings together all groups related to Sri Lanka’s state institutions to implement a rapid action programme. I, too, serve as a member. Under the financial derisking framework, Sri Lanka is currently on the FATF Grey List, and we must exit by mid-2026. We also expect to introduce the Microfinance and Credit Regulatory Authority Act and amend the Marketing Board Act No. 14 of 1971.

¶ 02 Some accuse us of merely distributing funds and making handouts in this Budget, and of expanding social welfare. In truth, a range of social protection programmes are included—particularly the Aswesuma social security programme now being rolled out. That allocation was increased for specific reasons, foremost among them the challenges we face.

¶ 03 The first challenge is to stabilize the domestic financial system, the economy, and the external sector to set the country on the right path. Work is underway on that. However, over 50 percent of our population struggles under poverty. Therefore, beyond rehabilitation or temporary relief, we must empower people socially and economically, and gradually integrate them into productive economic activity. That requires a targeted social welfare system. Accordingly, the total allocation across different programmes is Rs. 749 billion.

¶ 04 Under the new expenditure proposals, special attention is directed to: care and protection of orphaned and vulnerable children; improving and adding facilities for children in children’s homes and approved detention homes; and strengthening rehabilitation for those affected by drug addiction, so that they can be reintegrated productively into society rather than relapsing. Similarly, for those released from prison who face high recidivism risks, we propose structured programmes to develop skills and provide the necessary training so they can participate productively in the economy. We also allocate funds to identify and support persons with disabilities, including provision of necessary assistive devices. Under the 54 expenditure proposals I previously mentioned, Rs. 7,450 million is allocated for these purposes.

¶ 05 Poverty is not confined to income—it seeps into every aspect of life. Lack of adequate housing has become a major problem. Therefore, with enhanced focus in 2025—combining prior and new projects—Rs. 37 billion is allocated solely for house renovations, new housing, and housing development.

¶ 06 Across this Budget, expenditures are not mere line items but part of a coherent programme. I urge the Opposition to look beyond the statistics. Not everything can be measured numerically. We must learn to see beyond rupees and cents, because life itself is embedded in this Budget.

¶ 07 There were allegations that we proposed new taxes while trying to increase revenue. We have not imposed special new taxes. For the first time in three years, VAT has not been increased, and again this year we will not increase VAT; rather, we propose VAT reliefs and income tax reliefs, while improving income tax collection efficiency. A mistaken view spread via social media claimed we proposed tax cuts—this is a misinterpretation. We propose sustainable revenue collection. I encourage scholars and researchers to analyze this Budget rigorously, and examine how state assets are governed with accountability to drive national development. I also urge Government and Opposition Members alike to look beyond statistics to the lives this Budget seeks to uplift. If we do so, I believe no one can reasonably oppose this Budget. With that expectation of everyone’s support, I conclude. Thank you, Hon. Presiding Member.