Australia increases support for demining

To mark International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action (4 April), Australia announced its increased support for humanitarian demining efforts in Sri Lanka. 

Australia will provide AUD 1 million (more than Rs. 124 million) in assistance over the next two years through a partnership with the Mine Action Group (MAG) and Sri Lankan organisation Devlon Assistance for Social Harmony (DASH).

This increased funding will provide vital additional mine clearance capacity in Mannar and Vavuniya, two critical mine-affected provinces. It will allow many families to return to their land, re-establish their lives and enhance income-earning opportunities.

Australia has been one of the largest contributors to demining in Sri Lanka, contributing AUD 20 million (around Rs. 2 billion) since 2009.