Sri Lanka’s efforts to protect vulnerable groups amidst crisis come under spotlight

Saturday, 11 February 2023 01:18 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Reviews progress of Welfare Benefits Board census data thus far

Sri Lanka’s efforts to protect vulnerable groups in the midst of the worst economic crisis were highlighted at a high-level review meeting yesterday, attended by Government and World Bank officials.

The progress and challenges of Sri Lanka thus far were discussed at the high-level meeting chaired by President’s Senior Advisor on National Security Sagala Ratnayake. World Bank Manager Chiyo Kanda, World Bank Senior Economist Richard Walker, Senior Advisor to the President on Economic Affairs Dr. R.H.S. Samaratunga, senior officials of the Treasury, and Welfare Benefits Board attended the review meeting. The meeting aimed to identify those affected by the current economic crisis and those with low income and to provide them with the necessary assistance. The Welfare Benefits Board has been tasked with determining the individuals who are eligible for welfare benefits in a transparent manner and creating a social security benefit register.

During the discussion, it was revealed that the data samples collected will cover every divisional secretariat countrywide, with census work already completed for 23 divisions.

The Welfare Benefits program is fully supported by the World Bank and is providing the necessary technical assistance. Recognising the significance of having the World Bank’s assistant in this endeavour, Ratnayake insisted on the importance of continuous communication between Government officials and World Bank representatives.

A follow-up discussion on the matter will also be held at the District Secretaries conference next Tuesday (14).