Saturday Oct 31, 2026
Saturday Oct 31, 2026
Saturday, 31 October 2026 00:00 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}
Saving for the future is one of the most valuable financial and social habits that individuals can cultivate. It is not merely a matter of managing money; rather, it is a fundamental principle that determines the financial security of individuals, the stability of families, the resilience of communities and the long-term economic prosperity of a nation. However, in the face of the economic, social and environmental challenges confronting the world today, the time has come to broaden our traditional understanding of thrift and redefine its relevance to the contemporary society.
Traditionally, thrift has been understood as the practice of setting aside a portion of one’s earnings to meet future needs. While this principle remains as important as ever, we now live in a world where financial security alone cannot guarantee a safe and prosperous future. A future without clean water, a healthy environment, adequate food, sustainable energy, natural resources and biodiversity cannot be considered secure, regardless of the financial wealth we may accumulate.
Therefore, the most important question we must ask ourselves today is not simply how much money we are saving for our children, but how much of the world we are preserving for them to inherit. It is with this broader understanding of our responsibility towards future generations that the National Savings Bank has selected “Saving a Tomorrow” as the national theme for the Thrift Month 2026.
Our intention is to extend the meaning of thrift beyond financial savings to encompass environmental conservation, the responsible utilisation of natural resources, energy efficiency, sustainable consumption and the preservation of our national heritage. More importantly, we seek to establish thrift as a shared national responsibility that requires the active participation of every individual, institution and community.
Thrift and future of the national economy
Domestic savings play a fundamental role in strengthening the economic stability and long-term development of a nation. Savings accumulated by individuals and households become an important source of financial resources that can be channeled through the banking system towards national investment, entrepreneurship, housing development and other productive economic activities.
When an individual develops the habit of saving, it strengthens personal financial security. When that habit becomes deeply rooted throughout society, it contributes to the resilience and stability of the country’s financial system. For a developing economy such as Sri Lanka, strengthening domestic savings is particularly important in supporting sustainable economic development.
Having experienced significant economic challenges in recent years, our country must place renewed emphasis on financial discipline, responsible consumption, prudent financial management and long-term planning. However, thrift should never be misunderstood as the complete restriction of consumption or the denial of essential needs.
Rather, it is the ability to identify priorities, distinguish between needs and wants, and utilise available resources intelligently and productively. Living within one’s means, managing unnecessary expenditure, maintaining responsible borrowing practices and systematically saving for future requirements are essential elements of financial thrift. The same principles are equally applicable to the way we utilise our natural resources.
By consuming responsibly, minimising waste and encouraging the reuse of resources, we can generate benefits not only for individual households but also for the wider national economy.
Protecting the environment is also an investment for tomorrow
Climate change, rising global temperatures, water scarcity, deforestation, environmental pollution and the loss of biodiversity are among the most pressing challenges faced by humanity today. These challenges cannot be separated from economic development. Changes in environmental conditions directly affect agriculture, food security, public health, infrastructure, energy requirements and overall economic productivity.
The United Nations’ 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development recognises that economic progress, social wellbeing and environmental protection are interconnected dimensions of sustainable development. In particular, the Sustainable Development Goals relating to clean water and sanitation, affordable and clean energy, sustainable cities and communities, responsible consumption and production, and climate action are closely aligned with the message we seek to communicate through this year’s Thrift Month. One of the most important principles we must recognise is that environmental protection is not the responsibility of governments and environmental organisations alone.
Every citizen has a meaningful role to play
Switching off unnecessary lights, preventing the wastage of water, reducing food waste, limiting the use of single-use plastics, segregating household waste, encouraging recycling and planting and nurturing trees are simple but effective actions through which individuals can contribute towards environmental sustainability.
Energy conservation deserves particular attention. Reducing unnecessary energy consumption can help households manage expenditure while contributing towards the efficient utilisation of national energy resources. Similarly, promoting renewable energy and improving energy efficiency are important steps towards building a more sustainable and resilient economy.
Every drop of water we conserve today, every unit of electricity we save and every tree we plant and nurture represent valuable contributions towards the wellbeing of future generations. Just as we save money in a bank account for our children, we must also preserve a healthy environment and sustainable natural resources for them to inherit. This is the broader philosophy of thrift that the National Savings Bank seeks to promote.
A new banking vision built on environmental and social responsibility
The role of banks and financial institutions is undergoing a significant transformation across the world. Today, the success of a financial institution is increasingly assessed not only through profitability, asset growth and market value, but also through its contribution towards society, environmental sustainability and responsible economic development.
Against this background, the principles of Environmental, Social and Governance responsibility, commonly referred to as ESG, have become an important consideration in modern banking. Environmental responsibility focuses on conserving natural resources, improving energy efficiency and supporting environmentally responsible practices.
Social responsibility encompasses financial inclusion, education, community development, customer protection and the wellbeing of society. Governance responsibility emphasises transparency, accountability, ethical conduct, regulatory compliance and responsible decision-making. As a national financial institution, the responsibility of the National Savings Bank extends beyond accepting deposits and providing banking services.
Having earned the trust of generations of Sri Lankans, we recognise our obligation to contribute towards the long-term development of the country, the wellbeing of society and the preservation of the environment. Strengthening financial literacy, promoting secure savings, expanding access to banking services through technology and ensuring that financial services reach every segment of society remain central to our national mission. Our initiative, themed, “Saving a Tomorrow” represents an effort to translate these broader responsibilities into practical actions that can become part of the everyday lives of our people.
We believe that responsible banking must create value not only for the present generation but also for those who will inherit the future.
NSB SavingsFest 2026: Transforming the philosophy of thrift into national action
The National Savings Bank has traditionally observed October as Thrift Month, culminating in the celebration of World Thrift Day on 31 October. This year, we have sought to give the occasion a broader national significance through NSB SavingsFest 2026, organised under the theme “Saving a Tomorrow.”
What makes this year’s initiative particularly meaningful is our decision to move beyond conventional awareness campaigns and translate the philosophy of thrift into a series of practical, community-oriented activities. The program focuses on environmentally friendly transportation, tree planting, the conservation of water and natural resources, responsible waste management, recycling, the improvement of public spaces and the protection of our national heritage.
Through the message “A Ride to Save Our Trees, A Ride to Preserve Our Waterways, A Ride to Save Tomorrow,” we intend to encourage communities to recognise that the preservation of our environment is an essential part of building a sustainable future. The main celebrations in Colombo will commence at 7.30 a.m. on Saturday, 31 October 2026, with a special cycling parade ceremonially flagged off by the Chairman of the National Savings Bank, Dr. Harsha Cabral, President’s Counsel.
Cycling has been selected as a symbolic element of this year’s program because it brings together several important principles: environmentally responsible transportation, healthier lifestyles and the efficient utilisation of resources. Promoting cycling as an alternative mode of transport, where practical and appropriate, can contribute towards reducing fuel consumption and encouraging more sustainable mobility.
Following the cycling parade, a special tree-planting program is scheduled to take place at 9.30 a.m. in the vicinity of the Gangaramaya Temple in Colombo. The initiative is intended to highlight the importance of urban greenery and the preservation of green spaces for future generations. Tree planting in urban environments is not merely an exercise in beautification. When appropriate species are selected and properly maintained, trees can provide shade, support biodiversity and contribute towards healthier urban surroundings.
The main NSB SavingsFest 2026 Thrift Carnival will commence at 10.30 a.m. at Viharamahadevi Park, Colombo. The carnival is designed to bring together financial awareness, environmental responsibility, local entrepreneurship and community participation within a single public platform. Trade exhibitions, stalls, environmentally friendly activities and awareness programs will provide opportunities for visitors to experience the broader meaning of thrift in a practical and engaging manner.
Emphasis will be placed on reducing unnecessary plastic consumption, promoting recycling and encouraging environmentally responsible lifestyles. We also consider the participation of children and young people especially important. By introducing the principles of thrift, financial responsibility and environmental conservation at an early age, we can help nurture a generation that is better prepared to make responsible decisions about its future.
A national environmental mission extending beyond Colombo
One of the most distinctive features of NSB SavingsFest 2026 is its islandwide character. We have deliberately extended the program beyond Colombo because environmental and social responsibility cannot be confined to a single city or region. Different parts of Sri Lanka face different environmental challenges.
Coastal communities must address issues relating to marine pollution and coastal conservation, while communities in the central highlands face challenges associated with soil erosion, the protection of water catchment areas and landslide risks. Urban communities, meanwhile, must place greater emphasis on waste management, the maintenance of public spaces and the preservation of urban greenery. Recognising these diverse needs, the National Savings Bank has organised a series of regional activities through its extensive branch and regional office network.
In the Northern Province, a cycling parade will be organised in Chunnakam, together with a tree-planting initiative along the Thalsevana coastal area in Kankesanthurai. The program is intended to promote awareness of coastal conservation and the importance of protecting vulnerable coastal ecosystems.
In the Eastern Province, cycling parades, tree-planting programs and SavingsFest activities have been planned in Batticaloa and Uhana. These initiatives seek to encourage community participation, environmentally responsible transportation and the development of greener surroundings.
In the Central Province, a cycling parade and SavingsFest carnival will be organised in Kandy to communicate the message of responsible living and environmental sustainability.
In the Northwestern Province, activities in Kurunegala will include a cycling parade and a program to improve the appearance of the Kurunegala Railway Station. This initiative carries an important message: protecting and maintaining public property is also an essential element of thrift. Public infrastructure belongs to the nation, and its proper maintenance represents responsible stewardship of national resources.
In the Southern Province, programs in Dondra and Matara will focus on recycling, responsible plastic waste management and the protection of the marine environment. Special activities have also been planned in Galle, including the cleaning and preservation of the historic Galle Fort, tree planting and SavingsFest celebrations. These initiatives reinforce the understanding that thrift is not limited to financial resources or the natural environment.
Our historical and cultural heritage is equally valuable and must be preserved for future generations.
In the Sabaragamuwa Province, environmental cleaning, tree planting and urban beautification programs will be carried out in Kegalle and Ratnapura.
In the Uva Province, activities in Badulla will focus on environmental conservation, soil erosion and community awareness of landslide risks. The common objective of these regional programs is to translate the philosophy of thrift into meaningful action according to the specific needs of each community.
From the conservation of coastal environments in the North to the preservation of historical heritage in the South, and from the protection of highland ecosystems to the improvement of urban green spaces, we are working towards one common national objective: safeguarding the future of our country.
We regard this initiative not merely as a promotional campaign conducted by a bank, but as a national message of responsibility carried to the people through a trusted financial institution.
October: A month that connects generations
The Month of October holds particular significance for the National Savings Bank. The World Children’s Day and the International Day of Older Persons are observed on 1 October, followed by the World Teachers’ Day on 5 October, World Post Day on 9 October and World Thrift Day on 31 October. Each of these occasions is closely connected with the national mission of the bank.
Children represent the future of our nation
Developing financial discipline, responsible habits and an understanding of the importance of savings from an early age is an investment in the long-term wellbeing of society. To mark the World Children’s Day this year, the National Savings Bank organised the “Paata Paata Hapankam” Children’s Art Competition under the theme “Big Dreams Through Little Savings.” The program provided an opportunity to recognise the children’s creativity while introducing the importance of saving for their future.
Encouraging a child to dream, appreciating their creativity and building confidence in their abilities are valuable contributions towards their development. At the same time, the knowledge, experience and wisdom of older generations must be recognised and passed on to younger members of society. Meanwhile, the older generations have played a significant role in preserving the traditional values of thrift, financial discipline and responsible living.
World Teachers’ Day also holds a special place in our institutional calendar. This year, through our islandwide network, we had the privilege of visiting schools and personally recognising the teachers for their invaluable contribution towards shaping the future of our children. Teachers play a fundamental role in developing knowledge, discipline, responsibility and positive attitudes among young people. Their contribution towards establishing a culture of thrift and responsible citizenship deserves our highest appreciation.
World Post Day is equally meaningful to the National Savings Bank. The longstanding relationship between the Bank and the Sri Lanka Postal Department represents an important chapter in the history of savings mobilisation in our country. Through the postal network, banking and savings facilities have been brought closer to communities across Sri Lanka, particularly those in rural and underserved areas. This partnership continues to demonstrate the importance of financial inclusion and equitable access to financial services.
Together, these commemorations reflect a common national objective: strengthening the culture of thrift across generations, from children to senior citizens.
Fifty-four years of national service: From a proud heritage to the future of banking
The history of the National Savings Bank is closely intertwined with the development of Sri Lanka’s savings culture. Building upon a savings heritage dating back to 1832, the National Savings Bank was established in 1972 and marks its 54th anniversary in 2026. Throughout this journey, our fundamental responsibility has remained unchanged: encouraging the people of Sri Lanka to save and strengthening their long-term financial security. The National Savings Bank occupies a unique position in the country’s financial sector, with a 100% Government guarantee on deposits and the interest payable on them. This assurance has contributed significantly towards establishing the Bank as a trusted national financial institution.
We regard the confidence placed in us by generations of Sri Lankans not merely as an institutional achievement, but as a responsibility that must be protected and strengthened.
Today, the National Savings Bank serves the country through a network of 263 branches, supported by extensive postal banking facilities. At the same time, we continue to develop modern digital banking solutions, convenient payment facilities and technology-driven services to meet the evolving financial requirements of our customers. Having secured a position among Sri Lanka’s five most valuable brands, the National Savings Bank continues to strengthen its institutional reputation and brand value.
However, our vision for the future extends beyond maintaining our traditional position as a savings institution. While preserving the fundamental values of security, trust and financial discipline, we aspire to become an increasingly modern, digitally enabled, customer-centric and future-oriented bank.
Digital banking provides opportunities for customers to save time, reduce unnecessary travel and conduct financial transactions more conveniently. It also creates opportunities to improve operational efficiency, reduce paper consumption and encourage more responsible resource utilisation.
Therefore, technological advancement and environmental sustainability should not be viewed as competing priorities. Rather, they are complementary dimensions of the future of responsible banking. We believe that the strength of a national financial institution must be measured not only by its financial performance but also by its ability to respond meaningfully to the changing needs of society.
Transforming thrift from a habit into a national culture
The message we seek to communicate during Thrift Month 2026 should not end with the celebrations on 31 October.
It must become a continuing philosophy that begins within the home, extends to schools and workplaces, reaches communities and ultimately becomes deeply rooted throughout the nation. As families, we must save a portion of our income for future needs while also using water, electricity and other household resources responsibly. As schools, we must develop financial literacy among children while nurturing respect for nature, responsible waste management and environmental awareness.
As institutions, we must pursue financial performance while maintaining a strong commitment to resource efficiency, ethical conduct and social responsibility. As a nation, we must pursue economic development while ensuring that our natural resources and national heritage remain available for future generations. This transformation does not necessarily begin with large investments or complex national programs. It begins with small changes in individual attitudes and behaviour.
The decision to avoid an unnecessary expense, the habit of conserving water, the commitment to keeping a public place clean and the willingness of a community to plant and nurture trees are all contributions towards the same national objective. One of the most important truths we must recognise is that the future is not simply something we inherit; it is something we create through the decisions we make today. A sustainable future cannot be achieved through policies and programs alone.
It requires a collective commitment to responsible behaviour, thoughtful consumption and respect for the resources upon which our lives depend.
Our responsibility towards the generations yet to come
Every generation aspires to leave behind a better future for its children. However, fulfilling that aspiration requires more than accumulating financial wealth, property and material assets. Our children deserve to inherit clean air, safe water, fertile land, healthy ecosystems, rich biodiversity and a proud national heritage. They must also inherit the values of financial discipline, responsible consumption, social cooperation and respect for the environment.
As the National Savings Bank, our ambition is to strengthen this broader understanding of thrift throughout Sri Lankan society. Our institutional heritage, financial strength, nationwide service network and the confidence placed in us by the people provide a strong foundation for advancing this national mission.
Nevertheless, this is not a responsibility that the National Savings Bank can fulfil alone. It requires the active participation of public and private institutions, schools, universities, environmental organisations, local communities, entrepreneurs, young people and the wider public.
Therefore, I extend a warm and sincere invitation to all Sri Lankans to join us at NSB SavingsFest 2026, taking place at Viharamahadevi Park in Colombo and at selected locations across the country on 31 October 2026. On this occasion, we will come together not merely to commemorate World Thrift Day, but to promote a renewed national understanding of thrift and its relevance to the future of our country.
Every Rupee we save today contributes towards financial security tomorrow. Every drop of water we conserve today is a valuable resource preserved for future generations. Every unit of energy we save contributes towards the responsible management of our national resources. Every tree we plant, and nurture today may provide shade and environmental benefits for generations to come. Similarly, every element of our national heritage that we protect today helps preserve the identity, history and dignity of our nation.
Saving for the future is not merely about setting aside a portion of what we possess today. It is about ensuring that the resources we enjoy in the present remain available for those who will come after us.
The success of our generation should not be measured solely by the wealth we accumulate or the resources we consume, but by the value of the resources, opportunities and heritage we preserve for future generations. As the National Savings Bank marks 54 years of national service, we are committed to giving renewed meaning to our longstanding mission by transforming thrift from a financial habit into a national philosophy of responsible living.
Because what we must save today is not merely money, but tomorrow itself.
Together with National Savings Bank – Let us ‘Save a Tomorrow!’
(The author is the General Manager/CEO, National Savings Bank)
