“Manusavi” contributory pension scheme for migrant workers debuts

The Government yesterday launched the pension scheme titled “Manusavi” for migrant workers. 

Labour and Foreign Employment Minister Manusha Nanayakkara said the social security contributory pension scheme was in appreciation of the contribution migrant workers make to boost foreign reserves and socio-economic development. He added the scheme fulfils a long felt need of migrant workers.

“In the name of humanity, we thank all those who have supported to make ‘Manusavi’ pension scheme a reality,” Nanayakkara told the launch held at the Sri Lanka Bureau of Foreign Employment. 

“We are appreciating and showing our gratitude to our migrant workers who have made enormous sacrifices on behalf of the country. They are today helping the country get the oil, medicine, and LP gas which are in short supply. But I have to say their services have not been appreciated as they should have been for a long time,” the Minister said. 

A migrant worker can join this pension scheme at the time of going abroad for employment.  If a monthly amount of $ 11 is directed to this for four years according to one’s discretion, after 55 years, a monthly pension of a minimum of Rs. 20,000 will be entitled for a migrant worker at the start. Migrant workers have the opportunity to choose a plan of his or her choice according to their wishes.  The Ministry of Social Security, and Social Security Board were associated with the launch of the scheme.

State Minister for Labour and Foreign Employment Jagath Pushpakumara, State Minister for Social Empowerment Anupa Pascual also spoke. 

Secretary to the Ministry of Labour and Foreign Employment R.P.A. Wimalaweera, Sri Lanka Bureau of Foreign Employment Chairman Mahendra Kumarasinghe, General Manager Priyantha Senanayake, Sri Lanka Social Security Board Chairman Saman Hadaragama and General Manager Prasanna Kaluarachchi were also present.