President Anura Kumara Dissanayake stated that economic growth, no matter how impressive in statistical terms, is meaningless if it does not benefit rural communities. Speaking at the launch of the “Prajashakthi” National Programme at Temple Trees, he stressed that a nation’s progress must uplift every citizen, especially those in rural areas.
The President noted that while welfare systems are necessary, they should not serve the same individuals indefinitely. Instead, efforts must be made to transform welfare recipients into contributors to the economy. He highlighted that the government has spent over Rs. 230 billion on the ‘Aswesuma’ welfare programme alone, but questioned whether these funds have effectively reached the intended communities.
President Dissanayake pointed out inefficiencies in aid distribution, where over 50% of international aid funds are consumed by delivery mechanisms, allowances, and training rather than reaching the beneficiaries. He emphasized the need for state officials to ensure that aid is delivered responsibly and directly to the people who need it most.
The Prajashakthi Programme, he explained, is a targeted and integrated approach to rural development. It aims to coordinate all aid and development activities at the Divisional Secretariat level based on accurate data systems and local needs. This initiative will focus on transforming rural livelihoods into productive, sustainable economic activities and will be a core strategy for national progress.
President Dissanayake also addressed the challenges within the public service, noting that the current state infrastructure, vehicles, and systems are outdated. He pledged that the next budget would focus on modernizing the state mechanism—both physically and digitally—and called for a new, people-oriented public service to match these reforms.
He underscored that eradicating rural poverty is a key national responsibility and must be addressed through education, opportunity, and integrated planning. He called on all ministries, institutions, and citizens to work together in this collective mission.
The event also featured remarks by Minister Dr. Upali Pannilage, who highlighted that 79% of Sri Lanka’s population resides in rural or estate areas and that poverty continues to rise despite decades of programmes. He affirmed that the Prajashakthi initiative is designed with solutions rooted in local realities and lessons from past failures.
The programme launch was attended by senior government officials, ministers, MPs, Central Bank Governor Dr. Nandalal Weerasinghe, provincial governors, ministry secretaries, state officers, and representatives from international organisations.
