• President instructs to expedite release of funds for paddy purchase, to provide rice for low-income families, settle gratuity arrears, minimise malnutrition
• Cabinet approves to provide funds for Health Ministry to purchase essential medicine

The Cabinet of Ministers yesterday approved a slew of proposals tabled by President Ranil Wickremesinghe to provide immediate relief to those in need of help and to alleviate the difficulties faced by vulnerable groups in society.

These include a measure to provide 10 kg of rice to two million low-income families each in March and April. This will provide immediate relief to families in need and help improve their overall well-being.

It has also been decided that the gratuity arrears unsettled to 18,000 retired Government servants will be paid out in instalments using liquid cash. This move is expected to provide much-needed relief to retired Government employees waiting for their rightful benefits since April 2022.

The Women, Child Affairs and Social Empowerment Ministry are also taking important steps to address malnutrition and improve the well-being of vulnerable groups in the country. As part of this effort, measures have been taken to continue providing critical assistance to those in need, including a monthly allowance for pregnant mothers, a monthly stipend to those facing food insecurity and the elderly and disabled, financial assistance to kidney patients, and for granting Samurdhi relief, without hindrance.

“The Government is committed to improving the standard of living for all its citizens, especially those who are most in need,” President’s Media Division issuing a statement yesterday noted.

The Cabinet of Ministers has also decided to give the Health Ministry the money it needs to prioritise the purchase of essential medications.

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