First flag of No-Tobacco Samurdhi Flag program pinned on President

The first flag of the No-Tobacco Samurdhi Flag program, carried out in conjunction with World No Tobacco Day, was pinned on President Maithripala Sirisena at the Presidential Secretariat yesterday.

This program will be carried out from today to 30 June throughout the country. A large number of events, street dramas, art and poster exhibitions, walks, lectures and conferences have been organised to create awareness on the harmful effects of tobacco use to the public, including to schoolchildren.

The funds earned from the sale of flags will be utilised for the welfare of the Samurdhi beneficiaries. The welfare programs include the construction of houses, provision of scholarships and school equipment and the provision of required facilities for people with special needs. 

Minister S.B. Dissanayake presented the report ‘Ape Gaman Mage Samaja Sathkaraka Piyasatahan’ to the President at this occasion.

Secretary to the Ministry of Social Empowerment and Welfare Mahinda Senavirathne and the Director General of the Samurdhi Development Department Neil Bandara Hapuhinna were among those present at the occasion.