In a bid to address the pressing economic challenges facing the nation, State Minister of Finance Shehan Semasinghe announced today that the government will increase the number of Aswesuma recipients to 2.4 million families.
Minister Semasingh highlighted the government’s commitment to supporting those most affected by the economic hardships.
The expansion of the Aswesuma program is expected to bring relief to a significant portion of the population grappling with reduced income, and increased living costs.
Calling applications for the year 2024 will begin at the end of January or the beginning of February month, says Finance State Minister Shehan Semasinghe. Welfare Benefits Board – https://wbb.gov.lk/
Minister Semasinghe says that applications will be called for the second phase of the “Aswesuma” welfare benefits programme will commence in January 2024. The State Minister pointed out that the government is ready to carry out a comprehensive review of the welfare benefit scheme’s first phase, before the second phase is launched. The issues that emerged during the implementation of the first phase and also the suggestions presented by various parties will be considered during this review, Semasinghe said.
Aswesuma, a social welfare program aimed at providing financial assistance to vulnerable households, has proven to be a crucial lifeline for many amidst the ongoing economic downturn. With the prevailing dire economic situation, the government has recognized the need to expand the reach of this program to ensure a wider coverage of families in need.