Priority for SMIs in 'Development' Drive workplan
 

by Rohan Mathes

Finance Minister Dr. Sarath Amunugama gives top priority to the Small and Medium-scale Industries (SMIs), 'Gami Pubudu', Rural Electrification and 'Maga Neguma' programmes in his 'Development Drive' workplan to develop the country in the coming year.

Dr. Amunugama at his ministry on Tuesday, briefed the Provincial Council (PC) Members' Forum, on his workplan, based on President Chandrika Kumaratunga's concept, which envisages to enlighten the political leadership at National, Provincial and Electoral level, as an initial stage.

Amunugama underscored the importance of devolving the development projects through the budget and said that he anticipated to develop the SMIs nationally, with a view to generate employment at a broader level. "From our last budget, we established the SMI Bank for the SMI Entrepreneurs to obtain loans at concessionary rates. You should be aware of this", he stressed.

He pointed out that they should be concerned about the 'Samurdhi' oriented 'Gammi Pubudu' project which has already begun. This was another development project which had strengthened rural development at a primary level, and solicited rural labour on a voluntary basis.

Minister Amunugama also vowed to expedite the implementation of the Rural Electrification schemes which not only provided electricity but also the opportunity for the villagers, to utilise rural raw materials for their enterprises.

He urged the PC members to closely monitor and supervise the mega 'Maga Neguma' and 'Wev Dahasak' programmes and the 'Vidartha', educational, health, transport, fisheries and agricultural projects which are already under way at electoral level.