Social welfare allowance increased

Irangika RANGE

The monthly social welfare allowance of Rs. 3,000 promised under the Mahinda Chinthanaya policy framework has been paid to 11,216 families with differently abled members in 2011.

Social Services Minister Felix Perera told the 'Daily News' that the monthly social welfare allowance granted to families with differently abled members has been increased from Rs.1,000 up to Rs.3,000 through the 2011 budget. Around Rs.403 million was allocated for these payments in 2011.

He said under the Mahinda Chinthanaya programme, differently abled people are treated equally as honorable citizens and the government is committed to ensure their well-being and welfare.

"The government will construct 1,000 houses for families with differently abled members. It is our duty to create a free economic, social and mental environment to help differently abled people lead happy and comfortable life," he said. "Around seven percent of Sri Lanka's population are disabled and it is the government's aim to provide them with suitable vocational training and to get them involved in the country's development process" Minister Perera said.

He said the government plans to integrate disabled people in to society by creating a social environment that provides the necessary economic opportunities to accommodate such people.