'Govt improves children's status'

The government is endeavouring to enhance the status of children of the rural community, said North Central Chief Minister Ranjith Samarakoon.

He said so, following the commissioning of two new library buildings at Kekirawa Gonapathirawa Sri Pushparama Temple and Kadiyangalla Sri Jaya Gangarama Temple, constructed under the Gamaneguma project. Rs 3.5 million was spent for the two library complexes.

The Chief Minister said President Mahinda Rajapaksa, not confining only to gain victory over terrorism, was determined to achieve economic emancipation coupled with spiritual advancement in the country. He said Economic Development Minister Basil Rajapaksa had embarked on an islandwide programme to establish libraries and Nenasala institutes at every recognized religious place. He said vocational training centres will be affiliated to these Nenasala and library complexes. "Buddhist priests and other religious leaders shall guide the people to be on the correct path in empowering the livelihood and gaining spiritual liberation.

The road towards the Miracle of Asia is based on values in society," the Chief Minister said.

Parliamentarian S C Muthukumarana was also present.