In a powerful demonstration of political stability and unwavering commitment to economic reform, the government of Sri Lanka, led by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, today secured a massive majority vote in Parliament to pass the 2026 Budget (Appropriation Bill). The victory comes amid ongoing economic challenges and the devastating impact of recent natural disasters across the nation.
Following this historic achievement, the President immediately took action, announcing a comprehensive relief and compensation package for the over 1.7 million people affected by the recent natural disasters.
Parliamentary Win Confirms Confidence
The 2026 Budget was passed on its third reading with an overwhelming 158 votes in favour and only one vote against. The government secured a two-thirds majority, garnering support from multiple parties, including the National People’s Power (NPP) and the Tamil National Alliance (TNA) MPs.
This robust parliamentary support sends a powerful signal of credibility to international financial institutions and foreign investors regarding the government’s economic policy and governance. It is expected to pave the way for the efficient implementation of plans to rebuild the nation’s economy.
Extensive Relief Package for Disaster Victims
In the face of the grave disaster situation—where 5,165 houses were destroyed and 57,312 houses partially damaged—the government has put forward the following relief measures covering housing, livelihoods, and agriculture.
Housing Relief
- Completely Damaged Homes: Affected families currently in camps will receive Rs. 25,000 per month for up to three months to rent a house.
- Lost/High-Risk Land: Families who lost their land or are on high-risk land will be granted a government land plot or a maximum grant of Rs. 5 million.
- Partially Damaged Homes: A maximum grant of Rs. 2.5 million will be provided for repairs.
- All Displaced Households: Every household displaced by the floods will receive Rs. 25,000.
- Compensation for Fatalities: Relatives of the deceased will receive Rs. 1 million per fatality.
Livelihood and Business Relief
- Livelihood Support: A grant of Rs. 50,000 per month for three months will be provided until a livelihood can be re-established.
- Business Buildings: A compensation grant of Rs. 5 million for damaged business buildings.
- Registered Businesses: A grant of Rs. 200,000 for all registered businesses.
- Animal Husbandry: Rs. 200,000 for registered animal husbandry farms.
- Fisheries: A grant of Rs. 400,000 if any registered fishing boat is completely damaged.
Agricultural Relief
- Paddy/Grain/Maize: Compensation of Rs. 150,000 per hectare for damage to paddy, grain, and maize cultivation.
- Vegetable Cultivation: A grant of Rs. 200,000 per hectare for damage to vegetable cultivation.
Education Relief
- School Students: A grant of Rs. 25,000 for school students affected by the disaster.
President Anura Kumara Dissanayake affirmed that the government’s priority is to provide relief to every citizen affected by the disaster through this extensive relief package.
