A WIN

FOR ALL
" My sole purpose is to
lead our motherland
towards prosperity
while safeguarding the
lives of all citizens''
Let's unite, commit,
and win...!
- SAJITH PREMADASA
My fellow Sri Lankans,

As we approach a defining moment in our nation’s political journey with the

forthcoming Presidential election, I, Sajith Premadasa, proudly present this
manifesto (Win for all), on behalf of the Samagi Jana Sandanaya (SJS) to outline
our vision for a positive national transformation.

The SJS is a new political force, with a vision to create a new Sri Lanka, by introducing
a social market economy with social justice at its core. We believe a true democracy
is one in which every citizen’s voice is heard.

Therefore, our manifesto & economic vision is not just about statistical growth but
about tangible prosperity in every segment of society. We will create a resilient
and inclusive economy, combining the strength of free markets with a deep
commitment to equality, to ensure no Sri Lankan is left behind.

Another crucial pillar of our vision is the fight against corruption. Corruption has
long been a stain on Sri Lanka and has ultimately led us to bankruptcy, undermining
trust in government and robbing our citizens. The future SJS government will root
out corruption by embedding transparency and accountability in every aspect of
governance with the necessary system reforms.

In our pursuit of prosperity, special attention will be provided to the crucial

sectors of housing, healthcare and education. We will ensure every citizen can
access quality housing. The healthcare sector, which is facing myriad crises, will
be reinforced with professional and technological resources to create a healthy
nation. The education sector will be revamped to build internationally competitive
human capital, which can thrive in a rapidly changing world while contributing to
the growth of Sri Lanka.

Throughout history, nations have been developed with strong team leadership.
This is why the SJS has assembled the most qualified and pragmatic, team of
politicians to ensure that the ambitious goals in this manifesto are achieved.

Let me end by stating that the SJS is more than just a new alliance; it is a movement
for much-needed change, driven by the belief that Sri Lanka can and must finally
realize its true potential. I seek your support in this election not just for myself
as your candidate but for the vision we all share for a stronger, fairer, and more
prosperous nation. Let us come together to, finally, create the Sri Lanka we all
deserve.

Sajith Premadasa
Leader
Samagi Jana Sandanya (SJS) 29th August 2024
A WIN
FOR ALL
CONTACT :
Samagi Jana Balawegaya
592, Kotte Road, Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte 10100
Phone: 011 287 0112
e-mail : info@sajith.lk
Web : www.sajith.lk
 CONTENT
BUILD A RESILIENT ECONOMY 08
y TRANSPARENCY AND ACCOUNTABILITY
y MANAGING THE DEBT CRISIS AND THE IMF
y MONETARY AND EXCHANGE RATE POLICY
y ACHIEVING A REVENUE GROWTH
y EXPENDITURE CONTROL
y STIMULATING ECONOMIC GROWTH
y PUBLIC SECTOR MANAGEMENT AND DIGITALIZATION
y ENERGY AND UTILITY REFORMS
y REFORMING THE MARKET OF FACTORS OF PRODUCTION
y AGRICULTURE AND LIVESTOCK DEVELOPMENT
y LAND, IRRIGATION AND WATER MANAGEMENT
y TRANSPORTATION – ROAD, SEA AND AIR
y FISHERIES AND AQUATIC RESOURCES
y TOURISM
y SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY AND RESEARCH
y INDUSTRY SECTOR
y MSME (MICRO, SMALL, AND MEDIUM ENTERPRISES) SECTOR
y GEM AND JEWELLERY SECTOR
y CONSTRUCTION SECTOR
y POWER & ENERGY

EMPOWER EVERY CITIZEN 20

y EDUCATION, VOCATIONAL TRAINING & YOUTH
y WOMEN AND CHILD EMPOWERMENT
y HEALTH, NUTRITION, INDIGENOUS MEDICINE AND SOCIAL WELLBEING
y EMPOWERMENT & PROSPERITY BUILDING
y PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES
y THE INDIGENOUS ADIWASI COMMUNITY
y SPORTS

ENHANCE GOVERNMENT SERVICE 26

y A DIGITAL SRI LANKA FOR THE TWENTY-FIRST CENTURY
y PLANNING AND PLAN IMPLEMENTATION
y PUBLIC SERVICE
y AN END TO PASSPORT QUEUE

PROTECT QUALITY OF LIFE 30

y RELIGIOUS AND CULTURAL AFFAIRS
y MEDIA
y HOUSING AND PUBLIC UTILITIES
y MIGRANT WORKERS & EMPLOYMENT
y MALAIYAHA COMMUNITY
y PROTECTING PENSION BENEFITS
y “RANAVIRU” WELFARE
y BUILDING A STRONG SOCIAL PROTECTION NETWORK

SAFEGUARD THE NATION 36

y STRENGTHENING DEMOCRACY & RECONCILIATION
y FOREIGN AFFAIRS & COMMERCIAL ALLIANCES
y NATIONAL SECURITY
y LAW & ORDER
y ANTI-CORRUPTION LAWS
y COMBATING DRUG MENACE
y SUSTAINABLE ENVIRONMENT
 BUILD A
RESILIENT
ECONOMY
We prioritize equitable growth
through a Social Market Economy
model, ensuring that the benefits of
development reach all citizens. As
we chart a course toward economic
recovery and lasting prosperity, we
pledge transparency, sustainability
and empowerment creating a future
where all can thrive.

8
Sri Lanka is still facing its most severe and a robust programme to curb rampant
economic crisis to date, caused by heavy corruption in the country’s administrative
debt, poor policy decisions, and weak system shall be key. Establishing an
governance. While recent steps have helped independent Public Prosecutor’s Office free
by lowering inflation and boosting foreign of political interference to bring to justice
reserves, the road to full recovery and corrupt individuals will be done on an urgent
becoming an advanced economy remains basis by a simple amendment to legislation.
extremely challenging. The average Sri We will enact a Public Procurement Law to
Lankan has been forced to bear the brunt guarantee procurement is conducted in a
of the crisis, struggling with high prices and transparent, corruption-free and efficient
increased taxes and hopelessness. manner. All government procurement shall
be transferred to a digital platform.
We will follow a Social Market Economy
model guided by Social Democratic Political To provide the consumer with the best
Principles to foster equitable and inclusive quality and price, monopolistic and
growth, harnessing the power of markets oligopolistic behavior will be corrected
while ensuring social justice and protection through the immediate introduction of a
for all. Our Blueprint 3.0 provides a strategic competition law.
plan to tackle these challenges, rebuild the
economy through strong growth, and secure We will bring in transparency in public
a prosperous future for all. A key part of this finance management. There shall be full
plan is erasing corruption, a necessary but disclosure on expenditure plans and debt
not a sufficient solution. Further, promote management strategies as well as in tax
a green economy and environmental administration. The establishment of
sustainability as foundational principles for the Parliamentary Budget Office would
economic growth and development. henceforth provide detailed analysis of all
government tax and expenditure proposals.
To achieve sustainable growth, we need a
two-part approach: First, we must reform MANAGING THE DEBT
the economy to make it more competitive
and globally connected. This will create
CRISIS AND THE IMF
wealth among the people. Second, we We will strengthen fiscal discipline as per the
need to ensure economic justice and equity
IMF agreement and continue with difficult
through a strong social safety net with
but necessary reforms to meet the targets
targeted subsidies to protect the vulnerable.
of revenue, primary balance and debt.
Additionally, we will aim to increase Gross
National Happiness (GNH) by fostering a However, we will make amendments to
society where economic progress goes hand the current programme to guarantee relief
in hand with the well-being and overall to those below poverty line and improve
happiness of our citizens. quality of life for Sri Lankans.

In the case of agreeing to a solution that

TRANSPARENCY AND allows for ‘claw back’ clauses for foreign
ACCOUNTABILITY creditors to benefit from more than
expected GDP growth, we will insist that
Introducing strong anti-corruption laws
‘comparability of treatment’ be extended to
and strengthening the implementation
the EPF that bore the brunt of the domestic
of the current legal framework will speed
debt restructure.
up justice. The recovery of stolen assets

9
 MONETARY AND widening the tax net. Certain identified
EXCHANGE RATE items in addition to essential food as
consumables and inputs shall be made
POLICY zero rated for VAT.
We will respect the autonomy of the Central
y Excise tax on cigarettes and alcohol and
Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL) provided by the taxes on casinos will be adjusted to fund
new Act but hold the bank fully accountable tax reductions.
for meeting its inflation target. Furthermore,
we will help ensure low and stable interest y A guaranteed up to 15% savings interest
rates, an internationally competitive foreign rate will be provided for senior citizen
exchange rate.. savings.

ACHIEVING A EXPENDITURE
REVENUE GROWTH CONTROL
The solution to increase government Although the IMF programme has focused
revenue is not confined to raising taxes. One on increasing revenue, it has not adequately
of our first acts will be to introduce digital addressed government expenditure control.
technology to increase revenue, minimize Therefore, our economic vision aims to
expenditure and corruption. We will revise control wasteful government spending and
the unfair burden sharing structure of the corruption. This includes reforming state
IMF supported tax code revision that is enterprises. Funds so saved will be utilized
forcing professionals to seek employment to implement a social safety net for the
abroad. distressed population and to strengthen
education and health sectors.
Some highlights of our revised structure that
will not disturb the overall revenue targets We will use data-based planning to control
but will reduce the heavy burden on middle- government expenditure and strengthen
class are: transparency and accountability of
government spending to increase public
y Personal income tax: Personal income trust.
tax after the Tax-free slab of Rs 100,000
per month will start at just 1% and
increase up to 24% income up to around STIMULATING
half a million per month. Thereafter, ECONOMIC GROWTH
current rates will apply for high income
Our government will be committed to
earners. transforming Sri Lanka into a globally
connected social market economy, with
y Corporate income tax: We intend
private enterprise, both large and small,
reducing up to 6% from the present 30% as the principal driver of growth. This
rate for profits on exports and introduce transformation requires two key actions:
15% Base Erosion and Profit Shifting enhancing global economic integration
(BEPS) minimum alternate tax for through trade liberalization and foreign
multinational companies. direct investment and unshackling domestic
markets, including product and labor
y VAT: We intend to reduce VAT to 15% markets. Ensuring effective market signals
once tax compliance improves through will enable full private sector engagement in
the use of Public Digital Infrastructure to national development.

10
 AGRICULTURAL REFORMS in EV components using transformation
of critical material including graphite. Our
We shall address challenges at multiple
government will also be committed to
levels. Archaic laws need modernization.
Reforms will unshackle agriculture markets, further advancing the success of the apparel
provide equitable water access through sector.
rehabilitated irrigation tanks, and offer SERVICES: A KEY DRIVER OF VALUE
access to finance and insurance. For the
CREATION
individual farmer, the entire value chain—
from obtaining information on what, how A key component of the growth plan is the
much, and when to produce, to financing service sector. We will focus on e-commerce
inputs and managing the cultivation cycle— and information technology services and
needs improvement. Thereafter, post- in transforming Sri Lanka into a logistics
harvest management in terms of storage to service center.
logistics to sale must be addressed.
MICRO, SMALL AND MEDIUM
We will implement a rapid, ENTERPRISES (MSMES) AND THE
smart technology-driven agricultural STARTUP ECO SYSTEM
modernization programme to reduce rural
MSMEs and start-ups are as important as the
poverty, increase productivity, and promote
sector growth. This includes interventions large corporates in driving economic growth
– in paddy, vegetable, and plantation crops contributing to approximately half of value
– from planting to sale, like protected addition and half of employment. MSMEs
agriculture, lift irrigation, drip irrigation, have been long neglected and currently
and perhaps even AI-assisted hydroponic in crisis, particularly since the pandemic
farming. This effort will become possible and then the economic meltdown. Our
with the launching of the Digital Public government will place special emphasis in
Infrastructure (DPI). rescuing and setting a path for MSMEs to
become a key contributor to the expected
To reduce and maintain the price of rice high growth trajectory of Sri Lanka
we will reintroduce the ‘Shakthi’ rice miller through access to digitization, capital and
nation-wide cooperative programme. We will programmes for training.
also immediately establish ‘Prabhashwara’,
a network of climate-controlled agricultural PORT CITY
produce warehouses around the country to We will amend the law to make the Port City
reduce the 40% post-harvest loss of produce. the Asian Regional Centre for technology
This too will contribute to lowering the price services including Fintech, Biotech and
of food. Nanotech.
INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT:
CONNECTING TO THE GLOBAL PUBLIC SECTOR
VALUE CHAIN MANAGEMENT AND
Sri Lanka will be connected to Global DIGITALIZATION
Manufacturing Value Chains (GMVCs) starting
with manufacturing sliced components Efficient and equitable public provision of
utilizing the still untapped trainable health, education and social services is vital
workforce and our strategic location. Here, for economic development and civil security.
we plan to integrate with global electronic Sri Lanka’s public sector is responsible
and electrical goods production as well as for providing these services. Yet although

11
 it is massive it is plagued by overlapping While creating competition in generation
roles, redundancy, and underpayment. and distribution is necessary, consumers
Decades of reform have failed to address and industry should not bear the burden of
corruption and accountability issues, high energy costs due to monopoly power
from public procurement to service and inefficiency. We support cost-reflective
delivery. We plan to overhaul the public electricity tariffs, but these costs must
service through digitalization and exclude corruption and inefficiency in power
introducing key performance indicators purchase agreements.
to enhance productivity. This will improve
management, transparency and efficiency We will reassess the proposed structure in
while minimizing corruption. the new Act and recommend amendments
to enhance the efficiency and cost-
Establishing a SOE Holding Company is a effectiveness of the reform process.
key part of state-owned enterprise reform. Our priorities include establishing a fair
This SOE Holding Company will provide electricity market, safeguarding consumer
a centralised and strategic framework interests, improving accountability and
for managing SOE ownership, under a depoliticizing the industry.
structure like Singapore’s ‘Temasek model’.
What shareholding the State shall hold We envision not just meeting but exceeding
in each of the SOEs shall be determined the target of 70% renewable energy
based on multiple objectives of the various generation by 2030, aiming to make Sri Lanka
stakeholders, balancing national security a regional renewable energy powerhouse.
interests with international competitiveness
and efficiency. REFORMING THE
BUILDING A DIGITAL HEALTH PUBLIC MARKET OF FACTORS
INFRASTRUCTURE TO INCREASE OF PRODUCTION
EFFICIENCY IN THE PUBLIC SECTOR
We shall implement factor market reforms
Health sector will be transformed with high- by relaxing restrictions on land, labor, and
tech solutions from drug procurement to capital markets to facilitate doing business
all health services. Lessons learnt in using in Sri Lanka and promote both domestic and
digital technology in ‘1990 Suwa Seriya’ foreign investments.
being classified one of the world’s most
Our government is committed to
advanced and fastest ambulance services,
implementing a national land reforms
will be incorporated into enhancing quality
programme aimed at improving land
and efficiency.
productivity and securing land rights. A
key priority will be the creation of a digital
ENERGY AND UTILITY land registry, completing the ongoing
REFORMS “Bim Saviya” programme.

Our approach in power and energy will focus Recognizing the importance of human
on implementing transparent, automated capital development, we will prioritize
systems that minimize individual discretion, policies aimed at improving educational
close loopholes for manipulation, and outcomes, developing job-relevant skills,
and fostering innovation. Enhancing the
eliminate the incentives for ‘dealmakers’ to
quality and accessibility of education is
push unsolicited proposals.
crucial to building a competitive workforce.

12
Programmes will be implemented to ensure to receive technical advice and connect
that Sri Lanka’s workforce possesses the with domestic and foreign agricultural
skills necessary for the jobs of tomorrow. buyers using digital platforms.

We will swiftly implement reforms to • Redesigning & modernizing agricultural

boost capital inflows and strengthen the institutions to ensure food security.
domestic capital market. Key regulations
will be reformed to enhance foreign direct • Improving agriculture and animal
investment (FDI) to stimulate economic husbandry by value addition, crop
growth and support existing investors. diversification, introduction of modern
agricultural inputs, and market
expansion. Tax incentives will be
AGRICULTURE AND provided for agricultural exports.
LIVESTOCK
• Preparing “land use plans” necessary
DEVELOPMENT
for the expansion of agricultural and
• We will implement measures to ease the commercial crops.
debt burden on farmers by waiving of
• Priority will be given to amending
their existing farmer loans (Govi Naya).
outdated laws that limit land use in a
Additionally, we will ensure farmers
way that enhances the productivity of
have access to essential credit facilities
agricultural lands.
to support their farming.
• Facilities will be provided to farmers to
• We will offer a 50kg fertilizer bag for
recultivate abandoned traditionally own
Rs. 5,000, ensuring its continuous
lands and paddy fields that have been
availability.
left uncultivated due to various issues.
• We will ensure that farmers receive high,
• We will introduce an insurance scheme
certified prices for their rice production,
for farmers affected by animal incursions
protecting them from exploitation and
and cultivation or production losses.
securing their livelihoods.
• Establishing “Prabhaswara” cool room
• We will also ensure the protection and
facilities with humidity and temperature
uninterrupted provision of high-yield
control, and other facilities at selected
seeds, planting materials, pesticides,
locations across the island to store
tools, and technology necessary for
farmers’ products to provide them with
cultivation, all at a fair price.
a stable price.
• Establishing the “Farmer Intelligence
• Providing technical support and
Service” agricultural information market
assistance to modernize farms with new
to provide farmers with the opportunity
technology to increase milk, egg and
to obtain a fair price for agricultural
meat production and ensure supply
products. Through this market, enabling
without scarcity. The production of
the connection with domestic and
essential food items will be encouraged
foreign buyers for agricultural products
through guaranteed prices.
and formation of forward sales contracts
with them. • Providing tax incentives and
encouragement for introducing
• Improving mobile and internet facilities
in agricultural areas, enabling farmers modern methods such as drip

13
 irrigation, protected indoor cultivation, initiative will centralize land information,
greenhouses, drone technology, and AI facilitate efficient allocation, and support
technology to agriculture. sustainable development.

• Developing a methodology to encourage • Steps will be taken to provide freehold

small and medium-scale entrepreneurs deeds within 5 years to land permit
of agriculture with access to affordable holders occupying government lands.
credit.
• The legal system necessary for protecting
• Continuously providing necessary state water sources and catchment areas will
patronage to promote tea, rubber, be strengthened.
coconut, sugarcane, cinnamon, and
other export agricultural crops. • The government will make necessary
investments to maintain the capacity
• Controlling The large-scale rice mill of inland reservoirs at the maximum
mafia that exploits paddy farmers and level. To ensure that all minor, medium,
sells rice to consumers at excessive prices and major irrigation schemes will be
and re-implementing the “Shakthi Rice” rehabilitated and maintain to achieve
programme with small and medium- required water demand..
scale rice mill owners.

• 19 We acknowledge the challenges TRANSPORTATION –

faced by tea smallholders in Sri Lanka and ROAD, SEA AND AIR
are dedicated to implementing targeted
policies that address their current issues, • Building a multi-faceted public transport
enhance their productivity, and ensure system with eco-friendly, modern
their long-term prosperity. buses, electrification of railways, light
rail system, and Intelligent Transport
• Steps will be taken to expand the Systems (ITS) empowered by smart
international export market for spices technology.
including cinnamon and pepper, and
measures taken to provide the necessary • Speedy completion of the work on the
technology to introduce value-added Central Expressway will be ensured. We
products, and to ensure product consider the construction of Ruwanpura
standards and quality. Cultivations will Expressway from Kahathuduwa to
be expanded, and modern technology Palmadulla as a key component of
introduced for research, technology, and our major transport network, the
management. construction work will be completed
in stages. Priority will be given to the
rehabilitation of rural roads.
LAND, IRRIGATION
AND WATER • Railway modernization projects
MANAGEMENT including the Kelani Valley railway
line which was halted by the present
• The government will establish a government will be expedited.
comprehensive National Land Bank to
optimize land utilization and streamline • Improving the efficiency of expressways
market operations. Recognizing that by introducing a Multi-Lane Free Flow
land is a crucial factor in economic (MLFF) system.
development and market dynamics, this

14
• Prioritizing the rapid completion of • Recognizing the untapped potential
the second terminal at Katunayake of inland waterways, the government
International Airport, which will be aims to elevate freshwater fishing to a
of immense support for the tourism key component of the national fishing
industry, and converting the existing industry.
domestic airports within the country
into civil airports. • The ornamental fishing industry and
its exports will be facilitated through
• Given Sri Lanka’s unique strategic enhanced support measures, including
positioning we will invite private sector streamlined regulations and targeted
participation in developing the seaports. marketing strategies.

• Diplomatically resolving illegal activities

FISHERIES AND by unauthorized foreign fishing vessels
AQUATIC RESOURCES and improving communication and
technological facilities to monitor them.
Leverage Sri Lanka’s maritime potential by
developing blue economy initiatives that • Prioritizing the provision of necessary
promote sustainable economic activities investments to improve fishing harbors
through public-private partnerships (PPP), and anchorages.
maximizing the utilization of aquatic
resources of the Sea of Sri Lanka.
TOURISM
• Establishing a low-interest loan scheme
through state and private banks • Implementing the detailed
for entrepreneurs to economically recommendations outlined in the
strengthen the fishing community and “Tourism Policy for Sri Lanka: A Blueprint
implementing special programmes to for Sustainable and Inclusive Growth”
promote their entrepreneurial skills. policy prepared by the Samagi Jana
Balawegaya, and taking steps to make
• Improving deep-sea fish harvest
Sri Lanka’s tourism sector the country’s
forecasting programmes through the
foremost foreign exchange earning
use of technologies such as Artificial
avenue will be considered a prime
Intelligence (AI) and Internet of Things
responsibility of the government.
(IoT), and developing simple methods to
instantly communicate such information • The corrupt “VFS visa agreement” signed
to the fishing community. by the current government will be
annulled, and a new modern system will
• Taking necessary steps to promote
be established to allow foreign tourists
fisheries tourism and thereby create
to obtain visas easily at a lower cost.
alternative income sources to economically
Additionally, steps will be taken to ensure
strengthen the fishing community.
Providing training and encouragement accountability for this transaction, which
for women in fishing families to engage in is considered the largest corruption case
alternative entrepreneurship. in Sri Lanka.

• Regularizing the distribution of fish • The government will implement a visa-

resources across the island, enabling free entry programme for citizens of
residents in any part of the island to access 100 countries, allowing them to visit Sri
fresh fish. Lanka for up to one month without the
need for a pre-arrival visa.

15
 • We will expedite the implementation • As in developed countries, the possibility
of the Overseas Citizens of Sri Lanka will be considered of implementing the
Programme, facilitating easier access to best research conducted by university
the country for individuals of Sri Lankan students for their degree requirements
origin living abroad and make it easy as projects important to the country’s
for them to function as residents of Sri economy.
Lanka.
• We aim to establish 25 cutting-edge IT
• We will transform Colombo into South parks.
Asia’s most beautiful and investor-
friendly capital, spearheading our
shift to year-round tourism. This urban INDUSTRY SECTOR
rejuvenation, coupled with tourist
• Expedite the work at Millawa, Millaniya
market diversification, will position the
& Bingiriya export processing zone
city as a regional business and leisure
and establish 25 new state-of-the-art
hub, stimulating tourism growth across
industrial zones strategically located
all seasons.
across all districts of Sri Lanka, ensuring
• Promote eco-tourism by positioning Sri balanced regional development and
Lanka as a premier wildlife destination creating employment opportunities
specially for leopard watching, ensuring nationwide. The zones will be initiated
sustainable practices that protect natural with the start of manufacturing plant in
habitats while boosting local economies each zones immediately. The number
through responsible tourism. of industries will be gradually started to
each 341 divisional secretary level.
• Implement comprehensive training
programmes for both formal and • Create a nationwide ‘Green Tech
informal tourism industry employers Innovation Hub’ network, leveraging
through public-private partnerships Sri Lanka’s natural resources and tech
(PPP), focusing on language proficiency talent to become a leader in sustainable
and professional skills development. technology. This initiative will attract
foreign investment, create high-skilled
SCIENCE, jobs, and position Sri Lanka as a pioneer
in eco-friendly solutions for the global
TECHNOLOGY AND market.
RESEARCH
• We will spark innovation by facilitating
• To promote Artificial Intelligence in Sri One Million Start-ups and launching
Lanka, the government will establish the ‘18+ Startup Project’ to empower
a “State Research Fund” of 5 billion young entrepreneurs, especially recent
rupees per year, which can be applied graduates, with loans, mentorship, and
for and claimed by state and non-state essential resources.
universities in Sri Lanka for research
and development including curriculum • Establish a streamlined ‘One-Stop
development. Shop’ for new industry registrations,
enabling entrepreneurs to register their
• An Incubator center will be created businesses efficiently by consolidating
near the Homagama Technology City to all necessary government approvals
support university and external young in a single location. This initiative will
research teams engaged in commercially significantly reduce administrative
important research. hurdles, cut through red tape, and

16
 accelerate the process of setting up new MSME (MICRO,
enterprises in Sri Lanka. SMALL, AND MEDIUM
• Sri Lanka’s village, cottage, and
ENTERPRISES)
traditional industries, which preserve
SECTOR
generational production knowledge • The SJB was the first political party to
as part of their cultural heritage, will recognize the critical situation facing
be recognized as a distinct sector. We the MSME sector. We have consistently
will provide targeted support through
voiced concerns about the sector’s
improved facilities, market positioning
conditions both in and outside of
expertise, cost-effective production
parliament. Furthermore, we facilitated
strategies, packaging enhancements,
meetings between MSME sector
and financial assistance for capital
representatives and key international
acquisition, enabling these industries to
financial institutions, including the Asian
thrive in niche markets.
Development Bank (ADB), World Bank
• Cooperatives will be completely (WB), European Union (EU), and the
depoliticized, and legislative reforms International Monetary Fund (IMF), to
will strengthen cooperative banks and explore potential support and solutions.
protect savings. We will revitalize Sri
Lanka›s cooperative sector through • In response to pressure from the SJB, the
these reforms, as well as contributory government suspended the enforcement
pension schemes and technological of the Parate Law until December 15,
modernization. These measures aim 2024, providing relief to the MSME sector.
to enhance operational efficiency, Under future governance, we commit
diversify business models, and create to granting a reasonable extension to
mutual benefits for cooperatives and this suspension. Additionally, we will
their communities, driving sustainable mandate all state and commercial
grassroots economic growth. banks to establish dedicated MSME loan
departments. These departments will
• Conduct comprehensive institutional analyze loan situations on a case-by-case
reforms and update laws to better basis. Through Central Bank directives,
protect and promote innovation, banks will be instructed to convert
trademarks, intellectual property rights, existing loans into long-term loans
and operational efficiency across the with concessionary interest rates for
economy. genuinely affected businesses, ensuring
• We recognize the invaluable contributions sustainable support for the MSME sector.
made by the apparel sector to our • Tuk Tuk: We will be providing an interest
economy. In acknowledgment of this, we
subsidy facility for the conversion of the
are committed to developing a special
three-wheelers with combustion engine
policy charter aimed at securing the well-
to electric engine saving three-wheeler
being of both workers and the industry.
driver›s daily petrol cost. The loan
This charter will emphasize the importance
scheme will be administered through
of skilled labor as a driving force in the
the banking system.
global production value chain. Considering
this, we plan to introduce initiatives such • National policy on MSME shall be
as insurance and childcare facilities to developed via consultation among all
ensure a sustainable environment for all stakeholders incorporating all aspects
stakeholders. towards creating a thriving sector and

17
 also towards achieving the goal of • Remove tariffs on these items to create
creating significant no of entrepreneurs. greater opportunities for value addition
and exports of finished gems and
GEM AND Jewellery.
JEWELLERY SECTOR
• Restructure the Gem and Jewellery
• Implement efficient, fast, and Research and Training Institute to
transparent systems to facilitate mining relocate closer to main trading centers
licenses. and enhance talent development in the
sector.
• Provide financial facilities for small-
scale miners to acquire modern mining
technology.
CONSTRUCTION
SECTOR
• Open more lands for mining in an
equitable and fair manner. • Launch the ‘Build Sri Lanka Fair’
initiative to create an equitable and
• Restructure the National Gem and innovative construction industry. This
Jewellery Authority to enable a comprehensive policy will reintroduce
smoother export process without NGJA contractor grade clustering, ensuring
interference. All exporters will have direct fair competition among small, medium,
access to the Customs online platform and large firms. It will also establish
to submit their declarations and export a Research & Innovation Division to
goods directly from their offices, similar spearhead the adoption of cutting-edge
to practices in Thailand and Hong Kong. technologies like Building Information
• Enable all Sri Lankans to trade gems and Modeling (BIM). This initiative aims
Jewellery globally through effective, to modernize the sector, promote
non-interfering export mechanisms, local material production, and create
utilizing couriers and postal services a resilient, efficient, and transparent
online. construction ecosystem.

• Considering the assesing industry • Implement the ‘Swift Build, Smart

income tax based on turnover as the Resolve’ programme to streamline
final tax, replacing the current 30% on dispute resolution and enhance
net profits. regulatory compliance in the
construction sector. This programme
• Consider the discontinuation of VAT and will introduce a Standing Advisory
SSL on gemstone imports to encourage Committee on Construction Projects
greater gemstone flow into Sri Lanka for (SACCP) for efficient mediation of
value addition and re-export. Consider disputes, and a National Steering
reinstate the USD 200 fee for hand- Committee for Construction Projects
carried gem parcel imports. (NSCCP) to oversee high-value projects.
• Exempt all gem and Jewellery sales in It will also empower CIDA to enforce
foreign currency from VAT. compliance with Standard Bidding
Documents, ensuring uniformity and
• Propose duty waivers for legitimate minimizing conflicts.
Jewellers who pay for gold imports with
foreign currency earned from sales, • Restarting Halted Projects with Strategic
whether direct or indirect exports. Review

18
• The future government will allocate • The “Battle for Solar Energy” project,
funds to resume these essential projects which has already added 1,300
while canceling or restructuring non- megawatts to the national power grid,
essential ones, ensuring cost-effective will be further promoted. Home owners
solutions and preventing further financial and industrialists will be encouraged
burdens on contractors and the state. to build “solar power plants” with
concessionary interest rates. The goal is
• Promoting the Export of Construction to empower 1 million homes with solar
Services and Products power within 5 years.
• The government should prioritize • Priority will be given to a 1,200-megawatt
the promotion of the construction offshore wind power project.
sector as an export industry. This Transparent competitive mechanisms
can be operationalized by facilitating will be introduced to promote onshore
Cross-Border Guarantees, extending wind and solar power. This is expected
diplomatic Support, and initiating to encourage both domestic and foreign
Export Promotion. investors.
• Creating a demand for the domestic • Sri Lanka’s National power grid will be
housing market granting facilities for transformed into a Smart Grid within 5
housing and Mortgage Loan Schemes for years.
First-Time Builders
• Existing thermal power plants will be
• Modernizing the Supply Chain and modernized to operate on LNG within 2
Localizing construction inputs Production. years, and the necessary infrastructure
for using NG, LNG, and CNG for domestic
• Allow Fair Competition and regulatory energy needs will be provided through
enforcement to ensure level playing. public and private sector involvement.

• The government will mandate that • Steps will be taken to establish facilities
Employer release retention money once within the country for manufacturing
works have reached 60% completion, and maintaining equipment needed for
renewable energy sources, including
replacing retention funds with guarantees
wind and solar power sectors, with
or bonds. public and private sector intervention.

POWER & ENERGY • Provisions in the Electricity Act No. 36

of 2024 that are against the rights of
electricity workers and consumers will be
• Necessary legislative amendments and removed, prioritizing the development
administrative changes will be made to of an efficient smart electricity system in
eliminate corruption and inefficiency in the country.
the power sector to ensure the provision • Given Sri Lanka’s Sustainable energy
of electricity to consumers at fair and potential the opportunity to export
competitive prices. beyond our domestic needs is promising.
We will pursue the production of green
• Local and foreign investments will be hydrogen and invite direct foreign
encouraged in the fields of electricity, investments.
petroleum and gas and a world standard
method of buying electricity that is • We will pursue regional energy
connectivity arrangements.
completely corruption-free and efficient
will be introduced.

19
 EMPOWER
EVERY
CITIZEN
We are dedicated to fostering equal access
to education, healthcare and social services
for every citizen, cultivating a self-reliant
society where everyone can thrive. Through
transformative initiatives like ‘Sakwala’ and
‘Husma’ we will champion gender equality
and ensure that no individual or community
is left behind.

20
 EDUCATION, • Mandate that every school establish
VOCATIONAL a trust fund supported by local
communities to ensure the maintenance
TRAINING & YOUTH and sustainability of school facilities.
Education is a fundamental right. Human
• Initiating actions from January 2025
capital development is our priority. to create a system of “STEEAM”
• In recognition of their crucial role in education that prioritizes Science,
developing the nation’s human capital, Technology, English, Engineering, Arts,
and Mathematics in all institutions of
the government will provide free public
education by expediting teacher training
transportation to all teachers across Sri
activities.
Lanka.
• When updating school curricula, expert
• Formulating a work plan by making
opinions will be sought from domestic,
policy decisions before January 2025 to
multilateral institutions, and foreign
address long drawn-out salary, pension
governments and private sector human
and service issues in the education
resource specialists. Efforts will be made
sector.
to give due consideration to modern
• Developing a roadmap to transform technological trends including Artificial
every school into a smart school by Intelligence.
providing 100% electricity, water
• Simplifying and restructuring the Grade
facilities, and physical resources to all
schools in Sri Lanka. 5 Scholarship Examination, which has
put children under immense mental
• Teacher vacancies for the teaching of stress.
religion will be filled. Religious teaching
in schools will be handled by those • Recognizing Early Childhood Education
qualified in teaching religion. (ECE) as fundamental to developing
responsible citizens, we will establish
• Building a Smart Sri Lanka, ensuring a regulatory authority with a multi-
students can access digital learning stakeholder advisory committee,
platforms in schools shall be prioritised upgrade child-friendly and modern
via an expanded ‘Sakwala’ programme. infrastructure, enhance teacher training
This shall involve a total overhaul and accreditation, and promote parental
of delivering content using digital engagement.
technology. This programme shall be
extended to technical and vocational • Primary and secondary school education
institutions and universities making will be designed with the use of tools of
quality education services affordable. modern technology so that a student
Create 10,096 foster school programme
can understand, speak, and write English
that attract generous donors to support
from an early stage of schooling.
the establishment and improvement of
SMART schools and digital infrastructure. • All school going girl students from Grade
• Initiate a school twinning programme 6 -13 can avail themselves on a self-
to foster global partnerships, cultural selection basis to receive a monthly
exchange, and collaborative learning cash transfer for the purchase menstrual
opportunities between schools. hygiene products.

21
 • Taking immediate steps to restructure entrepreneurship, facilitating their
the University Grants Commission access to new domestic and foreign
to address professional issues in opportunities.
the university sector. Reforming the
University Grants Commission Act
WOMEN AND CHILD
and strengthening the independence
of the University. Appointing higher
EMPOWERMENT
education commission to oversee the • The government will encourage private
quality of state, non-state and private entrepreneurs to start daycare centers
higher education institutions. Take covering every Grama Niladhari division
necessary measures to improve the and will provide financial incentives.
international rankings of all government The government will also take steps
and non-governmental universities, to provide all necessary support to
thereby enhancing their international establish daycare centers in public and
recognition. private institutions as appropriate, and
to regulate these daycare centers.
• Sri Lanka will coordinate with IIT / IIM
India to facilitate the establishment • The cost of maternity leave will be
of such a university in the country, borne by the state encouraging higher
advancing technology and innovation. participation of women in the work force.

• Necessary legal reforms will be

• Enhance university twinning initiatives implemented to ensure a minimum
aimed at improving academic standards, of 25% female representation in
research collaborations, and student Parliament, Provincial Councils, and
exchange programme. Local Government institutions.

• The current loan programme of the • A Presidential Task Force will be

government for education at non- established within 3 months with
governmental and private universities responsibilities for ensuring gender
will be expanded to cover recognized equality, empowering women, and
private vocational training institutions ensuring child protection and physical
as well. and mental well-being.

• A panel of experts be appointed to

• Vocational training curricula will be
provide recommendations for ensuring
comprehensively modernized and
full implementation of existing laws for
standardized to align with current
the protection of women’s and children’s
market demands, ensuring graduates
rights, and these recommendations will
possess relevant, in-demand skills. be implemented within a year.
• 19 The youth, who are the lifeblood • The Women and Children’s Desks at
of the country, should be satisfied every police station will operate 24 hours
and happy citizens. To productively a day.
utilize their labor contribution for
the country’s development, we will • We will launch a transformative
provide them with the latest facilities initiative to empower women-headed
for education, vocational training, and households, offering comprehensive

22
 support and protection to ensure both insecure areas to ensure they receive the
women and their children thrive in a safe necessary nutrition to enhance learning,
and nurturing environment. growth, and mathematical skills.

• The regulations of micro credit • In partnership with the food industry,

institutions will be strengthened. affordable and healthy food options will
Unauthorized micro finance businesses be developed to meet community needs.
will be shut down and punitive action
on those responsible will be expedited.
• Recreational facilities will be upgraded
We will launch a dynamic support
to promote active lifestyles and combat
programme to rescue individuals trapped
sedentary behavior.
in microfinance debt, empowering them
to regain financial stability and thrive.
• The expansion of care facilities for the
A special intervention will be made for
elderly and those with chronic diseases
the protection of women pressured and
abused by micro credit lenders. is a priority to enhance their well-being
and quality of life.
• The companies that employ more
than 50% of women in select sectors • A full medical test will be conducted
evidenced through EPF/ ETF will be given with state contribution once every 3
tax benefits. years for every citizen over 40 years of
age targeting minimization of the state
HEALTH, NUTRITION, healthcare expenses through early
diagnosis of diseases and creating a
INDIGENOUS
healthy generation of citizens.
MEDICINE AND
SOCIAL WELLBEING • “Husma” programme to improve the
availability of medical services to the
• We will ensure the implementation of
people of Sri Lanka will be top priory
the National Nutrition Policy.
of our government. A total audit of the
entire health services network shall
• Over the past 25 years, there has been no
be undertaken to allocate fund over a
improvement in the stunting of children
period of time to meet global quality
under five, which significantly impacts
standards. Encourage donors to continue
our country’s development. Our strategy
funding the “Husma” programme to
includes providing essential nutrients to
adapt hospitals to community needs,
foster healthier growth in children.
thereby promoting improved healthcare
• Recognizing malnutrition in pregnant accessibility and quality.
mothers and young children as a
• The digitize identity card will also provide
serious health issue, the programme of
health services to all citizens.
distributing “Thriposha” and “Nutrition
Packs” to pregnant mothers and young
• Expanding the right to free healthcare,
children will be restarted.
we will create opportunities for children
to receive treatment from any hospital
• A midday meal program will be
by expanding the “Suraksha Health
implemented for school children in food-
Insurance”.

23
 • The government will be especially opportunities contributing to the growth
committed to promoting traditional of the economy. Under this scheme,
systems of medicine including Ayurveda, presently unemployed graduates will
traditional Sinhalese medicine, Unani, be given the highest priority. A quick
and Homeopathy, and will develop a assessment of unemployed graduates
special programme to attract foreign will be carried out to understand their
tourists towards alternative medical present knowledge & skills and direct
practices. towards the government organizations
where there are relevant vacancies.
• The 1990 “Suwa Seriya” Ambulance
Service, recognized as one of the world’s • Priority will be given to qualified youth
best ambulance services and currently from low-income families when providing
highly appreciated by the public, will be foreign employment opportunities with
promoted and protected. Furthermore, government intervention.
arrangements will be made to provide a
better service to the public in every area of PERSONS WITH
the island by the use of new technologies
DISABILITIES
including Artificial Intelligence (AI).
We will implement a programme of work
EMPOWERMENT & that will recognize disability as part of
PROSPERITY the rich diversity of humanity. Within this
BUILDING conceptual framework, we will ensure the
autonomy, inclusion and participation of
We are committed to social justice and the citizens with disabilities within all Sri Lanka’s
protection of the vulnerable segments of development and social structures.
society. Our philosophy is to build a self-
confident, self-reliant society not dependent • Continue benefits to disable persons
on the state. and increased welfare allowance of
Rs. 10,000/ month (from Rs. 7,500) for
• Senior citizens, the disabled and the 410,000.
sick will be provided direct financial
transfers. • The domestic legal framework will
be developed and implemented in
• Continue benefits with enhanced accordance with the United Nations
amount to patients of chronic kidney Convention on the Rights of Persons
disease of unknown etiology (CKDu), with Disabilities and the National Policy
and elderly citizens on Disability.

• Rs. 10,000/ month (from Rs. 7,500) for • All goods and services related to
50,000 CKDu affected persons. education, work and employment,
health, poverty alleviation and social
• Rs. 5,000/ month (from Rs. 3,000) for
security, housing, transportation, sports,
820,000 elderly citizens.
justice, public participation and social,
• The unemployed and the underemployed religious, cultural other rights will be
will be trained, reskilled, and provided made appropriate and accessible to
employment and entrepreneurial persons with disabilities.

24
• A national database will be established
for the efficient and effective SPORTS
management of the national programme
for the promotion of the rights of persons • The outdated Sports Law No. 25 of 1973
with disabilities. will be replaced within a year with a new
Sports Act that meets contemporary
• The policy of providing a 3% quota of needs.
job opportunities in the public service
for persons with disabilities will be • Steps will be taken to establish a
implemented. definite schedule for domestic sports
competitions, also prioritizing provision
• We will appoint a Disability Rights of necessary infrastructure and trainers
Commission to monitor the to improve the standard of domestic
implementation of policies to ensure sports.
that disability rights will be on par with
the rights of all citizens. • A special fund will be established with
contributions from public and private
THE INDIGENOUS sector to provide necessary funding for
athletes who qualify to represent Sri
ADIWASI COMMUNITY Lanka in international competitions.
The SJB / SJB Alliance firmly believes that the • “Sri Lanka Cricket” will be established
Indigenous Adiwasi community should be by an Act of Parliament, creating the
treated with dignity, enjoying full entitlement necessary legal environment to eliminate
to all rights and privileges without any corruption in cricket and promote
discrimination. Providing feasible and the sport.
sustainable solutions for hardships faced by
them due to the diminishing of forest lands,
and the scarcity of water will be a priority
in the future governance. A speedy solution
will be provided for the micro-finance credit
crisis faced by the Indigenous Adiwasi
community which has become a serious
problem for the community.

Further, we will ensure that the religious,

cultural, social, and economic rights of the
Indigenous Adiwasi communities will be
protected.

25
 ENHANCE
GOVERNMENT
SERVICE
While aiming to modernize public service delivery
through Digital Public Infrastructure, we work towards
creating a skilled and accountable public service to serve
all Sri Lankans, ensuring efficiency, transparency and
accessibility.

26
 A DIGITAL SRI LANKA • Establishment of a Development Fund,
FOR THE TWENTY- with private sector participation, to
promote startups.
FIRST CENTURY
Under the future government, a Digital • Resolving the issue of lack of high-
Public Infrastructure (DPI) would be created speed internet facilities, which has
to improve public service delivery, accelerate been a barrier to the development of
the development goals, and ensure good information technology enterprises and
governance. efficient citizen service delivery in Sri
Lanka, will be considered a priority of
• Under the DPI initiative, all citizens this government.
of Sri Lanka would be given a specific
identification number. This would ensure • Removing unfair taxes imposed on
the efficiency of services provided to businesses in the information technology
them by enabling them to provide sector and introducing a new, fair,
currently cumbersome services such and attractive tax policy for the sector,
as obtaining birth, marriage, and death recognizing its unique contribution to
certificates, passports, and certified the country›s development.
copies of important documents with the
• Minimizing taxes on electronic
press of a button.
equipment imported to Sri Lanka for
• The DPI that creates Data Interoperability information technology businesses.
between the government and the citizen,
and between government institutions, PLANNING AND PLAN
banks and recognized financial IMPLEMENTATION
institutions would be putting place
within 02 years. A system to enhance • A Cabinet Ministry for Policy Planning and
digital financial transactions will be Implementation will be re-established.
instituted transforming Sri Lanka into a This ministry will be responsible for
cashless transaction oriented modern policy formulation, policy updating,
society. and reviewing the progress of policy
implementation.
• Expanding the Lanka Government
Network and Lanka Government Cloud to • We will establish a “Policy
cover the entire Sri Lankan government Implementation Commission”
institutional system, and technologically composed of fully authorized
empowering it to provide optimal service scholarly professionals to ensure
to all government institutions. the implementation of the policies
mentioned in this policy statement. The
• A comprehensive Cyber Security law role of this commission will be to set
will be introduced to Sri Lanka within 3 implementation targets for these policies,
months. review progress, study setbacks, and
recommend remedies. The commission
• Necessary regulations will be enacted
will publish an annual report showing
and facilities will be provided for the
the progress of implementing election
effective implementation of the Personal
promises.
Data Protection Act No. 09 of 2022.

27
 concerning pension entitlements for
PUBLIC SERVICE newly recruited government servants,
we propose to cancel the prior decision
• Conducting a comprehensive human and ensure that all government
resource audit covering the entire public employees hired since 2016 receive their
service and rationalizing the entire public pensions in accordance with the Minutes
service in terms of a human resource of Pensions. Their appointments will be
management plan. All recruitments, altered accordingly.
appointments, and placements in the
• The Development Officers in public
public service will be conducted based service at present will be reassigned
on meritocracy, ensuring that the most to suitable positions within the public
talented and capable individuals are service based on their qualifications,
strategically positioned. abilities, and preferences. The
government will provide support for the
• Standardizing public service delivery
Development Officers serving at present
and continuously evaluating the public
to obtain appropriate vocational training
service based on performance evaluation
to enable them to competitively seek job
targets. We are committed to invest
opportunities in the job market.
in public sector training both locally
and internationally. We will rationalize
civil service training institutions by AN END TO PASSPORT
establishing a Civil Service College with QUEUE
international standards
• To provide passports and identity cards
• Increase in the Cost-of-Living allowance quickly without queues, 25 service
for public servants: Our government centers will be established in each
shall increase the monthly cost of living administrative district, jointly operated
allowance to all eligible public sector by the Department of Immigration and
employees to a minimum of Rs. 25,000 Emigration and the Department of
from current amount Rs 17,800 and be Registration of Persons.
adjusted for current allowances.
• All Divisional Secretariat offices will be
• Increase in basic salary for public connected to the Lanka Government
servants: The minimum initial monthly Network to ensure that birth, death, and
salary for government service will marriage certificates can be obtained
increase by at least 24% (based on from every Divisional Secretariat.
the current ratios for grades). This
adjustment shall include any terms and
conditions of various adjustments and
allowances currently being enjoyed.

• The above two adjustments shall make

the minimum gross salary in public
service Rs. 57,500 including the cost-of-
living allowance.

• In light of the ongoing uncertainty

caused by the 2016 budget proposals

28
29
 PROTECT
QUALITY
OF LIFE
A new intervention mechanism will
soon be established to make poverty
a part of history, drawing on the best
practices of “Jana Saviya,” “Samurdhi,”
“Aswasuma,” and “Gamidiriya,”
and developing a comprehensive
new programme.

30
 RELIGIOUS AND • We will establish free art spaces in
CULTURAL AFFAIRS every district for organizing training
and exhibitions for cultural and
• We are committed to building a society artistic activities, including paintings,
that spreads compassion, loving- sculptures, photographs, and musical
kindness, equanimity, and sympathetic dramas.
joy. While giving Buddhism the foremost
place and nurturing and protecting the MEDIA
Buddha Sasana, work to protect the
rights of those who follow other religions
• A priority of the new government will be
and ensure the fundamental right to
to introduce a bill that removes clauses
practice and worship the religion of their against freedom of expression in the
choice. Online Safety Act No. 9 of 2024 permitting
internet service providers to operate
• Full state patronage will be provided to
their industries without hindrance.
strengthen Dhamma schools, Pirivenas,
and religious education • An independent National Media
Commission will be established with
• Steps will be taken to include inter-
responsibilities for policy decisions and
religious education in the school
regulation related to media, considering
curriculum to provide children with an the needs of all stakeholders in the print
adequate understanding of religions and electronic media.
other than their own.
• New laws and regulations will be enacted
• State patronage will be provided for to provide necessary legal protection
research on examples that can be derived to ensure job stability for professionals
from Buddhist philosophy and other in the media sector, including regional
religious philosophies for the humane journalists.
and ethical development of Artificial
Intelligence (AI). • The Sri Lanka Rupavahini Corporation
and Sri Lanka Broadcasting Corporation
• We will remove all censorship for artistic will be governed under a “Trust” directly
creations. Instead, we will establish a accountable to Parliament following
specific mechanism for categorizing and the administrative model of the BBC in
evaluating creations. Britain.

• We will provide necessary state patronage

for traditional artists to elevate their HOUSING AND PUBLIC
professional lives to a higher standard. UTILITIES
• We will establish a special unit within the • Government-owned lands will be
Intellectual Property Office to resolve provided for the construction of low-
intellectual property issues related to income and middle-class housing
artistic works. schemes.

• We will work to attract Sri Lankan • The incomplete government-led housing

audiences to cinemas by promoting scheme will soon be completed, and the
newly developed diversified housing
digital cluster cinemas.

31
 programme will prioritize rural, urban, • We will introduce a new contributory
hill country, disaster-affected regions, insurance scheme and a special housing
the northeast, and fisheries communities programme to enhance the well-being of
to ensure equitable living conditions for private sector employees.
all.
• Enacting law to regulate domestic work,
• Steps will be taken to reduce construction addressing workplace harassment,
costs by removing the excessive taxes ratifying relevant ILO conventions and
currently imposed on importing raw increasing monitoring by labour officers
materials needed for housing and to protect workers.
commercial building construction.
• Gig economy self-employees and
• A special housing loan scheme (Two domestic employees’ rights and safety
Generation Loan) will be introduced nets to be strengthen. We will bring laws
for households purchasing their first and also introduced contributory saving
housing unit or a plot of land for housing scheme.
construction with minimum interest and
long-term repayment options. MALAIYAHA
• Public Utilities Commission of Sri Lanka COMMUNITY
(PUCSL) will be strengthened to ensure
We acknowledge the immense contribution
the regulations of all utilities including
to Sri Lanka made by the Malaiyaha Tamil
Electricity, Petroleum, Gas and Water.
community over two centuries. Given
the structural exclusion they suffered we
MIGRANT WORKERS & recognize the need for affirmative action
EMPLOYMENT to improve their wellbeing. We will work
towards that by
• The government will implement a tax
exemption programme on housing • Raising the educational attainment
materials for migrant workers post of Malaiyaha students at all levels
implementation of the Sri Lanka Unique through targeted programme including
Digital Identity. establishment of national schools with
Science, Mathematics and Technology
• Necessary legal and administrative streams and improving infrastructure
reforms will be implemented to make facilities.
the Foreign Employment Bureau a more
efficient and effective institution. • Establishing an additional College of
Education to train teachers in Science,
• The election law will be amended to Technology, English, Engineering, Art,
allow overseas workers to vote from and Mathematics (STEEAM) in Tamil
medium and a Nurses Training Institute.
abroad.

• Swift action will be taken to bring back • Initiating a campus in Hatton affiliated
Sri Lankan workers who are imprisoned to an existing University as a first step
towards a full-fledged university with the
or facing difficult situations in the Middle
proposed name of Highland University
East and other countries and are unable
of Sri Lanka (HUSL)
to return to Sri Lanka.

32
• Providing targeted and accessible – tied to plantation employers – to full-
Vocational Training programmes fledged citizens.
and support for entrepreneurship of
Malaiyaha youth • Taking legislative & administrative
measures to ensure that resident
• Integrating all health facilities in the families in the estates are given land with
estate sector into the national health title deed for housing. Such lands shall
systems. be located with easy access to approach
roads. The extent of land distributed shall
• Implementing a targeted support be in parity with what was distributed to
programme to address stunting among others in the same Divisional Secretariat
children, anemia among women of area.
reproductive age, infant & maternal
mortality. • Regularizing with title deeds the houses
that have already been built under
• Ensuring fair and just implementation of PHDT, NHDA and other government
the social protection programme to the programme.
plantation community.
• Integrating the Tamil people migrating to
• Introducing and implementing a the urban centers into the social safety
government policy to transform net programmes including low-income
plantation workers to land owning small housing programmes and improving
holder farmers. resources in schools in the area to
accommodate children of these families.
• Assuring living wage to plantation
workers during this transition period. • While ensuring power-sharing at the
center and periphery we will review the
• Distributing abandoned land in numbers of local government bodies in
estates to the estate residents for the plantation areas.
livelihood purposes of cultivation,
animal husbandry and entrepreneurial • Creating a Non-Territorial Community
activities. Providing titles to the lands Council (NTCC) as a governance body,
already being cultivated by estate in a constitutional reform process,
residents as per the government policy. considering the dispersed population
pattern of the Malaiyaha community
• Implementing affirmative action with advisory and executive capacity to
programme, in line with President engage in development programme and
Ranasinghe Premadasa’s policy, in to monitor and scrutinize bills and laws
public sector employment in areas where that have an implication for the cultural,
representation of Malaiyaha community social, economic and political lives of
is woefully inadequate. Establishing new Malaiyaha Tamil community.
villages in plantation areas and providing
adequate resources to NEVIDA to fulfill its
mandate. Demarcating new GN and DS
divisions and assuring equitable access
to decentralized state services that
enables transformation from workers

33
 PROTECTING PENSION pension system. This involves creating a
BENEFITS universal, contributory pension scheme
that is accessible to all citizens, including
• Providing pension revisions that were public service employees, private sector
denied to pensioners during the period workers, and migrant workers. The
2016-2019 and offering a sustainable existing model, where public servants
solution to pension disparities. receive pensions without contributing, is
• Extending Agrahara insurance coverage financially unsustainable.
to pensioners who retired before 2016. • We propose to revise the minimum wage
• Will amend the Public Service of private sector workers to at least
Pensioners Trust Fund Act No. 40 of 1999 Rs 25,000 per month from Rs. 17,500
to enable its management in a way that per month upon discussions with all
provides greater benefits to the retired stakeholders.
community. • A new intervention mechanism will soon
be established to make poverty a part of
history, drawing on the best practices of
“RANAVIRU” WELFARE “Jana Saviya,” “Samurdhi,” “Aswasuma,”
and “Gamidiriya,” and developing a
• To protect the dignity of war heroes
comprehensive new programme. The
who sacrificed their lives for the nation’s
new programme will provide a monthly
security and to ensure their welfare, a
allowance of Rs. 20,000 for up to 24
Department of Veteran Affairs will be
months for beneficiary families. Until the
established within 6 months. All existing
new programme launches, Aswasuma
institutions currently responsible for the
benefits with enhanced amounts will
welfare of war heroes will be integrated
continue to be disbursed as follows;
under this department. This will provide
the services of rehabilitation, health,
•Rs. 10,000/ month (from 5,000) for
vocational education, counseling, and vulnerable and transitional poor families
resolution of housing issues. • Rs. 10,000/ month (from
8,500) for poor families
• Adoption of the ‘One Rank-One Pension’
• No changes to Rs. 15,000/ month for
policy for retired war heroes. extremely poor families
• Appointment of a special Ombudsman • This initiative will empower beneficiary
to listen to and resolve the issues of families and communities by enhancing
war heroes and implementing the their capacities and skills, featuring
recommendations received from that components of consumption, savings,
Ombudsman within 6 months. investment, production, and exports. At
its core, this programme will implement
BUILDING A STRONG a credit-based participatory poverty
SOCIAL PROTECTION alleviation strategy through a robust
NETWORK social protection framework.

• Recognizing the tremendous impact of

• For long-term sustainability, we propose
the Samurdhi programme in eradicating
a comprehensive overhaul of Sri Lanka’s
poverty in Sri Lanka, a fresh scientific

34
survey will be conducted before the housing lottery initiatives, while also
new programme is implemented. resolving longstanding management and
This survey aims to address the mis- pension issues for Samurdhi employees.
targeting of beneficiaries in the current
programme, ensuring proper support for • We will implement a fuel subsidy through
underserved Samurdhi beneficiaries and a QR-based system, benefiting farmers,
those affected by the economic crisis. “Shakithi” rice millers, three-wheel
The capital of Samurdhi banks will be drivers, fishermen, and school transport
strengthened with a focus on improving sector drivers, ensuring targeted support
management, creating sustainable for those who keep our economy and
career paths for employees, continuing communities thriving.
mandatory savings programs and

35
 SAFEGUARD
THE NATION
We are committed to ensuring national
security and environmental sustainability
while strengthening democracy, promoting
reconciliation and protecting the rights of all
citizens for a secure Sri Lanka characterized by
harmony, coexistence and safety.

36
 STRENGTHENING number of Ministers / Deputy Ministers/
DEMOCRACY & State Ministers in the event a National
Government is formed shall be repealed.
RECONCILIATION
• The ceilings on the numbers of Ministers
• Racism, extremism or separatism will not
shall apply even if a National Government
be promoted in any way. Every citizen
is formed.
shall be treated equally under the law
irrespective of race, religion, caste, class • The provincial council elections will be
or sex. held within 06 months and steps will
be taken promptly to ensure operation
• We will Implement the Trilingual
of Provincial Councils with maximum
language Policy as required under the
financial efficiency and effectiveness.
current constitution of Sri Lanka.
• The Office of National Unity and
• We will enact legislation to ensure
Reconciliation, the Office on Missing
women and youth representation in all
Persons and the Office for Reparations
elected bodies.
will be strengthened to effectively and
• The SJB / SJB Alliance is committed efficiently implement their objectives.
to change the present constitution We will facilitate resettlement of those
and formulation of a new constitution affected by displacement. All lands not
with proper consultation with religious required for security purposes will be
dignitaries, political parties representing returned to their owners without further
the parliament, and members of the civil delay. The policy of no state sponsored
societies. In that process, our principle is demography changes will be maintained.
to convert our present political system Furthermore, specific concessions
to parliamentary system and with and incentives will be provided for
maximum devolution based on 13th investment in the reconstruction and
amendment under one country. development of conflict-affected areas.

• .“Grama Rajya” and “Nagara Rajya”, • We will organize an international

community based democratic donor conference aimed at securing
institutions will be created to actively commitments to rebuild and develop
engage the citizen in the decision- conflict-affected areas, focusing on
making process. infrastructure restoration, community
development, and sustainable economic
• The government will be committed to growth.
fully implement the current constitution
including the 13th amendment to the • Taking necessary legal and administrative
constitution till the passage of the new steps to promptly hold the unlawfully
Constitution. Reaffirm the commitment postponed Local Government Elections.
to provincial councils by not retracting
the powers granted to them, and instead, • Enacting legal reforms to prevent
strengthen the developments made at interference by the executive in the
the provincial level. administration of justice and making
necessary legal reforms to establish
• The Constitutional provision which the independence and efficiency of the
permits Parliament to increase the judiciary.

37
 • The scope of the chapter on fundamental • Introducing legal amendments to
rights will be broadened to include social prevent MPs from crossing over for
and economic rights, cultural rights, privileges and favors, and presenting
rights of women, children, the aged, the provisions making it mandatory to
disabled, environmental, housing and conclude related court proceedings
development rights. within 2 months.
• To ensure citizens’ easy access to justice,
the Court of Appeal will conduct its FOREIGN AFFAIRS
sittings in each Province. It will have & COMMERCIAL
an original fundamental rights and ALLIANCES
language rights jurisdiction. An appeal
would lie to the Supreme Court with We are a sovereign state with a multi-aligned
leave from the Court of Appeal or special foreign policy. Our vison is to be friends with
leave from the Supreme Court. all and enemies with none.
• Corruption in any form is deemed to be Sri Lanka’s foreign policy embraces a
a violation of the Constitution and the multilateral system promoting a world order
Constitutional reform process will ensure governed by the rule of law and international
that anti-corruption will be entrenched
norms. The core principles include the non-
in the Constitution.
use of force, peaceful resolution of conflict
• Complete de-politicization of the public and adherence to human rights.
service and providing the associated
standards and provisions to the Public • Peaceful coexistence with immediate
Service Commission. and regional neighbors devoid of
military alliances, taking lead in
• Steps will be taken to fully implement promoting regional integration will be
the Code of Conduct for Members of the cornerstone.
Parliament, which became law on
15.04.2018, in order to establish the • Sri Lanka will engage with all nations
standards and principles required in and economic diplomacy will be at
the performance of parliamentary the core of policy formulation. Our
responsibilities, and to instill public economic diplomacy strategy will
confidence in Parliament. Priority will be built on the pillars of investment,
also be given, in parallel, to legislating trade and tourism. We develop a trade
codes of conduct to be followed by
and investment policy focused on
provincial councilors and members of
establishing a dedicated government
local government.
unit for trade negotiations, akin to U.S.
• Ministers will not be allowed, in making trade representatives, to enhance Sri
appointments, to recruit their family Lanka’s global trade positioning.
members to government and semi-
government institutions falling under • Promoting a rules-based order in the
the purview of their ministries. Indian ocean, ensuring the best interest
of the population of the Indian Ocean
• Those currently indicted for corruption Region.
charges before the courts will not be
given nominations in future elections or • Sri Lanka will be committed to regional
any government positions. trading alliances.

38
• We will ensure a proportion of 75% • Working to ensure all races and
career diplomats and a maximum of religious groups the respect they truly
25% non-career appointments. The deserve and ensuring security based on
recruitment process will be revamped, mutual cooperation emerging from the
and the appointment of family members community itself to all ethnic groups.
of politicians will be prohibited.
LAW & ORDER
NATIONAL SECURITY
• A Commission of Inquiry with formal
• Strengthening national security authority will be established within 3
through defense cooperation based on a months under Section 2(1)(c) of the
farsighted and strong foreign policy. Commission of Inquiry Act No. 17 of
• Establishing the National Security 1948 to deliver justice to the victims of
Council by a new law and assigning it the Easter Sunday bomb attacks. Based
necessary powers. on the commission’s recommendations,
prosecuting those responsible for the
• The country’s security, law and order
and intelligence agencies will be treated Easter attacks through a High Court at
as separate and independent units Bar with daily hearings will be a priority
with necessary inter-coordination. A of the government.
Structural and operational recognition
will be given to the state intelligence • The post-cremation policy of the former
sector by establishing an integrated regime will be investigated, and those
intelligence framework within this responsible will be held liable, with
structure. This coordinated approach justice pursued.
will improve information sharing,
streamline operations, and improve • The Prevention of Terrorism (Temporary
overall national security capabilities Provisions) Act will be abolished and
by maintaining the independence a new, anti-terrorism law that protects
of each sector. This framework will national security and human rights will
ensure efficient cooperation between be enacted.
independent agencies and create a
strong and responsive national security • Necessary legal amendments will
mechanism. be made to prevent the misuse
• Provision of essential technical facilities, of the International Covenant on
up-to-date weapons and equipment and Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR)
adequate local and foreign training for by law enforcement authorities.
the armed forces of the Army, Navy, Air The government is committed to
Force and Civil Defense Force. The jobs addressing the issue of hate speech and
of Tri Forces and Civil Security personnel strengthening legal mechanisms.
will also be secured, with assurances
of high wages, allowances, and welfare • The judicial system will be fully
benefits. digitalized within 5 years to improve the
• Modernizing the armed forces for the quality of justice and minimizes delays.
twenty-first century through institutional
reforms. • The Legal Aid Commission of Sri Lanka

39
 will be further strengthened, ensuring Office will be established to ensure
that legal aid is provided to citizens for independence and efficiency in
all types of cases. prosecution.

• A permanent office for a Mediation • The Stolen Assets Recovery Bill, already
Board will be established within the presented to Parliament, will be passed
Divisional Secretariat offices, provided within a month of the election of a
with adequate facilities and a permanent new government. Recovery of assets
staff. obtained through corruption will be
speedily pursued.
• Criminal cases withdrawn for political
reasons will be re-filed within 3 months • The existing Anti-Corruption High Court
of formation of the new government. at Bar will be re-empowered, creating
• We will support legal action by those an environment for speedy day-to-day
affected parties who have unjustly trials of bribery and corruption cases.
suffered due to the economic crisis
inflicted by those held responsible by COMBATING DRUG
the court. MENACE
• The 150-year-old Police Ordinance will • We will work more closely with Interpol
be updated to provide for prompt and fair and other foreign intelligence services to
recruitment, promotions, and transfers prevent the importation of drugs into Sri
of police officers, while providing Lanka and to disrupt international drug
adequate facilities to modernize the trafficking routes passing through Sri
police service to international standards. Lanka.

• Providing necessary resources to the • An Anti-narcotic special high court

police department to ensure that 119 will be established to try cases against
emergency calls are responded to within large-scale drug traffickers and impose
30 minutes by the police throughout the sentences within 6 months.
island and digitizing the judicial system.
The police will be digitalized to be able • 25 rehabilitation centers with modern
to provide a more public-friendly and facilities will be established across the
speedy service. country to rehabilitate drug addicts and
reintegrate them into society.
ANTI-CORRUPTION
• We will work to completely eradicate
LAWS toxic drug trafficking within 2 years.
• Necessary facilities and training will be
• Steps will be taken to discourage
provided to speedily implement the
alcohol consumption and smoking. We
recently passed Anti-Corruption Act No.
will cancel “liquor licenses” irregularly
9 of 2023.
issued recently.
• An Independent Public Prosecutors

40
 SUSTAINABLE energy sources in the transmission
ENVIRONMENT system.

• We affirm our commitment to achieving • We commit to implementing science-

the United Nations Sustainable based, ecologically sustainable solutions
Development Goals in all sectors, to mitigate and resolve human-wildlife
and environmental protection will conflicts, focusing on elephants,
be ensured within the development monkeys, peacocks, and other animals
process. The National Environmental that frequently interact with human
Act of 1980 (with amendment) and other populations.
laws and regulations will be updated.

• Priority will be given to acting in

accordance with the agreements in the
Paris Agreement on controlling global
warming by promoting renewable
energy sources including solar power,
wind power, pump storage, wave energy,
green hydrogen, and biomass, as well as
by introducing eco-friendly alternative

A concise summary of the policies of the

Samagi Jana Sandhanaya government
under my leadership, Sajith Premadasa,
and the future programs planned to be
implemented under it has been printed
here for your information.

Agreeing with this basic conceptual

framework, the agreements, policies, and
charters reached after extensive dialogue
with experts, professionals, and activists
working in each field will be unveiled
simultaneously with this
policy statement.

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NOTES
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