July 31, Colombo (LNW): The Ministry of Defence, under the leadership of Secretary General Kamal Gunaratne (Rtd), has introduced extensive measures to ensure justice and lifelong care for soldiers injured in the war.
These measures include allowances, medical rehabilitation, and lifelong support.
Over the past two years, the Ministry has significantly contributed to the country’s economic and political stability, providing a secure environment for the populace.
General Gunaratne highlighted these efforts during a news conference titled ‘Two Years of Progress and Way Forward’.
He outlined the Ministry’s pivotal role in preventing human trafficking and drug trafficking, with the armed forces making substantial seizures of narcotics in 2023 and 2024.
The rehabilitation of war-injured soldiers has been prioritised, with centres established in multiple locations to provide necessary care.
Additionally, dependents of deceased military personnel are assured of financial support equivalent to their previous earnings.
Employment opportunities have been facilitated for retired soldiers through Rakna Arakshaka Lanka Ltd, and there are plans to deploy 550 Sea Marshals given the current situation in the Red Sea.
The Sir John Kotelawala Defence University has also seen enhancements in educational facilities and increased enrolment, including foreign students, reflecting its high standards.
The Ministry is also actively involved in disaster management, with the National Building Research Organisation identifying landslide-prone areas and implementing mitigation projects.
The armed forces continue to assist in religious shrine and school renovations, disaster response, and construction projects for health facilities.
The Ministry’s efforts extend to international cooperation, with peacekeeping missions resumed and steps taken to address human trafficking issues in Myanmar and the Ukraine-Russia conflict involving former military personnel.
Senior officials, including the Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Sir John Kotelawala Defence University, Major General C.A. Wickramasinghe, and Defence Ministry Senior Assistant Secretary A.M.C.W.P. Abeykoon, were present at the event, underscoring the Ministry’s commitment to these initiatives.
