President Anura Kumara Dissanayake announced that an additional 400,000 families will be granted Aswesuma welfare benefits starting in June. The announcement was made during a rally in Mannar in support of National People’s Power (NPP) candidates contesting the upcoming Local Government elections.
The President also emphasized a shift in policy regarding wind power projects in the region, stating that all future renewable energy initiatives in Mannar will only proceed following consultations with local communities and comprehensive environmental assessments.
“We cannot repeat the mistakes of the past,” President Dissanayake said, referring to previous projects that drew criticism for overlooking ecological concerns and public input. “Development must be sustainable, and it must serve the people – not come at their expense.”
Mannar is known for its high potential in wind energy generation. The President reassured residents that future development will prioritize ecological balance and community welfare. “This Government listens. We will not allow development to proceed in a way that alienates or harms the very people it is meant to uplift.”
In addition, President Dissanayake announced that efforts are underway, with support from the Indian Government, to launch a passenger boat service between Mannar and Rameswaram in Tamil Nadu. “Restoring this historic connection will not only boost cross-border relations, but also enhance economic and cultural exchange for the people of Mannar,” he said.
Also present at the rally were Fisheries Minister Ramalingam Chandrasekar, Members of Parliament Jegatheeswaran and Thilaganathan, and NPP candidates from the Mannar Urban Council, as well as representatives from Nanattan, Musali, and Manthai West.
