The Government today officially launched the ‘Praja Shakthi’ National Programme, a comprehensive initiative aimed at eradicating rural poverty through community empowerment and targeted development interventions. The launch ceremony took place at Temple Trees under the patronage of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake.
The ‘Praja Shakthi’ programme is designed to operate under an integrated and inclusive organizational structure, aligning with the Government’s vision of “A Prosperous Country – A Secured Life.” The initiative aims to address multidimensional poverty through a multi-pronged approach that combines social security, economic inclusion, and institutional reform.
Speaking at a media briefing held yesterday at the Government Information Department, Rural Development, Social Security and Community Empowerment Minister Upali Pannilage explained that Praja Shakthi Councils will be established in each village, comprising both public officials and community members. These councils will be responsible for developing customized village development plans and strengthening local governance structures to ensure effective service delivery and inclusive growth.
The programme will also bolster Sri Lanka’s national social welfare system, improving its ability to support vulnerable groups while unlocking the country’s untapped economic potential.
Oversight for the initiative will be provided by the Praja Shakthi National Operations Committee, which includes nine Ministry Secretaries and Chief Secretaries of Provincial Councils. The committee will be convened by Senior Additional Secretary (Development Administration) to the President, Kapila Janaka Bandara.
Among the Government’s three flagship national development programmes, Praja Shakthi specifically targets rural and estate sectors, where 95.3% of those affected by multidimensional poverty currently live. The programme seeks to reverse this trend by strategically directing resources and building institutional capacity for sustainable, people-centric development.
Secretary to the President Dr. Nandika Sanath Kumanayake and Senior Additional Secretary Kapila Janaka Bandara were also present at today’s launch event.
