June 02, Colombo (LNW): Defence State Minister Premitha Bandara Tennakoon, honoured the sacrifices of war heroes and their families at a programme organised by the Sri Lanka Army to address the welfare and administrative needs of retired and medically retired military personnel and their families.
Held at the Army Volunteer Force Training School in Diyatalawa on June 1st, the event saw State Minister Tennakoon, accompanied by Commander of the Security Forces (Central), Major General Rohitha Aluvihare, expressing gratitude for the dedication of those who served in protecting the nation’s peace.
The State Minister acknowledged the enduring memory of fallen heroes and those who sustained injuries in service, affirming the nation’s eternal gratitude.
Help desks, established under seven Army Directorates, were provided to facilitate retired personnel and war hero families in addressing grievances and seeking assistance.
State Minister Tennakoon lauded the remarkable sacrifices made by parents and families during the conflict, alongside the exemplary service of brave soldiers in upholding the nation’s territorial integrity.
Discussions with Health Minister Ramesh Pathirana were highlighted, focusing on prioritising healthcare services for retired war heroes and their families.
Plans for preferential services at state institutions, including banks, were disclosed, alongside discussions for a subsidised loan scheme in collaboration with the Bank of Ceylon.
Furthermore, President’s proposal to provide land under the ‘Urumaya’ programme was outlined, ensuring priority access for retired veterans and war hero families through Divisional Secretariats.
Efforts to secure job quotas for retired veterans in foreign employment, coordinated with the Foreign Ministry, were also mentioned.
The event, attended by Additional District Governors of Badulla and Monaragala, senior military officers, state officials, and numerous war heroes and their families, served as a platform for addressing concerns and providing support to those who served the nation selflessly.
