The Aswasuma Welfare Benefit Payment Scheme, which has been in effect since July 1, 2023, has undergone amendments as per Extra Ordinary Gazette No. 2415/66, dated December 21, 2024.
Accordingly, the Cabinet of Ministers has approved a proposal by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, in his capacity as the Minister of Finance, Planning, and Economic Development, to revise the benefits under the schemein line with the budget allocations for 2025.
The key amendments include:
- Extending benefit entitlements for the transitional social category (Schedule I) until April 30, 2025.
- Increasing monthly assistance payments from Rs. 7,500 to Rs. 10,000 for persons with disabilities and those receiving treatment for kidney diseases, and from Rs. 3,000 to Rs. 5,000 for elderly persons (Schedule II), with implementation from April 2025.
- Extending payments for disabled persons, kidney patients, and elderly individuals (Schedule II) until December 31, 2025, under the revised scheme.
- Halting allowances under the transitional social category after April 2025, while continuing payments for disabled persons, kidney patients, and elderly individuals from these families until December 31, 2025.
- Accepting new applications for disabled and kidney patients, subject to a maximum limit, with payments valid until December 31, 2025.
These amendments aim to enhance social welfare while ensuring effective financial management within the allocated 2025 budget.
