Number of “Aswesuma” beneficiaries to be expanded to 2.4mn families: State Minister

Given the current economic constraints, State Minister of Finance Shehan Semasinghe says that steps would be underway to bring the number of families receiving “Aswesuma” welfare benefits up to 2.4 million.

Minister Semasinghe cited that the pertinent proposal will be submitted to the Cabinet of Ministers in accordance under the directive of President Ranil Wickremesinghe during a discussion with state bank representatives about the following measures to be taken for the continuation of the “Aswesuma” welfare scheme in a more effective manner.

The “Aswesuma” welfare programme, established to support 2 million families, currently benefits 1.4 million families.

The Finance State Minister announced that 60% of over 1.1 million appeals and objections regarding the program have been considered and will be completed by January 31, 2024.

Wording on that he further mentioned that new “Aswesuma” applications will begin in late January or early February, and an additional 400,000 recipients will be included in the welfare benefits program.