Rs. 10,500 Relief for Disaster-Hit Families : Dry Ration Allowance Doubled

COLOMBO (News 1st); The government has announced a sweeping emergency relief package to support thousands of families affected by the recent unprecedented calamity caused by severe weather conditions.

With effect from November 21, 2025, an extensive disaster condition has been declared until further notice, as authorities move to stabilize public life and accelerate recovery.

The Secretary to the Treasury has issued Budget Circular Nos. 05/2025 and 06/2025, providing detailed instructions to District Secretaries and Divisional Secretaries, in concurrence with the Procurement Commission, on the methodology for supplying emergency relief and essential facilities.  These measures empower all Ministry Secretaries and Chief Secretaries to carry out urgent procurement activities required for disaster response.

Beyond allocations in the 2025 approved budget, an additional Rs. 550 million has already been released for disaster relief and emergency services.

In a significant move, the government has doubled the weekly allowance for dry rations, increasing it from Rs. 1,800–3,600 per family to Rs. 2,100–10,500, based on family size.

This escalation aims to ensure adequate food supplies for those most affected.

The Cabinet of Ministers has granted approval for the resolution presented by the President in his capacity as Minister of Finance, Plan Implementation, and Economic Development, authorizing the Secretary to the Treasury to provide further approvals, guidance, and additional provisions as needed to normalize life in disaster-hit areas.