Proposal seeks Special Development Fund to bridge regional disparities

12-Jul-2026

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ITAK MP Shanakiyan Rasamanickam has submitted a Private Member's Motion in Parliament seeking the establishment of a Special Development Fund to reduce regional disparities, particularly in the Northern and Eastern Provinces.

The motion states that the Northern and Eastern Provinces, along with the Monaragala and Nuwara Eliya districts, have suffered decades of economic setbacks due to the prolonged civil conflict and historical neglect.

It further notes that the ongoing economic crisis has disproportionately affected livelihoods in these underdeveloped regions, widening existing disparities. The proposal calls for a dedicated national initiative to promote inclusive and sustainable development and strengthen social cohesion in economically disadvantaged areas.