Minister of Plantation and Community Infrastructure Samantha Vidyaratne emphasized that the Malayaha (Upcountry) community is a hardworking population whose dedication and labor enrich the country, noting that tea exports generated $1.5 billion last year through their efforts.
Minister Vidyaratne made these remarks during the handing-over ceremony of the “Navodayagama” housing project to 50 families from Poonagala, Kabaragala, who had been living in vulnerable conditions following landslides in 2023.
Elaborating further, Minister Vidyaratne stated:
“Following President Anura Kumara Dissanayake assuming office, our ministry prioritized finalizing this housing project as its first initiative. In collaboration with the Ministry of Defence, we secured funds and entrusted the construction to the armed forces to ensure speed and high standards. We are immensely grateful to the officers and personnel of the Sri Lanka Army for their dedication.”
He further highlighted the progress made in housing development across the region:
Addressing Abandoned Projects: The ministry is actively reviewing incomplete housing projects dating back to 2004, systematically resolving issues to complete them in phases.
Fulfilling the Hatton Declaration: Recalling the historic Hatton Declaration delivered in 2023 to mark 200 years since the arrival of the Malayaha community, Vidyaratne reaffirmed the government’s commitment to securing their rights, dignity, and security.
Accelerated Housing Delivery: Contrast to the previous 10 years, during which only 734 disaster-relief houses were built in Badulla District, the current government has initiated over 4,000 houses within its tenure. Additionally, 10,000 houses are currently under construction with aid from the Indian Government.
