App to distribute WB funds
It is reported that the World Bank and the Central Bank of Sri Lanka have planned to collaborate to select poverty stricken individuals and families.This measure is said to be taken due to political pressure imposed on government officials during the selection process.
The World Bank is funding this programme as per the recommendation of the International Monetary Fund to provide a ‘safety net’ for the poverty ridden masses in Sri Lanka due to the ongoing economic crisis.Accordingly, in addition to the 1.7 million who are currently receiving the Samurdhi benefit, those who are expecting the Samurdhi, as well the elderly, kidney patients and the disabled are also included in this new relief package.Also, another 600,000 families and individuals identified as poverty stricken due to the current economic crisis, will also benefit.
The government has planned to implement this subsidy package for a period of two years during the initial phase.
it is also reported that the Ministry of Finance has been instructed to distribute this money through a mobile app to counter transparency issues in the process, which is one of the main concerns raised by the IMF with regard to distribution of aid in the country.