Sri Lanka's 2025 Budget Proposals: Key Highlights

Sri Lanka's proposed budget for 2025 brings several key fiscal measures aimed at improving the nation’s economic stability, infrastructure, and social welfare. Here are some of the main proposals:

Wage Increases:

Minimum wage for public sector employees will be increased from LKR 24,250 to LKR 40,000, with an 80% annual wage increment expected.
The private sector’s minimum wage will rise from LKR 21,000 to LKR 25,000 starting in April 2025.
Water Supply Projects:

LKR 20 billion allocated for urgent water supply projects and LKR 1 billion for resuming the Giri Bawa water supply system.

Support for Veterans & Security Forces:

LKR 1.5 billion allocated for rebuilding areas affected by conflict and assisting war-affected populations.
LKR 1 billion for government housing projects, including new housing units for artists and marginalized groups.
Fighting Corruption:

Strengthening anti-corruption commissions and establishing strict legal frameworks to reduce financial misconduct.
Social Welfare:

Increased benefits for pensioners and public sector workers, with a focus on improving social protection measures for disabled persons and orphans.
Transport and Infrastructure:

LKR 3,000 million allocated for upgrading bus services and developing transportation infrastructure, including a focus on Colombo’s key road corridors.
Agricultural Development:

Investment in agricultural sectors, with LKR 500 million for youth-led agricultural initiatives and additional funds for enhancing dairy farming productivity.
Healthcare:

The health budget sees an increase to LKR 604 billion, with special provisions for medical supply enhancements and autism treatment facilities.
Education:

The budget also proposes increased funding for educational infrastructure, with LKR 500 million for school development and higher stipends for students pursuing vocational education.
The 2025 budget is designed to drive economic growth through strategic investments in key sectors such as agriculture, healthcare, education, and infrastructure, while also enhancing social protection and public welfare. The government's focus on reducing corruption and fostering transparency will likely lead to improved fiscal management in the coming years.