Weekly Dry Food Allowance for Families Jumps from Rs. 2,100 to Rs. 10,500

 In a bid to provide relief to people affected by the prevailing emergency disaster situation, the government has taken steps to increase the weekly dry food allowance, based on the number of family members, to Rs. 10,500.

Previously, this allowance ranged between Rs. 1,800 and Rs. 3,600 depending on the number of family members. With the new amendment, the allowance, which was previously Rs. 2,100, has also been significantly increased to Rs. 10,500.

Cabinet approval has also been granted to empower the Treasury Secretary to provide necessary additional provisions, issue guidelines, and grant approvals for the swift restoration of the lives of the disaster-affected population. This proposal was submitted to the Cabinet by the President in his capacity as the Minister of Finance, Planning, and Economic Development.

Considering the prevailing adverse weather conditions, the government has declared an extensive disaster situation, effective from November 21st until further notice.

In this context, Budget Circular No. 05/2025, outlining the procedures to be followed in providing relief to the affected population, has been issued to District and Divisional Secretaries. Furthermore, Circular No. 06/2025 has been issued by the Treasury Secretary, empowering Ministries and Provincial Secretaries to carry out relevant procurement activities without hindrance.

In addition to the funds allocated from the approved budget estimates for 2025 for emergency disaster response and relief services, an additional provision of Rs. 550 million has already been made available.