Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya has declared that the government plans to implement a comprehensive social security program ensuring that “every citizen will be entitled to a pension.” This announcement was made in a special message on National Retirement Day, where she emphasized the importance of supporting retirees.
“National Retirement Day is just a symbolic tribute to their decades of service,” Amarasuriya stated. She highlighted that empowering retirees economically and socially is “the highest tribute that can be given as a developed nation.”
Outlining the government’s vision for a prosperous society, the Prime Minister said, “In the new government’s vision of a safe society and a prosperous nation, the national pension policies will be developed and implemented within the existing institutional framework.” This program aims to include contributions from both the formal and informal sectors to ensure inclusivity for all citizens.
Currently, there are over 720,000 active retirees benefiting from pensions. Amarasuriya revealed that “in the year 2024, the government will allocate more than Rs. 434 billion” for these payments. She reiterated the commitment to enhancing the daily lives of citizens across spiritual, social, and economic aspects, stating, “Our aim is to improve the daily life of every citizen of this country in all aspects.”
Encouraging retirees to remain active in society, she remarked, “We wish to see you contribute to social progress by passing on the years of experience and good attitudes developed throughout life to the next generation.” Concluding her message, Amarasuriya wished all retirees “a happy and free retirement.”
