There has never been a government in Sri Lanka's post independence history that has upheld the dignity of members of the tri forces as the present one did, Army Commander Lieutenant General Daya Ratnayake said yesterday.
He added that even after the lapse of time following the elimination of terrorism the government provides still more facilities while involving members of the forces in development programs in addition to national security. On the contrary other countries reduce the strength of the forces following a war. He added that this year too around Rs 1 billion has been allocated to develop the Tri Forces on par security forces at international level .
The Army Commander was speaking at a ceremony to grant documents for procuring building materials for completing the partially completed houses of war heroes, held at the Defense Service College auditorium.
Chairperson of the Seva Vanitha Unit of the Defence and Urban Development Ministry Ioma Rajapaksa presided at the ceremony.
At the second phase of this program 322 war heroes of Tri Forces received the documents of grant for building materials worth of Rs 750,000 to complete their houses. During the first phase that was held on November 21, another 377 War Heroes of Tri Forces received the same facility.
The Army Commander said that in addition to the many welfare programs launched, the Government led by President Mahinda Rajapaksa under a concept of Secretary of Defence and Urban Development Gotabhaya Rajapaksa has taken measures to realize the dream of a house for every member of tri forces. He added that apart from the Api Wenuwen Api housing project and other such projects this project will also continue until the housing needs of all the members of the tri forces are fulfilled. He added the President at the Security Council instructed them to allocate Rs 1.8 billion to grant housing loans and a 10 month loan to the members of the security personnel. He also added that another sum of Rs 12.5 billion has been allocated for the same purpose next year.
The Lt. General instructed the aid recipients to build a beautiful house in the village they live in and lead an exemplary life and educate their children in a manner that others would want to follow in their footsteps.
Chief of Defence Staff General Jagath Jayasuriya, Air Force Commander Air Marshal Kolitha Gunathilake, Navy Commander Rear Admiral Jayantha Perera and their spouses participated at the ceremony. Defence and Urban Development Ministry Additional Secretary Indu Ratnayake also participated. (Courtesy : Daily News)
