By unusuma.lk on (LK time)
President Anura Kumara Dissanayake presented a set of cost-cutting initiatives aimed at controlling public spending as part of the 2025 budget proposals.
During the 2025 Budget Speech in Parliament, the President underscored the government’s dedication to fiscal discipline, particularly in cutting unnecessary expenses by public officials.
Among the primary reforms, the President promised a thorough evaluation of allowances and benefits granted to Members of Parliament. As part of this initiative, the insurance coverage for public representatives, previously set at Rs. 1 million, will be decreased to Rs. 250,000.
To further promote fiscal responsibility, the Cabinet will now consist of 21 ministers, demonstrating an example of frugality in government expenditures, the President highlighted, noting that the spending of ministers and deputy ministers has been streamlined to ensure reduced overall government costs.
The President also noted that a special committee has been established to monitor and appropriately distribute public resources assigned to the President, Prime Minister, and Ministers, directing these funds toward broader public benefits.
Additionally, Dissanayake revealed that all government-owned luxury vehicles, which incur high maintenance expenses, will be sold at auction in March.
Moreover, excessive spending on government vehicles will be curtailed by providing funds only to select officials, ensuring a more cost-efficient approach, the President added.
“The MPs will neither receive vehicle permits nor any vehicles this year. No funds have been allocated for that purpose. It’s intolerable,” the President stated, stressing the strict measures being taken to reduce unnecessary costs.
