The 2026 budget has unveiled a series of initiatives aimed at improving the welfare of Sri Lanka’s disabled community, with a total estimated cost of Rs. 1.6 billion.
A substantial Rs. 19 billion has already been allocated under the Aswesuma welfare program to provide monthly subsidies of Rs. 10,000 and above to eligible individuals.
The government also announced that the existing gazette on accessibility regulations will be amended to align with international standards, describing this as a key priority.
In addition, Rs. 1 billion has been earmarked to upgrade accessibility and sanitation facilities in public institutions such as divisional secretariats, railway stations, bus terminals, courts, and police stations.
Although 3% of public sector jobs are officially reserved for persons with disabilities, the government acknowledged that this quota has not been effectively enforced. Measures will be taken to ensure adherence to the quota in future public sector recruitments.
To incentivize private sector employment, the budget proposes a wage subsidy covering 50% of an employee’s salary, up to Rs. 15,000, for each disabled person employed for a period of 24 months. A total of Rs. 500 million has been allocated for this initiative.
The government will also continue developing day care centres for children with disabilities, including those with autism, under the Ministry of Health and the Department of Social Services. Funding allocated for this initiative exceeds Rs. 1 billion.
