The Cabinet of Ministers has approved a comprehensive review of State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs) with non-commercial interests to enhance their efficiency and relevance. The proposal, presented by the President at the Cabinet meeting on December 18, aims to address structural and operational inefficiencies within these institutions.
The government, tasked with responsibilities such as public service delivery, national security, disaster management, and social welfare, operates through an extensive network of 86 departments, 25 District Secretariats, 339 Divisional Secretariats, 340 SOEs, and 115 non-commercial statutory bodies.
In 2024, the National Budget allocated approximately Rs. 140 billion for 115 non-commercial state statutory bodies under the Department of National Budget and 51 institutions under the Department of Public Enterprises. However, challenges such as outdated frameworks, insufficient authority, and inefficiencies have necessitated this review.
A committee has been appointed to conduct the review and submit recommendations. The committee will be chaired by the Secretary to the Prime Minister and comprise senior officials, including:
- Secretary to the Prime Minister (Chairman)
- Secretary, Ministry of Education, Higher Education, and Vocational Education
- Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, Lands, and Irrigation
- Secretary, Ministry of Industries and Entrepreneurship Development
- Secretary, Ministry of Plantations and Community Infrastructure
- Deputy Treasury Secretary (nominated by the Secretary to the Treasury)
- Additional Secretary to the Ministry (nominated by the Secretary to the Ministry of Public Administration, Provincial Councils, and Local Government)
- Director General of National Budget
- Director General, Department of Management
- Director General, Department of Public Enterprises
- Chairman, University Grants Commission
This initiative aims to ensure that these institutions operate effectively, align with national goals, and avoid duplication of functions with the private sector. The findings of the committee are expected to guide future reforms in the management of SOEs.
