Assistant Secretary of the National Disaster Relief Services Centre (NDRSC), Jayatissa Munasinghe stated that the allowance for dry rations for displaced persons has been increased.
Addressing the media, Munasingeh said the weekly payment of Rs. 1,800 provided to an individual for dry rations has been increased to Rs. 2,100, while the amount of Rs. 3,600 provided weekly to a family of five has been increased to Rs. 10,500.
Accordingly, he pointed out that Divisional Secretaries and District Secretaries are empowered to provide dry rations within this revised limit.
He further explained that, under the President’s instructions, the revised rates for providing relief services have been amended in Circular 1(2025), signed by the Secretary of Defence, in line with the current economic situation. He added that the severity of the present disaster situation was also taken into account.
He also noted that, with the declaration of this situation as an Extended Disaster Situation on 28 November 2025 under Circular 3(2025) by the Secretary of Defence, Divisional Secretaries have been authorised to carry out procurement activities up to Rs. 50 million without hindrance.
He further stated that the new circular clarifies that, instead of depositing funds into bank accounts for dry rations, which is the usual procedure, authorities may directly provide food items suited to the needs of affected individuals. He added that Divisional Secretaries have been empowered to make necessary decisions through an appropriate committee, in line with the prevailing conditions in their respective areas.
He also stated that if the public requires any information or wishes to provide updates related to disaster relief services, they could contact;
- Direct telephone number: 011 2665258
- Via the Disaster Management Centre (DMC) hotline: 117
Munasinghe added that the Disaster Relief Services Centre could be contacted through these channels. (Newswire)