The Hon. Governor of the Northern Province, N. Vethanayahan, has instructed officials to formulate comprehensive plans aimed at improving the livelihoods of people in all areas, without leaving out border regions or isolated villages surrounded by forests.
A special meeting to review the 2026 project proposals of the Northern Province Ministries of Agriculture, Agrarian Services, Livestock Development, Irrigation, Fisheries, Water Supply, and Environment was held on Thursday, 18 December 2025 evening at the Governor’s Secretariat. The Governor made the above remarks while presiding over and addressing this meeting.
At the outset of the discussion, the Governor noted that, in view of the recent disaster situation, the Finance Commission has granted approval to make amendments to the project proposals already submitted. Accordingly, he instructed officials to promptly make changes in line with current needs and submit the finalized project proposals.
The Governor also requested the submission of a comprehensive report compiling the projects implemented through the 2025 budget allocations and their outcomes.
He emphasized that it is necessary to clearly explain to the Finance Commission what kind of increase in production has resulted from the financial assistance provided by the government. In particular, beyond meeting the province’s local needs, the extent of additional production undertaken and exported should be clearly highlighted. He stressed that the ultimate objective of agricultural projects should be the enhancement of people’s livelihoods and an increase in the province’s production capacity.
*Funds allocated department-wise for 2026 under the Provincial Specific Development Grant (PSDG):*
Department of Agriculture: LKR 619 million
Department of Irrigation: LKR 604 million
Department of Livestock Production and Health: LKR 377 million
Inland Fisheries Unit: LKR 75 million
The relevant departmental directors briefed the Governor on the projects to be implemented under these allocations. On this occasion, the Governor also provided constructive advice regarding the adjustment of funding allocations for certain projects according to necessity.
Those present at the discussion included the Secretary to the Governor of the Northern Province, the Secretary of the Provincial Ministry of Agriculture, Deputy Chief Secretaries – Administration and Planning, the Director of the Provincial Buildings Department, and relevant provincial departmental directors.
