The efforts taken with foresight to transform the Department of Rural Development, instead of continuing to label it as an outdated or ineffective institution, are commendable. These efforts should not remain at the level of mere studies but must be translated into action, emphasized the Northern Province Governor, Hon. N. Vethanayahan.
A discussion themed “The Future of Rural Development in the Northern Province”, along with the launch of the related study, was held yesterday – on Friday 05 December 2025, at the auditorium of the Chief Secretary’s Secretariat, Northern Province in Kaithady. The event was organized by the Provincial Department of Rural Development – Northern Province and was chaired by its Provincial Director, Mrs. Gajaani Partheepan.
Delivering his address as the Chief Guest, the Hon. Governor made the above remarks. He further stated:
The Department of Rural Development must transform itself in ways that truly benefit the public. The reality is that the department has not yet fully achieved the objectives for which it was established.
During my tenure as Divisional Secretary and District Secretary, I worked closely with many officers of the Department of Rural Development. Only a very few of them went beyond their official duties and served the public with genuine commitment. This is why I repeatedly insist that the functions and operations of this department must undergo a complete transformation.
The department must operate with an understanding of the needs of the people in accordance with present-day circumstances. Having such a large staff yet failing to bring about meaningful change among the public is unacceptable.
Many Rural Development Societies and Women’s Rural Development Societies have funds remaining in their accounts. However, these funds are not being utilized properly for improving the livelihoods of the people. Therefore, everyone must break free from narrow thinking and work with dedication for the betterment of the people and to fulfil the very purpose for which this department was established, he added.
It is noteworthy that the research team led by Dr. Ahilan Kathirkamar, Senior Lecturer in the Department of Sociology, University of Jaffna, conducted this long-term strategic study on the department by engaging with various stakeholders with the cooperation of the Department of Rural Development.
The event was attended by the Chief Secretary of the Northern Province, the Secretary of the Ministry of Local Government of the Northern Province, the Deputy Chief Secretary – Planning and several other senior officials.
