📈 Aswasuma Social Safety Net: Performance & Reforms

The transition from Samurdhi to Aswasuma marks a shift toward data-driven social protection, aiming to eliminate political patronage. While current implementation faces criticism, it remains a critical pillar of Sri Lanka’s recovery. • Economic Context & IMF Targets Social safety net spending is mandated at a floor of LKR 187 Bn (approx. 0.6%–0.7% of GDP) under IMF conditions. Poverty rates surged from 11.3% (2019) to 25% (2022), necessitating a more efficient distribution system. • System Efficiency & Errors Samurdhi previously reached only 39% of the poorest households due to political bias. Aswasuma uses objective "deprivation scores," though rushed implementation led to inclusion/exclusion errors. Data verification is being integrated with the CEB, Water Board, and Motor Traffic Department to improve accuracy. • Proposed Enhancements Livelihood Development: Linking benefits with Samurdhi to support employment and capacity building. Dynamic Support: Implementing a mechanism to assist those with temporary job losses (unemployment benefits). Regular Audits: Revising indicator weightages based on utility consumption and asset ownership to ensure only the vulnerable receive aid. • Outlook Total beneficiary numbers are expected to remain stable as "undeserving" recipients are replaced by those currently excluded. Strengthening the Welfare Benefit Board (WBB) is vital for long-term structural transformation.