Srilanka, March 18 -- The Cabinet has approved amendments to the "Aswesuma" Welfare Benefit Payment Scheme, extending and increasing financial assistance for vulnerable groups under the 2025 Budget Estimates.

Key amendments include:

Extension of Benefits: The transitional social category under the Aswesuma Welfare Benefit Payment Scheme will continue until April 30, 2025.

Increased Allowances:

Persons with disabilities and kidney patients will see an increase in their monthly assistance from Rs. 7,500 to Rs. 10,000. Elderly persons will receive an increase from Rs. 3,000 to Rs. 5,000.

These revised payments will take effect from April 2025.

Extended Payment Period: Assistance for persons with disabilities, kidney patients, and elde...