Govt Announces Comprehensive Disaster Relief Package

The Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development has issued Budget Circular No. 08/2025, detailing a massive financial relief program to empower citizens affected by the recent adverse weather and disaster situation.

Following the State of Public Emergency declared on November 28, 2025, the government has allocated funds to restore livelihoods, housing, and education for affected families.

Support for School Children

Of particular importance to the education community, the circular explicitly includes provisions for students.

• Book & Clothing Allowance: A one-time allowance of Rs. 15,000 per school child will be provided to purchase books and clothing for those affected by the disaster.

This measure aims to ensure students can return to their studies with necessary supplies despite the disruptions caused by the emergency situation.

Major Housing & Livelihood Relief

Teachers and Principals should be aware of the broader relief measures to guide affected parents and staff. The circular outlines the following key financial assistance:

Housing & Resettlement Support

• Cleaning & Resettlement: A one-time allowance of Rs. 25,000 per housing unit to clean and safely resettle.
• Kitchen Essentials: A one-time allowance of Rs. 50,000 per housing unit to purchase kitchen utensils and essential items.
• Rent Allowance: A monthly allowance of Rs. 25,000 (maximum 06 months) for owners who lost their homes and need temporary accommodation.
• Rebuilding (Total Damage): An allowance of Rs. 5,000,000 per unit to rebuild completely damaged houses.
• Land Purchase: Up to Rs. 5,000,000 to purchase suitable land if government land cannot be provided for those with completely damaged homes.
• Repair (Partial Damage): Up to Rs. 2,500,000 to repair partially damaged houses, based on damage assessment.

Livelihood & Income Assistance

• Monthly Living Allowance: Paid for 03 months (Dec 2025, Jan & Feb 2026) to families who lost livelihoods or homes:
  • Rs. 25,000 for families with 02 or fewer members.
  • Rs. 50,000 for families with more than 02 members.
• Business Restart: A one-time allowance of Rs. 200,000 for affected individual, small, and micro enterprises to recommence operations.
• Business Buildings: Compensation up to Rs. 5,000,000 for damaged business buildings.

Agriculture & Fishing

• Paddy & Crops: Rs. 150,000 per hectare for crop damages or replanting paddy, grains, maize, and field crops.
• Vegetable Cultivation: Rs. 200,000 per hectare for crop damages or replanting vegetables.
• Livestock: Rs. 200,000 per farm owner for registered livestock farms.
• Fishing Boats: Maximum Rs. 400,000 compensation per damaged fishing boat.

Education & Personal Support

• School Children: A one-time allowance of Rs. 15,000 per school child to purchase books and clothing.
• Death & Disability Compensation: Rs. 1,000,000 paid to the closest relative of a deceased person or to a person who suffered complete disability due to the disaster.

How to Apply

The implementation of these payments will be handled primarily through the Divisional Secretariats. The assessment of damages and selection of beneficiaries will be based on the guidelines issued by the Ministry of Defence.