India's 'Neighbourhood First' Initiative in Sri Lanka: 48 Homes Inaugurated

Inauguration of Model Villages Under India's 'Neighbourhood First' Policy

In a significant achievement for Sri Lanka's sustainable development under India's 'Neighbourhood First' policy, two new model villages, 'Nanda Gama' and 'Jana Arunachal Gama', have been officially inaugurated and handed over to local beneficiaries in the Kegalle and Kalutara districts of Sri Lanka. A total of 48 permanent houses have been constructed in these villages with the economic grant assistance from the Government of India.

India's High Commissioner to Sri Lanka, Santosh Jha, inaugurated these projects. The initiative aims to build permanent housing for low-income families across all 25 districts of Sri Lanka, underscoring the strong diplomatic and cultural ties between the two nations. During the inauguration ceremonies, Sri Lanka's Minister of Environment, Dr. Dammika Pabasiri, was present in Kegalle, and Minister of Health and Mass Communication, Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa, was present in Kalutara.

Improving Living Standards Through Model Villages

High Commissioner Jha shared on X (formerly Twitter), stating that "Giving a house changes a life." He highlighted the inauguration of the 20th model village, 'Jana Arunachal Gama', in Kalutara. He was accompanied by the Minister of Housing, Construction and Public Utilities, Dr. Susil Premjayantha, and the Minister of Health and Mass Communication, Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa.

He emphasized that houses are being built in all 25 districts of Sri Lanka with India's grant assistance, showcasing the strength of India-Sri Lanka friendship in transforming people's lives at the grassroots level. This 'Model Village Housing Project' not only focuses on providing shelter to the needy but also endeavors to uplift the living standards of local communities by strengthening infrastructure.

Under this comprehensive project, a model village is being developed in each district in a planned manner for economically vulnerable families across the island nation. Each village comprises 24 permanent housing units equipped with state-of-the-art facilities.

India's 'Neighbourhood First' Policy

India has long been providing significant assistance to Sri Lanka in various sectors through its 'Neighbourhood First' policy. Whether it was Sri Lanka's unprecedented economic crisis or sectors like digital infrastructure, health, education, disaster management, and renewable energy, India has always played the role of a true friend. This housing project is another testament to India's commitment.