The government has implemented various social
welfare schemes in Sri Lanka, such as Janasaviya, Samurdhi, and the latest
initiative, Aswesuma. Unfortunately, these programs have faced numerous issues
related to discrepancies and inefficiencies. Aswesuma, a poverty relief
program, was introduced under the International Monetary Fund's (IMF)
recommendations. This article aims to explore the current system's shortcomings
and propose suggestions for improvement.
The Aswesuma Welfare
Benefit Program
President Ranil Wickremesinghe initiated the Aswesuma welfare benefits program as part of the social safety net to address the ongoing economic crisis. The program operates under the supervision of the State Minister of Finance Semasinghe and involves various government agencies, including the Ministry of Finance. It aims to provide financial assistance to the lower-income group, comprising 40% of society, across four categories: transitional, vulnerable, poor, and extremely poor. Families falling into the inferior category are targeted to receive a monthly allowance of Rs. 15,000. Additionally, the program includes subsidies for differently-abled individuals, the elderly, and kidney patients.
Issues with the
Current System
Lack of Objective
Criteria for Beneficiary Identification
One of the significant challenges the welfare
program faces is the absence of objective criteria for identifying
beneficiaries. The system has become overly complicated, hindering its
effectiveness. To rectify this, it is essential to establish clear and
transparent guidelines for determining eligibility. Involving an independent
agency, such as the Department of Social Services, can ensure unbiased
verification and validation of the collected data.
Insufficient Data
Management and Verification Methods
The current system needs a reliable database,
which contributes to inaccuracies and discrepancies in the allocation of
benefits. Developing a certified plan with a comprehensive database to test
collected data against objective criteria is crucial to enhance accuracy.
Alternative verification methods, such as cross-referencing data with
electricity consumption records, can be explored to improve accuracy and
mitigate discrepancies.
Inequitable
Distribution of Benefits
Reports indicate that nearly 60% of the
population in the lowest income brackets still needed to receive the benefits
they were entitled to. In contrast, many individuals in higher income brackets
received them. This discrepancy highlights the need for fairness and
impartiality in distributing welfare benefits. Drawing upon successful examples
from countries like India, where digitization and interconnected databases have
played a crucial role, Sri Lanka should gradually digitize and collect accurate
information to improve the targeting of beneficiaries.
Recommendations for Improvement
Leveraging
Technological Advancements and Data Modelling
To enhance the efficiency of the welfare program,
it is recommended to utilize technological advancements and data modeling. A
multi-sector data model incorporating activity data can aid in identifying
deserving beneficiaries and excluding those who do not require assistance.
Specialized tools can facilitate a streamlined application process and enable
periodic reassessment of beneficiaries, ensuring the program's integrity and
effectiveness.
Prioritizing the Wellbeing of Vulnerable Individuals
It is vital to prioritize the well-being of
vulnerable individuals over political interests. Social welfare should not be
used as a tool for political gain but rather as a means to uplift the poor and
vulnerable in society. Stakeholders and authorities must initiate comprehensive
reforms to strengthen the Samurdhi payment system, ensuring it caters to the
genuine needs of the vulnerable population.
Implementing a Geotech System for Targeted Assistance
Ideally, a Geotech system should be established to identify the specific location and employment status of individuals or families who deserve state support. This system would enable targeted assistance and prevent the misallocation of benefits.
Conclusion
The Sri Lankan government's welfare schemes
have shown promise in addressing poverty and economic disparities. However,
inefficiencies and discrepancies hinder their effectiveness. The government can
create a more efficient and inclusive welfare program by implementing objective
criteria for beneficiary identification, improving data management and
verification methods, and leveraging technological advancements. It is crucial
to prioritize the well-being of vulnerable individuals and work toward a system
that truly serves their needs. Only through comprehensive reforms can Sri Lanka
ensure that its social welfare initiatives effectively alleviate poverty and
uplift the marginalized sections of society.
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