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Across Sri Lanka, people from all walks of life had started talking about the budget. From bustling Colombo to the quiet hills of Kandy, opinions were mixed, and each person had something to say.
“Biggest Education Budget Ever – But Will It
Reach Schools?”Sunila Perera, Schoolteacher, Galle”Education is finally getting the attention it deserves. The budget promises the biggest allocation for education in history, and we need it. Increasing the Mahapola scholarship from Rs. 5,000 to Rs. 7,500 is a huge relief for university students. Also, Rs. 500 million has been allocated to restructure the school system. If implemented properly, this could change the future of education in Sri Lanka.”
“90,000 Acres for SMEs – But Who Really Benefits?”
Kumara Wijesinghe, Small Business Owner, Kandy”The plan to lease 90,000 acres of underutilized state land for SMEs sounds promising. But will these lands actually go to small businesses like mine, or will big companies take them over? The government says Rs. 250 million is set aside for studies, but we need actual access to these lands for farming and production.”
“New Tax on Digital Businesses – A Death Blow to Startups?”
Rohana Fernando, Digital Entrepreneur, Colombo”The new VAT on digital services worries me. The government says they will regulate and collect taxes on digital platforms, but what does that mean for small businesses using online tools? If digital costs rise, it’ll hit freelancers and startups hard. The entertainment tax deduction for film exhibitors is a good move, but digital businesses seem to be getting taxed more.”
“Farmers Left Behind Again – Where’s the Real Support?”
Samantha Herath, Farmer, Anuradhapura”We were hoping for more direct support for agriculture. They talk about an equitable economic distribution, but where are the real subsidies? Fertilizer costs are high, and the fisheries sector isn’t getting the attention it needs. The budget is focused on exports, but we need investment in local food production.”
“Is This an IMF-Controlled Budget?”
Nalin de Silva, Opposition Supporter, Kurunegala”This budget is tied to the IMF. The government talks about economic independence, but their hands are tied. The 2.5% primary surplus requirement and the 13% spending limit on GDP are IMF conditions. The government is just following their instructions, leaving very little room for real development.”
“Scholarship Increase Sounds Great – But What About Jobs?”
Sukumar Logeswaran , University Student, Jaffna”The scholarship increase is a relief, but what about jobs? They say exports will reach US$19 billion in 2025, but how many of those will create employment for graduates? The digital economy could grow, but with new VAT rules, will there be opportunities for us?”
“Salary Hike for Public Workers – But What About the Rest of Us?
“Suresh Prsanna , Factory Worker, Ratnapura”They promised salary increases for government employees every six months, but now it’s spread over three years. What about private-sector workers like us? We’re struggling with inflation, and there’s no guarantee wages will catch up. The budget should have addressed this.”
From teachers to business owners, farmers to students, the budget had sparked debates everywhere. Some saw hope, others were skeptical, but one thing was clear—everyone was paying attention. Whether the government could deliver on these promises remained to be seen
