Ministry of Defence - Sri Lanka

Deputy Minister of Defence Looks in to the Post-Defence Budget
Implementation Process

March 28, 2025

Following the approval of the defence budget on March 21, the Deputy Minister of Defence, Major General Aruna Jayasekara (Retd), chaired a post-defence budget implementation meeting on Wednesday (Mar 26) at his office. The discussion aimed to align the execution of the budget with His Excellency the President’s vision and the national policy.

The effective and transparent utilization of the defence budget is critical to a nation’s security and development. The efficient implementation of budgetary allocations directly supports the government's broader vision of 'a thriving nation, a beautiful life,' which prioritizes security, prosperity and comprehensive well-being.

During the meeting, Anura Ranasinghe, Director General of Planning at the Ministry of Defence, delivered a detailed presentation on the budget allocation and its projected impact. Subsequently, the Defence Secretary, Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuyacontha (Retd), outlined the implementation challenges faced by the tri-forces.

Moreover, the discussion extensively covered the timeframe for the efficient projection of the defence budget, as well as the implementation of a monitoring mechanism to ensure optimal utilization of budgetary allocations.

In concluding the discussion, the Deputy Minister underscored the importance of transparency, accountability and strategic resource allocation of the defence budget. Moreover, he emphasized that proper management of defence expenditure is essential to fostering a secure and progressive society for all citizens.

The meeting was also attended by the Commanders of the Army and Air Force, the Chief of Staff of the Navy, the Additional Secretary (Defence), and senior officials from the Ministry of Defence and the tri-forces.