Feb 18, Colombo: Sri Lankan government plans to spend Rs. 500 million for livelihood-based development activities in the Eastern Province, Deputy Minister of Nation Building and Development Susantha Punchinilame said.

Several selected Grama Niladhari Divisions will each receive Rs. 250,000 to Rs. 300,000 to develop livestock and farming in their areas.

The Minister said the Rs. 500 million allocated this year was the biggest amount ever allocated. "People are willing to resettle in the East now. We are providing them with the necessary infrastructure, houses, roads, jobs and safety," he said.