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India's Rs 450 Million Aid For Sri Lanka's Unique Digital Identity Project

The Indian High Commissioner on Friday handed over a cheque of Rs 450 million for the Sri Lanka Unique Digital Identity (SL-UDI) Project.

General News
 
| Written By
Megha Rawat
India

India hands over Rs 450 million for Sri Lanka Unique Digital Identity project (Image: Indian High Commissioner Twitter)


Indian High Commissioner on Friday handed over a cheque of INR 450 million for the Sri Lanka Unique Digital Identity (SL-UDI) Project in an attempt to help the debt-ridden country under India's ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy. 

Taking to Twitter, the High Commission of India in Colombo, Sri Lanka said, “High Commissioner handed over a cheque of INR 450 million to State Minister Kanaka Herath, in the gracious presence of Sagala Ratnayaka today for SLUDI project, which is being implemented through grant assistance by Government of India.”

According to the President's Media Division of Sri Lanka, the SL-UDI project has great potential to strengthen the country's digital infrastructure and promote growth in different sectors. This significant move brings Sri Lanka closer to a technologically advanced future, which will lead to increased economic development and prosperity.

Due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on tourism, which is the main source of income for the island nation, as well as a decrease in remittances from citizens working abroad, the country is currently facing a financial crisis. The crisis was further exacerbated by the escalation of the war in Ukraine, which led to a significant increase in import prices, particularly fuel, due to soaring inflation. In this difficult situation, India has offered assistance to the country struggling with debt.

India has provided valuable assistance to Sri Lanka in its efforts to mobilize the International Monetary Fund (IMF). Sri Lankan Minister Jeevan Thondaman recently stated that the relationship between India and Sri Lanka is strong and close, and it became clear during the economic crisis who truly stands by Sri Lanka as a friend. He stressed that a permanent solution to the fishermen issue is important for India-Sri Lanka’s cultural and economic ties.

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