Colombo, Sri Lanka, May 20 -- Ministry of Defence and Urban Development issued the following news release:
The National Disaster Relief Services Centre (NDRSC), operating under the Ministry of Defence, launched two new digital platforms on 18 May aimed at enhancing support services for communities affected by Cyclone Ditwah. The Digital Compensation Management System and the Community Inquiry Mechanism were officially unveiled at a ceremony held at the BMICH graced by the Deputy Minister of Defence, Major General Aruna Jayasekara (Retd).
The Digital Compensation Management System has been introduced to simplify and streamline the compensation claim process for affected families. Replacing time consuming manual procedures with an integrated digital process, the system enables victims to submit compensation requests online through Grama Niladhari offices, thereby reducing delays, travel difficulties and administrative burdens. The digital process is expected to accelerate compensation payments while ensuring greater accountability and fairness in the distribution of relief assistance. The NDRSC also launched the Community Inquiry Mechanism to facilitate the systematic handling of public inquiries related to disaster relief assistance, allowances, rehabilitation and resettlement services.
Addressing the gathering, the Deputy Minister noted that the initiative has been implemented fully in line with the Government's "Clean Sri Lanka" program and its broader vision of "A Thriving Nation, A Beautiful Life." He emphasized that the introduction of these digital systems reflects the Government's commitment to building an efficient, transparent, and people centered public service, particularly in times of disaster and national emergencies.
The Deputy Minister also expressed his appreciation to all partner agencies that contributed towards the successful implementation of the initiative, especially the United Nations, UNICEF and UN Volunteers, for their continued support during both the Cyclone 'Ditwah' disaster response and the development of the new digital platforms aimed at assisting affected communities. The Deputy Minister also presented certificates of appreciation to all those who had actively contributed towards this initiative during the event.
The launch event further highlighted the strong collaboration between state institutions and international humanitarian partners in strengthening Sri Lanka's disaster response mechanisms. The ceremony was attended by several distinguished guests, including Mr. Marc Andre Franche, United Nations Resident Coordinator in Sri Lanka, Additional Secretary of the Disaster Management Division, and senior representatives from UNICEF Sri Lanka and the UN Volunteers Program. District Secretaries from the affected regions, along with senior officials from the Disaster Management Centre (DMC) and other key government institutions engaged in disaster response and recovery operations, were also present at the event.
Disclaimer: Curated by HT Syndication.
