NDTF poverty alleviation programs islandwide

By L. S. A. Wedaarachchi

The National Development Trust Fund (NDTF) under the ministry of Finance will extend its poverty alleviation projects Islandwide.

A program is being implemented to assist resettlers in the eastern province to commence economic activities which will improve their livelihoods.

The NDTF provides micro loans through Partner Organisations (PO) to the poorest segment of the society without collateral for self-employment projects.

The NDTF released Rs. 1,584 million last year for self-employment activities of the poorest segment of the society and it expects to increase micro finance by 30 percent this year. Managing Director - NDTF said that they have decided to strengthen the PO network which works with the lower income groups.

"They have a fair knowledge in identifying, evaluating and conducting diligence and maintaining close contact with the micro borrowers. We have selected these community based organisations as POs of around 140 in the country.