Budget 2011 - pro development

by Lalin FERNANDOPULLE

The preliminary preparation for the 2011 Budget is under way and many experts say it would be a people friendly and pro development budget.

Deputy Minister of Economic Development Ranjith Siyambalapitiya said the 2011 Budget will focus on sustainable economic growth and achieving the government's development goals.

"The primary aim of the Government is to make Sri Lanka a leading economy in Asia and the pride of the region" Siyambalapitiya said.

He said rural and infrastructure development, industrial growth, investment opportunities and welfare measures are some of the main targets of the 2011 Budget.

Finance Ministry sources said letters have already been sent to Secretaries of Ministries, Chief Secretaries of the Provincial Councils, Heads of departments, chairmen of statutory boards and institutions, calling upon them to submit proposals and estimates for the budget.

"The experts said curbing the budget deficit, bridging the trade imbalance, simplifying and widening the tax base and increasing investments are some major issues that need to be addressed in the 2011 Budget.

"Preparations have been made to hold pre-budget discussions within the next few weeks" Finance Ministry sources said.