Measures to increase benefits under 'Virusara' Privilege Card project [Dec 14 2016]

A Progress Review meeting of the 'Virusara' Privilege Card Project was held under the patronage of State Minister of Defence Hon. Ruwan Wijewardene at the Ministry today (14th December 2016).

Secretary to the Ministry of Defence Eng. Karunasena Hettiarachchi and Secretary to the State Ministry of Defence Mr. APG Kithsiri were also present at the meeting.

Speaking at the occasion State Minister Wijewardene said that measures will be taken to increase the benefits provided under the project to beneficiaries. He revealed that about 25000 privilege cards were distributed among beneficiaries during this year (2016) and it is expected to distribute another 25,000 'Virusara' cards in the coming year (2017). During his speech the State Minister expressed gratitude to the participating state and private sector firms for their continued support and also said that action will be taken to increase private sector participation in the project.

The present progress of the project and its future operations in the coming year were also taken up discussion during the occasion. Representatives of state and corporate sector entities that provide various products and services for beneficiaries of this project were also present for the discussion.

Under the 'Virusara' project war hero beneficiaries are provided with a number of benefits from special discounts during purchase of products and services to priority service from participating entities. At present the project is supported by 64 state and provide sector bodies .The project was mooted under a concept of State Minister Wijewardene seeks to uplift the living standards of War Heroes and their families.

Chairperson of the Ranaviru Seva Authority, senior military officers and Ministry officials were also present at the occasion.