Finance and Economy

On November 14 this year, another tsunami struck, sweeping across the country in an unprecedented wave that mesmerised many of the 22 million population.

The Aswesuma programme is part of a broader strategy to rebuild public trust and enhance social equity as Sri Lanka continues its recovery from economic crises.

During the question hour in the Lok Sabha, TMC MP Kalyan Banerjee accused the central government of withholding MGNREGA funds meant for West Bengal for the fiscal years 2022-2023 and 2023-2024, claiming it was an act of discrimination against the state.

The cyclone, which struck in May 2024, caused extensive damage, including the prolonged shutdown of the Summit LNG terminal, one of Bangladesh’s two floating, storage, and regasification units (FSRUs).

Despite the political transition, Sri Lanka has maintained its economic policies, providing reassurance to investors. Analysts suggest the stability and anti-corruption stance of the new government could further bolster investor confidence.

A small tax on just seven of the world’s biggest oil and gas companies could grow the UN Fund for Responding to Loss and Damage by more than 2000 per cent, as shown in an analysis by environmental organisations Greenpeace International and Stamp Out Poverty.

Nepal’s debt trajectory aligns with global trends among developing nations, which have seen rising public debt due to post-pandemic recovery efforts, inflationary pressures, and currency devaluations.

Sri Lanka is grappling with a nutrition crisis exacerbated by economic hardships, rising food costs, and income losses. While many households focus on meeting basic calorie needs, nutritional security has become a secondary concern, leading to long-term health risks.