Work is set to commence on six priority socio-economic projects in the Eastern Province under Indian grant assistance, the High Commission of India in Sri Lanka said.

The projects fall under the framework Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on “Implementation of Indian Multi-Sectoral Grant Assistance for the Eastern Province,” signed during the April 2025 state visit of the Indian Prime Minister to Sri Lanka.

According to the High Commission, the projects include the establishment of batik training centres to promote women’s empowerment, a premature baby unit to strengthen neonatal care, and specialised healthcare facilities including EYE, ENT and mental health units.

Other initiatives include the creation of contract farmer clusters to boost seed production, the development of a sustainable Ayurveda village to promote wellness tourism, and the construction of a ward complex at a central Ayurvedic dispensary.

The broader programme covers 33 projects with total Indian grant assistance of Rs. 2.37 billion aimed at supporting socio-economic development in the Eastern Province.

Agreements for the six projects were signed between Indian High Commissioner H.E. Santosh Jha and Secretary, Ministry of Public Administration, Provincial Councils and Local Government S. Alokabandara during the visit of Indian Vice President Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan to Sri Lanka on April 2026.

The initiative builds on ongoing Indian-supported development projects in the Eastern Province, including housing, healthcare and education programmes.