The official handover of the Sri Sobitha Nahimigama housing project to its beneficiaries has taken place at the Oyamadua, Elpathagama in the Anuradhapura District, with the participation of Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya, the Office of the Prime Minister stated.

During the event, a total of 115 houses under the project have been handed over to the public and the housing project was implemented with the support of the Commemoration Foundation of the Most Venerable Maduluwawe Sobitha Thero, the government, and the Government of India.

During the ceremony, the Prime Minister unveiled the commemorative plaque and symbolically handed over the keys to three selected housing recipients.

The Prime Minister also planted a sapling within the temple grounds.

Addressing the event, Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya stated:

The late Venerable Maduluwawe Sobitha Thero made a significant commitment to this village during his lifetime. We appreciate the efforts of the Commemoration Foundation engaged in discussions with both the Sri Lankan and Indian governments to improve the living conditions of the people here after his Reverend’s passing.

From a young age, I had the opportunity to associate closely with Venerable Sobitha Thero. I learned about Buddhism from him. He taught me to stand up against injustice and fight for what is right.

While we focus on developing the economy physically, we are engaged in shaping the future of our children. We are ensuring that they receive a quality education that prepares them to become the next generation of leaders of this country through education reforms.

Indian High Commissioner Santosh Jha, who also attended the event, stated:

At this moment, India is progressing under the theme ‘Let us rise together,’ and Sri Lanka too is on a transformative path towards prosperity and a better life. This joint project between the Indian and Sri Lankan governments is a strong example of the deep bond between our two nations.

The teachings of Buddhism continue not only to inspire the strong ties and mutual support between our countries but also the project launched by the governments of India and Sri Lanka to facilitate the economic relief indicates the compassion highlighted in Buddhism.