Govt. intervenes in infrastructure development to facilitate Sripada pilgrimage season. After the collapse of the Kandy kingdom, the imperialists seized most of the lands cultivated by our people.Those lands will be given back to the people to start cultivations.- Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena

Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena visited Palamadulla Rajamaha Vihara paid respects to Sri Padasthanadhipathi Venerable Bengamuwe Dhammadinna Nayaka Thera. He discussed about the provision of facilities related to the Sri Pada pilgrimage season starting from the upcoming Unduvap Poya day.

Bengamuwe Dhammadinna Thero advised that, "We cannot disregard state contribution. That is the traditions from the days of great kings. As a leader who respects heritage and tradition, you becoming the Prime Minister of this country is of great value to the country as well as to the Shasana. Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi, Temple of the Relics and Sri Padasthanaya are the three most respected places of religious importance. These holy places received the support of the state since the past. They are considered the symbols of the state. We are sure that you can balance all these things and work for the betterment of the country and the perpetuation of the Buddha Shasana."

The Prime Minister said that the colonial powers too were scared to interfere in the three most sacred Buddhist places of worship. He assured that the government will intervene to ensure all the required infrastructure facilities are in place for the forthcoming Sripada season. Pointing out that the imperial powers had taken over the land from the people, he said those uncultivated lands are now given to the people for cultivation. No official should put any hurdles in this process, he warned.

“The government wants to grow food crops in every available inch of land and we need the blessings of the Mahasangha for this food drive,” Premier Gunawardena said.

MPs John Seneviratne and Pavithra Wanniarachchi were also present on this occasion.