NPC, in collaboration with its partner organization Future in Our Hands Development Fund, conducted an actualisation activity in Passara in the Badulla District focussing on supporting women affected by cyclone Ditwah who were residing in temporary camps. The women, most of whom were from the Malaiyaha Tamil community, were facing economic hardship and have been physically and emotionally affected by the losses, which caused significant disruption to their livelihoods. Through a series of focus group discussions facilitated by Local Government Authority leaders, participants highlighted the urgent need for sustainable economic empowerment opportunities.
A needs assessment was carried out to understand the women's existing skills and identify viable livelihood options, leading to the selection of three key training areas aligned with local market demands: candle making, slipper designing and hand embroidery. A total of 70 women took part in the programme, gaining hands on training from experienced resource people who provided practical guidance and skill development support.
"Even after more than 200 years, people of the hills continue to suffer due to poverty and lack of economic facilities. While many have supported communities with basic needs, empowering women through programmes like this is essential. The voices reflect a broader transformation where women are moving beyond survival toward self-reliance, and by equipping them with practical skills and confidence, the initiative has laid the foundation for sustainable income generation and resilience,” said the Chairman of the Passara Municipal Council.
"Through the programme, we learnt how to make candles and improve our livelihoods. I would like to thank the trainers and the organizations that made this possible," said K. Malar, a beneficiary.
An actualisation activity was conducted at the Kandy District to address the systemic exclusion of Malaiyaha Tamil elders from essential government services. Panwila is one of the most underserved regions in the district where a lack of National Identity Cards (NICs) has barred vulnerable community members from accessing critical social protection schemes like the Elderly Allowance and Aswesuma benefits.
In response to these barriers compounded by mobility limitations, low awareness and literacy challenges, a specialised mobile clinic was organized to facilitate NIC issuance for 150 elders. By bringing government officers directly to the community, the initiative streamlined the documentation process, removing the hurdles that have hindered the Malaiyaha Tamil community’s engagement with public services. This targeted intervention not only secured eligibility for state welfare programmes but also fostered a sense of social inclusion and dignity, demonstrating a successful model for addressing service delivery gaps in Sri Lanka’s most remote areas.
"I came from Kalabokka. Living without an identity card is very difficult. I cannot read or write so I cannot fill out forms. Without an identity card, it is hard to receive benefits like Aswesuma. Providing this kind of service and inviting people like this is a very good initiative. An identity card is an essential document for us," said Thangamma, a community member.