Sri Lanka, Sept. 18 -- The Government plans to increase the value of loans provided through the Samurdhi banking system from around Rs.60 billion last year to Rs.70 billion next year, Minister of Rural Development, Social Security and Community Empowerment Dr. Upali Pannila said.

Addressing an awareness programme for Samurdhi officials in Matara and Hambantota, Minister Pannila said the Samurdhi banking system should be used as an important mechanism to economically empower low-income communities.

He said approximately Rs.60 billion in loans had been disbursed to the public through the Samurdhi banking system last year, while the Government expects to increase the amount to Rs.70 billion next year.

The Minister said the Government's o...