Sri Lanka, Oct. 11 -- The public service has played a major role in the advancement of every developed country in the world, and a strong and efficient public service is essential to move the country forward, President Anura Kumara Dissanayake emphasised.

The President pointed this out, explaining the importance of active participation of public officials when practically implementing government policies and budget proposals.

Expressing further views there, the President stated:

"We allocated Rs. 35,000 million from the 2026 budget for the development of small tanks, ponds, and canals. That money can be allocated from the budget, and the Irrigation Minister can direct those activities. But who comes to the village to build the tank, pr...