The program, which was introduced in 2023, is currently undergoing a review process as authorities update beneficiary records ahead of its second phase.
When Aswesuma was first launched, benefits were distributed to nearly 1.6 million recipients under four different categories. However, assistance provided to around 315,000 beneficiaries classified under the transitional category was discontinued in April 2025.
Similarly, payments to approximately 425,000 households categorized as vulnerable families were suspended from June this year.
Assistant Commissioner of the Welfare Benefits Board Ashan Darshaka stated that families previously placed in the vulnerable and transitional groups would have the opportunity to qualify for assistance once again if the ongoing reassessment determines that they currently fall within the poverty or extreme poverty categories.
Officials said the revised approach is intended to ensure that welfare benefits are directed toward those most in need and to improve the effectiveness of the program’s social protection efforts.
