INSUBCONTINENT EXCLUSIVE:
Samaratunga, the Presidential Senior Adviser on Economic Affairs, emphasized the need for artists to draft proposals aimed at enhancing the
regarding the modernization of Sri Lankan cinema to align with contemporary standards and to ensure the sustained professional growth of
artists within the sector.The discussion, led by Dr
Samaratunga and attended by the Presidential Trade Union Director General Mr
Saman Ratnapriya and National Film Corporation Chairman Mr
Deepal Chandraratne, extensively addressed the challenges facing the film industry.Dr
Samaratunga, the Senior Advisor to the President on Economic Affairs, highlighted the parallel between the challenges faced by the film
industry and broader societal issues
He stressed the necessity of safeguarding the cinema sector in the country and urged for the submission of comprehensive proposals for
incorporation into the general budget or policy framework.Drawing attention to the longstanding issue of insufficient artist pensions since
Samaratunga emphasized the importance of presenting factual data to prompt governmental action on this matter
Additionally, recognizing the significance of artist welfare in preserving the film industry, efforts are underway to establish a
specialized loan scheme.Dr
General, Saman Ratnapriya, assured the possibility of arranging a medical insurance scheme for artists through the Sri Lanka Insurance
Recognizing the challenges of aging in maintaining professional engagements, he emphasized the necessity of implementing a suitable program
to support artists.He urged prompt submission of proposals for the betterment of the film industry and artist welfare
Stressing the potential for swift action, Mr
Ratnapriya indicated that timely proposals could yield results following discussions with relevant institutions, including the Ministry of
Efforts are underway to inform President Ranil Wickremesinghe of these developments.The event was attended by veteran film director Sugath
Samarakoon, film producers Padmasiri Kodikara and Raj Ranasinghe, along with actors Arjun Kamalanath, Wasantha Kumaravila, Nadika
Gunasekara, and numerous other industry artists.--PMD--
