Special Insurance Relief for Students Affected by Floods

In a proactive move to support school students impacted by the severe weather events late last year, the Education, Higher Education and Vocational Training Ministry has announced special relief measures under the Suraksha Sisu Insurance Programme.

Sri Lanka Insurance Corporation General Limited (SLICGL) has agreed to extend flexible claim processing for students affected by natural disasters, including floods and cyclones, that occurred between November 26 and December 31, 2025. The revised provisions aim to ensure that students and families facing hardship due to these extreme weather events receive timely support.

Under the new measures, claims relating specifically to disaster-related incidents during the specified period will be prioritized. For students who tragically lost a parent or legal guardian as a result of these disasters, benefit payments will be made without the usual income restrictions, provided that documentation confirming the loss is submitted.

SLICGL has also introduced an external treatment benefit of up to Rs. 20,000, covering medical treatment, purchase of medicines, and examination fees resulting directly from disaster-related accidents.

This addition, while not part of the original insurance agreement, reflects the insurer’s commitment to alleviating the financial burden on affected families.

Recognizing that disasters may have destroyed vital documents, special arrangements have been made for students whose entitlement papers or hospital bills from November 1 to November 26, 2025, were lost. In such cases, claims may be supported by recommendations from the school principal and the relevant Grama Niladhari. Certified copies from private hospitals or medical recommendation letters from government hospitals can serve as substitutes for lost documentation.

To further accommodate those affected, the submission period for claims has been extended. Students who were unable to submit claims between November 1 and December 31, 2025, now have up to 150 days to file their applications including an additional 60-day extension beyond the original 90-day deadline.

Officials emphasized that in instances where delays cannot be easily verified, SLICGL may request confirmation from the student’s school principal or Grama Niladhari to support the claim, ensuring that all genuine cases receive the assistance they need.

The Ministry and SLICGL have urged affected families to take advantage of these relief measures promptly, highlighting that the initiative reflects a broader effort to protect students and families from the ongoing challenges posed by natural disasters in Sri Lanka.