The first flag of the No-Tobacco Samurdhi Flag programme, carried out in parallel to the World No Tobacco Day, was pinned on the President Maithripala Sirisena at the Presidential Secretariat, today.

This program will be carried out from May 31 to June 30 throughout the country. A large number of events, street dramas,arts and posters exhibitions, walks, lectures and conferences have been organized to create awareness on the harmful effects of tobacco use to the public including the school children.

The funds earned from selling of flags will be utilized for the welfare of the Samurdhi beneficiaries. The welfare programs include building of houses, providing scholarships and school equipments, providing required facilities for the persons with special needs.

Minister S. B. Dissanayake presented the report ‘Ape Gaman Mage Samaja Sathkaraka Piyasatahan’ to the President at this occasion.

Secretary to the Ministry of Social Empowerment and Welfare Mahinda Senavirathne and the Director General of the Samurdhi Development Department Neil Bandara Hapuhinna were among those participated in this occasion.