Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa proposed to implement a special loan scheme for public servants to obtain solar powered electricity, with a view to support the reduction in electricity bills of public servants. 

When appointing or transferring public servants, it is proposed to ensure that such postings are made giving preference to the districts of residence, he said, delivering the 2021 budget speech in parliament. 

He also announced that permission will be granted for non-executive office employees of the public service to engage in other jobs or employment after office hours and those who seek foreign employment will be granted leave for two years. 

“I propose to reduce the maximum interest charged on housing and property loans of public servants granted by banks under housing loans and advances up to a maximum of 7 percent,” he further added.