By Ajith Siriwardana
Claiming  that they have plans to raise state revenue, NPP leader Anura Kumara  Dissanayake said yesterday they had discussions with the Inland Revenue  Department (IRD) on ways to increase state revenue.  
Speaking at the  Ratnapura District Women’s Convention, he said that state revenue could  be increased through the Customs Department and Excise Department as  well.
He said the revenue generated through the Inland Revenue  Department could be doubled if the efficiency of the IRD staff was  increased and the technology was advanced.
“We can find money. We  have discussed with the Inland Revenue Department. There are some changes  to be made in the laws, staff and technology used in the department. If  the efficiency of the staff is increased, we can double the revenue  generated through the IRD. Revenue generated from the Customs and Excise  Departments can also be increased. The Excise Department has some Rs.  90 billion outstanding from the liquor manufacturers,” he said.

Dissanayake  said an NPP government will ensure the basic needs of the people  including food, education and health needs once they take over power.
He  said they have formulated long-term plans to revive the economy based  on Gem resources, tea industry, tourism and industries based on  agriculture.