The National Lotteries Board (NLB) which markets many lotteries and maintains an effective islandwide network of agents and sellers, has set a revenue target of Rs. 23 billion for this year.
While creating employment opportunities mainly for the underprivileged and for those with special needs, it helps the state to minimise the issue of unemployment.
The NLB has contributed Rs.1,301,766,412 to the Consolidated Fund up to August in spite of the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic and is also the highest contributor to the Fund. It is involved in many CSR activities including making substantial donations to events such as the Kandy Esala Maha Perahera, Kataragama Devalaya annual perahera, Kotte Rajamaha Vihara, Bellanvila Rajamaha Vihara and Sabaragamuwa Maha Saman Devalaya.
It has contributed Rs. 25,000,000 to the Covid-19 fund and cash to three hospitals, Homagama Base Hospital - Rs. 500,000, Tangalle Base Hospital - Rs.500,000 and Castle Street Hospital - Rs.100,000.
The Board distributed Rs. 42 million among 20,000 people involved in the distribution and sale of lottery tickets who were affected due to the pandemic.
During the first eight months of this year, there have been 20 super prize winners, 168 who won Rs. 2m each, 232 - Rs.1m each.
The Board of Directors of NLB comprises Chairman Lalith Piyum Perera and Directors Kelum Priyankara Liyanage, D.D. Jayasiri, H.C.D.L. Silva (Treasury Representative).