The Government has embarked on an expedited mega development drive for rural villages in the South for which Rs. 2,500 million has been allocated in line with the Mahinda Chinthana 10-year development plan. According to the Ministry of Nation Building and Estate Infrastructure Development, the allocation is to be utilised in 2,122 identified Grama Niladhari Divisions in three districts, under the Gama Neguma programme, envisaged to propagate development in remote villages. The programme expected to be completed before year end, is to target infrastructure development, livelihood projects and education initiatives aimed at spiritual development. The development process is to be carried out in 896 Grama Niladhari divisions in Galle, 650 in Matara and 576 in the Hambantota district. According to sources the main focus would be on livelihood projects, with the setting up of industries using locally based material in remote villages to provide viable income earning opportunities for the rural community. In addition, a new fishery harbour at a cost of Rs. 7, 900 million is to be established in Dickowita, which is expected to propagate development in this sector, specially in areas North of Colombo. Ministry sources said that the proposed harbour to be located in a 13 hectare land would be equipped with modern technology according to international standards with the Netherlands Government providing 65 per cent of the total cost. Also 10 other development initiatives have been mooted in several areas in line with the Government's