Conflict Time Economy of the North and East Province of Sri Lanka: An Introduction

Abstract

This paper demonstrates the contraction of the regional economy of the North & East Province of Sri Lanka during 20 years of ethnic conflict. The declining contribution of the N&E Province to the national economy, dramatic drop in agricultural production in the N&E in absolute terms as well as in relation to national output, industrial oblivion, lagging access to modern basic necessities such as safe water, sanitation, electricity & telecommunications, declining health and educational indicators of the populace are highlighted using secondary data and descriptive analysis. The paper reveals that the N&E Province has the lowest provincial gross domestic product, lowest per capita income and perhaps lowest human development index as well.