The National Disaster Relief Services Centre under the Ministry of Defence (MOD) has launched a new digital Compensation Management System and a Community Inquiry Mechanism to improve disaster response and recovery services.

The initiative, funded by the Government of Norway and supported by UNICEF Sri Lanka and UN Volunteers, was officially launched at the BMICH in the presence of Deputy Defence Minister Major General (Retd) Aruna Jayasekara.

The new digital platform aims to replace manual procedures with a streamlined online system, allowing families affected by disasters such as Cyclone Ditwah to submit compensation claims through local Grama Niladhari officers without repeated visits to government offices.

A second feature, the Community Inquiry Mechanism, enables affected citizens to submit queries via QR code or a hotline (0716 807 807), with each case assigned a tracking reference number for follow-up.

Officials said the system is designed to ensure faster, more transparent and more accessible disaster assistance, while reducing administrative delays and improving coordination between national and divisional authorities.

UNICEF Sri Lanka and UN Volunteers highlighted that the platform strengthens accountability and ensures timely support for vulnerable families, particularly those recovering from loss of homes and livelihoods.