REGISTRATION AND MAINTENANCE OF RECORDS
The Registration and Maintenance of Records service offered by the Department of Buddhist Affairs is responsible for creating, updating, and preserving a comprehensive official register of Buddhist temples, monastic institutions, their trustees, incumbents, assets, and historical documentation. Through this service, every Buddhist place of worship, shrine, or temple seeking recognition or oversight may apply to be formally registered with the Department, ensuring its details—such as name, location, founding date, trustee details, and property holdings—are duly recorded. The Department continually maintains these records, verifying and updating them through periodic reviews, audits, inspections, and stakeholder submissions to reflect changes such as new trustees, land acquisitions, structural modifications, or financial adjustments. By maintaining an accurate and centralized archival system, the service supports institutional transparency, aids legal and administrative decision-making, facilitates funding allocation, and ensures that the heritage and legal status of Buddhist establishments are safeguarded for present and future generations.
Related Divisions
Monk Registration Division
Handles the registration, records, and welfare of monks, ensuring compliance with Sangha regulations and proper documentation.
Development and Progress Control Division
Coordinates and monitors temple development projects, infrastructure improvements, and preservation of heritage sites.
The Department of Buddhist Affairs is the central government institution responsible for safeguarding, promoting, and administering the Theravāda Buddhist tradition in Sri Lanka through the guidance of temples, clergy, and community services.