In a gesture of goodwill and solidarity, the High Commission of India in Colombo, along with its regional offices, organized a series of events to distribute festive kits and essential supplies ahead of the auspicious Pongal festival. The initiative also extended support to underprivileged families, local institutions, and communities across Sri Lanka.
Northern Province Initiatives
In the Northern Province, Pongal kits were distributed at the Kayts Divisional Secretariat and the Selva Sannithi Murugan Kovil, Thondaimanaru. Additionally, school bags and learning kits were provided to underprivileged students at the Kalaimagal Free Education Society in Chulipuram, fostering educational support.
Eastern Province Assistance
In collaboration with the District Secretariat Batticaloa, the High Commission distributed essential supplies to aid the rehabilitation of 750 flood-affected families across Koralai Pattu South, Koralai Pattu West, Eravur Pattu, Manmunai South West, Porathivu Pattu, Manmunai South, and Eruvil Pattu.
Central Province Contributions
The Assistant High Commission of India in Kandy celebrated New Year by distributing 200 umbrellas and raincoats to estate workers at an event at St. Joseph Vaz Church, Kadiyanlena, Nawalapitiya. On Duruthu Poya day, over 50 mattresses were donated to the pilgrim rest house at Divurumpola Raja Maha Viharaya.
Southern Province Support
The Consulate General of India in Hambantota gifted eight LED television sets to the Tissamaharama Base Hospital. Furthermore, a special Ayurveda medical camp was organized at the Sri Sudharmarama Raja Maha Viharaya in collaboration with the Department of Ayurveda, Uva Province, offering free Ayurvedic consultations and medicines to local residents.
Upcoming Initiatives
The distribution efforts will continue in the coming days, including donations of roofing sheets to families in Matale affected by recent climatic disasters, schoolbags and stationery items to students at Ramboda Temple, and essential equipment like a herbal crusher machine for Chamal Rajapaksa Ayurvedic Hospital in Hambantota. Other planned contributions include a water purifier for Iqra Primary School in Hambantota, a photocopier machine and multimedia projector for Aluthwala Maha Vidyalaya in Galle, and fishing equipment for the fisher community in Jaffna.
These initiatives are not only spreading festive cheer but also reinforcing the strong bonds of friendship between India and Sri Lanka, further strengthening their unique bilateral relationship.
