The National Operations Council for the “Ratama Ekata – National Operation” convened for the first time yesterday (17) at the Presidential Secretariat, under the patronage of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, to implement a comprehensive national program aimed at eradicating the growing drug menace in Sri Lanka, the President’s Media Division (PMD) reported.
The “Ratama Ekata – National Operation” initiative—declared a top national priority—was formally approved by the Cabinet of Ministers on October 13, following a proposal presented by President Dissanayake. The newly established National Operations Council has been tasked with coordinating and driving the program’s implementation.
During its inaugural session, the Council discussed key areas of action including dismantling drug trafficking networks, rehabilitating drug addicts, mobilizing public participation, and engaging community organizations and media to raise awareness on the dangers of drug abuse.
President Dissanayake, outlining the main objective of the Council, emphasized that the drug crisis has evolved into a national socio-economic disaster, endangering the lives and futures of the country’s youth and schoolchildren. He stressed that eradicating the drug menace requires a unified effort that combines law enforcement, rehabilitation, education, and public cooperation.
The President further noted that the “Ratama Ekata – National Operation” will serve as a coordinated platform bringing together government agencies, civil society organizations, and local communities to build a drug-free nation.
