Colombo (LNW): The Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR) happens to be fluctuating against the US Dollar today (26) compared to yesterday, as per leading commercial banks in the country.
At Peoples Bank, the buying price of the US Dollar has dropped to Rs. 320.18 from Rs. 320.91, and the selling price to Rs. 332.42 from Rs. 333.18.
At Commercial Bank, the the buying price of the US Dollar has increased to Rs. 320.16 from Rs. 318.50, and the selling price remains unchanged at Rs. 33.50.
At Sampath Bank, the buying and selling prices of the US Dollar remain steady at Rs. 322 and Rs. 332, respectively.
Colombo (LNW): Former Commander of the Sri Lanka Army and respected Senior Officer, Gen. L P Balagalla RWP RSP VSV USP ndc IG has passed away in Army Hospital, Colombo.
His funeral arrangements will be notified later.
Balagalle pursued medical studies before enlisting in the Ceylon Army as an Officer Cadet on 5 April 1965. After undergoing training at the Army Training Centre in Diyatalawa, he earned his commission as a second lieutenant in the 4th Regiment, Ceylon Artillery on 5 April 1967.
Participating in counter-insurgency efforts during the 1971 JVP Insurrection, Balagalle later trained at the Indian Army School of Artillery in Deolali between September 1971 and February 1972.
He revisited the institution between August 1977 and September 1978 for advanced training and earned his qualification as an Instructor Gunnery (IG).
After completing the Intelligence Staff Officers Course in Pune between August and October 1975, Balagalle took on roles within military intelligence during the 1980s.
Holding the position of General Staff Officer and later the Principal Staff Officer of the Joint Operations Command as a major, he significantly influenced the Vadamarachchi Operation and the quelling of the 1987-1989 JVP uprising. In 1989, he furthered his education in the UK, attending the Intelligence Security Administration Course.
Promoted to lieutenant colonel, Balagalle held pivotal positions, becoming the inaugural Director of Military Intelligence and Commanding Officer of the Military Intelligence Corps from 1990 to 1994. He took charge of the 4 Brigade, the Artillery Brigade, and Area Headquarters Wanni in 1994. In 1996, he attended the National Defence College.
After being promoted to major general, Balagalle led multiple divisions and undertook several military operations. He was soon appointed Deputy Chief of Staff and subsequently Chief of Staff of the Army, also serving as Colonel Commandant of the Military Intelligence Corps between 1997 and 1998.
On 24 August 2000, Balagalle was promoted to lieutenant general and assumed the role of Commander of the Sri Lankan Army, marking him as the first officer to receive local training at the Army Training Center and then rise to this rank. Under his leadership, Sri Lankan troops began participating in UN peacekeeping missions.
Furthermore, he played a crucial role in establishing the Institute of Peace Support Operations Training in collaboration with the US Army Pacific Command.
On 10 October 2003, Balagalle was appointed as the Chief of the Defence Staff (CDS), becoming the first active Army Commander in Sri Lanka to hold this role. As CDS, he notably became the first foreign military leader to visit the line of control post the ceasefire agreement between India and Pakistan.
His service also saw him attending major defence conferences in Hawaii and Singapore. Lieutenant General Shantha Kottegoda succeeded him as the Commander of the Army on 30 June, but Balagalle continued as CDS until his retirement on 1 September 2005, achieving the rank of general.
Colombo (LNW): Seylan Tikiri, a distinguished Children’s Savings brand in Sri Lanka, is delighted to unveil its recent partnership with the Wildlife and Nature Protection Society (WNPS) to organise a trip to the Elephant Transit Home (ETH) in Udawalawe.
Crafted to enchant the Society’s Young Explorers, this outing was aimed at fostering a love for nature and wildlife.
The day kicked off with an enlightening talk by the devoted vets at ETH, offering the young attendees invaluable knowledge about elephant behaviour and the admirable efforts at the transit home.
The young explorers were subsequently escorted to the veterinary facility, where they had the unique opportunity to observe two critical treatment procedures, shedding light on the care and commitment essential to safeguard these magnificent animals.
A standout moment was the touching experience of feeding the baby elephants, an activity that the children found deeply engaging, underscoring the significance of conservation and fostering a sense of compassion for animals.
Demonstrating their commitment to community involvement, the children took part in a community service task, cleaning the ETH car park, thus instilling values of environmental care and teamwork.
The day concluded with an afternoon tea, organised by the children in honour of the vets, staff, and volunteers at the Elephant Transit Home, a gesture underscoring the importance of collective efforts in wildlife conservation and recognising the dedication of those championing wildlife protection.
This event further showcases the fruitful collaboration between Seylan Tikiri and WNPS. As a leading junior savings brand, Seylan Tikiri is dedicated to presenting children with unforgettable experiences through creative educational initiatives.
In today’s digital era, this excursion offered a special chance for children to engage with nature, emphasising the importance of conservation and environmental responsibility.
True to its ethos, Seylan Tikiri is dedicated to orchestrating diverse events year-round for the Tikiri Kids’ benefit. These activities not only inspire positive behaviours but also offer precious experiences during their formative years, all the while championing savings.
Parents keen to offer their children a host of advantages, from bonus interest to gift vouchers, are encouraged to set up a Tikiri account for those under 15. To get started, visit the nearest Seylan Bank branch or ring 200 88 88.
SLPP MP Namal Rajapaksa says the recent Cabinet reshuffle is a mere change of posts & not an effective solution for the country’s problems: asserts it’s the state’s responsibility to ensure that a mechanism is in place for discussions to be held with all political parties involved in the decision-making process when running a coalition Govt such as the incumbent administration.
State Finance Minister Ranjith Siyambalapitiya says 7 vehicles that were suspected to have been imported using electronic vehicle import licenses given to migrant workers, were taken into custody by the Customs: investigations commence to find the other vehicles suspected to have been sold in a similar manner.
Minister of Power and Energy Kanchana Wijesekera says Cabinet has granted approval to develop 200 MW of Floating Solar on the Samanalawewa reservoir: expressions of Interest to be called for 2 projects of 100 MW each from international and local developers to invest in these floating solar power plants.
Foreign Ministry says the Chinese research vessel “Shi Yan 6” is scheduled to arrive at the Colombo Port today for “replenishments”.
State Minister of Women and Child Affairs Geetha Kumarasinghe says 168 girls under the age of 16 were reportedly sexually abused, in September’23.
State owned Milco company’s Chairman Renuka Perera held hostage at the company’s head office: 13 employees arrested by the Police in this regard.
Govt removes one-time high level LTTE operative Emil Kanthan from the list of “proscribed” persons & organisations: gazette to this effect published by Defence Secretary (retd) General Kamal Gunaratne.
Cabinet gives approval to amend the Shop and Office Act to empower women to work during night-time hours: aim of amendment to provide more opportunities for women, particularly women working in information technology.
SJB “economic guru” MP Harsha Silva says domestic & international debt restructuring mechanisms must be comparable: pledges to fight to ensure the EPF will receive any benefits offered to international creditors if the economy grows above IMF predictions: prior to April’22 however, Silva was at the fore-front calling for restructure of SL’s sovereign debt, free-floating of LKR, raising of taxes, and a tight IMF programme.
Samitha Dulan wins the Silver medal in the Men’s Jevelin throw (F64), Janani Dhananjana wins Silver in the Women’s Long Jump event (T47), Kumudu Priyangika wins Bronze in the Women’s Long Jump event (T47), & Palitha Bandara wins Bronze in Men’s Shot Put (F63) at the Asian Para Games 2023.
Colombo (LNW): The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) has partnered with Gunadamin Elephant House, a division of Ceylon Cold Stores PLC, to create Sri Lanka’s first plastic recyclable collection network and material recovery facility, focusing on women’s involvement.
Launched in Dickwella, Matara, the initiative has so far collected 1,175 kilograms of plastic waste and aims to expand across five coastal provinces.
The initiative empowers economically disadvantaged women from fishing communities, turning them into key plastic collectors.
Women are trained, equipped, and then compensated for collecting recyclable plastics and metals. Viridis manages the recycling process.
This approach not only boosts environmental conservation but also promotes women’s active roles in the community and supports a shift towards a circular economy in Sri Lanka.
Full Statement:
The United States, through the U.S. Agency for International Development’s (USAID) Ocean Plastics Reduction Activity, and Gunadamin Elephant House of Ceylon Cold Stores PLC (CCS) have solidified their alliance through a Memorandum of Understanding. This collaboration aims to establish Sri Lanka’s inaugural plastic recyclable collection network and material recovery facility, led by women, emphasising the separation and processing of recyclable materials.
Initially launched in Dickwella, Matara, this partnership, supported by Soba Kantha Environmental Management and Community Development Foundation and Viridis Pvt Ltd, a leader in Sri Lankan plastic recycling, has successfully gathered 1,175 kilograms of plastic waste. The goal is to broaden the initiative’s scope across five coastal provinces, partnering with grassroots women’s organisations. These partnerships aim to identify and empower economically disadvantaged women from fishing communities, transforming them into active plastic collectors and environmental stewards.
“The United States, through its longstanding relationship with Sri Lanka, believes in the transformative power of collaboration,” remarked Christopher Powers, Director of the Office of Economic Growth, USAID Sri Lanka and Maldives Mission. “This partnership epitomises that belief, promising not just environmental conservation but also championing women’s roles in leading the change.”
Daminda Gamlath, President Consumer Foods Sector, John Keells Holdings from CCS conveyed, “Gunadamin Elephant House’s unwavering commitment to responsible plastic disposal and waste management initiatives has garnered recognition within the community. Through this visionary partnership, our aim is not only to enhance our efforts in plastic collection but also to empower women, fostering a resilient and environmentally conscious Sri Lanka. This collaboration represents a unique and powerful synergy that exemplifies the potential for positive change when sustainability and women’s empowerment join forces.”
As part of the initiative, women identified as potential recyclable collectors are trained and equipped to safely gather specific types of waste — plastics and metals that have the potential for profitable recycling. With the backing of Ocean Plastics Reduction, Gunadamin Elephant House and Viridis, these women are provided with essential tools, such as gloves, scales, and collection bags. Grassroots organisations then receive the collected waste at their dedicated collection centers.
Viridis takes the helm during the recycling phase, ensuring that the valuable plastic and metal waste is efficiently processed. In return for their contributions, the women are compensated. This model exemplifies a circular economy: plastics and metals consumed are reintroduced into the value chain, significantly reducing pollution and thereby closing the loop and moving Sri Lanka one step closer to a circular economy. Beyond its environmental benefits, this initiative also strengthens the local economy, as the women’s earnings directly benefit their families and the wider community. Moreover, through their active involvement, these women play a pivotal role in promoting eco-conscious practices within their neighbourhoods.
At its core, this collaboration represents more than mere plastic collection; it’s a strategic shift towards sustainable economies and a conscious effort to position women in sectors from which they’ve historically been sidelined. It builds economic resilience and empowerment pathways for women in communities that need it most.
The USAID Ocean Plastics Reduction Activity, with its five-year focus, is committed to reducing environmental plastics, enhancing solid waste management practices, and magnifying recycling initiatives in both Sri Lanka and the Maldives. This collaboration is emblematic of USAID’s broader mission: championing environmental stewardship while driving socioeconomic empowerment.
With a 150-year legacy, Elephant House is a cherished brand, deeply ingrained in Sri Lankan households, known for its trustworthiness and commitment to societal betterment. Gunadamin Elephant House stands as the Corporate Social Responsibility arm of Elephant House. This project falls under the Waste Management pillar, which, together with the Community and Sustainable Sourcing pillars, forms the holistic approach of Gunadamin Elephant House towards sustainable and responsible practices.
Colombo (LNW): During a meeting at the Prime Minister’s Office yesterday (25), Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena and the Vice President of the China Foundation for Rural Development, Liu Wenkui, discussed mutual cooperation.
The Sri Lankan Premier lauded China’s achievements in areas such as poverty reduction, rural advancement, and food security.
He expressed gratitude for China’s continued support, particularly in aiding Sri Lanka and other developing nations towards ensuring food security.
Recollecting President Ranil Wickramasinghe’s recent trip to Beijing, Mr Gunawardena appreciated the assurances given by the Chinese President, Xi Jinping, about ongoing backing for Sri Lanka.
Mr. Liu, representing a non-governmental organisation specialising in poverty relief, conveyed their expertise in rural development.
He highlighted the foundation’s potential role in bolstering Sri Lanka’s rural productivity, aiding low-income families, and enhancing exports.
He also noted the foundation’s current efforts in providing dry ration packs to primary students in various Sri Lankan districts.
The China Foundation for Rural Development has amassed £58 million (1.28 million RMB) for its “Sri Lanka Smiling Children Project,” aiming to deliver nutrition packs to 10,000 students across 139 schools in the nation.
Also present at the meeting were State Ministers Janaka Vakkambura, Ashoka Priyantha, Chinese Ambassador Qi Zhenhong, Secretary to the Prime Minister Anura Dissanayake, and China Foundation Director Zou Zhiqiang.
Colombo (LNW): Labour and Foreign Employment Minister Manusha Nanayakkara highlighted the government’s commitment to enacting new legislation to replace outdated ones and achieve the systematic changes demanded by the public, during a briefing at the President’s Media Centre yesterday (25).
He also underscored the government’s intent to implement enduring policies that withstand changes in administration.
This commitment was showcased as the foreign employment policy for the upcoming five years was unveiled yesterday.
Full statement:
“We are taking various measures to recover from the economic crisis that the country has faced. This period can be considered a time when the most laws, both new and existing, were passed in history.
Citizens have taken to the streets, protesting that the country requires a ‘System Change.’ In order to enact this change, the government is diligently working to replace outdated laws and regulations with those more suitable for the present.
Furthermore, the government is currently formulating stable policies that will remain unchanged with shifts in government. Today, the five-year foreign employment policy, prepared accordingly, was officially announced. It’s worth mentioning that the government intends to develop such policies for all sectors.
Other international financial institutions, including the International Monetary Fund, and other countries, have expressed their willingness to assist in rebuilding our economy, but they require financial discipline in the country. Therefore, a program for financial discipline in the country will be implemented in the near future.
The President is also actively working to establish various committees, including the Committee on Discipline of Members of Parliament. The bill addressing the discipline of members of parliament has been presented to the cabinet. This bill was prepared by a committee led by former Speaker Mr. Karu Jayasuriya, with a focus on the British Parliament’s standards.
Additionally, it’s a significant achievement to have finally passed the anti-corruption bill, which has been discussed for two decades. A report has been compiled after analysing public administration, with the aim of conducting public capital administration without corruption.
A commission, led by former Chief Justice Priyasad Dep, will be appointed to investigate the financial practices of political parties. The committee will examine how political parties should operate. In the future, the public will have the opportunity to submit their suggestions and recommendations to the committee.
Efforts have also been made to establish a budget office within the Parliament. Committees have been appointed to oversee economic stability, as well as methods and procedures.
Effective human resource management is vital for the country; therefore, we are working on amending the Labor Act, anticipating significant changes in the labor sector.
Additionally, we have devised numerous programs to provide assistance to our citizens working abroad and enhance their professional security.”
Colombo (LNW): Except for Northern and Eastern provinces, showers or thundershowers will occur at several places in the other provinces of the island after 02.00 p.m, and fairly heavy showers about 50 mm are likely at some places in Sabaragamuwa province and in Galle, Matara and Kaluthara districts, the Department of Meteorology said in its daily weather forecast today (26).
Misty conditions can be expected at some places in Central, Sabaragamuwa and Uva provinces during the morning, the statement added.
The general public is kindly requested to take adequate precautions to minimise damages caused by temporary localised strong winds and lightning during thundershowers.
Marine Weather:
Condition of Rain:
Showers or thundershowers will occur at a few places in the sea areas off the coast extending from Puttalam to Galle via Colombo particularly during afternoon or night.
Winds:
Winds will be Southeasterly or variable in direction in the sea areas around island and wind speed will be (20-30) kmph.
State of Sea:
The sea areas around the island will be slight. Temporarily strong gusty winds and very rough seas can be expected during thundershowers.
The Labour and Foreign Employment Ministry has affirmed the transparency and success of its initiative aimed at encouraging Sri Lankans living abroad to send remittances through banks while introducing import licenses for electric vehicles. This endeavor has effectively contributed to increasing the country’s remittance earnings.
Official data from the Ministry reveals that, within the first nine months of this year, Sri Lanka received a substantial sum of US$ 4.3 billion in foreign remittances, marking a remarkable 75% surge compared to the previous year.
Thus far, the Ministry has issued 318 electric vehicle import licenses to Sri Lankans who have sent remittances through legitimate channels, resulting in US$ 38 million for vehicle imports. It is important to note that the vehicle import licenses issued under this scheme are not exempt from import duties. This initiative aligns with a Cabinet decision aimed at motivating Sri Lankans abroad to channel their remittances legally, with all imported vehicles being required to pay the full customs duty and other taxes as stipulated by the Customs Department, thereby contributing to the state’s revenue.
The Minister of Labour and Foreign Employment has extended an invitation to all institutions and associations involved in the vehicle import business, including the Vehicle Importers’ Association, to join this program from its inception.
However, the Ministry expresses regret over the interference of Parliament and its committees in business matters concerning vehicle importers and firmly condemns the use of parliamentary platforms for such purposes. The Ministry urges individuals who present false information for media attention without verifying the facts to understand that such actions may hinder the steps taken to rejuvenate the country’s economy.
The Ministry emphasizes that its efforts to increase remittance earnings will persist, and narrow political agendas will not derail these initiatives. Furthermore, the Ministry is committed to supporting thorough investigations to ensure the transparency and integrity of this endeavor.
The Ambassador of Saudi Arabia, Khalid bin Hamoud Alkahtani, engaged in a constructive meeting with Sri Lanka’s Tourism Minister, Harin Fernando, at the Ministry premises.
The discussions during this meeting encompassed a wide range of topics of mutual interest, demonstrating the commitment of both nations to bolster their already strong friendship. Various avenues for deepening these friendly ties were explored, underscoring the desire for enhanced collaboration.
