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Cabinet Approves Recruitment of 7,456 for Government Institutions

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Cabinet Approves Recruitment of 7,456 for Government Institutions

The Cabinet of Ministers has granted approval to recruit 7,456 personnel for vacant posts in various government institutions under the relevant ministries.

Review by Officers’ Committee

Cabinet Spokesperson Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa announced that the decision was based on a resolution submitted by the Prime Minister and approved during the Cabinet meeting held on February 9, 2025.

The Officers’ Committee, appointed to review government sector recruitment and staff management, analyzed requests from respective ministries to identify essential vacancies in departments and institutions.

Key Highlights of the Decision

  • 7,456 vacancies across various ministries will be filled.
  • The Officers’ Committee was established on December 30, 2024, under the Secretary to the Prime Minister to assess recruitment needs and priorities.
  • Recruitment will be conducted based on necessity, priority, and time frames, ensuring efficient government service management.

This strategic recruitment aims to strengthen the public sector workforce and enhance the efficiency of government institutions.

No Power Cuts on Poya Day as CEB Manages Demand

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No Power Cuts on Poya Day as CEB Manages Demand

The Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) announced yesterday that there will be no power cuts today (11) as the electricity demand is lower due to the Poya holiday.

Following the nationwide power outage last Sunday, all three generators at the Norochcholai Coal Power Plantbecame inoperative, leading to scheduled power cuts of one-and-a-half hours on the 9th and 10th of February to manage electricity demand.

Norochcholai Restoration Progress

CEB Chairman Dr. Tilak Siyambalapitiya stated that efforts are underway to expedite the restoration process at Norochcholai, and full capacity is expected to be added back to the national grid by Friday, February 14.

“We believe we will be able to restore the power supply to normal within the next three to four days. By February 14, we expect full restoration, which would eliminate the need for demand management. However, we are also working to restore power earlier than expected, and if successful, we will notify the public in advance,” he said.

Technical Challenges at Norochcholai

Dr. Siyambalapitiya further explained that Norochcholai is Sri Lanka’s strongest coal power plant, generating the highest electricity output from coal. However, due to its protection mechanisms, the plant cannot be restarted immediately after a sudden shutdown.

“Even if there is a sudden power outage, the Norochcholai power plant cannot be stopped at once, nor can it restart immediately. When it is stopped, there is an immense steam build-up. That is the technology. It takes around four days to restart all three generators,” he explained.

The CEB assured that ongoing power cuts may be reduced in the coming days as restoration progresses.

New Mosquito Species Exclusive to Sri Lanka Discovered

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New Mosquito Species Exclusive to Sri Lanka Discovered

A new mosquito species unique to Sri Lanka has been discovered through extensive research, according to entomologist Gayan Sri Kumarasinghe of the Medical Research Institute (MRI).

This newly identified species has not been reported in any other country, making it exclusive to Sri Lanka. Scientists have found that this mosquito feeds on both animal and human blood, raising concerns about its potential to transmit viruses from animals to humans, posing a significant public health threat.

Ongoing Research and Genetic Confirmation

Research on this mosquito species has been ongoing for about a year, and gene identification tests conducted in South Korean laboratories have confirmed its distinct genetic makeup. However, the species remains unnamed, with plans in place for its official naming and unveiling in the near future.

Over the past five years, the Medical Research Institute has identified four new mosquito species, underscoring the evolving entomological landscape in Sri Lanka.

This research is being conducted under the guidance of MRI Director Dr. Suranga Dolamulla and mosquito expert Dr. Rohitha Muthugala. Scientists emphasize the importance of continued surveillance and control measures to mitigate the potential health risks posed by this new mosquito species.

Government Assures Attorney General’s Role Remains Amid Plans for Independent Prosecutor’s Office

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Government Assures Attorney General’s Role Remains Amid Plans for Independent Prosecutor’s Office

The Government’s decision to establish an Independent Prosecutor’s Office will not abolish the position of the Attorney General (AG) or the AG’s Department, ensuring that both institutions will function concurrently to uphold justice without legal loopholes.

Cabinet Spokesperson Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa made this statement yesterday during the weekly Cabinet decisions press briefing at the Department of Government Information (DGI) premises.

Strengthening Justice and Prosecution

Minister Jayatissa emphasized that the new Independent Prosecutor’s Office will be a significant step forward in ensuring justice and independence in the prosecution of crimes. It will operate with greater capacity than the AG’s Office, focusing on issues of prosecutorial independence and addressing past concerns regarding political influence and bias.

He further stated that the new office will be free from allegations that have affected the AG’s Department in recent times, ensuring greater public confidence in the legal system.

Formation of an Expert Committee

As a preliminary step, the Ministry of Justice and National Integration has proposed forming an expert committeeto lay the groundwork for the Independent Prosecutor’s Office. This committee will comprise:

  • The Attorney General (AG) or two representatives nominated by the AG
  • The Secretary to the Justice Ministry
  • A senior judge with expertise in criminal law
  • The President of the Bar Association of Sri Lanka (BASL) or a representative nominated by the BASL President

This committee will be responsible for drafting preliminary plans for the structure, scope, and functions of the new prosecutorial body.

Public Consultation and Policy Alignment

Minister Jayatissa confirmed that the Justice and National Integration Ministry will seek public and civil society input before finalizing the concept paper for the Independent Prosecutor’s Office.

This initiative aligns with the National People’s Power (NPP) Government’s policy vision, “A Thriving Nation and a Beautiful Life,” aiming to enhance transparency, accountability, and the rule of law in Sri Lanka.

Fair weather prevails over the areas of the island

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Fair weather prevails over the areas of the island

A few showers may occur in Batticaloa, Ampara, Matale, Badulla and Polonnaruwa districts. Showers may occur at a few places in Galle, Matara, Kaluthara and Rathnapura districts in the evening or night.
Mainly fair weather will prevail over the other areas of the island.

Misty conditions can be expected at some places in Western, Sabaragamuwa and Central provinces and in Galle, Matara, Badulla and Kurunegala districts during the morning.

Sacred Waters, Pure Hearts—Let’s Keep Manik Ganga Clean!

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Sacred Waters, Pure Hearts—Let’s Keep Manik Ganga Clean!

By – Puli

February 11, LNW (Colombo): The Manik Ganga, a sacred river flowing through Katharagama, and the nearby Sella Katharagama River are being increasingly polluted by food waste and plastic.

These rivers hold deep spiritual and cultural significance, attracting thousands of pilgrims and visitors who come to cleanse themselves in its holy waters. However, the rising pollution threatens both the environment and the sanctity of these revered sites.

One of the main causes of pollution is the improper disposal of plastic and food waste by visitors. Without proper waste management, discarded plastics end up in the river, harming aquatic life and diminishing the river’s natural beauty. To prevent this, authorities should implement stricter penalties for littering and ensure an adequate number of waste bins are placed strategically around the area. Additionally, awareness campaigns should educate pilgrims and tourists on the importance of maintaining cleanliness in these sacred spaces.

By taking these measures, we can preserve the purity of the Manik Ganga and Sella Katharagama River for future generations.

Dr. Brian W. Cole Stresses Adaptability and Innovation at Colombo Air Symposium 2025

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Dr. Brian W. Cole Stresses Adaptability and Innovation at Colombo Air Symposium 2025

Dr. Brian W. Cole, Associate Dean at the Eisenhower School, National Defense University, emphasized the critical importance of adaptability and innovation in navigating evolving global and regional security challenges at the Colombo Air Symposium 2025.

Adapting to Emerging Threats

Dr. Cole noted that historical engagements have demonstrated the necessity of adaptability, particularly as global power dynamics shift toward great power competition. He stressed that nations must remain vigilant against complex threats posed by both state and non-state actors, requiring strategic innovation to counter evolving security risks.

Space Technology as a Strategic Asset

Highlighting the increasing relevance of space technology, Dr. Cole pointed out its role in:

  • Global trade and supply chains
  • Environmental monitoring
  • Technological advancements

He urged countries to view space not just as a military domain but as a collaborative platform for peace, technological progress, and shared prosperity.

Indian Ocean Rim: A Strategic Nexus

Dr. Cole emphasized that the Indian Ocean Rim serves as a critical hub for global trade and security, with nearly 70% of the world’s sea lines of communication passing through the region. Given its geopolitical significance, he called for multilateral cooperatin to safeguard maritime stability, stating:

Threats and the Need for Unified Security Efforts

Dr. Cole identified key security threats in the Indian Ocean, including:

  • Piracy
  • Human trafficking
  • Illegal fishing
  • Environmental degradation

To combat these challenges, he advocated for seamless coordination among navies, air forces, and coastguards to ensure maritime security.

Turning Challenges into Opportunities

Dr. Cole concluded that proactive cooperation and technological advancements, particularly in space technology, can transform regional security challenges into opportunities for enhanced maritime safety and economic growth.

The Colombo Air Symposium 2025 continues to serve as a platform for strategic discussions on the future of defense, innovation, and international security collaboration.

Sajith Premadasa Criticizes Government’s Handling of Power Sector

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Sajith Premadasa Criticizes Government’s Handling of Power Sector

Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa has criticized the government’s management of the power sector, citing a fragile grid that struggles to integrate solar energy growth and balance low-demand periods.

Taking to Twitter, Premadasa stated:

“First, they blamed the monkeys. Then, they blamed past governments. But the real issue? A fragile grid that can’t handle solar growth & low-demand periods. Misinformation won’t fix power outages—serious reforms will, especially in the power sector. A real system change starts with transparency.”

As evidence, he shared a letter from the Ceylon Electricity Board’s (CEB) Deputy General Manager (System Control), dated November 2024, which highlighted concerns over the instability caused by rooftop solar installationsand low system inertia during weekends and holidays.

The Opposition Leader’s remarks come after a nationwide power outage on February 09, which officials initially linked to an incident involving a monkey at the Panadura grid substation. The subsequent shutdown of the Norochcholai Power Plant exacerbated the crisis, leading to scheduled power cuts across the country.

Premadasa has called for comprehensive reforms in the energy sector, advocating for greater transparency and a modernized grid that can efficiently manage renewable energy sources without compromising stability.

CEB: Norochcholai Power Plant to Be Fully Restored by February 14

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CEB: Norochcholai Power Plant to Be Fully Restored by February 14

The Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) has announced that power from the Norochcholai Coal Power Plant is expected to be restored to the national grid by Friday, February 14.

CEB Engineer Dhammika Wimalaratna stated that efforts are underway to expedite the restoration process, adding:

“We believe we will be able to restore the power supply to normal within the next three to four days. By February 14, we expect full restoration, which would eliminate the need for demand management. However, we are also working to restore power earlier than expected, and if successful, we will notify the public in advance.”

He also mentioned that the ongoing one-and-a-half-hour power cuts may be gradually reduced as restoration progresses.

Recent Power Outages

  • On February 09, Sri Lanka faced a nationwide power outage at around 11:15 a.m., linked to an incident at the Panadura grid substation, where a monkey reportedly entered the facility, triggering an imbalance in the system.
  • Power was fully restored by 6:00 p.m., but an automatic shutdown at the Norochcholai Power Plant led to another 900 MW loss, exacerbating the crisis.
  • CEB implemented scheduled power cuts on February 10 and 11, with one-and-a-half-hour outages occurring between 3:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m.

To manage the shortfall, the CEB relied on thermal power plants, ensuring full restoration by 9:45 p.m.

CEB assures the public that normal power supply will resume soon and will provide further updates on the progress.

President Discusses Rural Poverty Eradication with Nippon Foundation Chairman

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President Discusses Rural Poverty Eradication with Nippon Foundation Chairman

A meeting between President Anura Kumara Dissanayake and Nippon Foundation Chairman Yōhei Sasakawa took place at the Presidential Secretariat.

President Dissanayake emphasized that eradicating rural poverty is the government’s top priority, expressing hope that this initiative would also lead to improvements in education.

During the discussion, Mr. Sasakawa reaffirmed the Nippon Foundation’s commitment to supporting public health, education, and the welfare of differently-abled individuals in Sri Lanka. He particularly highlighted the foundation’s focus on educational development in Jaffna.

The Sri Lankan government is set to launch special projects to address rural poverty as part of its national development agenda, the President noted.

The meeting also underscored the importance of strengthening diplomatic ties between Sri Lanka and Japan, according to the President’s Media Division (PMD).

Attendees included Labour Minister and Deputy Minister of Economic Development Anil Jayantha Fernando, Secretary to the President Dr. Nandika Sanath Kumanayake, Japanese Ambassador Akio Isomata, Chairman of the Sasakawa Health Foundation Dr. Takahiro Nanri, Executive Director of The Nippon Foundation Ichiro Kabasawa, and other representatives.

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