Colombo (LNW): Ceylon Chocolates Limited, the manufacturer of Kandos chocolates, has responded to the recent allegations on Social Media involving one of its chocolate products.
The company has launched an investigation into the matter and expressed regret for the inconvenience caused to the public, and asserted the customers its ‘steadfast commitment to maintain the highest standards of quality in all its products.’
Controversy stormed in when photographs allegedly revealing a part of a human thumb inside a Kandos chocolate purchased in Mahiyanganaya area circulated on Social Media went viral, and the products of the same category were later withdrawn from supermarkets in the area.
6.3 million people, or over 30 percent of Sri Lanka’s population, are “food insecure” and require humanitarian assistance and of these, around 5.3 million people are either reducing meals or skipping meals, and at least 65,600 people are severely food insecure, revealed the joint FAO/WFP Crop and Food Security Assessment Mission (CFSAM) report 2022.
An overnight decision to transition from chemical fertiliser to organic fertiliser without an adequate alternative for farmers and stopping the fertiliser subsidies given by the government to the farmers left the agriculture sector in limbo, resulting two consecutive seasons of poor harvests in 2021-2022 leading to a nearly 40 percent drop in paddy production, posing a serious threat to food security in Sri Lanka.
To tackle the vulnerability of the food security system in the country under the above circumstances, the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) together with the government of Sri Lanka, and with €4 million in funding from the European Union (EU) launched an innovative project – RiceUP.
FAO together with the Ministry of Agriculture and the Mahaweli Authority of Sri Lanka (MASL) implements the project “Responding to the Economic Crisis: Protecting smallholder farmer livelihoods through safe and efficient use of fertiliser and quality seed for better productivity in paddy farming” which aims to respond to the economic crisis in Sri Lanka by protecting smallholder farmer livelihoods through safe and efficient use of fertiliser and quality seed for better productivity in paddy farming.
As a step in capacitating key stakeholders in the agriculture sector on best practices, FAO has embarked on a training programme for 300 Agriculture Extension Officers (AEOs) on Integrated Plant Nutrient Management (IPNM) across four key rice-growing districts in Sri Lanka namely: Ampara, Badulla, Hambantota, and Polonnaruwa. These AEOs will then act as facilitators for the Farmer Field Schools (FFS) where farmers will be trained to adopt good practices for sustainable rice cultivation. The training will equip the AEOs with the necessary skills and knowledge to guide paddy farmers on soil management and the optimal use of organic and chemical fertilisers to enhance crop yield while reducing chemical fertiliser dependency.
The Training of Facilitators (ToF) is being conducted at the Rice Research and Development Institute, Batalagoda from 19th July to 18th August 2023. 7,500 farmers are expected to directly benefit from the FFS facilitated by the trained AEOs. The Training Manual, outlining technical IPNM content and structured learning exercises has been developed collaboratively with international and national consultants of FAO, the Department of Agriculture, MASL, and the University of Peradeniya. This manual will be instrumental in guiding the implementation of both the ToF and the FFS.
IPNM is a sustainable land management practice that ensures soil quality, prevents degradation, and maximises crop productivity while safeguarding the environment. FAO’s induction to IPNM and the provision of urea fertiliser to smallholder farmers in selected districts, are a combined response to the challenges faced by farmers in accessing essential fertilisers and maintaining food security. By adopting IPNM and more efficient use of urea fertiliser, smallholder paddy farmers can reduce costs and improve productivity, leading to better profitability and resilience to future shocks.
The trained AEOs will be instrumental in facilitating the FFS in these four districts guiding and training the farmers on IPNM practices. FFS is an effective farmer training approach which was introduced to Sri Lanka in 1994. In Sri Lanka, FFS has been widely adopted to promote sustainable farming practices, increase agricultural productivity, and address various agricultural and environmental challenges. The FFS typically involves a group of 25 farmers who come together to learn, share experiences, and collectively experiment with new agricultural techniques and sustainable management of soil while increasing the fertiliser efficiency. FAO expects that the AEOs will facilitate this process in FFS in their respective districts motivating the paddy farmers to raise productivity while collectively finding solutions to the problems in paddy cultivation.
Through the implementation of sustainable farming practices, including the safe and efficient use of fertiliser and quality seeds, and promoting FFS to be adapted among the AEOs to promote IPNM strategy, RiceUP aims to enhance productivity, food security, and livelihoods in Sri Lanka’s paddy farming sector. Together with its partners, FAO remains dedicated to ensuring the long-term sustainability and resilience of Sri Lanka’s agriculture sector.
PMD: President Ranil Wickremesinghe revealed that Sri Lanka’s intention to join the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) is poised to materialize following the conclusion of credit optimization initiatives. Additionally, the President announced plans to initiate negotiations for the establishment of free trade agreements with corresponding ASEAN member countries.
President Wickremesinghe’s statement underscores the country’s determination to bolster its economic connectivity within the broader Asian region. The President affirmed his alignment with the future vision of ASEAN for the Indo-Pacific area, pledging full support for the advancement of this strategic perspective.
These proposed collaborations highlight Sri Lanka’s commitment to fostering economic cooperation and trade linkages, which are poised to open new avenues for growth and development. The President’s statements reaffirm the nation’s readiness to engage actively in regional economic partnerships to realize its economic ambitions.
President Ranil Wickremesinghe made these remarks while addressing the 56th anniversary of the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN), Tuesday (08) at the Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia, Colombo.
The President reflected on Sri Lanka’s economic history and the decisions that had impacted the nation’s progress. He acknowledged the efforts of former President J. R. Jayawardena, his father and other influential figures who advocated for opening up the economy and joining ASEAN during its founding years as well as the Shenoy reforms for liberalization of the economy and to ensure the welfare program stayed within the needs. The President remarked that turning down the opportunity to join ASEAN led to a period of socialist economic policies and limited capital formations, hindering the country’s growth potential.
The President further explained the circumstance that converted a source of profound regret. He said subsequently, over a span of three years, Sri Lanka transitioned into a socialist economic model, leading to the fragmentation of the capital formations, and has continued to progress in this trajectory. “However, we find ourselves not entirely emancipated from the constraints imposed by that economic paradigm. At present, despite being positioned as one of the world’s major economies, poised to potentially ascend to the ranks of the fifth or fourth largest expanding economies, we now confront the disheartening reality of shaking on the brink of bankruptcy after 55 years of existence.”
President Ranil Wickremesinghe praised the association’s remarkable growth and success as one of the world’s largest economic blocks. The President also expressed regret that Sri Lanka had declined an invitation to join ASEAN in its early years, citing missed opportunities for economic prosperity. However, he highlighted a new policy approach to collaborate closely with ASEAN to enhance Sri Lanka’s position in the global arena.
In light of Sri Lanka’s recent financial challenges and the need for rejuvenation, President Wickremesinghe expressed a renewed commitment to pursue closer ties with ASEAN. He acknowledged the strong cultural and historical connections between Southeast Asia and Sri Lanka, underscoring the importance of building on these relations to drive economic and political cooperation.
Amid the looming threat of bankruptcy, Sri Lanka has embraced the challenge head-on, aiming to move forward with inspiration drawn from proactive problem-solving approaches. This involves looking to the accomplishments of the ASEAN and enhancing collaboration with the organization. This strategic approach is firmly rooted in the government’s policies. This approach, championed by the current administration, is expected to resonate with other governments as well. The nation’s enduring connections with Southeast Asia stand as evidence of its strong regional ties, perhaps only second to its affiliations with India and Maldives. Cultural bonds are exemplified through shared practices like Mahavihara Buddhism in countries such as Myanmar, Thailand, Cambodia, and Laos, and historical links like that between the Srivijaya Empire and Sri Lanka and Anuradhapura further reinforce these ties.
Numerous historical interconnections further validate these relationships, including interactions with Malays and historical associations with the Srivijaya Empire. Even shared colonial history, notably during the Dutch Empire’s reign in places like Batavia (present-day Jakarta, Indonesia), adds another layer of commonality. This collective historical backdrop lays the groundwork for nurturing cultural, economic, and political relations.
Consequently, as Sri Lanka faces impending financial challenges, it is actively strengthening its bonds with ASEAN nations. These alliances are poised to facilitate the pursuit of shared interests and the fostering of regional cooperation. In the pursuit of progress, Sri Lanka seeks not only to capitalize on its robust ties with Southeast Asia but also to build upon them for a mutually prosperous future.
One of the key aspects of the new policy is the initiation of free trade agreements with ASEAN countries. President Wickremesinghe revealed that Sri Lanka has already forged a crucial trade agreement with Singapore and is actively negotiating with Thailand. The President also announced that Sri Lanka has applied to join the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), recognizing the potential of this vast trade block comprising major economies like China, Japan, and Korea. He emphasized that Sri Lanka’s economic focus should now turn towards the east, given the rapid development in that region.
President Wickremesinghe has urged the Minister of Foreign Affairs to facilitate regular ministerial-level meetings with ASEAN countries to address mutual concerns and discuss the way forward. He stressed the importance of upholding the ASEAN outlook on the Indo-Pacific and supporting Indonesia’s maritime fulcrum concept.
The President emphasized the need for unity and cooperation, especially in the face of challenges like climate change. Recognizing the urgency of the climate crisis, President Wickremesinghe called for joint efforts between ASEAN countries and Sri Lanka to combat climate change and explore the potential of the blue economy.
President Ranil Wickremesinghe expressed gratitude for the invitation to the ASEAN anniversary event and reaffirmed Sri Lanka’s commitment to fostering closer ties with ASEAN and reiterated that collaboration and friendship among nations would be the driving force for shared progress and prosperity in the region.
Meanwhile the Indonesian Ambassador, Dewi Gustina Tobing, highlighted the significance of the ASEAN viewing Sri Lanka as a vital partner for regional cooperation. With a collective population exceeding 670 million, roughly 8.8% of the global populace, ASEAN represents the world’s third-largest market.
The Ambassador emphasized the importance of fostering stronger ties between ASEAN and Sri Lanka. The aim is to promote people-to-people connections and create a closer link between the two regions.
Ambassador Tobing reiterated ASEAN’s aspiration for a peaceful, stable, and prosperous Indo-Pacific region. The organization seeks to establish an inclusive regional architecture that ensures the safety and security of all member nations.
The envoy expressed ASEAN’s openness to engaging with countries interested in strengthening their presence in the Indo-Pacific. The organization is committed to collaborating with Sri Lanka to ensure the nation benefits from ASEAN’s development. Dynamic and multifaceted partnerships are recognized as pivotal in this pursuit.
Ambassador Tobing emphasized that shared values, principles, and interests form the bedrock of ASEAN’s relations with countries worldwide. These include bolstering a rule-based international order to tackle common challenges spanning economic, security, health, environmental, cultural, and climate change aspects.
In light of the 57th year of ASEAN’s existence, the envoy reaffirmed solidarity among member nations to collectively address challenges and create more opportunities for growth. The partnership between ASEAN and Sri Lanka is poised to flourish, evolving positively over the years and decades to come.
Speaker Mahinda Yapa Abeywardena, Ministers Bandula Gunawardena, Keheliya Rambukwella, Vidura Wickramanayake, Nasir Ahmed, Jeevan Thondaman, Nalin Fernando, State Minister Taraka Balasuriya and other officials including Malaysian High Commissioner Badli Hisham Adam. , Ambassador of Thailand Poj Harnpol, Ambassador of Vietnam Ho Thi Thanh Truc, Ambassador of Myanmar Mr. U Han Thu, Mr. Sagala Ratnayake, Senior Adviser to the President on National Security and Chief of Presidential Staff and many dignitaries including the commanders of the three armed forces attended the event.
Colombo (LNW): The Fort Magistrate Court today (10) issued an order barring the a protest organised by the Inter-University Students’ Federation (IUSF) from entering several areas in Colombo.
The protest has been organised against the government’s attempt on privatising free education in Sri Lanka, and to be commenced at 12.30 pm noon from Lipton Circus.
Colombo (LNW): The Parliamentary Business Committee is set to take a decision pertaining to the debate on the no-confidence motion against Health Minister Keheliya Rambukwella.
The Parliamentary Business Committee is scheduled to meet on Friday (11) at 10.30 am, according to reports.
The no-confidence motion against Rambukwella over the allegation of irresponsible importation of ‘substandard’ medicines and surgical equipment leading to a weakened health sector in the country was handed over to Speaker Mahinda Yapa Abeywardena by Secretary General of the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) Ranjith Madduma Banndara and MP Kavinda Jayaeardena last month, with the signatures of 45 MPs.
The recent events in the Sri Lankan Health Sector have revealed complications among patients and even deaths, due to what it was speculated by the Opposition, civil unions and a number of concerned parties as ‘substandard’ medicines and surgical equipment.
Colombo (LNW): Former Director General of the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC) Dilrukshi Dias who was under suspension over a controversial voice tape allegedly revealing a telephone conversation between her and Chairman of the Avant Garde Maritime Services Nissanka Senadhipathi has been acquitted by the Public Service Commission.
A voice tape of a telephone conversation allegedly between Senadhipathi and Dias, who at the time served as an Additional Solicitor General of the Attorney General’s Office, was circulated on social media in 2019, and she was temporarily suspended from work on September 24, 2019.
However, the Public Service Commission has decided to proceed with Mrs. Dias’ acquittal after considering the reports by the University of Moratuwa and the Government Analyst’s Department which revealed that that voice tape has been doctored.
Mrs. Dias is currently retired and with the Commission’s decision, she will be entitled to the arrears of salary and privileges.
Colombo (LNW): Sports Minister Roshan Ranasinghe has issued a gazette notification declaring the immediate suspension of the registration of the Sri Lanka Automobile Association.
The gazette is dated August 09, 2023.
The Minister has also appointed a seven-member committee to temporarily overlook the activities of the Association.
Colombo (LNW): The Government has decided to allocate a plot of 218 acres and 30 perches of State-owned land in Hambantota district to boost the commercial aquaculture sector.
Following a joint proposal, the Cabinet of Ministers approved to provide a total of 109 acres and 15 perches of land each, on a 30-year lease basis to W.S.R. Lowe and K.M.N. Aqua Services Ltd. and Rainbow Foods Ltd., for ‘Vannamei’ shrimp cultivation.
The move aligns with broader efforts to enhance the country’s aquaculture output, ensure food security, and boost foreign exchange earnings through exports.
Cabinet Co-Spokesman and Minister Bandula Gunawardena said the two entities were selected following a rigorous Government procurement process. The lease arrangements are based on the Government assessor’s evaluation.
Shrimp farming constitutes a vital component of Sri Lanka’s commercial aquaculture practices. With a production output of 14,414 tons in 2021, the country is targeting a substantial increase to 50,000 tons by 2025.
“There is a good demand for ‘Vannamei’ shrimp in the global market. This ambitious goal aims to generate foreign exchange earnings equal to Rs. 65,500 million (around $ 208,000). The limited availability of suitable land for aquaculture posed a challenge to expanding this sector further,” he explained.
To overcome this challenge, the National Aquaculture Development Authority of Sri Lanka has embarked on a series of strategic measures. Among them is the introduction of modern technology designed to achieve high productivity within confined spaces.
As part of this strategy, a plot of 218 acres and 30 perches of State-owned land located in the Ambalantota Divisional Secretariat Area within the Hambantota district have been identified as conducive for ‘Vannamei’ shrimp cultivation.
This specific species of shrimp is known for its ability to complete a culture cycle in a relatively short period. The utilisation of this land for Vannamei shrimp farming is expected to facilitate achieving production targets while optimising land usage efficiently.
The joint proposal put forth by Fisheries Minister Douglas Devananda and Lands Minister Harin Fernando was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers at its meeting on Monday.
Government of Sri Lanka (GoSL) has been promoting intensification of shrimp production as well as diversification into other high-value species.
In Puttalam, to intensify shrimp production, the National Aquaculture Development Authority (NAQDA) plans to enhance technological input, such as improved water reticulation and bio security in farms, and to introduce Litopeneaus vannamei, which has higher growth rates and productivity compared with Peneaus monodon.
Currently, the L. vannamei breeding technology is being piloted in Mannar. Investment in nontraditional high-value species such as sea cucumber, seaweed, sea bass, mud crab, and other finfish has been gradually increasing.
Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka government has embarked on key trade facilitation initiatives through digital transformation and do away with outdated 20th-century bureaucratic systems.
The efforts to streamline processes are just the beginning; the implementation of the new economic commission law will further expedite applications, be it for investments or trade, within specific time frames.
President Ranil Wickremasinghe says that this transformation requires a comprehensive overhaul of regulations and perspectives, going beyond the establishment of a one-stop centre. Embracing change across the board is crucial to Sri Lanka’s success in today’s dynamic economic landscape
President Urges Modernization for Rapid 21st-Century Economic Growth and Efficient Bureaucracy
To stay competitive, Sri Lanka must embrace change and modernize bureaucratic processes. By doing so, the nation can significantly reduce the time taken in administrative procedures, providing much-needed support to the people, he added.
President Ranil Wickremesinghe made these remarks while addressing the launch of key trade facilitation initiatives in Sri Lanka Tuesday (08) at the Hotel Shangri La, Colombo.
With the support of the International Trade Centre (ITC), Sri Lanka has successfully launched a crucial aspect of the new economy.
The challenges that have been faced have underscored the importance of transforming into a competitive and export-oriented economy.
To achieve this, it is not only essential to restructure the economy but also to empower and facilitate the private sector, particularly in the realm of trade. Trade plays a pivotal role as the essence of economic growth.
Through trade facilitation, Sri Lanka can bolster its prospects for growth and advancement. The service that has been launched today is a vital component, contributing to both the restructuring of the economy and enabling digital transformation, the President said.
He further mentioned the importance of trade facilitation and digital transformation and said that it has become evident when considering the effectiveness of a one-stop centre.
Without these essential elements, progress stagnates, hindering our restructuring efforts. Simultaneously, Sri Lanka is actively exploring new markets and has already signed free trade agreements.
The President further noted that an application to join the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) reflects the pursuit of vast opportunities in a significant market.
However, gaining access to such markets hinges on trade facilitation and digital transformation. Engagements with India to upgrade trade arrangements highlight the advantages of trade facilitation.
It has proven beneficial in dealing with major players like the European Union and American markets, enhancing the nation’s trade prospects. Trade facilitation and digital transformation are vital for propelling Sri Lanka into new markets, streamlining processes, and maximizing economic opportunities on the global stage, he said.
Colombo (LNW): The Sri Lanka Red Cross Society has decided to sue a group of members who lost their positions at the last election of office bearers and allegedly decided to unleash a defamatory campaign against the Society.
The decision to seek the Court against the move was made during a special meeting hosted by the Board of Directors of the Sri Lanka Red Cross Society three days ago (07), Spokesperson Naveendra Senaratne told media.
Accordingly, legal proceedings are being initiated against Sunil Dissanayake, former member of the Central Governing Board of the Sri Lanka Red Cross Society, he added.
The Central Governing Body has unanimously agreed to immediately commence legal proceedings against former National Secretary of the Society Sellahannadige Nimal Kumar and former Finance Commission Chairman Piyum Prasanna Dasanayake, on the allegations of damaging the reputation of the Sri Lanka Red Cross Society and propagating false information, among other offenses.
