President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has emphasized the importance of transforming the Sri Lanka Insurance Corporation (SLIC) into a key contributor to the national economy through efficient and strategic investments.
During a discussion held today (March 7) at the Presidential Secretariat with SLIC officials, the President underscored the need for strong management practices to enhance the profitability and sustainability of the state-owned insurer.
The President cautioned that financial mismanagement at SLIC could have direct consequences for public investors, stressing the need for responsible financial stewardship.
The meeting included a comprehensive review of SLIC’s current operations, investment portfolio, and future growth strategies.
Discussions focused on enhancing returns, expanding market share, and strengthening financial stability.
High-Level Participation
The meeting was attended by:
SLIC Chairman Nusith Kumaratunga
Board of Directors members
Senior SLIC officials
With the insurance sector playing a vital role in economic stability, the government aims to position SLIC as a leading institution that drives sustainable financial growth while protecting policyholders and public investments.
Minister Samantha Vidyarathna has announced that 36,000 acres will be allocated for new coconut cultivation this year, with 16,000 acres designated for the Northern Coconut Triangle and the remaining 20,000 acres spread across other regions.
Speaking at the Ministerial Consultative Committee on Plantation and Community Infrastructure held on March 5, 2025, Minister Vidyarathna outlined several key initiatives aimed at boosting coconut cultivation. Deputy Minister Sundaralingam Pradeep also participated in the discussions.
Key Measures to Boost Coconut Production
2.5 million coconut seedlings will be produced in 2025.
27,500 metric tons of MOP fertilizer (from a 55,000 metric ton donation by Russia) will be used to produce 56,000 metric tons of mixed fertilizer for coconut cultivation.
A subsidized fertilizer program will offer 50 kg sacks of mixed fertilizer at LKR 4,000, compared to the market price of LKR 9,500.
Estate-Sector Housing & Infrastructure Development
Under the Indian Aid program, 4,700 new estate houses will be built in 2025 as part of the 10,000-housing project.
The government has pledged greater transparency in selecting housing beneficiaries, prioritizing families in landslide-prone areas.
LKR 1.3 billion in domestic funds will be allocated for estate housing and infrastructure.
Future Plans & Production Targets
Ministry Secretary Prabath Chandrakeerthi presented an overview of the plantation sector’s performance and goals, including:
Identifying 30,000 hectares of underutilized plantation lands for investment.
Setting 2025 targets for key exports:
Tea:275 million kg (compared to 262 million kg in 2024).
Rubber:78 million kg, despite a decline in exports.
Coconut:2,875 million nuts.
Concerns Over Quality & Sustainability
Discussions also addressed challenges in maintaining Sri Lankan tea and cinnamon quality, particularly due to excessive use of glyphosate. MPs also raised concerns about:
Tea fertilizer quality standards
Promoting cashew cultivation
Other critical plantation issues
With these measures, Sri Lanka aims to strengthen its plantation sector, enhance export earnings, and ensure sustainable agricultural growth.
The Sri Lanka Navy has apprehended an Indian fishing vessel along with 14 Indian fishermen for engaging in illegal fishing activities in Sri Lankan territorial waters off the southern coast of Mannar.
The operation was conducted on March 6, 2025, by the North Western Naval Command as part of routine patrols to prevent unauthorized fishing and protect marine resources. The seized vessel and the detained fishermen were taken to the Thalvapadu Jetty in Mannar for further legal proceedings.
Sri Lanka has consistently taken steps to curb illegal fishing, as such activities pose a significant threat to local fisheriesand marine ecosystems. The detained individuals are expected to face legal action under Sri Lankan maritime laws.
President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has emphasized the importance of fully utilizing the budgetary allocations for irrigation development within the next eight months.
The President made these remarks during a discussion held today (06) at the Presidential Secretariat regarding the future development of the irrigation sector and the effective deployment of allocated funds in the 2025 Budget.
He noted that a significant budget allocation has been made for irrigation this year to address persistent water issues faced by farmers and strengthen agricultural productivity.
The discussion also focused on ensuring proper implementation of these projects, as achieving the national economic growth target of 3%–4% depends on efficient execution. Officials were urged to closely monitor the projects and ensure optimal utilization of funds.
Following LNW’s recent exposé on the dilapidated condition of mobile staircases and passenger transport buses at Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA), SriLankan Airlines has reportedly taken steps to replace them.
Internal sources confirm that the new management team, led by Chairman Sarath Ganegoda, has decided to purchase new mobile stairs and buses to improve passenger experience.
LNW previously reported that: The mobile staircases used for disembarking passengers are over 20 years old. The buses transporting passengers to the immigration section are 30 years old.
This situation posed serious concerns regarding efficiency, passenger comfort, and safety.
With foreign tourist arrivals increasing, this swift action by SriLankan Airlines is commendable, ensuring a better travel experience and enhancing Sri Lanka’s aviation reputation.
Showers may occur at several places in the island, particularly in the Eastern and Uva provinces.Except for a few showers in Rathnapura, Galle, Matara and Kaluthara districts in the evening or night, mainly fair weather will prevail over the island.
Misty conditions can be expected at several places in the island during the morning.
The Criminal Investigation Department (CID) failed to appear before the Colombo Magistrate’s Court today (07) in the ongoing case related to the investigation into the assets of popular model Piumi Hansamali.
The case was previously called on February 14 through a motion before Colombo Magistrate’s Court No. 04, where Colombo Additional Magistrate Manjula Ratnayake ordered it to be recalled on March 7.
Despite being fully aware of today’s court proceedings, the CID had summoned Piumi Hansamali on both March 5 and 6, recording her statements. However, they were absent from today’s hearing, raising questions about their intentions in the case.
As a result, the court has now postponed the hearing to March 21.
Senior Counsel Sumudu Hewage and Advocate Imasha Senadheera appeared in court to represent Piumi Hansamali’s legal rights.
March 07, Colombo (LNW): March 07, 2025, marks the 16th anniversary of Lanka News Web (LNW), a milestone in a journey that has witnessed both extraordinary challenges and remarkable triumphs. Born in 2009 amidst the dark clouds of media oppression following the brutal assassination of Lasantha Wickramatunga, LNW emerged as a beacon of press freedom, dedicated to defending democracy and the public’s right to information. We have weathered the storm, steadfast in our mission to hold power to account and amplify the voices of the people. As we step into a new era, we look back with gratitude and forward with renewed purpose.
LNW was born on 7th March 2009, emerging from the heart of the United Kingdom. Initially, it was designed to be a platform for global perspectives, with news outlets reaching Sri Lanka and various countries beyond. Its inception was swift, yet its presence quickly became a thorn in the side of the Sri Lankan government. The authorities reacted by imposing a ban on the site within months, deeming it a disruptive force. Despite the ban, thousands of readers found their way to LNW using VPNs, and the editorial team was thrust into a struggle that saw them practising guerrilla journalism for a solid six years. During this turbulent period, an international red warrant was even issued against our editorial staff.
However, the political landscape in Sri Lanka changed in 2015, and with it came a shift in our fate. The government’s decision to lift the ban allowed us to finally cease our covert operations. For the first time, we could proudly base ourselves in Sri Lanka, bringing together our scattered team from across the country. Operating from both Colombo and London, LNW continues to pursue its mission with the same commitment and dedication that we first established on that historic day in March 2009.
Sixteen years is a significant milestone, particularly when one reflects on the monumental events that have shaped Sri Lanka during this time. The country has endured civil conflict, witnessed the military’s triumph, suffered under heavy media and civil activist crackdowns, and navigated an ever-evolving political landscape. From the controversial 2010 presidential election to the infamous Easter Sunday bombings and the 2019 economic crisis, the road has been tumultuous. In addition, Sri Lanka has faced global challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic and an ongoing economic meltdown. Yet, through it all, LNW has endured, providing an unwavering voice that reported on these events from a global perspective.
Our greatest achievement over these years has been our ability to remain a steadfast presence amidst the storm. For a media outlet with no mainstream backing, no large corporate sponsors, and no financial safety net, continuing for sixteen years in a hostile environment has felt like a battle of its own. We take immense pride in our persistence, especially when we consider the number of news websites that have come and gone in that time. Keeping LNW alive, despite facing bans, legal battles, and constant financial challenges, is a testament to our resilience and determination.
Accuracy and speed in reporting have always been at the core of our values. Over the years, LNW has published hundreds of stories each day—sometimes forty or more articles—covering a vast range of topics. Whilst we have inevitably made mistakes, we have always been committed to correcting them promptly and ensuring that our content upholds the standards of integrity we have set for ourselves. One of our key principles has been to avoid giving in to religious or racial extremism, even during difficult moments. This commitment to neutrality and balance has, no doubt, made us targets for various factions. However, as journalists, our role is not to please everyone but to report the truth.
The loyalty of our readers, who have supported us through thick and thin in all three languages—Sinhala, Tamil, and English—is our most valuable asset. It is thanks to them that LNW has made it this far. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our readership and encourage you to continue this journey with us in the years to come.
In the course of these 16 years, we have also expanded our reach beyond our primary website. The creation of platforms like ‘Nelum Yaya’, ‘Outbound Today’, and ‘ReadPhotos’, along with the work of the Nelum Yaya Foundation, has allowed us to diversify and engage in social service projects, enriching the lives of many. We owe a debt of gratitude to the many close friends and collaborators who have made these endeavours possible. Without their support, none of this would have come to fruition.
LNW at its core is a political news site—but not in the traditional sense. Our politics transcend party lines. The foundation of our political stance is rooted in the belief in human freedom—a concept that is universal, not constrained by borders, ethnicity, religion, or political affiliation. Over the past 16 years, we have contributed to some key political events directly, whilst at times simply providing objective coverage without involvement. However, in every instance, our approach has been shaped by our principles, and we remain committed to that path.
Looking ahead to our 17th year, LNW plans to widen its scope. Whilst we will continue to address local political issues, we will place a greater emphasis on social issues and environmental matters, particularly climate change, both domestically and on the international stage. Our reasons for this shift will be detailed in due course.
The media landscape has undergone radical changes since LNW’s inception. The print media’s dominance is now a thing of the past, and digital news outlets like ours face unique challenges in maintaining relevance and sustainability. Yet, with 16 years of experience behind us, we are determined to press forward, sharper and more resilient than ever. Even should our platform evolve in unexpected ways over the next 16 years, one thing remains certain—LNW will endure. For us, LNW is not merely a news website but a community, a family united by purpose and a shared commitment to truth. And as long as that mission remains, so too will LNW.
To our readers and supporters who have been with us every step of the way, we extend our deepest gratitude. Your unwavering support has been the cornerstone of our work, and it is because of you that we continue to push forward, stronger than ever. As we enter our 16th year, we are more determined than ever to continue the mission we started so many years ago: to protect and promote press freedom, uphold democracy, and support the people of Sri Lanka in their pursuit of a better future.
Together, let us embark on this next chapter of our journey, with the knowledge that the best is yet to come.
The Collective for Senior Citizens has urged the government to reinstate the 15% interest rate on fixed deposits of up to Rs. 1.5 million, stating that its removal has left elderly citizens struggling to afford basic living expenses.
Speaking at a press conference on Tuesday (6) in Colombo, the group criticized the government for failing to fulfill its pre-election promise to support retirees. They emphasized that healthcare, food, and other essential costs have become unaffordable due to reduced interest earnings on savings.
Concerns Over Tax Increases
The collective also condemned the government’s tax policies, particularly the decision to double the Withholding Tax on savings interest from 5% to 10%. They argued that while ordinary citizens are burdened with higher taxes, large corporations have not faced similar tax hikes.
Call for Government Dialogue
Despite repeated requests for discussions with the Ministry of Finance, the group stated that they have not been granted a meeting to address their concerns. They insisted that the 15% interest rate on fixed deposits should be restored immediately, as it was in place before the economic crisis.
Press Conference Attendees
The event, held at the Lions Club in Colombo, was attended by:
Dayapala Thiranagama
Melani Gunathilaka
Rachel Perera
Ananda Sisira Kumara
Janaki Senavirathna
Attorney-at-Law Nuwan Bopage
Speaking on behalf of Sri Lanka’s senior citizens, they urged the government to prioritize the welfare of retirees and provide financial stability for the aging population.
Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa has raised serious concerns over seven key issues affecting Sri Lanka’s healthcare professionals. Speaking in Parliament today (6) on disease prevention and treatment, he called for urgent government intervention to address these challenges.
Preventing Brain Drain in the Medical Sector
MP Premadasa highlighted the ongoing exodus of medical professionals, attributing it to reduced allowances and inadequate financial support. The Government Medical Officers’ Association (GMOA) has reported that the allowance rate for additional duties has been slashed from 1/80 to 1/120 per hour, while the allowance for work on holidays and Sundays has been reduced from 1/20 to 1/30.
Further issues include cutbacks in retention and transport allowances, unresolved vehicle permit concerns, inadequate financial support for postgraduate medical education, and a severe shortage of resident doctor allowances. As a result, many doctors have already left the country, with more preparing to migrate.
Challenges Faced by Nurses
The nursing profession has also been affected, with holiday and weekly rest day allowances reduced from 1/20 to 1/30 of the basic salary, and hourly service allowances cut from 1/160 to 1/200. Premadasa criticized the government for failing to address the shortage of nurses and for penalizing those who participated in political rallies while in uniform.
Unemployment Among Allied Health Science and Ayurvedic Graduates
MP Premadasa pointed out that many Allied Health Science graduates remain unemployed, despite having completed their education through the free education system. Similarly, around 1,800 Ayurvedic graduates are also jobless, despite 600 vacancies in the indigenous medicine sector.
He called for immediate recruitment to fill these positions, as 200 new Ayurvedic graduates complete their training annually.
Issues with the Ayurveda Act
The Ayurveda Act No. 19 of 2023 has imposed significant restrictions on Ayurvedic entrepreneurs, manufacturers, and shop owners, negatively impacting the cultivation, sale, and distribution of indigenous medicines. Premadasa called on the government to amend the act to ensure both industry growth and patient access to treatment.
Permanent Appointments for Dengue Control Officers
The Opposition Leader urged the government to make Dengue Control Assistant Officers permanent, stating that these workers, who are currently on a Rs. 22,000 salary scale, deserve job security and fair compensation.
Support for Hospital Junior Staff
Premadasa also emphasized the importance of overtime allowances for junior hospital staff, who play a crucial role in service delivery but receive inadequate pay.
Additionally, Family Health Service Officers currently receive just Rs. 2 per kilometer for travel expenses despite the lack of adequate transport facilities. Premadasa pointed out that 937 candidates are awaiting appointments, while 1,200 more are still in training, urging immediate action to address these vacancies.
Healthcare as a Fundamental Right
Concluding his remarks, MP Sajith Premadasa asserted that health and education are fundamental human rights. While Sri Lanka’s Constitution guarantees civil and political rights, he emphasized that economic, social, cultural, health, and educational rights must also be upheld.
He called on the government to officially recognize healthcare as a basic human right and pledged the full support of the opposition in ensuring its implementation.
