January 06, Colombo (LNW): WhatsApp has launched a new feature aimed at making document sharing even more convenient for its users.

With the latest update to WhatsApp for iOS (version 24.25.80), users can now scan documents directly within the app, eliminating the need for third-party scanning tools or apps.

This new functionality, which is integrated into the document-sharing menu, allows users to quickly capture and send documents using just their phone’s camera.

The feature simplifies the process of sharing physical documents, providing a seamless experience for both personal and professional communication.

Currently, the feature is being rolled out gradually, with a select group of users already able to access it.

As per the latest WhatsApp changelog, which was reported by WABetaInfo, more users are expected to gain access to the feature over the coming weeks.

This addition is expected to enhance the app’s utility for users who frequently share important documents, such as contracts, forms, or receipts, without the hassle of relying on separate scanning apps.

With the convenience of scanning and sharing documents all within WhatsApp, the app continues to improve its functionality, making it a more versatile tool for its growing global user base.

January 06, Colombo (LNW): The Ministry of Public Administration has introduced a set of updated guidelines to streamline the approval process for both domestic and foreign unpaid leave for public sector employees.

This move aims to address discrepancies in the management of leave requests and to ensure that officials’ pension entitlements are not adversely affected by extended leave periods.

In a directive sent to all District Secretaries, the Ministry clarified that unpaid leave must be granted in a manner that preserves employees’ rights to pension benefits.

The Ministry has expressed concern over cases where public officials had applied for domestic leave extending up to five years, while in some instances, individuals had failed to properly cancel their earlier domestic leave before requesting foreign leave.

Under the new guidelines, public officials applying for foreign leave will now be required to submit a detailed record of their previous leave history.

This review process is intended to ensure that any inconsistencies or overlapping leave periods are identified and addressed before further leave is granted.

District Secretaries have been given the responsibility of scrutinising all leave applications carefully, ensuring that full documentation of past domestic and foreign leave is included with the submission.

The guidelines also stress the importance of compliance with the Public Administration Circular issued on June 22, 2022, which outlines specific regulations for leave management in the public sector.

The Ministry has highlighted that these steps are necessary to eliminate irregularities and improve the efficiency and transparency of the leave approval system, which has been under scrutiny due to recent cases of mismanagement.

January 06, Colombo (LNW): The National Transport Commission (NTC) has initiated efforts to create a comprehensive list of passenger rights, aimed at enhancing the safety and well-being of those travelling by bus.

This new initiative seeks to standardise expectations for bus passengers, ensuring greater accountability and safety across the country’s bus network.

The proposed list will draw from the regulations outlined in the operating licences issued to bus services by the NTC, alongside the specific terms set by provincial councils for bus operations.

This collaborative approach aims to ensure that all relevant conditions, which govern the safety, comfort, and rights of passengers, are included in the final set of guidelines.

NTC Chairman Dr. Bandura Dileepa Witharana told Ada Derana that the Commission is in the process of consulting with various stakeholders, including bus associations and passenger rights organisations, before finalising the list.

These discussions will help address the concerns and perspectives of those directly involved in the bus transport system, ensuring that the rights of passengers are appropriately balanced with the operational realities faced by bus operators.

In addition to prioritising passenger safety, Witharana also highlighted that measures are being taken to protect the job security of private bus drivers and conductors.

January 06, Colombo (LNW): The Regional Director of Health Services (RDHS) office in Vavuniya has confirmed that 41 individuals in the district contracted Leptospirosis, commonly known as “rat fever,” in the year 2024.

This was revealed during an informative session organised by the RDHS to raise awareness about the disease and educate the public on preventive strategies.

According to the RDHS, the majority of the cases were reported among farmers during the two major cultivation periods – the ‘Maha’ and ‘Yala’ seasons.

The outbreaks were a significant concern for the agricultural community, with those working in fields and close to rodent habitats being most at risk.

Leptospirosis, which is often spread through contact with water or soil contaminated by the urine of infected animals, particularly rats, is a major health issue for those in farming and rural areas.

The RDHS highlighted that early intervention, such as taking preventive antibiotics before starting cultivation during the peak farming seasons, is key to reducing the likelihood of infection.

The office also drew comparisons to the successful measures implemented in the Jaffna district, where the spread of rat fever was effectively controlled. Following this model, similar steps have been taken in Vavuniya to curb the potential for further outbreaks.

These actions include providing farmers with essential information about protective measures, ensuring the distribution of antibiotics where needed, and reinforcing hygiene and safety protocols on farms.

The RDHS has stressed that while the disease is preventable, vigilance is required from both the authorities and the farming community.

January 06, Colombo (LNW): An in-depth investigation will be launched into the land allocations made for various purposes since 2015, Deputy Minister of Land and Irrigation Dr. Susil Ranasinghe announced.

The inquiry will aim to uncover the details surrounding land distribution, with a particular focus on the role of the Land Reform Commission (LRC).

Speaking to the press after attending a ceremony in Anuradhapura, Dr. Ranasinghe explained that land, which has been allocated to industries and agricultural ventures through the LRC, has been the subject of numerous disputes and allegations over the years.

He acknowledged that previous efforts to distribute land had been marred by complications, with questions arising about the fairness and transparency of the process.

The Deputy Minister confirmed that the Cabinet had recently made the decision to suspend further land allocations through the LRC until a thorough investigation is conducted.

The primary objective of this probe is to identify who has been granted land since 2015 and to examine the rationale behind these allocations.

Dr. Ranasinghe stated that the investigation would scrutinise whether any unlawful practices, including corruption or procedural irregularities, had taken place in the distribution of land.

He emphasised that legal action would follow the investigation’s findings, ensuring accountability for any wrongdoings.

The Deputy Minister reassured the public that the government is committed to upholding fairness and transparency in land management, with steps now being taken to restore public confidence in the system.