December 30, Colombo (LNW): The Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development has highlighted the severe impact of Sri Lanka’s ongoing economic crisis on children’s education, based on findings from the ‘Household Survey on the Impact of the Economic Crisis – 2023’, conducted by the Department of Census and Statistics.
According to the survey, over half of the schoolchildren in the country, approximately 55 per cent, have been affected by the economic downturn, with those living in rural and estate areas facing the most significant challenges.
The survey further revealed that a substantial proportion of affected families are struggling to provide essential educational materials for their children. Specifically, 53.2 per cent of children have either significantly reduced or entirely ceased purchasing school stationery.
Additionally, 26.1 per cent of students have been forced to reuse old stationery due to financial constraints, highlighting the hardships faced by many families.
In response to these findings, the government has announced a new initiative aimed at alleviating some of the pressures on vulnerable schoolchildren.
Starting from the beginning of the 2025 school year, an allowance will be provided to help cover the cost of essential school supplies, including stationery.
This move is part of a broader effort to ensure that children from financially struggling families can continue their education without interruption.
To begin with, the government has already allocated a Rs. 6,000 allowance per child for those from families receiving benefits under the ‘Aswesuma’ social welfare programme.
This allowance is set to be disbursed through ‘Aswesuma’ bank accounts by 27 December 2024, ensuring that the most vulnerable families can access the support without delay.
Looking ahead, the Ministry of Finance has assured that it will make the necessary budgetary provisions in 2025 to expand this initiative to other eligible schoolchildren, particularly those who are not currently part of the ‘Aswesuma’ programme.
The plan is to establish a clear and effective mechanism to deliver the Rs. 6,000 allowance per child, enabling more families to provide their children with the essential tools they need for their education.
December 30, World (LNW): Elon Musk, the billionaire entrepreneur known for his ambitious ventures in space exploration and electric vehicles, has once again stirred controversy with remarks that have drawn sharp criticism from both political leaders and the public.
Musk, who has recently aligned himself with U.S. President-elect Donald Trump and become a vocal supporter of various right-wing ideologies, has made an extraordinary statement regarding the Alternative for Germany (AfD), a nationalist political party.
In a statement made with Welt am Sonntag, Musk defended the AfD and its co-chair, Alice Weidel, claiming that the party is “not as far-right as people might think.”
His justification for this bold assertion is nothing short of remarkable: Musk pointed out that Weidel, who is living with her “same-sex Sri Lankan partner”, could not possibly fit the stereotype of a far-right politician.
In a manner that many have described as both insensitive and reckless, Musk questioned if this fact, in his view, should remind people of Hitler’s regime.
Weidel, perhaps emboldened by Musk’s comments, quickly reposted his message on her official social media platform, adding fuel to the flames of the already controversial conversation.
.@elonmusk: „Die traditionellen Parteien haben in Deutschland versagt. Ihre Politik hat zu wirtschaftlicher Stagnation, sozialen Unruhen und einer Aushöhlung der nationalen Identität geführt. Die #AfD vertritt einen politischen Realismus.“ https://t.co/iGYeqyiT5Wpic.twitter.com/lCiw9pvwRe
Musk’s remarks have ignited a firestorm, with critics accusing him of trivialising the dangerous legacy of far-right ideologies and undermining the gravity of historical events.
Racism, as many are pointing out, can take many forms – from casual dismissals of cultural identity to the abhorrent racism that leads to violence and discrimination. Musk’s comments, which seemed to mock Germany’s troubled past, were seen by many as an irresponsible attempt to downplay the significance of far-right movements.
By comparing personal details of Weidel’s life with the atrocities committed under Nazi rule, Musk’s statement is seen by many as both distasteful and harmful.
Whilst Musk’s comments regarding the AfD may seem like an odd diversion, his tendency to speak without consideration for the broader implications of his words has been a long-standing pattern.
Much like Trump, Musk has championed a warped version of free speech, where the consequences of hurtful remarks are dismissed in favour of provocation and attention.
However, the implications of his statements extend far beyond the realms of social media banter – they risk deepening political divisions and tarnishing international relations.
Notably, Weidel and the AfD have consistently opposed green energy policies championed by former German Chancellor Angela Merkel and have been vocal proponents of nuclear power. This is a far cry from Musk’s usual stance on environmental issues, which makes his support for the party even more perplexing.
To further compound the irony, Musk has often been a critic of protectionist policies, such as those advocated by Donald Trump, and yet he appears to align himself with a party that espouses nationalist, anti-globalist views.
Musk’s comments have drawn sharp rebuke from a variety of quarters. Germany’s Green Party, for instance, has labelled the AfD as a “group of traitors founded by billionaires and subjugated to Russia’s Vladimir Putin,” and many have questioned why Musk, a man who has amassed his wealth through global ventures, would throw his support behind such a party.
The rhetoric surrounding Musk’s comments is particularly concerning, as his influence and platform are vast, making his remarks potentially dangerous, especially when they involve divisive political movements.
The controversy has not gone unnoticed in the media either. In fact, it was reported that the opinion editor of Welt am Sonntag, a prominent German newspaper, resigned after the publication of Musk’s comments.
This signals the deep unease Musk’s statements have caused across international lines, as his words seem to disregard the delicate nature of diplomatic relations.
One of the most egregious elements of Musk’s comments is his treatment of Weidel’s sexual orientation as a token of justification for her political views. Musk’s record on LGBTQIA+ issues is highly contentious. Despite his public persona as an advocate for freedom and innovation, he has faced accusations of being indifferent, if not hostile, towards the transgender and non-binary communities.
His public estrangement from his transgender daughter has only added to his reputation as a figure whose actions often contradict his words.
To make matters worse, Musk referred to Weidel’s partner, who is a Swiss citizen, as a “Sri Lankan woman” in a manner that echoed the xenophobic tones of Trump’s immigration policies. Musk’s casual misrepresentation of Weidel’s partner, coupled with his reckless invocation of the word “Hitler,” has led many to question the integrity of his political statements.
At a time when global tensions are high, Musk’s public support for a party like the AfD, which advocates policies opposed to free trade and progressive environmental goals, raises significant concerns about his influence on global political discourse.
For a figure who has positioned himself as a progressive force in technology and sustainability, his endorsement of far-right ideologies and questionable leaders is deeply troubling.
As this saga unfolds, it becomes increasingly clear that Musk’s words carry consequences, not just for him but for the broader political landscape. His influence cannot be underestimated, and with figures like Trump already endorsing his rhetoric, the risks of his unchecked statements could reverberate far beyond social media platforms.
The government of the United States, should it wish to maintain any semblance of diplomatic decorum, would do well to address the ramifications of Musk’s actions, especially as he continues to align himself with polarising figures and dangerous political ideologies.
December 30, Colombo (LNW): The Ministry of Defence has announced the appointments of Major General Lasantha Rodrigo as the new Commander of the Sri Lanka Army and Rear Admiral Kanchana Banagoda as the Commander of the Sri Lanka Navy.
Major General Rodrigo, who assumes command as the 25th leader of the Sri Lanka Army, takes over from Lieutenant General Vikum Liyanage, who is retiring after a distinguished career in the armed forces.
A highly experienced military officer, Major General Rodrigo’s career has been marked by a series of significant leadership roles. Prior to his appointment as Army Commander, he served as the Deputy Chief of Staff of the Sri Lanka Army, showcasing his strategic acumen and leadership skills.
He has also held the esteemed position of Commandant at the Defence Services Command and Staff College, further solidifying his expertise in military operations and education.
Meanwhile, Rear Admiral Kanchana Banagoda has been appointed as the new Commander of the Sri Lanka Navy, following his tenure as the Chief of Staff, a position he held since August 2024.
With an illustrious naval career, Rear Admiral Banagoda has commanded several key establishments within the Navy, including various Fast Attack Craft and ships.
His extensive leadership experience includes significant roles such as Director of Naval Training, and Commanding Officer of the Southeastern, North Central, and Northern Naval Areas.
Before being promoted to Chief of Staff, Rear Admiral Banagoda served as the Commander of the Eastern Naval Area, where his leadership was instrumental in various operations.
Rear Admiral Banagoda’s contributions to the Sri Lankan Navy and his exemplary service to the nation have not gone unnoticed. He has been honoured with the Rana Sura Padakkama, awarded for acts of gallantry, and the Uththama Sewa Padakkama (USP), which recognises his outstanding character and unwavering commitment to duty.
December 30, Colombo (LNW): President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has conveyed his heartfelt condolences following the passing of former U.S. President Jimmy Carter, who died at the age of 100.
The renowned statesman passed away at his home in Plains, Georgia, on Sunday, leaving behind a remarkable legacy.
In a message shared on ‘X’, President Dissanayake described Carter as a man whose extraordinary life was defined by his relentless pursuit of peace, dedication to human rights, and lifelong commitment to humanitarian causes.
The late president’s tireless efforts were recognised globally, most notably when he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002 for his work in promoting peace and resolving international conflicts.
“May his enduring legacy continue to inspire and guide us all, serving as a beacon of hope to build a more just and peaceful world for everyone,” Dissanayake added.
I extend my deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of former U.S. President Jimmy Carter. His extraordinary life was marked by an unwavering commitment to peace, human rights and humanitarian affairs in recognition of which he received the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002.…
December 30, Colombo (LNW): The Ministry of Education has confirmed a significant change to the school calendar for 2025, with the number of school days being reduced from 210 to 181.
This adjustment comes in response to a range of factors, including the numerous public holidays observed throughout the year and delays in the start of the first school term.
The revised schedule will impact all government-run schools, government-approved private institutions, and Pirivenas across the country.
The adjustment is designed to provide schools with more flexibility in light of these disruptions.
Under the new plan, students will return to their classrooms on January 02, 2025, for the final three weeks of the third term from the previous academic year.
This term will run until January 24, after which the 2025 academic year will officially commence on January 27.
The Ministry’s decision follows the announcement that the 2025 calendar will feature 26 public holidays, with 22 of these falling on weekdays.
This heavy concentration of weekday holidays has made it increasingly difficult to maintain the originally proposed 210-day school year.
With these interruptions, it has become clear that a more manageable number of school days is necessary for both students and teachers.
December 30, World (LNW): Jimmy Carter, the longest-living president in US history, has passed away at the age of 100.
The former president, who served from 1977 to 1981, died on Sunday at his home in Plains, Georgia, the Carter Centre confirmed.
The organisation, which he founded in 1982, announced his death via a post on the social media platform X.
Details surrounding his passing have yet to be fully revealed, though Carter had been receiving hospice care for nearly two years following treatment for a form of skin cancer.
In October, he celebrated his remarkable centenary surrounded by family and loved ones.
Carter’s passing follows the death of his beloved wife, Rosalynn Carter, just over a month earlier, in November 2023. The couple had been married for 76 years.
Though his presidency was cut short after one term, Carter’s influence extended far beyond the White House. The former peanut farmer’s post-presidential work left an indelible mark on global humanitarian efforts.
Notably, in 2002, he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his role in combatting Guinea worm disease through the Carter Center’s extensive work in Africa, as well as his efforts to monitor elections across the world.
Carter’s legacy of public service continued throughout his life, with the former president remaining an active volunteer for Habitat for Humanity, where he helped build homes for those in need well into his late 90s.
His unwavering commitment to humanitarian causes and his unassuming nature earned him widespread admiration, transcending political divides and making him a beloved figure amongst many.
US President Joe Biden paid tribute to Carter, calling him an “extraordinary leader, statesman and humanitarian.” Biden highlighted Carter’s compassion and moral clarity, noting his efforts to improve global health, promote civil rights, and advocate for the most vulnerable. The president also announced that an official state funeral would be held in Carter’s honour.
In a similar vein, former presidents from both major political parties also expressed their admiration for Carter. Bill Clinton praised Carter’s tireless work for a better world, whilst Barack Obama spoke of Carter’s profound impact on all who witnessed his life of grace, dignity, and service. George W. Bush described Carter’s life as a source of inspiration for generations of Americans.
Global leaders also paid their respects. French President Emmanuel Macron praised Carter as a “steadfast advocate for the rights of the most vulnerable” and a tireless champion for peace. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer described Carter as someone who “redefined the post-presidency,” dedicating himself to social justice and human rights on a global scale.
Despite the challenges of his presidency, Carter’s diplomatic achievements remain a cornerstone of his legacy. Perhaps his most significant accomplishment was brokering the 1978 Camp David Accords between Egypt and Israel, a peace agreement that not only restored diplomatic ties between the two nations but also resulted in Israel returning the Sinai Peninsula to Egypt. Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi praised Carter’s pivotal role in the peace deal, emphasising its lasting significance in history.
Whilst Carter was often criticised for his handling of the Iran Hostage Crisis and other domestic issues, his foreign policy successes were significant, and his post-presidential advocacy on behalf of Palestinian rights remains a defining part of his legacy.
In 2006, he controversially published Palestine: Peace Not Apartheid, which sparked widespread debate. Carter’s stance on Palestinian rights made him one of the few prominent US political figures to speak candidly about the issues surrounding Israel and Palestine, a position he maintained throughout his life.
Human Rights Watch, in a statement following his death, hailed Carter for setting a “powerful example for world leaders to make human rights a priority” and for his lifelong commitment to fighting for justice on the global stage.
Carter’s life was marked by a rare combination of humility, leadership, and service to humanity. His passing marks the end of an era, but his contributions to peace, human rights, and public service will continue to inspire future generations.
December 30, Colombo (LNW): The Public Utilities Commission of Sri Lanka (PUCSL) has confirmed that the final decision on the much-awaited electricity tariff revision will be disclosed on January 17, 2025.
This follows an ongoing process to gather feedback from the public, which is being considered in the formulation of the new pricing structure.
At present, consultations are taking place across the country to ensure that the views of the public are thoroughly considered. The Commission has already commenced this process, with today’s session focused on collecting feedback from residents in the Uva Province.
From January 03, onwards, public consultations will expand to include other provinces, offering an opportunity for citizens nationwide to express their concerns and suggestions regarding the proposed tariff changes.
The PUCSL has stressed that these public consultations are a crucial part of the decision-making process, aimed at ensuring that the final tariff revision is both fair and sustainable for all stakeholders, including consumers and the electricity service providers.
Whilst the full details of the tariff revision remain under discussion, the Commission has reassured the public that the final decision will be officially announced on December 17, 2025.
December 30, Colombo (LNW): The Agricultural and Agrarian Insurance Board (AAIB) has announced that its assessment of crop damage for the Yala season will be finalised today (30).
This follows a comprehensive survey conducted across several regions affected by the recent severe flooding.
According to the AAIB, the damage evaluations have already been completed in key districts, including Polonnaruwa, Vavuniya, Mullaitivu, Mannar, Batticaloa, and Ampara.
These assessments, carried out with the support of the Department of Agricultural Development, have focused on identifying the extent of the destruction caused by the flooding that devastated large parts of the island last November.
The AAIB reported that approximately 80,000 acres of farmland have been identified as suffering damage as a result of the floodwaters.
The floods, which caused widespread disruption, are believed to have impacted a significant number of crops, including paddy, vegetables, and other essential agricultural products.
Once the final damage reports are compiled, the AAIB has assured the public that compensation payments to affected farmers will begin without delay.
The board has expressed its commitment to providing financial relief to those who have suffered from the catastrophic events, helping to support the recovery of the agricultural sector, which is vital to the country’s economy and food security.
The finalisation of the assessments and the subsequent distribution of compensation is expected to provide some relief to farmers, many of whom have faced significant losses due to the extreme weather conditions.
December 30, Colombo (LNW): As Sri Lanka continues to experience unusually hot weather, health experts are urging the public to take extra precautions to protect themselves from the potentially harmful effects of the intense heat.
Dr. G. Wijesuriya, Deputy Director General of Health Services, has issued a clear warning, stressing the importance of avoiding direct exposure to the sun, particularly during the peak heat of the day.
He emphasised that staying hydrated is crucial during these sweltering conditions, as the risk of dehydration rises significantly in such extreme temperatures.
Dr. Wijesuriya highlighted that certain groups, such as young children and the elderly, are particularly vulnerable to the adverse effects of the heat.
He advised that these individuals, in particular, should avoid spending time in the sun and ensure they stay in cool, shaded areas whenever possible.
For those who must be outdoors, whether for work, exercise, or other activities, Dr. Wijesuriya strongly recommended taking frequent breaks to rest and rehydrate.
He urged people to drink plenty of fluids, especially water, throughout the day, to help combat the dehydrating effects of the heat.
December 30, Colombo (LNW): General Shavendra Silva is set to retire from his role as Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) and from active duty in the Sri Lanka Army on January 01, 2025.
Appointed as the 8th CDS of Sri Lanka on June 01, 2022, General Silva has built an extraordinary career spanning more than 40 years, marked by remarkable achievements and unwavering dedication to his country.
Throughout his tenure in the military, he served with distinction in numerous high-ranking positions, culminating in his leadership of the country’s armed forces.
Before assuming the position of Chief of Defence Staff, General Silva served as the Acting CDS and the 23rd Commander of the Sri Lanka Army. He was the first officer in Sri Lanka’s military history to hold the rank of four-star General and command the Army, a role he took on with great responsibility and commitment.
His career trajectory, beginning as a Second Lieutenant and ascending steadily through the ranks, exemplifies a model of military leadership and dedication.
During his career, General Silva held several key positions, including Chief of Staff of the Sri Lanka Army, Colonel of the Regiment for the Gajaba Regiment, and leader of the Special Forces and Commando Regiments, two of the most elite units within the Army.
His strategic acumen was also recognised in his roles as Adjutant General and Director General of Operations at the Army Headquarters.
A seasoned and battle-hardened Infantry Officer, General Silva is best known for his leadership during the final stages of the civil war in Sri Lanka. He commanded the Air Mobile Brigade and led the 58 Division, which, under his guidance, played a pivotal role in the Wanni Humanitarian Operation.
This operation ultimately brought an end to the 30-year-long civil conflict in 2009, securing a hard-earned peace for the nation. His leadership in this operation remains a cornerstone of his military legacy.
Following the conclusion of the war, General Silva achieved a historic milestone, becoming the youngest officer in Sri Lanka’s military history to be promoted to the rank of Major General.
He went on to command the 53 Division, widely recognised as the Reserve Strike Force (RSF), further solidifying his reputation as one of the most accomplished military leaders in the country.
Over the years, General Silva has earned numerous accolades for his bravery and outstanding service. He is the recipient of an exceptional number of gallantry awards, including the Weera Wickrama Vibushanaya (WWV), Rana Wickrama Padakkama (RWP), and Rana Soora Padakkama (RSP) – making him the only officer in the history of the Sri Lankan Armed Forces to receive three distinct gallantry medals in a single ceremony.
His contributions to the country’s defence are further recognised by the Vishishta Seva Vibhushanaya (VSV) and the Uththama Seva Padakkama (USP), which he received in honour of his exemplary service.
