March 10, Colombo (LNW): Parliament will convene at 9.30 am today (10), presided over by Speaker Dr. Jagath Wickramaratne, for the 10th day of the ongoing Committee Stage Debate.
The focus of today’s proceedings will be the budget allocation for the Ministry of Education, Higher Education, and Vocational Education.
Members of Parliament will discuss the proposed expenditure for these key sectors, which play a crucial role in the development of the nation’s educational and vocational infrastructure.
The debate is expected to delve into the specifics of how funds are allocated across various initiatives and the potential impact on the future of education in the country.
The Committee Stage Debate is set to continue until March 21, with the final vote on the allocations scheduled to take place at 6.00 PM on that day.
The outcome of the vote will determine the approval of the expenditure for the Ministry, and it is anticipated that members will have ample opportunity to present their views and make adjustments to the budget where necessary before the final decision is made.
March 10, Colombo (LNW): Deputy Minister of Public Security and Parliamentary Affairs Sunil Watagala has issued a stark warning regarding former Inspector General of Police (IGP) Deshabandu Tennakoon, who is currently evading arrest following the issuance of a warrant for his apprehension.
Watagala stated that if Tennakoon continues to abscond, the authorities will pursue legal measures to seize his assets, both movable and immovable.
Speaking on the matter, Watagala emphasised that the law treats all individuals equally, regardless of their previous position or stature, be it a former Prime Minister, President, or even a former top police official.
The focus, he insisted, remains on the fact that Tennakoon is a suspect who is deliberately avoiding arrest, raising questions about his motives.
The Deputy Minister also questioned Tennakoon’s actions, suggesting that if he were innocent, there would be no reason for him to flee from justice.
He pointed out that the police are continuing their efforts to locate Tennakoon, yet he remains elusive.
Watagala stressed that should Tennakoon fail to come forward voluntarily, the authorities would take further legal steps to ensure compliance with the law.
Referring to a circular issued on January 21, 2025, by Acting Inspector General of Police, Priyantha Weerasooriya, Watagala outlined that the circular explicitly states that if a suspect deliberately avoids legal proceedings, their assets could be seized.
This includes all forms of property, which can be confiscated to enforce the law, as per the provisions of the Code of Criminal Procedure, specifically sections 60, 61, and 62.
Despite being given ample opportunity to explain his actions, Tennakoon has failed to do so, leaving the authorities with no choice but to proceed with the legal remedies available to them.
Although these provisions have not frequently been applied in the past, Watagala confirmed that they are now ready to be enforced to ensure that Tennakoon’s assets are adequately addressed.
In closing, the Deputy Minister made it clear that Tennakoon’s wealth, which is now under intense scrutiny, must be accounted for, and the authorities will take all necessary measures to ensure transparency and accountability.
March 10, Colombo (LNW): A devastating head-on collision between a three-wheeler and a bus in the Galahitiyawa area of Madampe yesterday (09) has claimed the lives of two women and a one-year-old child.
The three-wheeler was carrying a total of nine passengers, including the driver, at the time of the crash, according to Police reports. Amongst the deceased were two women, aged 32 and 36, as well as an infant girl, all of whom were from the towns of Minuwangoda and Ragama.
The collision also resulted in several injuries. Two men, including the three-wheeler driver, along with two boys and two girls, were hurt in the crash and have been taken to Chilaw General Hospital for medical treatment.
The group was returning home after attending the annual feast at St. Anne’s Church in Thalawila, a journey that tragically ended in disaster.
The bus driver involved in the crash has been taken into custody by the authorities, and an investigation is underway. The Madampe Police are continuing their inquiries to determine the cause of the collision and any potential negligence.
March 10, Colombo (LNW): The Meteorological Department has issued a warning for intermittent rain and thundershowers in various regions of the country, with conditions expected to worsen throughout the day.
According to their latest update, the Northern, North-central, Eastern, and Uva provinces, along with the districts of Matale, Nuwara Eliya, and Hambantota, will experience scattered showers or thundershowers at various points throughout the day.
In addition, other areas will see similar rainfall, particularly during the afternoon and evening hours. The department highlighted that certain locations, especially in the Eastern and Uva provinces, as well as Matale, Nuwara Eliya, Polonnaruwa, and Hambantota districts, may experience heavy rainfall, with amounts exceeding 75mm in some places.
The forecast also indicates that moderate to strong winds, reaching speeds of 30 to 40 km/h, could affect the Northern, North-central, Eastern, and North-western provinces, along with districts such as Matale, Nuwara Eliya, Monaragala, and Hambantota.
These winds, combined with the anticipated rain and thunder, may lead to localised disruptions.
In light of these conditions, the general public is urged to take necessary precautions, particularly to safeguard against the dangers posed by sudden, strong winds and lightning strikes during the thundershowers. Those in vulnerable areas should remain vigilant and prepare for potential impacts.
March 09, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka’s domestic and regional aviation sector is witnessing remarkable growth in 2025, with increased connectivity and expansion of air routes enhancing travel accessibility.
The country has been focusing on strengthening its air transport infrastructure, fostering regional tourism, and facilitating economic growth. With improved airport facilities, growing airline operations, and enhanced regional ties, Sri Lanka is emerging as a key aviation hub in South Asia.
One of the significant developments in this transformation is the launch of new regional air routes. IndiGo’s announcement of a direct flight between Tiruchirappalli (Trichy) in Tamil Nadu and Jaffna in northern Sri Lanka is a testament to this progress. This initiative marks another step toward strengthening bilateral travel between India and Sri Lanka while catering to the rising demand for seamless air connectivity.
IndiGo, one of India’s leading airlines, has confirmed that its daily direct flights between Trichy and Jaffna will commence on March 30, 2025. This new service aims to address the increasing passenger traffic between the two regions, offering more travel options for business, leisure, and religious purposes.
Expressing enthusiasm about the new route, Vinay Malhotra, Head of Global Sales at IndiGo, stated, “We are delighted to extend our operations in Sri Lanka with the exclusive Tiruchirappalli-Jaffna route. Following the success of our Chennai-Jaffna service, this addition will further strengthen our regional network.”
He further emphasized IndiGo’s commitment to providing seamless travel experiences, stating, “With over 60 weekly flights to Sri Lanka from five major Indian cities—Bangalore, Chennai, Hyderabad, Mumbai, and Tiruchirappalli—we continue to focus on accessibility, affordability, and efficiency while maintaining our signature on-time and hassle-free services.”
Jaffna, located in Sri Lanka’s northern province, is renowned for its historical and cultural significance. The city attracts visitors eager to explore its rich Tamil heritage, notable landmarks such as Jaffna Fort, and spiritual sites like Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil. Jaffna’s vibrant festivals and unique cuisine further enhance its appeal as a tourist destination.
Tiruchirappalli, commonly referred to as Trichy, is equally significant for its cultural, educational, and industrial prominence. Known for landmarks like the Rockfort Temple and Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, the city is a magnet for pilgrims and history enthusiasts.
Additionally, Trichy’s role as an educational and industrial hub, with institutions like NIT Trichy and a thriving manufacturing sector, underscores its importance as a key gateway to South India.
The launch of direct flights between Trichy and Jaffna is expected to boost travel convenience, enhance trade opportunities, and foster cultural exchange. Travelers can book tickets for this route through IndiGo’s official website or mobile app, ensuring easy and efficient reservations.
This new air link underscores Sri Lanka’s broader aviation ambitions, reinforcing its position as a dynamic regional aviation center and strengthening its ties with India and the wider South Asian region.
March 09, Colombo (LNW): After a period of steady growth, Sri Lanka’s Information Technology (IT) sector encountered significant challenges in 2025, primarily due to increased taxation, talent migration, and financial burdens on IT services. The introduction of a 15% tax on IT services for international clients and an 18% Value Added Tax (VAT) on locally-developed software and electronic equipment has put the industry under considerable strain.
Impact of Taxation on IT Growth
The imposition of income taxes has triggered a substantial brain drain, particularly among mid-level employees crucial for business operations. With the removal of VAT exemptions and the subsequent 18% VAT increase, there is growing concern that IT companies may relocate abroad to mitigate tax-related expenses.
A report by the Information and Communication Technology Agency (ICTA) of Sri Lanka, in collaboration with the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), estimates that Sri Lanka’s digital economy is valued at $3.47 billion, contributing 4.37% to the country’s GDP. The ICT and Business Process Management (BPM) workforce is projected to reach 300,000, supporting a $3 billion industry by 2025, compared to its current $1 billion valuation.
Government Initiatives and Industry Concerns
The previous government earmarked Rs. 3 billion to establish a digital authority, tasked with spearheading the public sector’s digital transformation. Additionally, a Technological Innovation Council was proposed to foster collaboration among government bodies, research institutions, and the private sector. Another notable initiative involves creating a National Centre for Artificial Intelligence to drive economic and social transformation through emerging digital technologies.
Despite these measures, industry leaders warn of potential setbacks. PickMe Founder and CEO Jiffry Zulfer criticized the VAT policy, arguing that it could drive startups abroad and deter Foreign Direct Investments (FDIs). He highlighted that, since foreign software providers remain exempt from VAT, local businesses might opt to move operations overseas while still serving the Sri Lankan market. This shift, he stressed, would make investors wary of investing in Sri Lankan startups.
Cybersecurity expert Asela Waidyalankara pointed out that taxation is only one of many challenges facing the industry. Structural and policy inefficiencies also need to be addressed to attract foreign investments.
He warned that increased VAT would drive up operational costs, particularly for startups, and called for a more business-friendly regulatory environment. He noted that Sri Lankan startups are already considering relocating to Singapore due to the lack of a conducive business climate.
The IT Sector’s Future Amid Economic Policies
Federation of Information Technology Industry Sri Lanka (FITIS) Chairman Indika de Zoysa voiced concerns about rising costs for hardware and locally-produced software, which could affect competitive pricing and slow down digital adoption. He warned that the new VAT policy might encourage black market transactions, exposing consumers to risks like poor product warranties and counterfeit goods.
FITIS has been in active discussions with the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Technology to reconsider VAT exemptions. De Zoysa emphasized that before 2005, Sri Lanka’s IT sector was subject to 15% VAT but was later exempted to promote digital expansion. He stressed the need for continued exemptions, citing policies in regional countries such as Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, and Bangladesh, where IT-related services enjoy tax incentives to stimulate growth.
A major concern is that startups might relocate abroad due to tax burdens, especially since shifting IT operations requires minimal physical infrastructure. This could result in an immediate decline in foreign investments and economic contributions.
The Path to a Digital Economy
FITIS remains committed to the DIGIECON 2030 policy framework, which aims to expand the digital economy’s contribution to GDP from 4% to 15% by 2030. The framework focuses on advancing Industry 4.0 and Industry 5.0, fostering a sustainable, export-oriented tech hub, and creating a business-friendly investment climate. It seeks to leverage technology to enhance productivity, integrate into global value chains, and navigate the current economic crisis.
To achieve these goals, Sri Lanka must prioritize fostering a stable and encouraging environment for IT businesses. This includes tax policies that support growth while ensuring a competitive edge in the regional and global digital economy. Without such measures, the country risks losing valuable talent, investments, and its position in the rapidly evolving tech landscape.
March 09, Colombo (LNW): The Department of Registration of Persons has procured 700,000 polycarbonate cards from Thales for its Electronic National Identity Card (e-NIC) initiative, scheduled for implementation by the end of the year.
However, an additional 1.6 million cards are still required to meet national demand, according to M.S.P. Suriyapperuma, Director General of the department.
Following an eight-year delay, Sri Lanka’s e-passport project has also been revived with a contract awarded to a partnership between Thales, a global technology firm, and Just in Time Technologies (JITT).
Thales is currently working on the design aspects, and once finalized, the consortium will supply the first batch of 100,000 e-passports by July 2025, with an annual distribution target of one million.
To address ongoing demand, 300,000 standard machine-readable passports (MRPs) will also be procured from Thales without issuing a new tender.
The project specifications require a software update to ensure that the e-passport supplier’s chip operating system, application, and hardware remain neutral, preventing dependency on a single vendor.
However, the consortium has stated that their e-passports cannot be personalized using the existing Department of Immigration and Emigration (DIE) system, violating a key tender requirement.
Additionally, the supplier has insisted that the government procure their Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) system, which is essential for e-passport functionality.
To address this issue, the Ministry of Public Security plans to submit a cabinet paper proposing the procurement of the Thales/JITT PKI system.
This proposal also includes personalizing e-passports through the supplier’s system on a ‘fee per passport’ model. If approved, the current personalization system—costing over Rs.1 billion in public funds—would be discontinued, and additional costs would be incurred for personalization services provided by the consortium.
he e-passports will include an electronic chip storing personal details, while a high-volume passport printing system, estimated at Rs.1.5 billion, will also be required.
The new e-NICs will integrate biometric features such as fingerprint, iris, and facial recognition, enhancing security and identification accuracy.
Sri Lankan banks are already accessing the repository to verify client details, and the plan is to integrate the Sri Lanka Unique Digital ID project with the e-NIC system.
This initiative will assign unique identification numbers, consolidate various forms of identification, and include essential data such as birth certificates and tax identification numbers. Suriyapperuma emphasized that digitization allows for effective data collection and policy-driven decision-making.
A recent awareness program on the e-NIC initiative was conducted at the Information and Communication Technology Agency of Sri Lanka (ICTA) in Colombo.
Under the patronage of Deputy Minister of Digital Economy Eranga Weeraratne, the event provided a platform for stakeholders to discuss challenges and strategies for seamless implementation.
Additionally, the Registrar General’s Department is advancing efforts to establish a digital population registry in Colombo.
This electronic database will store fundamental details of all Sri Lankan citizens, facilitating streamlined life event registrations and improved data-sharing between government agencies.
As part of this effort, digital birth certificates will be issued to individuals born after January 2021 in Colombo, complementing existing handwritten birth certificates.
This project, supported by the Civil Registration and Vital Statistics initiative, is a collaborative effort involving the Ministry of Digital Economy, the United Nations Development Programme, and the Asian Development Bank.
March 09, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka has reiterated its commitment to completing the remaining reviews under the Extended Fund Facility (EFF) of the International Monetary Fund (IMF). This assurance was provided by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake during a virtual meeting with IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva on March 7, according to the President’s Media Division (PMD).
The discussion centered on strengthening Sri Lanka’s partnership with the IMF as the nation reaches the midpoint of its 48-month EFF program, which began in March 2023. President Dissanayake expressed deep gratitude for the IMF’s support in helping Sri Lanka recover from the severe economic crisis of 2022. He highlighted the substantial progress the country has made in economic reforms, macroeconomic stability, social protection, and governance improvements.
The President also acknowledged the IMF’s assistance in Sri Lanka’s debt restructuring efforts, particularly appreciating the contributions of its senior management and staff. He stressed the importance of sustained collaboration to ensure Sri Lanka’s economic resilience amid global uncertainties.
In response, Kristalina Georgieva congratulated Sri Lanka on achieving macroeconomic stability, successfully completing the third EFF review, and making significant strides in debt restructuring, including the bond exchange.
She praised the nation’s commitment to crucial reforms and reaffirmed the IMF’s continued support for Sri Lanka’s economic agenda. Ms. Georgieva also emphasized the necessity of strong governance frameworks to maintain macroeconomic fundamentals, especially in light of global financial challenges such as slow growth and increasing debt levels.
President Dissanayake reassured the IMF that Sri Lanka remains dedicated to implementing the program while ensuring that its goals align with the aspirations of the people. He underscored the government’s priority of strengthening social welfare programs to support the underprivileged.
Additionally, he reiterated plans to enhance the efficiency of state-owned enterprises through governance improvements and cost-recovery pricing mechanisms, particularly in the energy sector.
The President highlighted the importance of attracting foreign direct investment and securing support from multilateral institutions to mitigate debt risks and promote long-term, inclusive economic growth. He reaffirmed the government’s unwavering commitment to successfully completing the remaining EFF reviews and adhering to the reform agenda.
Looking ahead, Ms. Georgieva emphasized the necessity of persisting with reforms to ensure Sri Lanka’s transition to sustainable and equitable growth. She acknowledged the challenges of achieving lasting economic recovery, particularly given rapid technological and geopolitical changes worldwide.
The IMF Managing Director reiterated the institution’s role as a steadfast partner in Sri Lanka’s economic journey. She reaffirmed the IMF’s support in fostering inclusive growth, alleviating poverty, and improving living standards.
Both President Dissanayake and Ms. Georgieva agreed on the need for ongoing cooperation and dialogue to secure Sri Lanka’s economic stability and prosperity. The meeting concluded with a mutual commitment to working towards a resilient and sustainable future for the country.
March 09, Colombo (LNW): Deputy Minister of Public Security and Parliamentary Affairs Sunil Watagala has announced that the government will initiate a fresh investigation into several serious allegations involving former President Ranil Wickremesinghe.
Speaking to reporters, Watagala confirmed that the government would take all necessary measures to look into accusations surrounding the controversial “Batalanda Report”, which was referenced in a recent interview given by Wickremesinghe to Al Jazeera.
In addition to the Batalanda Report, Watagala stated that the inquiry would also extend to two other significant issues: the Central Bank bond scam and the devastating Easter Sunday attacks.
Both of these incidents occurred during Wickremesinghe’s tenure as prime minister, and the government has expressed its intention to thoroughly examine any potential wrongdoing or lapses that may have occurred under his leadership.
The Deputy Minister stressed that the current NPP government is fully committed to upholding transparency and accountability in governance.
He indicated that steps will be taken to address all accusations, particularly those that were previously shielded from scrutiny due to political protection afforded to Wickremesinghe.
The Batalanda Report refers to an investigative document published in 1997 that detailed human rights violations, including illegal detention, torture, and abuse, which occurred in a state-sanctioned detention centre known as Batalanda during the late 1980s.
March 09, Colombo (LNW): A total of 12 individuals have been taken into custody in relation to the brutal triple murder in Middeniya, which occurred in February and resulted in the tragic deaths of two young children.
The police reported that the latest arrest was made yesterday, when a 37-year-old man was apprehended in the Kuttigala area.
The suspect, whose identity has not been disclosed, was detained by officers from the Middeniya Police on charges of assisting in the fatal shooting that claimed the lives of the children, along with another victim.
Authorities believe that the man may have played a significant role in facilitating the execution of the crime.
The investigation into the incident is ongoing, with the Middeniya Police and the Tangalle Division Crimes Investigation Unit working collaboratively to piece together the details of the case.
They are pursuing various leads to uncover the full scope of the events that led to this devastating crime, and to ensure that all those responsible are brought to justice.
