By: Staff Writer

April 15, Colombo (LNW): India said it is and will remain Colombo’s most reliable friend and dependable partner as it underlined that New Delhi was willing to offer modern defence equipment to friendly partner countries like Sri Lanka.

Addressing the Second India-Sri Lanka Defence Seminar here, India’s High Commissioner to Sri Lanka, Santosh Jha, said that like in other areas, India and Sri Lanka were cooperating closely on security and defence matters.

“Because of our geography, our security is interlinked and intertwined. And when we speak of security, we must remember that it has acquired a wider meaning than we have traditionally associated with it,” Jha said.

The various advanced platforms and equipment developed indigenously in India can also become viable, affordable and modern solutions for the Sri Lankan military, he said

Indian arm manufacturing firms displayed  the Delhi’s capability in arm manufacturing to Sri Lankan military at a seminar on Wednesday which the island nation expects to open the door for future joint collaboration in manufacturing and services.

Indian High Commission in Colombo High Commission organised the seminar titled “Identifying New Opportunities and Forging New Bonds” to promote Indian Made Defence equipment and explore avenues for collaboration in defence production.

India’s privately owned defence companies demonstrated the capability they have developed in manufacturing arms and other products including unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), latest drones, and latest earth movers used in war zones.

The delegation comprised representatives from Indian Defence companies including Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, Bharat Electronics Limited, Zen Technologies, SSS Defence, Bharat Forge, Big Bang Boom Solutions, AWEL, AVNL, Mahindra Defence, Sager Defence and TATA Advances System Ltd.

They presented their manufacturing capabilities and the advantages of using them in a modern war.

From the Sri Lankan side, Chief of Defence Staff, Commander of Sri Lanka Navy, Commander of Sri Lanka Air Force and other senior officers from Sri Lankan Armed Forces, Police and Special Task Force attended the event along with representatives of leading Sri Lankan business conglomerates.

Santosh Jha, the Indian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka underlined the increasing diversification of India-Sri Lanka bilateral cooperation across domains, including in security and defence matters.

“He emphasised that because of geography, the security of India and Sri Lanka is interlinked and intertwined,” Indian High Commission of Sri Lanka said in a statement. “India’s defence exports today stand at nearly 2.6 billion US Dollars, a ten-fold increase over the past five years. High Commissioner stated that the seminar was another platform to explore ways of extending India’s increasing capabilities in the defence sector to Sri Lanka.”

1. During the traditional oil anointing ritual after the Sinhala and Tamil New Year dawn, a blessing is recited that invokes a series of seemingly impossible transformations to grant longevity to the anointed: The tradition reads, “Dressed in white, while facing south, may divul leaves on your head and imbul leaves on your feet, apply oil mixed with extracts of divul leaves.”
   
2. Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa says the next Sinhala and Tamil New Year of Sri Lanka should be celebrated as a smart country in which prosperity blossoms: adds the country’s current status is a ‘new normal’ and the prices of food and oil, therefore, have increased, making it difficult for people to experience the joy of the New Year table: laments that a majority of people have become poor in what he described as the new normal.
   
3. Leader of the Pivithuru Hela Urumaya MP Udaya Gammanpila says he does not believe that President Ranil Wickremesinghe will contest the upcoming Presidential Election as suggested by certain MPs of the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP): asserts those who have carefully studied politics do not express views on their political allegiances until the right moment, because otherwise they could be politically humiliated before the public.
   
4. India reaffirms its steadfast support to Sri Lanka, emphasising its commitment as Colombo’s ‘most reliable’ friend and partner: Indian High Commissioner Santosh Jha highlights the close cooperation between the two nations in security and defence matters, stressing the interconnectedness of their security due to geography: mentions India’s willingness to provide modern defence equipment to friendly nations like Sri Lanka, showcasing India’s indigenous defence capabilities to Sri Lankan military representatives.
   
5. Special bus services are arranged by the National Transport Commission (NTC) for individuals returning to Colombo after the Sinhala and Tamil New Year holidays on April 15 and 16: Additional buses are deployed to accommodate passenger demand, while special train services from Badulla, Galle, and Beliatta railway stations to Colombo Fort are also available, providing commuters with alternative transportation options.
   
6. Korea pledges expanded support to Sri Lanka across various sectors such as education, health, renewable energy, employment, agriculture, and rural development: Ambassador Miyon Lee assures Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena of this: Korea will provide smart classrooms to 1,000 schools, send medical teams to Government hospitals, and undertake new development projects alongside ongoing ones: agrees to increase employment opportunities for SL workers and enhance cooperation in various fields, including academia and technology.
   
7. The Health Ministry’s Epidemiology Unit reports a record surge in 2024 dengue cases, topping 21,000: Colombo leads with 4,527 cases, and Western Province records 7,547: April alone sees 989 new cases: With recent rainfall, authorities stress cleanliness to curb mosquito breeding and dengue spread.
   
8. The National Savings Bank (NSB) showcases resilience by achieving a Profit after Tax (PAT) of Rs. 7.2 billion for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2023 despite facing numerous challenges: This success was driven by a 31% increase in Interest Income, primarily from strategic investments in Government Debt Securities: Despite a 34% decline in net fee and commission income due to subdued loan demand, NSB demonstrates adeptness in capitalising on market opportunities, resulting in a 206% increase in Net Gain from trading: faces, however, a 41% increase in Interest Expense, primarily from Fixed Deposits, affecting the growth of Net Interest Income: maintains a low Impaired Loans Ratio of 2.41% and an above-industry impairment coverage ratio of 53.3%: Overall records a Profit Before Tax (PBT) of Rs. 4.3 billion, representing a 5% decrease from 2022, while managing increased personnel and other expenses amid global inflationary pressures.
   
9. Police report four murders during the New Year period of 48 hours: In Galewala, a 23-year-old died intervening in a dispute: In Hakmana, a 21-year-old was killed by his uncle: In Elayapaththuwa, a 37-year-old died in an alcohol-fuelled altercation: In Serunuwara, a 41-year-old was killed over an affair: Suspects are sought as investigations continue: Meanwhile, Police also report 8 road accidents in 24 hours, resulting in 10 deaths: Driver negligence considered to be the major factor: Authorities urge the need for strict adherence to traffic rules to curb accidents.
   
10. Mumbai Indians skipper Hardik Pandya credits Chennai Super Kings’ Impact Substitute, Sri Lankan pacer Matheesha Pathirana, for their 20-run loss in the IPL match at the Wankhede Stadium: Pathirana’s 4-28 disrupted Mumbai’s momentum, despite a strong start: Pandya’s decision to bowl first backfired, facing a barrage from Mahendra Singh Dhoni. acknowledges CSK’s smart bowling plans, implying the lack of similar support from Rohit Sharma: Pandya’s handling of bowlers left experts puzzled, but he remains optimistic about upcoming matches on the road.

By: Staff Writer

April 15, Colombo (LNW): Trade, Commerce and Food Safety Minister Nalin Fernando says measures underway to investigate undue profits, ensuring fair pricing, availability of essential commodities, including potential intervention by Inland Revenue Department.

He disclosed efforts to curb profiteering by middlemen include issuing estimated price ranges and publicising price differentials with support of Sri Lanka Customs, Finance Ministry through Consumer Affairs Authority every Tuesday.

He revealed that special enforcement actions to deter market irregularities during festive seasons.

Minister Nalin Fernando assures uninterrupted supply of essential goods to consumers, averting shortages despite economic challenges.

The Minister reiterated efforts to curb profiteering by middlemen including issuing estimated price ranges and publicising price differentials from importation to retailing with the support of Sri Lanka Customs and the Finance Ministry through the Consumer Affairs Authority (CAA) every Tuesday.

The Minister apparently responding to the Parliamentary Committee on Ways and Means last week revealed the glaring disparities between essential goods market prices and import costs, shedding light on significant profits ranging from Rs. 100 to Rs. 1,000 per kilogram.

The Committee disclosed that since 2018, there has been a consistent decline in tax revenues generated from imported goods, attributed to a mismatch in the Special Commodity Levy (SCL) in accordance with the fluctuating value of the US dollar. It also directed the IRD to take swift action to recover the Rs. 188 billion in tax arrears.

Minister Fernando also said that special enforcement actions are also underway to curb price hikes, ensure product quality and deter market irregularities during festive seasons.He  also shed light on the economic challenges faced by Sri Lanka and measures undertaken to mitigate the impact on consumer prices.

He highlighted that despite economic challenges, the Government has effectively ensured an uninterrupted supply of essential goods to consumers, fulfilling its goal of averting shortages.

Fernando assured consumers of ongoing efforts to stabilise prices, highlighting successful interventions in the egg market where prices have been fixed between Rs. 35-40 per egg.

He admitted that the country witnessed a sharp increase in commodity prices in 2022, positioning it among the countries with the highest price levels globally.

“The price of bread skyrocketed from Rs. 85 per kilo in 2019 to Rs. 485 in 2022, before stabilising between Rs. 195-200 at present. Similarly, the cost of dhal surged from around Rs. 120 per kilo in 2019 to Rs. 585 in 2022, now retailing at around Rs. 295,” he explained.

He attributed the past price hike to the appreciation of the dollar and reduced bank interest rates.

Addressing the recent onion shortage, the Minister revealed diplomatic efforts to resume imports from India, Sri Lanka’s primary onion supplier.

April 15, Colombo (LNW): The Epidemiology Unit of the Health Ministry has reported a significant surge in dengue cases for the year 2024, with the total number surpassing a staggering record 21,000 cases.

As of April 13, the cumulative tally stands at 21,028 cases, with the Colombo district reporting the highest incidence at 4,527 cases.

Among the provinces, the Western Province has recorded the highest number of cases, reaching 7,547, underscoring the urgent need for proactive measures to mitigate the spread of dengue.

Furthermore, the month of April alone has seen 989 new dengue cases reported, indicating an ongoing public health challenge.

Given the recent bouts of substantial rainfall experienced across various regions of the country, health authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant in maintaining cleanliness in their surroundings and eliminating potential mosquito breeding sites.

Adhering to these precautionary measures is essential in combating the spread of dengue fever and safeguarding public health.

April 15, Colombo (LNW): A concerning trend of four murders reported in the preceding 48 hours, culminating at 06:00 am today, Police disclosed.

In the Galewala area, a 23-year-old individual, who intervened in a dispute between two parties, tragically lost his life after sustaining fatal injuries from a stabbing incident earlier this morning.

Despite immediate medical attention at the Galewala Hospital, the victim succumbed to his wounds.

Similarly, in Hakmana, a 21-year-old man fell victim to a fatal assault by his uncle, following a longstanding feud.

Despite attempts to save his life, the young man passed away after being transferred to the Kamburupitiya Hospital. The perpetrator is currently evading authorities.

In a separate incident in Elayapaththuwa, a 37-year-old man met his demise after being subjugated to a knife and scissors attack during an altercation between inebriated parties last evening.

Authorities have apprehended a 43-year-old suspect in connection with the incident.

Additionally, in the Serunuwara area, a 41-year-old man fell victim to a lethal attack stemming from an extramarital affair dispute.

Investigations revealed that the assailant, identified as a 30-year-old resident of Serunuwara, is the husband of the woman involved. The Serunuwara Police have initiated a probe to apprehend the suspect.

Police urge community vigilance and conflict resolution mechanisms to prevent further loss of life and ensure public safety.

April 15, Colombo (LNW): The National Transport Commission (NTC) has announced the implementation of special bus services on Monday (15) and Tuesday (16) to facilitate the return of individuals to Colombo following the Sinhala and Tamil New Year holidays.

Chairman of the NTC Shashi Welgama confirmed the deployment of additional buses to meet the anticipated demand from passengers during this period.

In conjunction with these efforts, the Department of Railways has also introduced special train services departing from Badulla, Galle, and Beliatta railway stations to Colombo Fort, offering commuters an alternative mode of transportation for their return journey.

April 15, Colombo (LNW): Showery weather condition is expected to temporary enhance over Eastern, Uva and Southern provinces today, with showers or thundershowers being expected at times in Eastern and Uva provinces and in Hambantota, Nuwara Eliya and Matale districts, the Department of Meteorology said in its daily weather forecast today (15).

Several spells of showers may occur in Northern and North central provinces.

Showers or thundershowers will occur at several places elsewhere over the island after 2.00 p.m.

Heavy showers above 100 mm are likely at some places in Western, Sabaragamuwa, Uva and southern provinces and in Ampara and Batticaloa districts.

Misty conditions can be expected at some places in Western and Sabaragamuwa provinces and in Galle and Matara districts during the morning.

General public is kindly requested to take adequate precautions to minimise damages caused by temporary localised strong winds and lightning during thundershowers.

Marine Weather:

Meanwhile, heat index, the temperature felt on human body is expected to increase up to ‘Caution level’ at some places in Western and North-Western provinces and Mannar district.

The public, therefore, is advised to stay hydrated and take breaks in the shade as often as possible, check up on the elderly and the sick, never leave children unattended, limit strenuous outdoor activities, find shade and stay hydrated, and wear lightweight and white or light-coloured clothing.

April 15, Colombo (LNW): Over the past 24 hours, Sri Lanka witnessed a concerning surge in road accidents, with a total of eight reported incidents resulting in 10 fatalities, according to Police Media Spokesman DIG Thalduwa.

Among these incidents, five were attributed to vehicles veering off the roads, indicating potential factors such as adverse weather conditions or driver error.

Law enforcement authorities highlight a prevalent trend of driver negligence contributing significantly to road accidents.

Consequently, they emphasised the critical importance of heightened vigilance and strict adherence to traffic regulations among motorists.

This recent uptick in road accidents requires the ongoing need for comprehensive road safety measures and public awareness campaigns aimed at promoting responsible driving habits and reducing the incidence of avoidable tragedies on the roads.

By: Staff Writer

April 15, Colombo (LNW): Foreign and Commonwealth Development Office advice on Sri Lanka has been revised after a major campaign led by UK firm Experience Travel Group.

In January 2024, Experience Travel Group (ETG) organised and led an open letter, published in The Independent.

The signatories warned that FCDO’s official page on Sri Lanka “systematically undermines the travel industry,” and was supported by prominent UK parliamentarians, Sri Lankan travel providers, and celebrities including former cricket star Kumar Sangakkara.

The following month Experience Travel Group joined forces with the Association of Independent Tour Operators, to commission polling of 4,000 people across the UK.

The research revealed that three in every four British tourists (74%) would turn down even a free holiday if Foreign Office travel advice suggested a destination was unsafe.

British travellers were more likely to seek out government advice when travelling to Asia, with 73% saying they would do so compared with only 46% making a European trip.

Due to Sri Lanka’s current economic advancement, the United Kingdom has revised its Travel Advisory for Sri Lanka effective April 5, 2024.

This update encompasses various aspects including access to emergency medical services, entry security requirements, road safety, overall security situation, and health facility accessibility.

The revised advisory no longer includes previous concerns regarding shortages of food, fuel, and medicine. Additionally, the previously mentioned risks related to limitations in health services, such as the lack of medical equipment, have been omitted.

The Sri Lankan High Commission in London has consistently advocated to British authorities for the removal of negative information from previous advisories. This effort aims to ensure tourists have a clear understanding of Sri Lanka’s current progress.

Between January 1 and March 27, a total of 53,928 tourists from the United Kingdom visited Sri Lanka, establishing the United Kingdom as the third largest source of tourist arrivals. This updated advisory is expected to further boost Sri Lanka’s tourism sector.