November 01, Colombo (LNW): Agriculture Deputy Minister Namal Karunaratne has announced that the government will reclaim funds from farmers who fail to cultivate their fields after obtaining fertiliser subsidies.

He explained that the amount owed by such farmers will be deducted automatically when subsidies for the following cultivation season are issued. The measure is intended to ensure accountability and encourage the proper use of state assistance intended to boost agricultural productivity.

At present, farmers receive a fertiliser subsidy of Rs. 50,000 for two hectares of cultivated land. In addition, those engaging in intercropping on paddy lands will be granted a separate subsidy of Rs. 30,000 for the same area.

The Deputy Minister stressed that the policy aims to promote more efficient use of agricultural resources and discourage misuse of public funds allocated to support farming communities.

November 01, Colombo (LNW): The National Transport Commission (NTC) has announced the launch of a comprehensive data collection initiative covering three-wheelers, school transport services, office vans, and special tour buses, beginning today.

According to NTC Director General Dr Nilan Miranda, the primary aim of the project is to establish a fair and transparent system for determining fares, while also developing new regulations and operational guidelines for these transport services.

Dr Miranda further noted that public participation will play a vital role in shaping the forthcoming policies. To that end, the NTC has organised a programme to gather feedback and suggestions from commuters, operators, and other stakeholders, ensuring that the reforms reflect the needs and realities of everyday transport users.

November 01, Colombo (LNW): Dr Niroshan J. Peiris, Director of Laugfs Gas, has announced that the company will maintain its existing gas prices throughout November, following its regular monthly price evaluation.

Accordingly, the cost of a 12.5-kilogramme domestic gas cylinder will remain at Rs. 4,100, while the price of a 5-kilogramme cylinder continues at Rs. 1,645.

Dr Peiris explained that the decision was reached after reviewing global market trends and operational costs, noting that current conditions did not justify any adjustment at this time.

November 01, Colombo (LNW): Prime Minister and Minister of Education, Higher Education and Vocational Education, Dr Harini Amarasuriya, announced that Sri Lanka is partnering with the Government of India to strengthen teacher training and educational development across the island.

Speaking at the inauguration of a new multi-ethnic, trilingual school building in Gallelle, Polonnaruwa—constructed with Indian assistance—Dr Amarasuriya highlighted that the collaboration forms part of a broader set of educational reforms aimed at nurturing creativity and innovation among teachers.

The Prime Minister expressed satisfaction that, for the first time in the nation’s history, Sri Lankans are collectively advancing towards a shared vision while preserving their cultural diversity and mutual respect. She stated that the government’s foremost goal is to provide equal access to quality education for every child, regardless of background or region.

Dr Amarasuriya explained that the reform agenda goes beyond curriculum updates, seeking to transform the education system into one that promotes critical thinking, civic responsibility, and leadership among the younger generation. Emphasising the importance of creating a safe and modern learning environment, she reaffirmed the government’s commitment to upgrading school facilities, addressing the shortage of teachers, and ensuring high educational standards nationwide.

With rapid technological advancement reshaping the world, the Prime Minister underscored the need to prepare children for digital learning. A national programme is currently being rolled out to strengthen the technological infrastructure in schools, helping students to make effective use of digital tools, acquire new skills, and embrace innovation.

She further revealed that training initiatives for educational administrators will be launched in collaboration with India, introducing new technological expertise and modern educational management practices into Sri Lanka’s school system.

Dr Amarasuriya concluded that the ultimate purpose of these efforts is not only academic improvement but also the cultivation of ethical and spiritual values in young citizens—shaping a new generation ready to lead with integrity and vision.

The event was attended by Indian High Commissioner Santosh Jha, Deputy Minister of Housing Construction and Water Supply T.B. Sarath, Members of Parliament Ratnasiri Bandara and Sunil Rathnasiri, Education Ministry Secretary Nalaka Kaluwewa, and senior ministry officials.

November 01, Colombo (LNW): Minister of Public Security and Parliamentary Affairs, Ananda Wijepala, has stated that the present security situation does not justify providing routine personal protection to ministers, members of parliament, or local council heads.

Speaking to the media, the minister noted that the government remains vigilant and stands ready to act swiftly should credible threats emerge. He added that protective measures have already been arranged for those MPs whose safety has been verified to be at genuine risk.

At present, temporary security has been allocated to Shanakiyan Rasamanickam, the Ilankai Tamil Arasu Katchi representative for the Batticaloa District, and to Jagath Withana of the Samagi Jana Balawegaya, representing Kalutara.

Minister Wijepala further commented that it was unclear whether the alleged threats faced by certain parliamentarians were directly linked to their political work or connected to unrelated illicit activities. He emphasised that investigations into the matter would continue to ensure clarity and fairness in the government’s response.

November 01, Colombo (LNW): The Criminal Investigation Department (CID) informed the Colombo Magistrate’s Court yesterday (31) that statements have been taken from five actresses suspected of having associations with underworld leader ‘Kehelbaddara Padme’, and of possibly accompanying him on overseas trips.

According to CID officials, inquiries are under way to establish whether the individuals in question were in any way connected to criminal operations, including narcotics trafficking, money laundering, or offences involving firearms.

The investigators are said to be examining travel records, financial transactions, and communication data to determine the extent of their links to the suspect and his alleged network.

After reviewing the details presented, the Colombo Chief Magistrate instructed the CID to continue its inquiries and provide a comprehensive progress report to the court by November 07.

The investigation remains ongoing, with authorities emphasising that all findings will be verified through due legal procedure before any further action is taken.

November 01, Colombo (LNW): From today (01) onwards, retailers across Sri Lanka will no longer be permitted to provide shopping bags free of charge.

The new regulation, issued through a gazette notification by the Consumer Affairs Authority (CAA), requires vendors to impose a fair and transparent charge for each polythene bag provided to customers.

Acting Director of the CAA, Samanthi Karunaratne, explained that the price charged for these bags must be clearly indicated on the customer’s bill, ensuring accountability and preventing arbitrary pricing.

The move aims to discourage the excessive use of disposable plastic bags and encourage consumers to shift towards more sustainable, reusable alternatives.

Traders have been urged to comply fully with the new regulation, with the CAA expected to conduct random inspections to ensure proper enforcement.

November 01, Colombo (LNW): Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, the Holy See’s Secretary for Relations with States and International Organisations, is scheduled to make an official visit to Sri Lanka from November 03 to 08, 2025.

His visit comes at the invitation of Sri Lanka’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism, Vijitha Herath, as part of celebrations marking half a century of formal diplomatic relations between Sri Lanka and the Vatican.

According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Archbishop Gallagher’s itinerary includes meetings with President Anura Kumara Dissanayaka, Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya, and Minister Herath. These discussions are expected to focus on strengthening bilateral cooperation, interfaith understanding, and the shared commitment to global peace and humanitarian values.

A central highlight of the visit will be a commemorative ceremony at the Galle Face Hotel in Colombo, celebrating fifty years of diplomatic engagement. Archbishop Gallagher is expected to deliver a keynote address reflecting on the historical ties between the Holy See and Sri Lanka, and their mutual efforts in promoting dialogue, education, and community development.

In addition to official engagements, the Archbishop will visit a number of religious and cultural landmarks across the country. His itinerary is also expected to include moments of reflection and prayer at churches affected by the tragic Easter Sunday attacks in 2019, underlining the Vatican’s continued solidarity with the victims and their families.

November 01, Colombo (LNW): The Ceylon Petroleum Corporation (CEYPETCO) has announced a new adjustment to domestic fuel prices, set to take effect from midnight on the 31st of October.

Under the updated pricing structure, Petrol 92 Octane will see a modest reduction of Rs. 5, bringing the new price to Rs. 294 per litre. In contrast, the price of Super Diesel will rise by Rs. 5, setting it at Rs. 318 per litre. The prices of Petrol 95 Octane, Auto Diesel, and Kerosene will remain unchanged, maintaining stability for consumers reliant on those fuels.

The revised retail prices are now as follows:

Petrol 92 Octane – Rs. 294 per litre (reduced by Rs. 5)

Super Diesel – Rs. 318 per litre (increased by Rs. 5)

Petrol 95 Octane – No change

Auto Diesel – No change

Kerosene – No change

November 01, Colombo (LNW): Showers or thundershowers may occur at a few places in Sabaragamuwa, Central, Southern and Uva provinces and in Ampara district after 2.00 p.m., the Department of Meteorology said in its daily weather forecast today (01).

Mainly fair weather will prevail in the other areas of the island.

Misty conditions can be expected at some places in Central, Sabaragamuwa and Uva provinces during the early hours of the morning.

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

Marine Weather:

Condition of Rain: Mainly fair weather will prevail in the sea areas around the island.

Winds: Winds will be variable in direction and speed will be (20-30) kmph.

State of Sea: The sea areas around the island will be slight to moderate.