By: Isuru Parakrama

November 25, Colombo (LNW): Professor Atula Senaratne, a distinguished Geologist from the University of Peradeniya, has strongly advised against relying on myths and engaging in fruitless endeavours, following the recent excavation attempts near the Central Expressway construction site in the Wanduramba area of Veyangoda.

The search for alleged buried treasure, which gained public attention over the weekend, has been dismissed by Senaratne as a misguided effort rooted in folklore rather than scientific fact.

In his comments to the media, Prof. Senaratne highlighted the implausibility of the treasure-hunting claims, particularly the notion that treasures could be buried as deep as 40 to 50 feet below the surface.

He pointed out that there is no historical precedent or evidence to suggest that treasures were ever concealed at such depths, nor could they have been sealed with melted rocks, as some local myths suggest.

“There has never been a technology, either in the past or present, that would enable rocks to be melted or fused in such a manner,” he emphasised, criticising the fantasy surrounding treasure hunting.

Responding to ongoing speculation regarding the possibility of a treasure buried beneath the expressway reservation in Wanduramba, Prof. Senaratne dismissed the idea as unlikely.

While he acknowledged that signs of decaying rocks may sometimes be misinterpreted as evidence of hidden riches, he warned that pursuing such unsubstantiated claims could lead to a significant waste of time, money, and labour.

“Geologists only engage in archaeological surveys at the request of archaeologists, and we would advise against any attempts to excavate without scientific backing,” he remarked.

The professor further elaborated that while there may be historical sites or temples where relics or offerings have been buried, the likelihood of discovering such treasures underground is minimal.

“People’s belief in buried treasures, especially in temple sites or chethiyas, is steeped in myth, and the chances of finding anything significant are very low. In my opinion, those chasing these treasures are merely deceiving themselves,” he said.

With over four decades of experience in geology, Prof. Senaratne reiterated his long-standing stance that people should not rely on myths or folklore in their pursuit of material wealth.

“I have consistently urged against indulging in such exercises. These treasure hunts are nothing more than futile pursuits based on unfounded beliefs,” he concluded.

By: Isuru Parakrama

November 25, Colombo (LNW): Speaker of Parliament Ashoka Ranwala has announced that he will be having a direct conversation with Member of Parliament (MP) Dr. Archchuna Ramanathan to discuss the MP’s recent actions that have sparked widespread controversy.

On November 21, a video showing Dr. Ramanathan seated in the Opposition Leader’s designated chair during the inaugural session of the 10th Parliament went viral on social media.

Despite repeated requests from parliamentary staff for him to vacate the seat, the independent MP refused to comply.

This incident, coupled with several provocative comments made by Dr. Ramanathan on his social media platforms, has stirred considerable debate online and drawn criticism from both political circles and the general public.

Speaking to the media after his visit to Kandy on November 24, Speaker Ranwala expressed concern over the MP’s conduct.

He emphasised that while the specific motives behind Dr. Ramanathan’s actions are unclear, it is vital to consider the broader expectations of the people he represents.

“The aspirations of the public are clear – they want unity and development, not disruption,” he remarked, adding that citizens from all regions of the country seek harmony, particularly in the current political climate.

The Speaker confirmed that he had reviewed the MP’s actions, including his social media posts, and said that a thorough discussion with Dr. Ramanathan will take place to address the matter appropriately.

Ranwala assured the media that, after speaking with the MP, he would determine the most suitable course of action to resolve the issue.

“We are taking a cautious approach,” Ranwala noted. “This is an isolated incident, and it is important to handle it with care. We are committed to ensuring that Parliament upholds its dignity, and we will address this matter in a manner that reflects the best interests of the people.“

Ranwala concluded by reiterating that the current government is fully focused on meeting the aspirations of the public and fostering an environment of national unity and progress.

MP Ramanathan representing an independent political party from Jaffna threw himself onto public attention and met with severe backlash following a self-released livesteream revealing Ramanathan refuse to leave the chair allotted for the Leader of the Opposition and later conjure the name of a figure recognised as a terminated terrorist leader, claiming that he is ‘his god’.

By: Isuru Parakrama

November 25, Colombo (LNW): A specialised three-day workshop for the newly elected members of the Tenth Parliament of Sri Lanka is set to begin today (25).

This intensive training programme, scheduled to run through November 27, aims to equip parliamentarians with essential knowledge and understanding of the country’s legislative procedures, parliamentary culture, and traditions.

The workshop, which is being held annually for all incoming MPs after each general election, is designed to provide new legislators with a comprehensive orientation to their roles and responsibilities.

Topics covered will include the intricacies of parliamentary debates, legislative processes, and the code of conduct expected of MPs during their tenure.

A formal gazette notice outlining the details of the workshop was published on November 16, ensuring that all members were aware of the forthcoming sessions.

The goal of the workshop is to ensure that all newly elected members of parliament are well-prepared to engage in parliamentary proceedings and serve effectively in their capacities.

This year’s workshop follows the inauguration of the Tenth Parliament on November 21, which brought together members elected in the 2024 General Election.

With new faces and a diverse range of political backgrounds entering the legislative body, the workshop is seen as a vital step in fostering a productive and well-informed parliament.

By: Isuru Parakrama

November 25, Colombo (LNW): The low pressure area over the southwest Bay of Bengal is likely to further intensify into a depression over the central-southwest Bay of Bengal by today morning, the Department of Meteorology said in its daily weather forecast today (25).

The system is located about 500 km southeast of Batticaloaat around 0230 this morning. The system is expected to further develop and move closer to the east coast of the island.

Cloudy skies are expected over most parts of the island due to the influence of this system.

Showers or thundershowers will occur at times in the Northern, North-central, Eastern, Central and Uva provinces and in Hambantota district.

Showers or thundershowers will occur at several places elsewhere of the island during the evening or night. Showers or thundershowers may occur over the coastal areas of Western and North-western provinces during the morning too.

Very heavy showers above 150 mm are likely at some places in Eastern province. Heavy showers above 100 mm are likely at some places in Northern, North-central, Central and Uva provinces and in Hambantota district.

Fairly strong winds of about (35-45) kmph can be expected at times over Northern, North-central and Eastern provinces and in Hambantota district.

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

Marine Weather:

1. The annual ‘Poppy Day’ ceremony, organised by the Sri Lanka Ex-Servicemen’s Association (SLESA), was held at the War Memorial in Vihara Maha Devi Park, Colombo, under the patronage of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake: The event honored fallen war heroes and disabled veterans, with a two-minute silence and floral tributes following religious observances to commemorate their sacrifices for the nation’s security.
   
2. SJB Leader and Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa assures details about the party’s national list MPs will be revealed soon, stressing there are no issues with the selections: emphasises the party’s commitment to clear policies, welcoming those who align with its vision: also highlights the public can evaluate the conduct of the new MPs in and outside Parliament.
   
3. Ex-President Ranil Wickremesinghe urges his successor, Anura Kumara Dissanayake, to fully implement the “vision document” signed with India in 2023, which outlines key areas of bilateral cooperation, particularly in economic, maritime, energy, and people-to-people ties: emphasises its importance ahead of Dissanayake’s visit to India in December and praised India’s support during Sri Lanka’s economic crisis.
   
4. The GCE A/L Examination begins today (25), with 333,185 candidates registered, including 253,390 school and 79,795 private applicants: A total of 2,312 examination centres and 319 coordination centers have been set up across Sri Lanka: To ensure integrity, a special program to prevent examination fraud has been implemented, according to Commissioner General of Examinations, Amith Jayasundara.
   
5. The Irrigation Department issues a flood warning for low-lying, flood-prone areas across Sri Lanka from November 25 to 28 due to a low-pressure system in the Bay of Bengal: Affected river basins include Malwathu, Kala Oya, Mahaweli, and others: Residents and travellers are urged to stay alert, and Disaster Management Authorities are advised to take necessary precautions.
   
6. Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya emphasises the importance of vocational education, stating it directly contributes to the economy and should be viewed as a respectable career path: highlights that vocational education is integral to a holistic education system and ensures a promising future.
   
7. An extraordinary Gazette notification appoints Senior Prof. R.M.U.S.K. Rathnayake as the competent authority for the University of Ruhuna, replacing the Vice Chancellor due to administrative dislocation: The appointment, effective from November 25, 2024, follows protests and a strike by university staff and students demanding the removal of the Vice Chancellor, Senior Prof. Sujeewa Amarasena, who has denied the allegations.
   
8. The Public Utilities Commission (PUCSL) announces there will be no electricity tariff revisions for 2024 due to delays in the Ceylon Electricity Board’s (CEB) submission of necessary proposals: After multiple extensions, the CEB’s revised proposals are now expected by December 6, 2024: However, any tariff changes will be postponed to 2025, following a review period of six to eight weeks.
   
9. The Ceylon Electricity Board Workers’ Union urges the CEB management to distribute bonuses to employees, citing the board’s profitability: General Secretary Ranjan Jayalal sends a letter to the CEB Chairman, requesting bonuses be paid before December 10: criticises the management for failing to act on bonuses over the past two years, despite financial improvements.
   
10. Sri Lanka’s Wanindu Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana were bought by Rajasthan Royals for the 2025 IPL season in the mega auction: Hasaranga, a match-winning leg-spinner, was sold for ₹5.25 crore, while Theekshana fetched ₹4.40 crore: Hasaranga, a former Sunrisers Hyderabad player, was RCB’s highest wicket-taker in 2022: Both players will strengthen RR’s spin-bowling attack.

By: Staff Writer

November 24, Colombo (LNW): As Sri Lanka gears up for the 2025 budget, the country faces a pivotal moment in its economic recovery. After enduring a prolonged financial crisis, the government aims to stabilize the economy, manage national debt, and encourage development. The 2025 Appropriation Bill, scheduled for March, will set the tone for Sri Lanka’s fiscal path and long-term recovery.

Provisional Budget Estimates and Key Targets

The Finance Ministry has released provisional figures for 2024 to guide the detailed planning for 2025. These estimates are essential in defining a fiscal framework that balances financial discipline with economic growth.

In 2025, the government plans to boost revenue to 15.1% of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) while maintaining expenditures at 20% of GDP. This careful approach aims to sustain economic stability amid recent challenges.

Key objectives for the 2025 budget include: Revenue Goal: Achieving 15.1% of GDP, equivalent to Rs. 3.9 trillion. Expenditure Limit: Capping at 20% of GDP, or around Rs. 5.2 trillion.

Budget Deficit: Targeting below 5% of GDP. Primary Surplus: 2.3% of GDP, aiding debt management. Increased Capital Investment: Over 4% of GDP for growth-oriented projects.

These targets are part of a strategy to ensure effective completion of projects, avoiding delays and cost overruns, thereby contributing to sustainable development.

Fiscal Performance in 2024 and 2025 Outlook

In 2024, Sri Lanka’s revenue collection surpassed expectations. Initial projections set a revenue-to-GDP ratio at 13.02% based on a GDP of Rs. 31,500 billion, aiming for revenue of Rs. 4,100 billion. Adjustments brought the GDP estimate to Rs. 30,000 billion, leading to a higher revenue-to-GDP ratio of 13.67%, an overperformance equivalent to Rs. 201 billion.

For 2025, the Finance Ministry is targeting Rs. 5,000 billion in revenue, with GDP estimates ranging between Rs. 33,000 billion and Rs. 34,500 billion.

These figures translate to revenue-to-GDP ratios of 15.15% and 14.49%, respectively—both above the International Monetary Fund (IMF) benchmarks, signaling confidence in meeting fiscal targets.

Tax Adjustments and Revenue Implications

The 2025 budget will bring several tax modifications. An increase in the tax threshold from Rs. 100,000 to Rs. 200,000, coupled with reduced tax rates, may reduce revenue by Rs. 70-80 billion. Exemptions on Value Added Tax (VAT) for essentials like school supplies and baby food could lead to an additional Rs. 70-80 billion shortfall. Despite this, the strong 2024 revenue performance suggests that these adjustments are manageable.

Interest Payments and Budget Priorities

Professor Wasantha Athukorala from the University of Peradeniya has highlighted concerns about Sri Lanka’s rising domestic debt and interest payments, a growing topic in political discussions.

 In 2024, interest payments totaled LKR 2,651 billion, consuming 40% of total expenditure. This far exceeds the combined 14% allocated for health, education, and social protection, and the 9% earmarked for defense.

These figures underline the challenge of managing interest payments, which dominate government spending more than any other category, signaling the need for careful fiscal planning to prioritize sustainable economic growth.