>Sampath Bank Enhances Care at Lady Ridgeway Hospital with Essential Hospital Upgrades
Sampath Bank Employees’ Association Officials; Nalin Nishantha Liyanage – Treasurer; Chandana Weragama – Secretary; Kalpa Jayasinghe – The President; Bank Officials; Deepal De Silva – Chief Operating Officer; Hospital Officials; Consultant Dr. Pradeep Rathnasekara – The Director of the Hospital; Dr. Prabath Amarasinghe – Deputy Director of the Hospital; Kusal De Silva – Chairman of the Hospital Committee and Anura Thilakasiri – Secretary of the Hospital Committee.
Recognising the importance of maintaining quality healthcare facilities for children, the Sampath Bank Employees’ Union, together with the Bank’s Sustainability Unit, marked the Union’s 35th anniversary by supporting a series of essential upgrades at the Lady Ridgeway Hospital for Children, Colombo. As Sri Lanka’s national referral centre and largest free paediatric hospital, Lady Ridgeway Hospital provides specialised care to children from across the country, making continuous investment in its facilities vital to delivering timely and effective treatment.
The initiative included the refurbishment of a blood filtration machine required for patient care, the installation of air-conditioning for the Physiotherapy Unit, the erection of directional signboards across the hospital premises, and the addition of child-friendly decorations to create a more welcoming environment for young patients and their families. The event was attended by Sampath Bank Chief Operating Officer Deepal de Silva, President of the Sampath Bank Employees’ Union Kalpa Jayasinghe, members of the Bank's staff, and the Hospital Director together with hospital staff.
29.07.2026
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Clarification of Press queries regarding Indian Visa for Sri Lankan pilgrims to India
By Vipula Amarasinghe
It is our standing policy to facilitate timely and smooth issuance of visas to all Sri Lankans. It may be noted that Sri Lanka is also one of the many countries around the world whose citizens can avail of the E-visa facility for travel to India. However, those citizens of Sri Lanka who chose to apply at the High Commission are required to apply online and submit their applications to the Indian Consular Application Centres (ICAC), which are located in Colombo, Kandy, Jaffna, Hambantota and Batticaloa.
As regards those Sri Lankans who travel to India for pilgrimage, including to Buddhist pilgrimage sites, visa is facilitated, and issued swiftly. Wherever possible, if these applications are recommended by the Ministry of Buddhasasana, Religious & Cultural Affairs, these visas are issued on a Gratis basis for groups of 10 pilgrims and above. For a brief period, due to change in visa outsourcing agency working for the High Commission of India, this practice was discontinued. Subsequent to the selection of the new service provider, which has started working from 07 July 2026, the practice of issuing Gratis visas for Sri Lankans on pilgrimage is being reintroduced. As was the practice earlier, these requests should be forwarded by the Ministry of Buddhasasana, Religious & Cultural Affairs. These visas can be applied as group of 10 or more and applicants are required to visit ICAC as a group or individually as is convenient for the purposes of capturing their biometrics. This is a mandatory requirement under the new regulations of the Government of India. However, biometrics are required for the people between the age of 12 and 70 only.
As regards other senior citizens visiting ICAC for their biometrics, special and expedited process has been instituted to keep their waiting time to the minimum possible. Capturing biometrics will ensure that their passage through the Indian Immigration on arrival in India is smooth and convenient.
As such, there is no visa fee for Sri Lankan pilgrims, whose applications are submitted as indicated above. The question on any change in visa fee for Sri Lankan pilgrims, therefore, does not arise. However, applicants would be required to pay visa service fee of LKR 1855/- to the ICAC for their services.
India Reaffirms Commitment to Preserving Pali Language and Strengthening Buddhist Ties with Sri Lanka
By Vipula Amarasinghe
India has reaffirmed its long-standing commitment to preserving the Pali language and strengthening the shared Buddhist heritage with Sri Lanka, describing the relationship between the two countries as an enduring civilisational partnership rooted in Dhamma, culture and history.
Delivering the keynote address at a symposium on strengthening Pali language studies, the High Commissioner of India to Sri Lanka, Santosh Jha, said the event was not merely about safeguarding an ancient language but about preserving one of humanity's greatest spiritual and intellectual traditions.
He said India and Sri Lanka share a unique relationship that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has aptly described as that of "Civilisational Twins," emphasizing that the ties between the two nations are spiritual, timeless and inseparable.
Highlighting the historical foundations of the relationship, the High Commissioner recalled the arrival of Arahant Mahinda Thera in Sri Lanka, describing it as a defining moment that not only introduced Buddhism to the island but also established a civilisational partnership that continues to flourish today.
Reflecting on his personal connection to Buddhism, Jha said he was born and raised in Patna, the ancient city of Pataliputra in Bihar, close to the sacred places associated with the life of Lord Buddha. He noted that Buddhism had always been an integral part of his upbringing, making every engagement related to the faith deeply meaningful.
"This is not merely a diplomatic engagement for me," he said. "It is a privilege to contribute, however modestly, to preserving the language through which the teachings of the Buddha have reached humanity."
The High Commissioner stressed that the bond between India and Sri Lanka is anchored in Dhamma, making it impossible to separate the two nations.
"Anyone wishing to create differences between India and Sri Lanka would first have to break this bond of Dhamma, which is beyond the realm of possibility," he remarked.
He outlined several major initiatives undertaken by India to promote Buddhism and preserve shared heritage. In 2020, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced a dedicated USD 15 million grant to promote Buddhism between India and Sri Lanka. One of the flagship projects under this initiative is the provision of free solar electricity to nearly 10,000 Buddhist temples and pirivenas across Sri Lanka, while an additional USD 5 million remains available for future projects identified by the Sri Lankan Government.
In addition, rooftop solar systems have already been installed at approximately 5,000 temples and religious institutions across all 25 districts under Indian credit assistance.
The High Commissioner also highlighted India's support for the development of the Anuradhapura Sacred City Complex, announced during Prime Minister Modi's visit to Sri Lanka in 2025. The project aims to enhance facilities for millions of pilgrims and visitors while preserving the sacred city's historical and religious significance.
He also recalled the successful international exposition of the Holy Devnimori Relics held earlier this year at the Gangaramaya Temple in Colombo, which attracted more than one million devotees. Previous exhibitions of the Kapilavastu Relics in 2012 and the Sarnath Relics in 2018 further demonstrated the deep spiritual connections shared by the two countries.
To engage younger generations, India has established an Indian Gallery at the International Buddhist Museum in Kandy and has been organizing mobile exhibitions on the life of Lord Buddha on every Poya Day over the past year. Sinhala translations of the Jataka Tales in comic-book format have also been distributed to Dhamma schools to make Buddhist teachings more accessible to children.
India continues to facilitate pilgrimages by Sri Lankan devotees to Buddhist sacred sites in India, including the Buddhist Circuit, with the first international flight to Kushinagar International Airport in 2022 originating from Colombo.
Turning to the importance of the Pali language, Jha noted that the Government of India conferred Classical Language status on Pali in October 2024. He quoted Prime Minister Modi as saying that preserving Pali is essential to preserving the original teachings of Lord Buddha.
Describing Pali as the language of the Tripitaka and the earliest Buddhist scriptures, the High Commissioner said that in a world increasingly affected by conflict, the message of Dhamma offers humanity a path toward peace, compassion and universal welfare.
He praised Sri Lanka for being the first country to host an international seminar on the significance of recognizing Pali as a Classical Language following India's decision in 2024. Since then, India has supported the reprinting of important Pali grammar texts, including Namamala and Balawatharo, while the latest symposium represents another milestone in promoting Pali scholarship.
Expressing appreciation to the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) and the Pathfinder Foundation for organizing the symposium, he said the shared objective was not only to preserve an ancient language but also to safeguard the cultural soul of Buddhist civilization.
The High Commissioner further noted that India has recently facilitated the return of the Piprahwa relics of the Buddha and has organized international exhibitions of sacred relics in Bhutan, Mongolia, Russia, Thailand, Vietnam and Sri Lanka, bringing together millions of devotees across national boundaries.
Speaking on the broader bilateral relationship, Jha reaffirmed that Sri Lanka remains India's closest maritime neighbour and a central pillar of India's Neighbourhood First Policy and Vision MAHASAGAR.
He said India has consistently stood by Sri Lanka during challenging times, including the COVID-19 pandemic, the economic crisis and the recent Ditwah-related rescue and reconstruction efforts, acting as the country's first responder and dependable partner.
Today, India's total assistance to Sri Lanka exceeds USD 7.5 billion, including grant assistance of more than USD 850 million, supporting development projects across all 25 districts in sectors such as infrastructure, housing, healthcare, education, agriculture, renewable energy, railways, industrial development and livelihoods.
Concluding his address, the High Commissioner said India remains committed to strengthening cooperation with Sri Lanka "from Dhamma to Development," while continuing to build partnerships based on shared history, faith and aspirations for a peaceful and prosperous future.
26.07.2026
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ParentX by Joseph Fraser Ninewells Introduces Sri Lanka’s first dedicated postpartum retreat
By Vipula Amarasinghe
Dr. Dilrukshi Sayyakkara – Head of Medical Services, Joseph Fraser Ninewells Hospital; Emeritus Professor Hemantha Senanayake – Emeritus Professor of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, University of Colombo; and Yoosuf Sabir – Deputy General Manager, Joseph Fraser Ninewells Hospital.
ParentX, developed by Joseph Fraser Ninewells Hospital, has introduced Sri Lanka's first dedicated postpartum retreat, bringing to Sri Lanka an internationally recognised model of recovery for mothers after childbirth. Designed to support mothers during the critical weeks following childbirth, ParentX places equal emphasis on a mother's recovery as it does on the birth of her child.
Often referred to as the fourth trimester, the weeks following childbirth remain one of the least supported stages of motherhood despite growing global recognition of their importance. Around the world, postpartum recovery centres have become an established part of maternal healthcare, helping mothers recover physically, emotionally, and mentally while building confidence in caring for their newborns. ParentX brings this model to Sri Lanka through a programme thoughtfully tailored to the needs, traditions, and lifestyles of local families.
Commenting on the launch, Yoosuf Sabir - Deputy General Manager at Joseph Fraser said: "A mother's care should not end with the birth of her baby. Recovery after childbirth is a critical stage that deserves the same level of attention as pregnancy itself. ParentX was created to provide mothers with the time, professional guidance, and compassionate care they need to recover, regain confidence, and begin parenthood on the strongest possible foundation. While inspired by internationally recognised postpartum recovery models, every aspect of ParentX has been carefully adapted for Sri Lankan families."
Developed by the multidisciplinary clinical team at Joseph Fraser, ParentX combines evidence-based postpartum care with culturally familiar practices to create a holistic recovery experience. The programme includes personalised breastfeeding support, newborn care education, physiotherapy, nutrition planning, emotional wellness counselling, mindfulness sessions, Ayurveda-inspired therapies, and guidance for partners and family members to actively support the recovery journey.
The launch comes as postpartum wellbeing receives increasing global attention, with growing evidence that structured support during the fourth trimester improves maternal recovery, strengthens parent-child bonding, supports mental wellbeing, and contributes to better outcomes for both mother and baby.
In Sri Lanka, where birth rates continue to decline, ParentX represents a timely addition to maternal healthcare by helping mothers navigate the fourth trimester with confidence while recognising postpartum recovery as an essential part of the motherhood journey rather than an optional extra.
ParentX reflects Joseph Fraser’s commitment to advancing women's health by extending care beyond childbirth and addressing an important gap in Sri Lanka's maternity care landscape.
Toastmasters District 82, Division I Launches the Year with Club Officer Training Programme
Toastmasters District 82, Division I commenced its programme calendar for the year with the Club Officer Training Programme (COTP) and COOL. (Club Officer Outbound Learning), held on 18 July 2026 at MAS Athena, Thulhiriya
Designed to equip club officers with the knowledge, skills, and confidence required to lead effectively, the programme brought together Toastmasters from across Division I for a full day of learning, collaboration, and leadership development.
The event was graced by District 82 leaders, including Club Growth Director – DTM Hingston Lovell, Past District Director DTM Noorul Munawwara and Past Division Director Terril Ragel, along with other District Leaders and senior Toastmasters from the fraternity.
The event also marked the formal installation of the Area Directors and the introduction of the Division I Team, setting the foundation for the Division’s leadership for the year 2026/2027.
Throughout the day, participants engaged in general and breakout sessions covering key aspects of club leadership, communication, officer responsibilities, and member engagement. The programme featured special activities, recognition of trainers and invitees, COTP awards, and opportunities for members to exchange ideas and strengthen connections across the Division.
The formal training sessions were followed by COOL, an outbound learning experience designed to encourage teamwork, practical leadership, and stronger collaboration among club officers. The combination of structured learning and experiential activities provided participants with a well-rounded platform to prepare for the year ahead.
Commenting on the programme, Gayan Lakmal Alwis, Division I Director, said:
“COTP and COOL are the first of many events planned for the year, in line with our vision to imagine, inspire, ignite, and illuminate every member of Division I. Through these initiatives, we aim to help our members grow into stronger leaders and more confident communicators, while building a more connected and empowered Division.”
The event marked the beginning of Division I’s leadership and development initiatives for the year, reinforcing its commitment to supporting clubs, strengthening officer capabilities, and creating meaningful opportunities for personal and professional growth.
22.07.2026
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Sri Lankan minority youth leaders complete leadership training programme in India
By Vipula Amarasinghe
Thirty young leaders representing Sri Lanka's minority communities and 14 political parties have successfully completed a specialised leadership development programme in India, aimed at strengthening organisational leadership, innovation and community engagement.
The five-day training programme on "Innovative Leadership for Organization Growth and Excellence" was held from July 13 to 17, 2026 at the National Institute of Entrepreneurship and Small Business Development (NIESBUD) in Noida, one of India's leading institutions under the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship.
The Sri Lankan delegation comprised participants from a wide range of professional backgrounds, including entrepreneurs, political representatives, educators, social leaders and organisational officials. The programme was designed to equip them with modern leadership skills and practical strategies to effectively lead organisations and serve their communities in an increasingly dynamic environment.
During the training, participants explored a range of contemporary leadership concepts, including transformational leadership, design thinking, innovation, emotional intelligence, coaching and mentoring, and situational leadership. The sessions also focused on improving creative problem-solving, promoting teamwork, strengthening organisational culture and developing practical approaches to managing change.
A key component of the programme encouraged participants to prepare "Back Home Task Plans," enabling them to apply the knowledge and leadership practices gained during the training within their respective organisations and communities after returning to Sri Lanka.
The programme combined classroom learning with practical exposure to India's leadership and development initiatives, offering participants valuable insights into entrepreneurship, organisational excellence and institutional best practices.
In addition to the academic sessions, the delegation visited the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort, providing an opportunity to experience India's rich cultural heritage while encouraging informal exchanges, peer learning and cross-cultural understanding among the participants.
The initiative forms part of India's continued support for capacity building in Sri Lanka and follows the announcement made by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his State Visit to Sri Lanka in April 2025. During the visit, he announced that India would offer 700 customised training opportunities each year for Sri Lankan professionals across a range of sectors.
The successful completion of the programme reflects the growing partnership between India and Sri Lanka in human resource development and leadership training. It also underscores the shared commitment of both countries to empowering young leaders with the skills, knowledge and confidence needed to drive organisational growth, promote social development and contribute to stronger bilateral relations.
21.07.2026
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Sri Lankan parliamentary officials complete capacity-building programme in India
A delegation of 24 parliamentary officials from Sri Lanka has successfully completed a five-day capacity-building programme in India, strengthening institutional cooperation and knowledge-sharing between the two neighbouring countries.
The delegation, led by Assistant Secretary General of the Parliament of Sri Lanka, Herath Mudiyanselage Hansa Hemamalaka Sameera Abeyrathne, participated in the orientation programme conducted by the Parliamentary Research and Training Institute for Democracies (PRIDE) in New Delhi from 13 to 17 July 2026.
The programme was designed to provide Sri Lankan parliamentary officials with a comprehensive understanding of India's parliamentary system, administrative structures and legislative processes. Throughout the week, participants attended a series of interactive sessions covering the organisation and functions of the Indian Parliament Secretariat, as well as the services provided to Members of Parliament.
Officials were introduced to the roles of several key divisions, including Member Services, Welfare, and Salaries and Allowances, while also gaining insight into parliamentary privileges, protocol, diplomatic procedures and legislative practices. Special attention was given to India's committee system, including Departmentally Related Standing Committees (DRSCs), Joint Committees and Select Committees, highlighting their role in strengthening parliamentary oversight and accountability.
The training programme also included sessions on parliamentary financial management, with participants learning about the preparation of the Parliament Secretariat's budget and the responsibilities of the Integrated Finance Unit (IFU) and the Budget and Parliament (B&P) branches.
As part of the visit, the Sri Lankan delegation toured India's Parliament complex, visiting the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha galleries and the Parliament's art galleries to gain a closer understanding of the country's democratic institutions and heritage.
The officials also took part in a cultural programme that included visits to two of India's most iconic UNESCO World Heritage Sites—the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort in Agra.
The initiative reflects the growing partnership between India and Sri Lanka in parliamentary affairs and institutional development. It also demonstrates the shared commitment of both countries to enhancing professional capacity, exchanging best practices and promoting stronger cooperation between their legislative institutions.
21.07.2026
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Energy Sector Stakeholders Identify Priorities to Accelerate Sri Lanka's Renewable Energy Transition
The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce recently convened "Energy Transition in Sri Lanka: Strategic Insights from Global Markets," bringing together stakeholders from government, industry, academia, and the energy sector to discuss the policies, investments, and reforms needed to accelerate Sri Lanka's transition towards a more secure, affordable, and sustainable energy system.
The discussion focused on the growing role of renewable energy in meeting Sri Lanka's rising electricity demand while reducing dependence on imported fossil fuels. Solar energy was identified as a priority area for expansion, with participants highlighting the importance of purchase tariffs, procurement mechanisms, and distributed renewable energy development to encourage private investment, strengthen grid stability, and reduce transmission losses.
Participants also examined the barriers that continue to slow renewable energy deployment, including policy inconsistency, lengthy approval processes, land acquisition challenges, grid constraints, and delays in project implementation. The need for a stable and predictable policy environment, streamlined regulatory processes, and stronger institutional coordination was identified as essential to improve investor confidence and accelerate project delivery.
The dialogue explored the role of procurement frameworks, financing mechanisms, and electricity sector reforms in supporting future investment. Net metering and feed-in arrangements were recognised as important tools to encourage commercial and industrial users to adopt solar power by enabling them to sell surplus electricity back to the grid. Participants also stressed the importance of improving access to financing, developing more bankable project structures, and addressing financial sustainability issues, including timely payments to renewable energy developers.
Energy storage systems emerged as a key area of discussion, with participants highlighting their importance in supporting greater renewable energy integration, improving grid stability, and enhancing system flexibility. Global experiences in deploying solar-plus-storage solutions were examined, alongside the need for clear technical standards, safety frameworks, financing mechanisms, and market structures to support the adoption of energy storage technologies in Sri Lanka.
The discussion also considered the wider economic implications of the energy transition. With electricity demand expected to increase alongside digitalisation, artificial intelligence, electric vehicles, and data centres, participants emphasised the need to modernise the country's energy infrastructure through intelligent grids and emerging technologies to support long-term economic competitiveness.
Human capital development was another important theme, with participants calling for closer collaboration between industry and academia, expanded technical training opportunities, and stronger local expertise in renewable energy and energy storage technologies to support the sector's continued growth.
The dialogue concluded by emphasising that achieving Sri Lanka's renewable energy ambitions will require coordinated action across policy, regulation, financing, and infrastructure development.
21.07.2026
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Janashakthi Life strengthens healthcare and safety support for Poson devotees
Janashakthi Life, the flagship brand of JXG (Janashakthi Group), carried out a community-focused initiative in Anuradhapura during the Poson season to support healthcare services, public safety and pilgrim welfare.
As part of the programme, the company donated essential medicines to Teaching Hospital Anuradhapura and installed a new hospital name board to improve accessibility for visitors seeking medical assistance.
Janashakthi Life also provided directional signboards to the Sri Lanka Police to support crowd movement and route guidance during the pilgrimage period. In addition, the company distributed merit books to devotees at the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi.
Through these initiatives, Janashakthi Life reaffirmed its commitment to supporting communities and contributing to their wellbeing and safety.
21.07.2026
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Asiri Surgical Hospital Successfully Performs Sri Lanka’s First Robot Assisted Surgery
By Vipula Amarasinghe
Sri Lanka has entered a new era in advanced surgical care with the successful completion of the country’s first Robot-Assisted Surgery at Asiri Surgical Hospital, opening the door to cutting-edge treatment options for patients within the country.
The historic procedure was performed on July 13, 2026, marking a significant development in Sri Lanka’s healthcare sector. The introduction of the technology means patients requiring advanced surgical procedures will have greater access to modern treatment locally, reducing the need to travel overseas for certain forms of specialised care.
The robotic surgical system is being utilised by experienced consultant surgeons at Asiri Surgical Hospital across several surgical specialties. The technology is designed to support surgeons by combining advanced surgical instruments with high-definition three-dimensional imaging and enhanced control during procedures.
According to Asiri Surgical Hospital, the platform is currently being used in more than 60 countries and provides surgeons with clear, magnified views of the surgical area. Its precision-based technology can assist in performing complex procedures with greater accuracy.
The use of smaller incisions and reduced impact on surrounding tissues may contribute to lower post-operative pain, reduced blood loss, shorter hospital stays and faster recovery for patients, depending on the nature of the procedure and individual clinical circumstances.
As Sri Lanka’s largest healthcare conglomerate, Asiri has continued to invest in medical technology, specialist expertise and healthcare infrastructure. The latest development forms part of the hospital group’s broader efforts to expand access to advanced surgical treatment and strengthen the country’s medical capabilities.
Dr. Harry Prasad, Director of Operations at Asiri Surgical Hospital, said the achievement reflected the organisation’s continued investment in technology, clinical expertise and healthcare professionals.
He said the new technology would provide consultants with enhanced tools to undertake complex procedures while improving the overall surgical experience for patients. He also emphasised that patient safety, clinical excellence and measurable treatment outcomes remain the hospital's key priorities.
The robotic surgical platform introduced in Sri Lanka adheres to European regulatory standards. The successful completion of the country's first Robot-Assisted Surgery is expected to further strengthen the availability of advanced surgical care and represent another important step in the development of Sri Lanka's healthcare sector.
20.07.2026
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Sri Lankan Aquaculture Professionals Complete Advanced Training Programme in India
By Vipula Amarasinghe
A group of 10 aquaculturists and assistant aquaculturists from Sri Lanka’s National Aquaculture Development Authority (NAQDA) have successfully completed a two-week professional training programme in India, aimed at strengthening technical expertise and promoting sustainable development in the aquaculture sector.
The programme was conducted from July 6 to 19, 2026, at the ICAR-Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture in Odisha. It brought together Sri Lankan aquaculture professionals for intensive learning and practical exposure to modern freshwater fish farming technologies and management systems.
The initiative is the second capacity-building programme organised for NAQDA officials in India this year, following the first programme held in February. The continued training reflects the growing cooperation between India and Sri Lanka in the fisheries and aquaculture sectors.
During the programme, participants took part in academic sessions, laboratory demonstrations and field visits to aquaculture farms. The practical exposure enabled them to study modern techniques and observe innovative approaches being used to improve productivity, fish health and farm management.
The training covered a wide range of areas relevant to Sri Lanka's aquaculture industry. These included fish farm planning and pond construction, broodstock management, induced breeding and nursery pond management.
Participants also received training on fish nutrition, health management and antimicrobial resistance. Emerging aquaculture technologies, including Biofloc and Recirculatory Aquaculture Systems, were also among the key areas examined during the programme.
Further technical sessions focused on tilapia seed production, freshwater prawn farming and pearl farming. The application of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and Geographic Information System (GIS) tools in aquaculture was also highlighted as an important area for the future development of the sector.
The programme was conducted under India's expanded capacity-building initiative for Sri Lankan professionals. The initiative follows an announcement made by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his State Visit to Sri Lanka in April 2025.
Under the enhanced framework, 700 customised training opportunities are being made available annually to Sri Lankan professionals in addition to existing programmes. With a separate arrangement supporting the annual training of 300 Sri Lankan civil service officers, India's capacity-building initiatives now benefit 1,000 Sri Lankans each year.
The latest programme further strengthens the professional and developmental partnership between India and Sri Lanka in the field of sustainable aquaculture.
20.07.2026
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Nepal-Sri Lanka ties built on centuries of shared faith and culture, says 'Charge' d' Affaires
By Vipula Amarasinghe
The longstanding friendship between Nepal and Sri Lanka is founded on deep spiritual, cultural and historical connections that extend far beyond their 69 years of formal diplomatic relations, the Chargé d'Affaires of the Embassy of Nepal in Colombo, Vijay Kumar Raut, said.
He made the remarks at a special event titled “Bridging Nations Through Harmony”, organised by the Sri Lanka-Nepal Business Council in collaboration with Mastercard.
The gathering brought together business leaders, diplomats and cultural personalities to celebrate the enduring relationship between the two countries and explore opportunities for strengthening future cooperation.
Addressing the event, Raut highlighted the close religious links between the two nations, particularly the shared heritage of Buddhism and Hinduism. He pointed to the longstanding connection between Sri Lanka and Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha in Nepal, while noting the continued spiritual ties created by Sri Lankan pilgrims visiting Nepal's sacred sites, including the Pashupatinath Temple.
The 'Charge' d' Affaires' also emphasised the cultural links created through the Ramayana tradition, which continues to connect communities and attract pilgrims across both countries.
While reflecting on the past, Raut also drew attention to the growing potential for economic cooperation. He said the Sri Lanka-Nepal Business Council has an important role to play in strengthening commercial links and identifying new areas of partnership, particularly in Ayurveda, apparel, agro-processing and tourism.
Sri Lanka remains among Nepal's top 10 tourist source markets, highlighting the strength of people-to-people connections between the two countries.
The Nepalese diplomat further recalled the solidarity shown by both nations during times of crisis, including the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami and the devastating 2015 earthquake in Nepal. Such moments, he said, demonstrated that the friendship between Nepal and Sri Lanka is supported by genuine mutual support and solidarity.
Looking ahead, Raut said the Embassy of Nepal remains committed to further strengthening cooperation in trade, connectivity, education and people-to-people relations.
The event also looked towards the Platinum Jubilee of Nepal-Sri Lanka diplomatic relations in 2027, marking another important milestone in the close and evolving partnership between the two nations.
19.07.2026
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Nepal Celebrates Roshan Achchhami’s Victory at Karma Fight League in Colombo
By Vipula Amarasinghe
Nepal has celebrated a proud moment in international sport following an outstanding victory by fighter Roshan Achchhami at the Karma Fight League (KFL) held in Colombo on July 18, 2026.
The Embassy of Nepal in Colombo congratulated Achchhami for his impressive achievement and also commended fellow Nepali fighter Arjun KC for his outstanding performance at the international competition.
Representing Nepal on an international platform, Achchhami displayed courage, discipline and a strong fighting spirit to secure a memorable victory. His performance has been hailed as a significant achievement for Nepal and a source of pride for the country.
The Embassy said Achchhami's success was the result of hard work, dedication and commitment to the sport. His victory was also described as an inspiration to the younger generation of Nepal, encouraging youth to pursue their sporting ambitions with determination and confidence.
The Embassy further praised the efforts of both fighters and recognised their contribution to promoting Nepal's sporting talent on the international stage.
The Karma Fight League in Colombo brought together fighters competing in a highly competitive environment, providing an important platform for athletes to demonstrate their skills and represent their respective countries.
Achchhami's victory has added to Nepal's growing recognition in international combat sports, while the strong performance of Arjun KC also highlighted the country's emerging talent in the field.
The Embassy of Nepal extended its best wishes to both athletes and expressed hope that they would continue to achieve success in their future sporting careers.
“Your victory is an inspiration to the youth of Nepal,” the Embassy said, congratulating Roshan Achchhami on his remarkable achievement.
19.07.2026
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‘India Calling’ Forum Set to Unlock Bilateral Trade and Investment Barriers
In a major push to redefine economic ties between Sri Lanka and India, the Lanka India Business Association (LIBA) has announced the highly anticipated corporate forum, ‘India Calling ’ . Scheduled for August 6th at the Taj Samudra, Colombo, from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, the full-day event is designed to bridge commercial gaps, unpack regulatory friction, and establish a framework for shared cross-border prosperity.
LIBA is hosting the forum to actively catalyze deeper private sector integration, moving bilateral talks from policy theory into actionable investment corridors. The event arrives at a critical juncture as Sri Lanka actively recalibrates its macroeconomic framework and eyes stronger integration with the Indian market.
The forum boasts an extraordinary lineup of keynote speakers flying in from India to address critical facets of the economic relationship:
Montek Singh Ahluwalia: The former Deputy Chairman of India ’s Planning Commission and a key architect of India's 1991 economic reforms, Ahluwalia will discuss India ’s massive economic transformation, and the specific structural lessons Sri Lanka can adopt to drive its own recovery.
Professor C. Raja Mohan: One of India's leading foreign policy strategists and academics, Professor Mohan will present on the geopolitical necessity of "shared prosperity" as a sustainable, long-term strategy for regional stability.
Devdutt Pattanaik: The renowned mythologist, author, and corporate consultant will offer an unconventional perspective, breaking down the "Monsoon Market Myth" to explain how deep-rooted cultural narratives shape consumer behavior and market dynamics in South Asia.
The media landscape will also be represented by leading Indian journalists. These include Smita Prakash, Editor-in-Chief of Asian News International (ANI), known for her extensive political reporting, and Sidhant Sibal, Principal Diplomatic Correspondent at WION, who has covered global geopolitics and foreign affairs extensively.
Beyond the headliners, the forum will feature an eclectic mix of Sri Lankan and Indian panelists, combining the practical grit of corporate lawyers, diplomatic tact of former ambassadors, strategic vision of political leaders, and sharp insights from think-tank scholars and media professionals. Discussions will also explore the role of youth in regional integration, the current investment landscape, and practical ways to reduce bureaucratic and economic barriers to trade.
Tickets are limited and expected to sell out quickly. Corporate delegates and interested professionals can reserve their seats and purchase tickets directly through the official booking link: https://indiacalling.rush.lk/
19.07.2026
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NASSCOM launches DISHA mentorship programme for Sri Lankan tech SMEs
By Vipula Amarasinghe
India’s leading IT industry body NASSCOM has launched its flagship DISHA mentorship programme for Sri Lankan technology small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), marking the first time the initiative has been introduced outside India.
The programme was launched on Thursday at an event organised by the High Commission of India in Colombo, following a visit by a high-powered delegation of Indian IT and technology CEOs led by NASSCOM President Rajesh Nambiar.
DISHA, a flagship initiative of the NASSCOM SME Council, is designed to provide technology entrepreneurs with strategic business guidance, organisational direction and practical insights to support sustainable growth.
Sri Lanka is the first country outside India where NASSCOM has launched the DISHA programme.
The launch event was attended by Western Province Governor Hanif Yusoof, Deputy Minister of Digital Economy Eranga Weeraratne and Deputy Minister of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development Chathuranga Abeysinghe.
Dr Hans Wijayasuriya, Chief Advisor to the President on Digital Economy, Ministry of Digital Economy Secretary Waruna Shri Dhanapala, senior government officials, leading business figures, technology networks, think tanks and media representatives were also present.
Addressing the gathering, NASSCOM President Rajesh Nambiar highlighted the growing strength of the India-Sri Lanka technology partnership and the vast opportunities emerging in the global artificial intelligence landscape.
Indian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka Santosh Jha appreciated Sri Lanka's industry leaders for their commitment to building a strong technology partnership with India.
Deputy Minister of Digital Economy Eranga Weeraratne welcomed the launch of the DISHA programme and expressed the Government of Sri Lanka's support for the partnership between NASSCOM and Sri Lankan technology SMEs.
The programme was further outlined by Maulik Bhansali, Chair of the NASSCOM SME Council, who highlighted the transformative impact DISHA has had on technology SMEs.
The launch was followed by a panel discussion focusing on technology, partnerships and artificial intelligence, bringing together prominent founders and CEOs from India and Sri Lanka.
The panel featured WSO2 Founder Dr Sanjiva Weerawarana, Hatch Co-Founder and Managing Director Jeevan Gnanam, Avinash Sethi, Co-Founder of InfoBeans Technologies Limited, Parijat Agarwal, Co-Founder and COO of Metacube Software, and Sriram Subramanya, Managing Director and CEO of Integra Software Services. The discussion was moderated by PickMe Founder Jiffry Zulfer.
As part of the programme, 48 Sri Lankan technology SMEs were selected for the first DISHA mentorship cohort. Following the panel discussion, NASSCOM mentors conducted dedicated mentorship sessions for the selected entrepreneurs.
The launch highlighted the growing India-Sri Lanka partnership in technology and innovation, while also underscoring the significant potential for collaboration between the two countries as businesses navigate the rapidly evolving artificial intelligence-driven global economy.
16.07.2026
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NovaNest Properties launches Rainbow Apartments in Ratmalana
NovaNest Properties (Pvt) Ltd has officially launched Rainbow Apartments, a new residential development in Ratmalana, further strengthening the company’s presence in Sri Lanka’s growing apartment market.
The project was unveiled at an official launch event held at the Shangri-La Hotel, Colombo. Rainbow Apartments has been designed to meet the needs of modern homebuyers as well as investors seeking long-term value.
Located in Ratmalana, the development benefits from the area’s established social infrastructure, access to major transportation links and close proximity to Colombo. The project reflects NovaNest Properties’ focus on combining contemporary design with practical and convenient urban living.
Rainbow Apartments features a range of modern amenities, including two infinity pools, a gym, fully equipped workspaces, a mini theatre, cafés, a mini-mart and a children’s daycare facility. The development also includes a full-time medical centre supported by Nawaloka Hospitals PLC, Colombo, along with a 24-hour ambulance service.
Speaking at the launch, NovaNest Properties Chief Executive Officer Samitha Waidyasekera said today’s homebuyers were looking beyond square footage and increasingly seeking homes that offered convenience, accessibility and long-term value.
“Rainbow Apartments was created to bring together a strategic location, thoughtful design and quality construction in a way that will continue to meet buyers’ needs for years to come. Through our promise of ‘Luxury Beyond Expectations,’ we are committed to delivering an elevated lifestyle experience that combines comfort, convenience and modern living,” he said.
He added that the project aimed to introduce a new standard of residential living in Ratmalana while creating a community where residents would genuinely enjoy coming home every day.
NovaNest Properties Head of Brand & Communications Thilina Magalla said the company’s focus had been on how the project would be experienced by prospective buyers, particularly in terms of location, convenience and long-term value.
He said Rainbow Apartments formed part of the company’s broader vision to develop residential communities that combine quality construction with customer-focused design and contribute to the continued development of Sri Lanka’s urban landscape.
The launch of Rainbow Apartments comes amid growing interest in apartment living, with buyers increasingly seeking homes that offer convenience, security and accessibility while also providing potential for long-term capital growth.
16.07.2026
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Building an AI-Ready Workforce for Sri Lanka's Digital Future
Arundhati Bhattacharya
President & CEO for Salesforce - South Asia
Sri Lanka is at an inflection point. The question is not whether AI will reshape its economy — it already is. The question is whether Sri Lanka's youth will shape that future, or simply inherit it.
The government's ambition to build a 200,000-strong digitally skilled workforce by 2030 and its vision of a USD 15 billion digital economy are bold — and right. They signal something important: that the country's real competitive advantage will not be found in infrastructure or capital, but in its people.
I have seen this play out firsthand. Across South Asia, the nations and enterprises that are pulling ahead are not necessarily those with the deepest technology stacks. They are the ones that invested earliest and most deliberately in human capability. Talent is the variable that determines whether technology becomes a competitive edge or just a cost.
AI changes everything — and AI changes nothing about this fundamental truth. As intelligent agents take on more of the routine, what becomes irreplaceably valuable is exactly what young people can offer: creativity, contextual judgment, the ability to ask the right questions and lead with empathy. The future does not belong to AI. It belongs to people who know how to work with it.
That is why the collaboration between government, academia and industry is not a nice-to-have — it is the entire game. The skills gap will not be closed by any one actor alone. On World Youth Skills Day, I want to say this plainly: Sri Lanka has the talent. What it needs is the ecosystem to grow it, challenge it and keep it. Build that — and the digital economy will follow.
16.07.2026
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ජෝන් කීල්ස් පදනම සහ මධ්යම පරිසර අධිකාරිය අතර පවතින දීර්ඝකාලීන හවුල්කාරීත්වය යටතේ රූමස්සල සොබාකෙත ක්ෂේත්ර අධ්යයන මධ්යස්ථානය අලුත්වැඩියා කෙරේ
රූමස්සල සොබාකෙත ක්ෂේත්ර අධ්යයන මධ්යස්ථානය 2008 මැයි 01 දින ආරම්භ වූයේ මධ්යම පරිසර අධිකාරිය සහ ජෝන් කීල්ස් පදනම අතර පුරෝගාමී රාජ්ය-පෞද්ගලික හවුල්කාරීත්වයක් වශයෙනි. මෙම වසර මුලදී ජෝන් කීල්ස් පදනමේ දායකත්වය යටතේ පුළුල් ප්රතිසංස්කරණවලට ලක් වූ එය 2026 ජූලි 8 දින නැවතත් මධ්යම පරිසර අධිකාරියට නිල වශයෙන් භාර දෙන ලදී.
මෙම අවස්ථාවට මධ්යම පරිසර අධිකාරියේ සභාපති මහාචාර්ය තිලක් හේවාවසම්, එම අධිකාරියේ දකුණු පළාත් අධ්යක්ෂතුමන් සහ සහකාර අධ්යක්ෂතුමන්, ජෝන් කීල්ස් සමූහයේ දේපළ හා සංචාරකඅංශ සභාපති නයන මාවිල්මඩ, Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts ප්රධාන විධායක නිලධාරී හිෂාන් සිංහවංස, ජෝන් කීල්ස් සමූහයේ ප්රධාන මානව සම්පත් නිලධාරී ඉසුරු ගුණසේකර සහ සමූහ ආයතනික සමාජ වගකීම් ප්රධානී කාමලීන් ජයසූරිය යන මහත්ම මහත්මීන් සමඟ ජෝන් කීල්ස් පදනම සහ Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts නියෝජනය කරන තවත් නිලධාරීහු පිරිසක්ද සහභාගී වූහ.
ඓතිහාසික වටිනාකමකින් යුත් දර්ශනීය රූමස්සල කන්දේ පිහිටා ඇති මෙම මධ්යස්ථානය පසුගිය වසර 18 පුරාම පාරිසරික අධ්යයන කටයුතු සඳහා පහසුකම් සලසන කේන්ද්රයක් ලෙස ක්රියාත්මක වී තිබේ. පාසල් සිසුන්, රජයේ නිලධාරීන් සහ වෙනත් පුද්ගලයන් 23,480 කට අධික පිරිසක් මේ දක්වා මෙම මධ්යස්ථානය භාවිතා කර ඇත. මධ්යම පරිසර අධිකාරිය විසින් සිය ප්රමුඛතම පාරිසරික ක්ෂේත්ර මධ්යස්ථානය ලෙස භාවිතා කරනු ලබන මෙම මධ්යස්ථානය හරහා ලැබෙන සේවාවන් මින් ඉදිරියට තවදුරටත් පුළුල් වනු ඇත. එමෙන්ම ඉදිරියේදී මෙය වඩාත් ස්වාධීන මධ්යස්ථානයක් ලෙස පවත්වාගැනීමේ හැකියාව සොයාබැලීමටද තීරණය වී තිබේ.
“ප්රතිසංස්කරණය කරන ලද රූමස්සල සොබාකෙත ක්ෂේත්ර අධ්යයන මධ්යස්ථානය නැවත මධ්යම පරිසර අධිකාරිය වෙත භාරදීමේ උත්සවයට සහභාගී වීමට ලැබීම මහත් සතුටක්. මෙම මධ්යස්ථානය 2008 වසරේදී ආරම්භ කරන ලද්දේ ජෝන් කීල්ස් පදනමේ මූල්ය ආධාර ඇතිවයි. එය නැවත ප්රතිසංස්කරණය කර මධ්යම පරිසර අධිකාරියට භාර දීම අද සිදු වුණා. මෙම මධ්යස්ථානය පාසල් සිසුන්ට අත්දැකීම් තුළින් ඉගෙන ගැනීමට සහ ධනාත්මක ආකල්ප වර්ධනය කරගැනීමට සහය වෙමින්, අනාගත පරම්පරාවන් තුළ පරිසරය පිළිබඳ විශාල ගෞරවයක් ඇතිකරවන කේන්ද්රයක් ලෙස දිගින් දිගටම ක්රියාත්මක වේවි. මෙම මධ්යස්ථානය මඟින් ඉටුවන මෙහෙවර බාධාවකින් තොරව දීර්ඝකාලීනව පවත්වාගෙන යාම සඳහා ඉදිරියේදී එය වඩාත් ස්වාධීන පැවැත්මක් සහිත ස්ථානයක් බවට පත්කිරීමට මධ්යම පරිසර අධිකාරිය බලාපොරොත්තු වනවා. මෙහිදී අපගේ අවසාන ඉලක්කය වන්නේ පරිසරය කෙරෙහි වගකීමෙන් කටයුතු කරන සමාජයක් නිර්මාණය කිරීමයි. පරිසරය රැකගැනීම යනු අනාගතය රැකගැනීමක්.” මධ්යම පරිසර අධිකාරියේ සභාපති මහාචාර්ය තිලක් හේවාවසම් මහතා පැවසීය.
මෙම ප්රතිසංස්කරණ ව්යාපෘතිය ස්වභාවික සම්පත්, වාසස්ථාන, ජෛව විවිධත්වය සහ වනජීවීන් සංරක්ෂණය හා ප්රවර්ධනය කිරීම තුළින් සැමගේ ජීවන තත්ත්වය උසස් කිරීම සඳහා ජෝන් කීල්ස් පදනම දරන උත්සාහයට මනා සාක්ෂියකි. එමෙන්ම එය පරිසර සංරක්ෂණය හා ජෛව විවිධත්වය පිළිබඳ දැනුවත්භාවය ප්රවර්ධනය කිරීම සඳහා රාජ්ය සහ පෞද්ගලික අංශ අතර හවුල්කාරීත්වයන් ඇතිකර ගැනීමේ වැදගත්කම මැනැවින් පිළිබිඹු කරයි.
“අද මේ සනිටුහන් වූයේ ජෛව විවිධත්ව සංරක්ෂණය සඳහා ජෝන් කීල්ස් සමාගම දක්වන කැපවීමේ තවත් වැදගත් සන්ධිස්ථානයක්. මේ දක්වා පරිසර අධ්යයන කටයුතු වෙනුවෙන් අමිල මෙහෙවරක් ඉටු කළ රූමස්සල ක්ෂේත්ර මධ්යස්ථානය සම්පූර්ණයෙන්ම අලුත්වැඩියා කර, එහි ධාරිතාව පුළුල් කර නැවත විවෘත කිරීමට අපට හැකි වුණා. දීර්ඝ කාලයක් පුරා අභියෝග රැසක් මධ්යයේ පවා මෙම මධ්යස්ථානය හරහා පාසල් සිසුන් ඇතුළු විශාල පිරිසක් වෙනුවෙන් විවිධ පාරිසරික වැඩසටහන් පැවැත්වීමට මධ්යම පරිසර අධිකාරිය ක්රියා කළ ආකාරය ප්රශංසනීයයි. එමෙන්ම මෙම ව්යාපෘතිය ක්රියාවට නැංවීමේදී Cinnamon Nature Trails, Cinnamon Hotel Engineering සහ Cinnamon by Hikka Tranz වෙතින් ලැබුණු සහයෝගය සහ මොරටුව විශ්ව විද්යාලයේ ගෘහ නිර්මාණ පීඨය වෙතින් ලැබුණු මඟපෙන්වීම අප බෙහෙවින් අගය කරනවා. ඉදිරි වසරවලදී මෙම මධ්යස්ථානය තවත් දහස් ගණනකට පරිසර පිළිබඳ වටිනා දැනුමක් සහ අවබෝධයක් ලබාදේවි. එමෙන්ම මෙය වඩාත් ස්වාධීන මධ්යස්ථානයක් ලෙස පවත්වාගෙන යාම සඳහා දරන උත්සාහයන්ට පූර්ණ සහයෝගය ලබාදීමටත් අප බලාපොරොත්තු වනවා.” ජෝන් කීල්ස් සමූහ ව්යාපාරයේ ආයතනික සමාජ වගකීම් ප්රධානී කාමලීන් ජයසූරිය පැවසුවාය.
රූමස්සල ක්ෂේත්ර මධ්යස්ථානය නැවත විවෘත කිරීමේ උත්සවයේදී ඊට අදාළ විශේෂ සමරු ඵලකයක් නිරාවරණය කරන ලද අතර, ජෝන් කීල්ස් පදනම විසින් රූමස්සල පිළිබඳ නිර්මාණය කරන ලද වාර්තා චිත්රපටයක්ද ප්රදර්ශනය කරන ලදි. එමෙන්ම එහිදී මධ්යම පරිසර අධිකාරියේ ඉදිරි සැලසුම් අනාවරණය කිරීම සහ මධ්යස්ථානය නිල වශයෙන් භාරදීමේ ලේඛනය දෙපාර්ශ්වය අතර හුවමාරු කරගැනීමද සිදු විය. උත්සවයෙන් අනතුරුව ඊට සහභාගී වූවන් මධ්යස්ථානයේ නිරීක්ෂණ චාරිකාවක නිරත වූ අතර, වර්තමාන හා අනාගත සහයෝගීතාවන් පිළිබඳ සාකච්ඡාවලද නිරත වූහ.
ජෝන් කීල්ස් හෝල්ඩින්ස් පීඑල්සී හි ආයතනික සමාජ වගකීමඅංශය වන ජෝන් කීල්ස් පදනමේ අවධානය යොමුවන ප්රධානතම අංශ (නව වර්ගීකරණය අනුව) වන්නේ අධ්යාපනය, ප්රජාව් හා ජීවනෝපාය , සමාජ සෞඛ්යය හා සහජීවනය සහ ජෛව විවිධත්වය යන අංශ 4 යි. කොළඹ කොටස් වෙළඳ පොළේ විශාලතම ලැයිස්තුගත සමාගම වන ජෝන් කීල්ස් හෝල්ඩින්ග්ස් පීඑල්සී පරිපාලිත සමාගමක්ද වේ. විවිධාංගීකෘත කර්මාන්ත අංශයන් 7ක පවතින සමාගම් 80කට වැඩි ප්රමාණයක් මෙහෙයවනු ලබන JKH ආයතනය සේවක සේවිකාවන් 18,000 කට අධික පිරිසකට රැකියාවන් ලබා දෙන අතර වසර 20 ක් පුරා ශ්රී ලංකාවේ වඩාත් ගෞරවනීය ආයතනය ලෙස LMD සඟරාව මගින් ශ්රේණිගත කර ඇත. ‘ට්රාන්ස්පේරන්සි ඉන්ටර්නැෂනල් ශ්රී ලංකා’ විසින් සිද කරන ලද ආයතනික වාර්තාකරණයේ විනිවිදභාවය ඇගයීමේ සමීක්ෂණයේදී ජෝන් කීල්ස් හෝල්ඩින්ග්ස් පීඑල්සී අඛණ්ඩව සිව්වන වසරටත් ප්රථම ස්ථානයට පත් විය. ලෝක ආර්ථික සංසදයේ පූර්ණ සාමාජිකයෙකු සහ එක්සත් ජාතීන්ගේ ගෝලීය සංයුක්තයේ සහභාගිකයෙකු වන ජෝන් කීල්ස්, ජෝන් කීල්ස් පදනම හරහා සහ සමාජ ව්යවසායකත්ව මුලපිරීම හරහා “බලගන්වමු දේශය හෙට දිනට” පිළිබඳ දැක්ම මෙහෙයවන අතර, Plasticcycle සමාජ ව්යවසායකත්ව වැඩසටහන හරහා ශ්රී ලංකාවේ ප්ලාස්ටික් දූෂණය සැලකිය යුතු ලෙස අඩු කිරීමේ උත්ප්රේරකයක් ලෙසින් ද ක්රියා කරයි.
16.07.2026
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360 Skin Clinic සහ 360 Aesthetics විසින් ISO 9001:2015 ජාත්යන්තර තත්ත්ව සහතිකය හිමිකර ගනී
360 Skin Clinic සහ 360 Aesthetics ආයතන පසුගිය දා ISO 9001:2015 / SLS ISO 9001:2015 තත්ත්ව සහතිකයෙන් පිදුම් ලැබීය. ශ්රී ලංකාවේ රූපලාවන්ය, සර්වකළ්යාණ (wellness) සහ සම වෙනුවෙන් සිදුකරන සත්කාර ක්ෂේත්රයේ ප්රමුඛතම සන්නාමයක් ලෙස ඔවුන් සතු ස්ථානය, සායනික විශිෂ්ටත්වය සහ නවෝත්පාදන සේවා සැපයීම යන අංශයන් ඔස්සේ හිමි කර ගත් මෙම සුවිශේෂී ජයග්රහණය තුළින් තවදුරටත් තහවුරු වේ.
360 Wellness Centre (Pvt) Ltd ජාත්යන්තරව පිළිගත් ISO 9001:2015 ප්රමිතීන්ට අනුකූලව තම තත්ත්ව කළමනාකරණ පද්ධතිය සාර්ථකව ක්රියාත්මක කර ඇති බව ශ්රී ලංකා ප්රමිති ආයතනය (SLSI) විසින් පිරිනමන ලද මෙම අනුකූලතා සහතිකය මඟින් සනාථ කර තිබේ. මෙය ආයතනයක ගුණාත්මකභාවය සහ අඛණ්ඩ දියුණුව වෙනුවෙන් පිරිනමනු ලබන ඉහළම අන්තර්ජාතික ඇගයීමකි.
Dr. Cherry ලෙස ජනාදරයට පත් ප්රකට රූපලාවන්ය සහ සෞන්දර්ය වෛද්යවරියක වන වෛද්ය සාරා ෆාසි විසින් ආරම්භ කරන ලද '360' සන්නාමය, වෛද්ය විශේෂඥතාව සමඟ අභිරුචිකරණය කළ සත්කාර, නවීන තාක්ෂණය සහ පාරිභෝගික යහපැවැත්ම වෙනුවෙන් දක්වන ලද කැපවීම වෙනුවෙන් ඉහළ විශ්වාසයක් සහ පිළිගැනීමක් දිනා ගෙන සිටී. වසර ගණනාවක් පුරා සදාචාරාත්මක වෛද්ය පිළිවෙත්, නව්යකරණය සහ විශ්වසනීය ප්රතිඵල කෙරෙහි දැඩි අවධානයක් යොමු කරමින් මෙම සායනය සිය සේවාවන් පුළුල් කර තිබේ.
මෙම සුවිශේෂී ජයග්රහණය පිළිබඳව අදහස් දක්වමින් 360 Skin Clinic සහ 360 Aesthetics ආයතනයන්හි නිර්මාතෘ වෛද්ය සාරා ෆාසි මහත්මිය මෙසේ සඳහන් කළේය. "මෙම සහතිකය දිනා ගැනීම අපගේ මුළු කණ්ඩායමටම ඉමහත් ආඩම්බරයක් පිරිනමන අවස්ථාවක්. එමෙන්ම අපි දිනපතා අපගේ සේවාවන් තුළ පවත්වා ගැනීමට උත්සාහ කරන උසස් ප්රමිතීන් මෙයින් මැනවින් පිළිබිඹු වෙනවා. ගුණාත්මක සත්කාරය, රෝගී ආරක්ෂාව සහ වෘත්තීය විශිෂ්ටත්වය සැමවිටම අපගේ මූලික දැක්මයි. ISO 9001:2015 සහතිකය හිමිවීම, අප කෙරෙහි විශ්වාසය තබන සෑම පාරිභෝගිකයෙකු වෙනුවෙන්ම අන්තර්ජාතික මට්ටමේ සේවාවක් සැපයීමට අප සතු කැපවීම සනාථ කරයි."
මෙම ජයග්රහණය 360 Skin Clinic සහ 360 Aesthetics හි නව පරිච්ඡේදයක් සනිටුහන් කරන අතර ඒ ඔස්සේ පිරිනමන සියලුම ප්රතිකාරයන්, වෛද්ය උපදේශනයන් සහ පාරිභෝගික සේවාවන් ජාත්යන්තරව පිළිගත්, ආරක්ෂිත සහ කාර්යක්ෂම ක්රියාවලියකට අනුව සිදුවන බව සහතික කරයි.
ප්රමිතිකරණය සඳහා වූ ජාත්යන්තර සංවිධානය (ISO) විසින් සකස් කරන ලද ගෝලීය වශයෙන් පිළිගත් රාමුවක් වන ISO 9001:2015 මඟින් ආයතනයක මෙහෙයුම් කාර්යක්ෂමතාව ඉහළ නැංවීමට, ස්ථාවර සේවා ගුණාත්මකභාවයක් පවත්වා ගැනීමට සහ පාරිභෝගික අත්දැකීම් අඛණ්ඩව වැඩිදියුණු කිරීමට ව්යුහගත ආකෘතියක් සපයයි.
වැඩිදුරටත් අදහස් එක් කරමින් වෛද්ය සාරා මෙසේ ප්රකාශ කළාය. "රූපලාවන්ය සහ සර්වකල්යාණ (wellness) සත්කාරයන් වගකීම, නිරවද්යතාවය සහ සහකම්පනය මූලික කරගනිමින් සිදුකළ යුතු බව 360 Skin Clinic සහ 360 Aesthetics ආයතනය තුළ අප දැඩිව විශ්වාස කරනවා. මෙම සුවිශේෂී සන්ධිස්ථානය ශ්රී ලංකාවේ සෞන්දර්ය වෛද්ය විද්යාව සහ සර්වකල්යාණ සත්කාර (wellness ) ක්ෂේත්රයේ ප්රමිතීන් තවදුරටත් ඉහළ නැංවීමට අපව දිරිමත් කරනවා."
360 Skin Clinic සහ 360 Aesthetics ආයතනය සතු විශ්වසනීය සහ උසස් තත්ත්වයේ සේවාවන් සැපයීමේ හැකියාව, ශක්තිමත් තත්ත්ව පාලන පද්ධති, අභ්යන්තර ක්රියාවලීන්හි අඛණ්ඩ දියුණුව, විනිවිදභාවය, වගවීම, වෘත්තීයභාවය මෙන්ම පාරිභෝගික ආරක්ෂාව සහ තෘප්තිය කෙරෙහි දක්වන ප්රමුඛතාවය මෙම සහතිකකරණය ඔස්සේ මැනවින් ඉස්මතු වේ.
වෛද්ය සහ රූපලාවන්ය සමේ සත්කාර, හිසකෙස් සත්කාර, සෞන්දර්ය උපදේශන, මුහුණේ සත්කාර (facials), රූපලාවන්ය ක්රියා පටිපාටි, නිය සත්කාර, ශල්යමය නොවන බාහිර පෙනුම වැඩිදියුණු කිරීම් සහ හිසකෙස් බද්ධ කිරීමේ සේවාවන් (hair transplantation) ඇතුළු පුළුල් අංශ රැසක් මෙම සහතිකය මඟින් ආවරණය කරයි.
මෙම පිළිගැනීම තුළින් පාරිභෝගිකයන් වෙත අමතර විශ්වාසයක් පිරිනමන අතර, දියුණු තාක්ෂණය සහ නවීන ක්රමවේද භාවිතා කරමින් පුහුණු වෘත්තිකයන් විසින් ජාත්යන්තර ප්රමිතීන්ට අනුකූලව සිය සත්කාර සිදුකරන බව එමඟින් තහවුරු කරනු ලබයි.
360 Skin Clinic ආරම්භයේ සිටම ශ්රී ලංකාවේ රූපලාවන්ය, සෞඛ්ය සම්පන්න බව සහ ස්වයං සත්කාරය (self-care) නව මානයකට ඔසවා තැබීමේ මෙහෙවර කෙරෙහි සිය අවධානය යොමු කළේය. අනාගතය පිළිබඳ පැහැදිලි අවබෝධයක් සහිත සංකල්පයක් ඔස්සේ ඇරඹි මෙම ආයතනය, අද වන විට පාරිභෝගිකයන්ට ඔවුන්ගේ හොඳම පෙනුම සහ නිරෝගීභාවය ළඟා කර දීම සඳහා කැප වූ විශේෂඥ කණ්ඩායමකගේ සහාය සමඟින් විශ්වාසනීය සන්නාමයක් බවට පත්ව ඇත.
සෑම පුද්ගලයෙකුගේම සමේ සත්කාර සහ සෞඛ්ය ඉලක්කයන්ට ගැළපෙන පරිදි සකස් කරන ලද ප්රතිකාර සැලසුම් සැකසීම සඳහා සවිස්තරාත්මක උපදේශන සහ ඇගයීම් සිදු කිරීම සම්බන්ධයෙන් 360 Skin Clinic ඉහළ පාරිභෝගිකයන් අතර සුප්රසිද්ධ වී තිබේ. ක්ෂේත්රයේ පෙරමුණෙහි රැදෙමින් නවීනතම තාක්ෂණය සහ සාක්ෂි මත පදනම් වූ (evidence-based) ප්රතිකාරයන් තවදුරටත් පාරිභෝගිකයා වෙත සැපයීම වෙනුවෙන් වෛද්ය සෞන්දර්ය කණ්ඩායම නිරන්තර ආයෝජනයන් සිදු කරයි.
මෙම ISO 9001:2015 / SLS ISO 9001:2015 තත්ත්ව සහතිකය ලබා ගැනීමත් සමඟ පාරිභෝගිකයන්ට ඉහළම විශ්වාසයකින් තෝරාගත හැකි ඉහළම සත්කාර සහ විශ්වාසදායක ප්රතිඵල පිරිනමන ආයතනයන් ලෙස 360 Skin Clinic සහ 360 Aesthetics සිය පොරොන්දුව තවදුරටත් සවිමත් කරයි.
16.07.2026
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Tata Group, DIMO and ChildFund Support 27,000 Disaster-Affected Schoolchildren in Sri Lanka
By Vipula Amarasinghe
The Tata Group, in partnership with DIMO and ChildFund, has launched a humanitarian education support initiative to assist schoolchildren affected by Cyclone Ditwah and the subsequent floods in Sri Lanka.
The initiative, titled “Hope in a Backpack,” provides essential educational supplies to disaster-affected children and forms part of a wider effort to support communities in their recovery.
The programme was officially launched at Taj Samudra, Colombo, in the presence of Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya, Indian High Commissioner Santosh Jha, DIMO Chairman Ranjith Pandithage, Tata Sons Group Chief Sustainability Officer Chacko Thomas and ChildFund Country Director Aditi Ghosh.
The initiative follows a formal request for support from Sri Lanka and an on-ground assessment conducted in December 2025. Recognising the urgent needs of affected communities, several Tata companies joined forces with DIMO and ChildFund to implement the humanitarian response.
Under DIMO's Social and Community Pillar and its “Lassana Hetak” project, the initiative focuses on supporting the future generation and helping children continue their education despite the challenges caused by the disasters.
Tata and DIMO volunteers also played an active role in packing and distributing the educational supplies and supporting affected communities. Specially invited schoolchildren received the backpacks containing essential educational items during the launch proceedings.
DIMO Chairman Ranjith Pandithage said the company was proud to collaborate with the Tata Group and ChildFund as the local implementation and logistics partner.
“Our relationship with Tata spans more than six decades and has been built on a shared commitment to ethical business practices, trust and creating lasting value for the communities we serve,” he said.
He added that the initiative would help children affected by the disaster return to school with confidence while supporting the continued recovery of communities across Sri Lanka.
Tata Sons Chief Sustainability Officer Chacko Thomas said the Tata Group believes that communities are central to the purpose of business.
“We are honoured to support the people of Sri Lanka, especially children affected by Cyclone Ditwah, as they rebuild their lives. We hope that this initiative will significantly help communities move forward with confidence and renewed hope,” he said.
The district-wise distribution programme has reached its target of supporting 27,000 students. This includes more than 8,000 students in 101 schools in Kandy, nearly 5,000 students in 54 schools in Nuwara Eliya and over 11,000 students in 77 schools in Badulla, with additional critical support provided to the Kegalle district.
The initiative reflects the shared commitment of the Tata Group, DIMO and ChildFund to ensuring educational continuity, protecting vulnerable communities and contributing to Sri Lanka's ongoing recovery.
15.07.20269
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Global Business Leaders to Headline Sri Lanka Corporate Director Summit 2026
By Vipula Amarasinghe
Internationally acclaimed business leaders, governance experts, academics and leading Sri Lankan corporate figures will gather in Colombo later this month to discuss how corporate boards can move beyond compliance and drive sustainable growth in an increasingly complex global business environment.
Organised by the Sri Lanka Institute of Directors (SLID), the Sri Lanka Corporate Director Summit 2026 will be held on 22 July 2026 at the Cinnamon Grand Colombo under the theme, "Future-Ready Sri Lankan Directors – From Compliance to Sustainable Growth."
Widely regarded as Sri Lanka's premier boardroom leadership event, the summit will explore the evolving role of corporate directors as organisations face rapid technological change, artificial intelligence (AI), cybersecurity threats, geopolitical uncertainty, economic volatility, supply chain disruptions and growing expectations surrounding sustainability and environmental, social and governance (ESG) standards.
The summit will examine whether today's boards are equipped not only to ensure regulatory compliance but also to provide the strategic leadership needed to foster innovation, resilience and long-term value creation.
Former President and Speaker of the Maldives, H.E. Mohamed Nasheed, will deliver the keynote address, sharing his perspectives on sustainability, resilience and the increasing importance of ESG principles in shaping corporate success.
The distinguished international speaker line-up also includes Prof. Selva Pankaj, Group Chairman of Regent Global, who will discuss how boards can lead innovation while balancing governance, risk management and sustainable growth.
Duleesha Kulasooriya, Asia Pacific Innovation Leader and Managing Director at Deloitte's Center for the Edge, will examine how artificial intelligence and emerging technologies are transforming governance and challenging organisations to rethink future business models.
Technology governance and the strategic, legal and ethical implications of artificial intelligence and cybersecurity will be addressed by Prof. Harin Sellahewa, Professor of Computing and Dean of the Faculty of Computing, Law and Psychology at the University of Buckingham.
Other internationally recognised speakers include Priyan Fernando, a respected corporate leader and board adviser with extensive experience across Asia, the Middle East and Europe, who will share insights into organisational transformation and leadership during periods of uncertainty.
The people dimension of business transformation will be explored by Himanshu Priyadarshi, Partner and Associate Director – People Strategy at Boston Consulting Group, who will discuss workforce transformation, leadership capability and organisational resilience in an AI-driven economy.
The programme also features Prof. Deba Bardhan Correia, Dean at the University of Buckingham, who will focus on leadership development, while Rajiv Krishnan, Managing Director and CEO of Ma Foi Strategic Consultants and Ma Foi Education Services, will examine why talent management, organisational culture and productivity have become key priorities for modern corporate boards.
The international experts will be joined by an impressive panel of Sri Lanka's leading chairpersons, directors, chief executive officers, regulators and governance professionals, creating a platform that combines global best practices with local business perspectives.
Rather than following a traditional conference format, the summit will feature interactive boardroom discussions across four thematic sessions, concluding with a high-level Fireside Chat titled "Building Future-Ready Sri Lankan Boards – The Road Ahead."
Discussions will focus on whether compliance has begun to overshadow strategy, the level of AI literacy directors require to effectively govern digital organisations, the impact of organisational culture on long-term enterprise value, and how boards can promote innovation, productivity and resilience while maintaining stakeholder confidence.
As Sri Lanka seeks renewed economic growth and enhanced global competitiveness, the summit aims to highlight the critical role of effective board leadership in shaping the country's corporate future.
The Sri Lanka Corporate Director Summit 2026 will take place on Wednesday, 22 July 2026, from 9.00 a.m. to 7.30 p.m. at the Cinnamon Grand Colombo. Registrations are currently open for corporate leaders, directors and governance professionals interested in participating in the event.
14.07.2026
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India Provides Rs. 600 Million Grant to Equip New Base Hospital in Deniyaya
By Vipula Amarasinghe
India has extended a grant of Sri Lankan Rs. 600 million to support the supply of modern medical equipment for the new Base Hospital in Deniyaya, further strengthening the long-standing health sector partnership between India and Sri Lanka.
A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the project was signed on Monday by the High Commissioner of India to Sri Lanka, H.E. Santosh Jha, and the Secretary to the Ministry of Health and Mass Media, Dr. Anil Jasinghe. The signing ceremony was attended by the Minister of Health and Mass Media, Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa.
The grant will be used to equip the new Deniyaya Base Hospital, which is being relocated by the Sri Lankan Government from its current disaster-prone location as part of a comprehensive disaster preparedness initiative. The relocation project is expected to be completed within the next three years, with the delivery and installation of medical equipment scheduled during the final stages of construction.
The assistance forms part of the US$450 million support package announced by the Government of India to assist Sri Lanka's reconstruction and rehabilitation efforts following Cyclone Ditwah.
Under the agreement, India will fund the procurement of state-of-the-art medical equipment for several key departments of the new hospital. These include general wards, High Dependency Units (HDU), emergency and isolation units, operating theatres, Out-Patient Department (OPD), laboratories, the Central Sterile Supply Department (CSSD), radiology services, blood bank, physiotherapy unit, and the Special Care Baby Unit (SCBU) and Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU).
The initiative is expected to significantly enhance healthcare services in the Deniyaya area by improving access to modern medical technology and strengthening the hospital's capacity to deliver quality healthcare while ensuring greater resilience during natural disasters.
The project also reflects the continuing importance of the health sector within the broader India–Sri Lanka development partnership. Over the years, India has supported several major healthcare initiatives across the island, including the nationwide 990 Suwa Seriya ambulance service, the construction of the multi-specialty hospital in Dickoya, the surgical unit at Batticaloa Teaching Hospital, and the upgrading of Jaffna Teaching Hospital as well as district hospitals in Kilinochchi and Mullaitivu.
India is also currently supporting the construction and supply of medical equipment for the Accident and Emergency Unit at the District General Hospital in Mannar, along with the construction of a four-storey medical ward complex at the District General Hospital in Mullaitivu.
The latest grant underscores India's continued commitment to supporting Sri Lanka's healthcare infrastructure and disaster resilience while further deepening bilateral development cooperation between the two neighbouring countries.
14.07.2026
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Nepal Embassy in Colombo Celebrates 213th Bhanu Jayanti, Honouring Literary Legacy and Nepal–Sri Lanka Cultural Ties
By R.S. Kanthi
The Embassy of Nepal in Colombo celebrated the 213th Bhanu Jayanti with a special cultural event, paying tribute to Nepal's Adikavi (First Poet), Bhanubhakta Acharya, while highlighting the enduring cultural, literary and civilizational ties between Nepal and Sri Lanka.
Addressing the gathering, Chargé d'Affaires Mr. Vijay Kumar Raut emphasized that the legacy of Bhanubhakta Acharya continues to strengthen the long-standing friendship between Nepal and Sri Lanka through shared cultural heritage, literature and people-to-people connections. He noted that the poet's contributions, together with the work of bilateral friendship organizations, have helped deepen mutual understanding between the two countries.
The celebration brought together a distinguished gathering of guests, including members of the Nepali community living in Sri Lanka and the Maldives, representatives of the Nepal–Sri Lanka Friendship Association, the Sri Lanka–Nepal Buddhist Association, the Sri Lanka–Nepal Business Council, members of the diplomatic corps and other invited dignitaries.
A key highlight of the event was a reflection on Bhanubhakta Acharya's celebrated poem, "Ghaasi" (The Grass-Cutter). The poem recounts the story of a humble grass-cutter whose desire to leave a meaningful contribution to society by constructing a public well inspired the poet to seek a lasting legacy of his own.
Inspired by this selfless vision, Bhanubhakta translated the epic Ramayana from Sanskrit into simple and accessible Nepali, making one of the world's greatest literary works available to ordinary people. His translation not only democratized a sacred text but also played a significant role in fostering linguistic unity and cultural identity among the diverse communities of Nepal.
Speakers at the event noted that celebrating Bhanu Jayanti in Colombo holds special significance, as the Ramayana represents a timeless cultural bridge linking Nepal and Sri Lanka through shared history, heritage and spiritual traditions. By honouring the poet who brought the epic closer to the common people, the celebration also reaffirmed the deep-rooted civilizational bonds that have connected the two nations for centuries.
The Embassy of Nepal said the annual observance of Bhanu Jayanti serves not only as a tribute to Nepal's foremost literary figure but also as an opportunity to strengthen cultural diplomacy and promote closer friendship between the peoples of Nepal and Sri Lanka.
13.07.2026
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New Leadership Takes Charge at Lions Multiple District 306, Sri Lanka
A new Lionistic year has begun for Lions International Multiple District 306, Sri Lanka, bringing with it renewed vision, stronger commitment and a dynamic leadership team ready to guide the movement through 2026/2027. As one of the most respected service organizations in the country, Lions Multiple District 306 continues its proud mission of empowering communities, supporting humanitarian causes and creating meaningful change through dedicated volunteer service.
At the forefront of this new chapter is Lion Rajitha Rodrigo PMJF PMAF, who assumes leadership as the Multiple Council Chairperson for 2026/2027. His appointment marks an important milestone for Lions in Sri Lanka, bringing forward a leadership style built on experience, professionalism, collaboration and service-minded dedication. Under his guidance, the Multiple District is expected to move forward with renewed energy, focusing on impactful service projects, membership growth, youth engagement, leadership development and stronger community outreach.
Lions Multiple District 306 operates under the guidance and advisory support of a distinguished panel of senior Lion leaders, including International President 2007/2008 Lion Mahendra Amarasuriya PMJF PMAF, LCIF Trustee and Past International Director Lion Mahesh Pasqual PMJF PMAF, Past International Director Lion Sunil Watwala PMJF PMAF and Past International Board Appointee Lion Sarath De Fonseka PMJF PMAF. Their visionary leadership, vast experience and continued commitment to Lionism provide invaluable direction in strengthening service, leadership and humanitarian impact across the Multiple District.
The beginning of the new Lionistic year reflects both continuity and transformation. Lions International has long been recognized for its commitment to serving humanity, while the Sri Lankan Lions movement has played a vital role in addressing community needs across health, environment, education, hunger relief, disaster response and social development. The new leadership team is expected to strengthen these service areas while introducing fresh ideas to expand the reach and relevance of Lionism across the island.
Twelve Honorable District Governors were elected for 2026/2027, representing the expanded leadership structure of Lions Multiple District 306. These district leaders will play a great role in implementing service programs, supporting clubs, encouraging membership engagement and ensuring that Lions projects reach communities in every part of the country.
The newly elected District Governors are Lion M. Pravin Silva, MJF – Lions District 306 D1, Lion Sunethra Thanthriwatta MJF MAF – Lions District 306 D2, Lion Dr. Jeewantha Perera MJF, PMAF – Lions District 306 D3, Lion Diluka Mahawatte, PMJF PMAF - Lions District 306 D4, Lion P. K. Gayan Lakmal PMJF PMAF JP – Lions District 306 D5, Lion Jayasinghe Bandara MJF MAF – Lions District 306 D6, Lion Chandika Dedigama MJF – Lions District 306 D7, Lion Ravindra Kalansooriya MJF MAF – Lions District 306 D8, Lion Umashankar Janaranjan PMJF PMAF – Lions District 306 D9, Lion Shahir Ahmad PMJF PMAF – Lions District 306 D10, Lion D. M. Pushpakumara Dissanayake PMJF MAF – Lions District 306 D11 and Lion T. Uthayasurian MJF MAF JP – Lions District 306 D12.
Together, this leadership team represents a wide range of professional expertise, community experience and Lionistic commitment. Their collective responsibility will be to motivate clubs, develop future leaders, encourage service excellence and ensure that every district contributes meaningfully to the broader goals of Lions International.
The beginning of the Lionistic year is more than a ceremonial transition. It is a time for Lions across Sri Lanka to realign their goals, renew their commitment and work together under a common purpose. With the world facing increasing social, economic, environmental and health-related challenges, the role of service organizations has become more important than ever.
The year ahead is expected to focus on strengthening public awareness of Lions’ service initiatives, enhancing collaboration among districts, supporting youth and Leo engagement, and encouraging greater participation from communities and partners. Special attention will also be given to sustainable service projects that create long-term value beyond one-time impact.
As Lions International Multiple District 306, Sri Lanka, steps into the 2026/2027 Lionistic year, the message is clear: the movement is ready to serve with purpose, lead with unity and inspire with action. Under the leadership of Multiple Council Chairperson Lion Rajitha Rodrigo and the 12 District Governors, the new year promises to be one of vision, service, fellowship and meaningful impact.
With renewed leadership and a united spirit, Lions of Sri Lanka continue to uphold the global motto, “We Serve.”
13.07.2026
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‘Disaster Management’ training in India for Sri Lankan Civil Service Officers
By Vipula Amarasinghe
The 11th capacity-building programme for 40 Sri Lankan Civil Service Officers focused on ‘Disaster Management’ successfully concluded at National Centre for Good Governance (NCGG) in India on 10 July 2026.The two-week programme was organized under a bilateral Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), signed in 2024,which aims to train 1500 Sri Lankan civil servants over a five-year period. With this programme, a total of 440 officers have successfully undergone training under this initiative.
The programme enhanced participants' expertise in disaster preparedness, early warning system, mitigation strategies, national security, and governance reforms. The officers gained deep insights into India’s flagship digital and administrative initiatives, such as PM Gati Shakti, the Government e-Marketplace (GeM), Aadhaar, and Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI).
The participants undertook field visits to India's frontline disaster response and research institutions. These included National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), National Institute of Disaster Management (NIDM), Indian Institute of Remote Sensing (IIRS), Uttarakhand State Disaster Management Authority (USDMA), Haryana State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), PM Gati Shakti Experimental Centre, and PradhanmantriSangrahalaya.
In the wake of Cyclone Ditwah, the training equips Sri Lankan civil servants to effectively deploy modern crisis-response and mitigation strategies within ongoing domestic recovery efforts. By empowering officials with advanced knowledge in disaster management, the initiative strengthens Sri Lanka’s governance frameworks against future climate and environmental exigencies.
Capacity-building stands as a cornerstone of India’s development cooperation with Sri Lanka. Further reinforcing this commitment, Prime Minister of India Shri Narendra Modi, during his State Visit to Sri Lanka in April 2025, announced additional 700customized training slots annually for Sri Lankan professionals. Thissignificantly enhanced capacity-building endeavour of India thus willnow benefit 1000 Sri Lankans annually.
11.07.2026
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The special musical celebration commemorating the 69th Anniversary of the Establishment of Diplomatic Relations between Sri Lanka and Nepal
The Sri Lanka–Nepal Business Council is honored to announce Mastercard as the Title Sponsor of ‘Bridging Nations Through Harmony’, the special musical celebration commemorating the 69th Anniversary of the Establishment of Diplomatic Relations between Sri Lanka and Nepal.
In a symbolic gesture of partnership, Ms. Mahesha Amarasuriya, Country Manager of Mastercard, officially presented the sponsorship cheque to Mr. Indhra Kaushal Rajapaksa, President of the Sri Lanka–Nepal Business Council.
We extend our sincere appreciation to Mr. Vijay Kumar Raut, Charge d'Affaires, and the Embassy of Nepal in Colombo for graciously hosting the sponsorship handover ceremony.
This landmark celebration will bring together members of the diplomatic corps, government representatives, business leaders, and industry stakeholders to commemorate nearly seven decades of enduring friendship and cooperation between Sri Lanka and Nepal.
We are grateful to Mastercard for its valued partnership in making this milestone celebration possible and look forward to an evening that strengthens the bonds between our two nations through the universal language of music
10.07.2026
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Foundation stone laid for new housing units under Indian Housing Project in Badulla district
the foundation stone was laid for the construction of 57 new housing units at Cannavarella Plantation Estate in Badulla district by Sri Lanka’s Minister of Plantation and Community Infrastructure, Hon. K.V. Samantha Vidyaratna, and Consul General of India in Hambantota, Shri. Harvinder Singh. These housing units are being constructed under Phase IV of the Indian Housing Project, which envisages the construction of 10,000 houses for the plantation community across six provinces of Sri Lanka.
The Indian Housing Project is a flagship development initiative by Government of India in Sri Lanka, encompassing the construction of around 60,000 houses through grant assistance of over INR 18 billion. Under the first two phases, 46,000 houses were built or renovated in the Northern and Eastern provinces, followed by 4,000 houses in plantation regions during the third phase.
The Indian origin Tamil community and plantation regions remain a specific focus under India's development cooperation partnership with Sri Lanka. Beyond housing, landmark initiatives include the construction of a multi-specialty hospital in Dickoya, establishment of smart classrooms, upgradation of nine plantation schools and the announcement of Indian support to development of Seetha Eliya Temple. Further, a multi-sectoral package of INR 750 million was announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in July 2023, to mark 200 years of arrival of Indian origin Tamil community to Sri Lanka.
The event was also attended by Badulla District Member of Parliament, Hon. Kithnan Selvaraj, alongside senior officials from Ministry of Plantation and Community Infrastructure, representatives from Plantation Human Development Trust, and local beneficiaries from the Cannavarella estate.
07.07.2026
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Capacity building programme for 30 Officials from National Audit Office of Sri Lanka at iCISA India
A capacity-building programme for 30 officials from the National Audit Office (NAO) of Sri Lanka was held at the International Centre for Information Systems and Audit (iCISA), Noida, India from 22 June to 03 July 2026.
The programme was conducted at iCISA, a premier institution established in March 2002 and recognized as a Global Training Facility of the International Organization of Supreme Audit Institutions (INTOSAI) Working Group on IT Audit. The institute has played a significant role in strengthening audit capacities worldwide, having trained professionals from more than 150 countries through standardized, contemporary, and practice-oriented training methodologies.
The two-week programme focused on Information Technology Audit, covering a range of subjects such as Audit of Information Systems (IS), IT governance frameworks, Data Privacy, Protection of Information Assets, Cyber security, use of OCR tech on fraud detection in contracts, overview of Public Procurement Ecosystem & procurement process in India. In addition, the programme included separate sessions on audit of Government e-Marketplace (GeM), sector-specific procurement audits relating to Railways and Defence, use of data analytics and emerging technologies, among others.
This is the second edition of capacity-building module for officials of National Audit Office (NAO) of Sri Lanka. The first such programme was conducted for 35 NAO officials at iCISA, Noida, from 08 to 19 December 2025.
The programme was organized under the enhanced capacity building framework announced by Prime Minister of India Shri Narendra Modi during his State Visit to Sri Lanka in April 2025. Accordingly, 1000 customized slots are offered annually for Sri Lankan professionals and civil servants over and above all existing schemes such as ITEC.
07.07.2026
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Sri Lanka Society of Hypertension Launch Hypertension Summit 2026
Dr.Rakitha Higgoda Consultant Physician ( Secretary Sri Lanka society of hypertentson ) Dr.Durga Manohari (Treasurer Sri Lanka Society of Hypertension) Dr.Suranga Manilgama (President Sri Lanka Society of Hypertension) Dr.Maduwanthi Hettiarachchi ( President Of Sri Lanka Collage of Internal Medicine)
The Hypertension Society of Sri Lanka,has announced Hypertension Summit 2026 in collaboration with Sri Lanka College of Internal Medicine at a media conference held to raise public awareness of the growing burden of hypertension and the importance of early detection, regular screening, and timely treatment. To improve hypertension care in Sri Lanka, the summit will bring together researchers, policymakers, healthcare professionals, and other stakeholders to discuss the latest developments in diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.
One of the biggest risk factors for heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, and premature death is still hypertension. Many people continue to live with the illness without symptoms and go undetected despite its serious health consequences.
The summit, under the theme "Know Your Numbers, Control Your Pressure, Protect Your Future," will focus on strengthening prevention, enhancing diagnosis and treatment, and fostering collaboration within Sri Lanka's healthcare sector.
The event will offer a forum for discussing the newest developments in hypertension management while encouraging greater engagement among healthcare professionals, institutions, policymakers, employers, and the public.
Dr Suranga Manilgama , President of the Hypertension Society of Sri Lanka said, "Too many people are still unaware that they have hypertension, despite the fact that it is still one of the most preventable causes of heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure. The goal of the Hypertension Summit 2026 is to improve patient outcomes, strengthen prevention, and encourage more Sri Lankans to be aware of their numbers before complications arise.”
The Society also identified a number of misconceptions that still prevent early detection, such as the idea that healthy individuals don't require blood pressure checks, that hypertension primarily affects the elderly, or that high blood pressure isn't a serious illness.
Designed to support national efforts to lessen the impact of hypertension and enhance cardiovascular health outcomes in Sri Lanka, the Hypertension Summit 2026 will include expert discussions, scientific presentations, and collaborative dialogue.
To help lower long-term risk, the Hypertension Society of Sri Lanka encourages the public to frequently check their blood pressure, seek medical attention when readings are elevated, and adopt healthier lifestyle choices.
The most important number you may not know is your blood pressure. Hypertension Summit 2026 aims to change that.
30.06.2026
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MullenLowe’s Praveena Perera Becomes First Sri Lankan Woman Named to Campaign APAC’s 40 Under 40
Praveena Perera, Associate Vice President and Client Services Director at MullenLowe Group Sri Lanka
Honoured among Asia-Pacific’s most influential emerging professionals
Praveena Perera, Associate Vice President and Client Services Director at MullenLowe Group Sri Lanka, has become the first Sri Lankan woman to be named to Campaign Asia-Pacific’s 40 Under 40 list, a recognition that celebrates the region’s most influential emerging leaders across marketing, media, technology, and communications.
Now in its 14th year, Campaign Asia-Pacific's 40 Under 40 recognises outstanding professionals across the region whose achievements and leadership potential are shaping the future of the industry. Praveena earned her place on the 2026 list following a comprehensive assessment by senior industry leaders and Campaign Asia-Pacific's editorial team.
Commenting on the recognition, Praveena Perera said, “This is a deeply meaningful milestone in a journey that has been shaped by continuous learning, hard work, and the support of many people along the way. I am grateful to MullenLowe Sri Lanka, my colleagues, mentors, and family for their belief in me. Recognition such as this is never an individual achievement, and I hope it encourages more women in Sri Lanka to pursue leadership opportunities and realise their potential.”
Praveena currently leads the Unilever portfolio at MullenLowe Sri Lanka, overseeing 27 brands across four categories. Her leadership has played a pivotal role in driving business growth, strengthening client partnerships, and delivering award-winning work. These efforts contributed to MullenLowe Sri Lanka being named Creative Agency of the Year at the Campaign Agency of the Year Awards 2025, while also securing Agency of the Year and Marketer of the Year honours alongside Unilever Sri Lanka at the Effie Awards Sri Lanka 2025.
As one of the youngest Associate Vice Presidents at MullenLowe Sri Lanka and among the first women to serve on its Operating Committee, Praveena has built a reputation for leadership that extends beyond business performance. Her growing list of achievements includes being recognised among the Top 50 Professional and Career Women Global Awards in 2023, reflecting a career marked by consistent excellence, while her commitment to mentoring future talent continues to contribute to greater female representation within the industry.
Thayalan Bartlett, Executive Chairman of MullenLowe Group Sri Lanka, said, “Praveena’s recognition is thoroughly deserved. She has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership, commercial acumen, and resilience while navigating some of the most demanding circumstances our industry has faced. Her ability to balance performance, people development, and long-term thinking has distinguished her as one of the most promising leaders of her generation.”
Campaign Asia-Pacific’s 2026 cohort comprises 40 professionals representing 14 markets across the region, selected for their contributions to business growth, innovation, leadership, and industry advancement. Praveena’s inclusion marks an important milestone for Sri Lanka’s communications industry and reflects the growing impact of Sri Lankan talent on the regional stage.
26.06.2026
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Lanka Hospitals Launches ‘Hope’ Haematology Day Unit, Transforming Blood Cancer Care in Sri Lanka
By Vipula Amarasinghe
Lanka Hospitals PLC, Sri Lanka’s leading private healthcare provider, has announced the launch of “Hope”, a dedicated Haematology Day Unit within the Lanka Hospitals Blood Cancer Centre (LHBCC), marking a major advancement in the treatment and supportive care of patients with blood cancers and blood disorders.
The newly established facility is the first and only fully equipped private-sector day unit in Sri Lanka exclusively dedicated to haematology patients, offering specialized same-day treatment services while delivering world-class standards of care closer to home.
The launch of the “Hope” Haematology Day Unit represents a significant milestone in Sri Lanka’s healthcare landscape. Designed to cater to patients requiring chemotherapy, immunotherapy, blood transfusions, intensive monitoring, and comprehensive supportive care, the facility aims to provide advanced treatment options while reducing the need for prolonged hospital admissions. By integrating internationally recognized supportive care protocols into the local healthcare environment, Lanka Hospitals continues to demonstrate that many blood cancers are not only treatable but can also be cured when patients have timely access to specialized care. The new unit reflects the hospital’s ongoing commitment to combining clinical excellence with compassionate, patient-centred treatment.
Purpose-built to provide a safe, chemo-ready, and transfusion-secure environment, the “Hope” unit allows patients to receive complex therapies and return home on the same day. This innovative approach significantly reduces the physical, emotional, and financial burden often associated with extended hospital stays while maintaining the highest standards of safety and clinical monitoring.
Operating under the philosophy of “Healing – Closer to Home,” the facility enables patients to spend more time with their families and less time in hospital. By minimizing unnecessary admissions, the unit also reduces exposure to hospital-acquired infections, a critical advantage for patients with weakened immune systems.
For many individuals undergoing treatment for blood cancers, hospitalization has traditionally been a lengthy and disruptive process. The “Hope” Haematology Day Unit changes this experience by providing streamlined, same-day treatment services in a highly monitored clinical setting.
Patients receiving treatment for conditions such as Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma and Multiple Myeloma can now arrive in the morning, undergo essential blood investigations, receive chemotherapy under the supervision of specialized oncology nurses, and safely return home later the same day. Throughout the treatment process, patients are closely monitored by expert medical teams equipped to respond promptly to any complications.
This patient-focused model ensures continuity of care while prioritizing comfort, convenience, and quality of life without compromising treatment outcomes.
The “Hope” Haematology Day Unit offers a comprehensive range of services, including same-day chemotherapy, immunotherapy, blood transfusions, and specialized supportive treatments. The facility’s dedicated clinical infrastructure is specifically designed for haematology patients, ensuring the safe administration of complex therapies and life-saving blood products.
By reducing inpatient admissions, the unit provides a more cost-effective treatment option while helping patients avoid many of the additional expenses associated with overnight hospitalization. Furthermore, the reduced risk of hospital-acquired infections provides an added layer of protection for vulnerable patients undergoing cancer treatment.
Importantly, the day-care model enables patients to remain connected to their families, work, and daily routines throughout their treatment journey, supporting both physical recovery and emotional well-being.
The launch of the “Hope” Haematology Day Unit reinforces Lanka Hospitals’ position at the forefront of healthcare innovation in Sri Lanka. As the country continues to strengthen its cancer care services, the facility stands as a beacon of hope for patients and families facing blood cancers and blood disorders.
With its focus on advanced treatment, compassionate care, and improved patient outcomes, the “Hope” Haematology Day Unit is poised to transform the way blood cancer care is delivered in Sri Lanka, bringing greater comfort, convenience, and confidence to patients on their journey toward recovery.
24.06.2026
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25 Years of ISFTA: Powering the Next Wave of Trade, Investment and Growth
By Vipula Amarasinghe
The High Commission of India in Colombo, in collaboration with the Indo Lanka Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ILCCI), successfully hosted a landmark event titled “25 Years of ISFTA – Powering the Next Wave of Trade, Investment & Growth” on June 23, 2026, in Colombo.
The event commemorated the 25th anniversary of the India-Sri Lanka Free Trade Agreement (ISFTA), which came into force in 2000 and has played a pivotal role in strengthening economic ties and expanding bilateral trade between the two neighboring countries.
The distinguished gathering was graced by Sunil Handunneththi, Minister of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development, Wasantha Samarasinghe, Minister of Trade, Commerce, Food Security and Cooperative Development, and Hon. Hanif Yusoof, Governor of the Western Province. Members of Parliament, senior government officials, leading business executives, representatives of major business chambers, think tanks, and members of the media were also present, reflecting the importance of the India-Sri Lanka economic partnership.
Delivering the welcome address, Mr. M. Raghuraman, President of ILCCI, emphasized the importance of upgrading the India-Sri Lanka Free Trade Agreement to meet modern trade requirements. He also highlighted the Chamber’s ongoing efforts to assist Sri Lankan businesses seeking opportunities in the vast Indian market.
Addressing the audience, Minister Sunil Handunneththi reaffirmed Sri Lanka’s commitment to strengthening bilateral trade relations with India and creating new opportunities for local industrialists and emerging entrepreneurs. He noted that closer economic cooperation would contribute significantly to industrial growth and investment promotion.
Minister Wasantha Samarasinghe praised the longstanding economic cooperation between the two nations and underscored the potential impact of the newly established India Trade Desk, describing it as a transformative initiative for Sri Lankan businesses looking to engage with India.
Speaking on behalf of the High Commission of India, Ms. Devika Lal, Counsellor (Economic & Commerce), highlighted the opportunities presented by India’s rapid economic growth. She pointed out that merchandise trade between the two countries has nearly doubled in recent years, while India has emerged as the second-largest export destination for Sri Lankan products.
A key highlight of the event was the official launch of the India Trade Desk by the Indo Lanka Chamber of Commerce and Industry. The initiative will be operated by Global Investment and Trade Advisors (GITA), an Indian trade and investment promotion agency. The Desk is designed to provide Sri Lankan businesses with regulatory guidance, market intelligence, and structured engagement opportunities with Indian stakeholders, thereby facilitating greater access to one of the world’s fastest-growing markets.
The launch was followed by a thought-provoking panel discussion featuring industry experts, business leaders, and representatives from leading think tanks. The discussion also included special remarks by Dr. Harsha de Silva, Member of Parliament, who stressed the need to modernize and upgrade the India-Sri Lanka Free Trade Agreement to maximize economic benefits for both nations.
Participants exchanged valuable insights on trade facilitation, investment opportunities, entrepreneurship, supply chain integration, and policy reforms necessary to deepen economic cooperation between India and Sri Lanka.
The event concluded by reaffirming the strong bilateral economic partnership between the two countries and their shared vision for future growth through enhanced trade, investment, entrepreneurial collaboration, and institutional support mechanisms.
As India and Sri Lanka celebrate 25 years of the ISFTA, stakeholders expressed confidence that the next phase of cooperation will unlock even greater opportunities for businesses and investors, contributing to sustainable economic growth and regional prosperity.
24.06.2026
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Lions Continue to Drive Nationwide Rebuilding After Ditwah Floods
By Vipula Amarasinghe
Lions International Multiple District 306 continues to lead rebuilding efforts across Sri Lanka following the Ditwah floods, supported by nearly US$500,000 mobilised for disaster relief and recovery, including a significant grant from the Lions Clubs International Foundation (LCIF).
When the floods occurred, Lions across the country mobilized, providing affected communities food, necessary supplies, and immediate assistance. Many Lions continued to take part in relief efforts even though they were directly impacted by the floods.
Supported by a Major Catastrophe Grant from the Lions Clubs International Foundation (LCIF), Lions have since undertaken rebuilding projects covering homes, schools, hospitals and community infrastructure.
Rebuilding schools, classrooms, restoring homes, supplying hospitals with medical equipment, building sanitation facilities for homes and schools, renovating community buildings and parks, and providing home start-up kits to affected families are among the completed and ongoing projects.
Lions' rebuilding efforts support the recovery of essential services that communities depend on after a disaster. Restoring housing, education facilities, healthcare access and local infrastructure helps affected areas return to normal functioning faster, while addressing immediate needs within affected communities.
LCIF has committed to providing additional funding to support ongoing recovery efforts, with a particular emphasis on school infrastructure development.
The Lions' long-standing commitment to disaster recovery in Sri Lanka includes the Ditwah response. Lions have assisted with relief and rebuilding operations throughout the nation in the wake of significant disasters, such as the 2004 tsunami and other natural emergencies, frequently with assistance from LCIF.
23.06.2026
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Your direct line to Indian expansion is now open with the new India Trade Desk
Priya Rawat , Saisudha Chandrasekaran
For many Sri Lankan businesses, India has long represented a market of immense potential. Yet despite its proximity and promise, entering and expanding within India has often seemed complex, with businesses facing challenges in identifying the right opportunities, navigating regulations, finding trusted partners, and understanding the nuances of different regions.
Addressing these challenges head-on, the Indo Lanka Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ILCCI), in partnership with Global Investment and Trade Advisors (GITA), is launching the India Trade Desk – a dedicated platform designed to help Sri Lankan businesses successfully enter, expand, and establish meaningful commercial relationships in India.
GITA will be hosting a limited number of private one-on-one consultation sessions in Colombo on 24th June. We warmly invite you to join. To register, please express your interest to info@ilccilk.com or +94 77 246 5980 or scan this QR code.
More than a traditional advisory service, the India Trade Desk serves as a practical bridge between opportunity and execution. The initiative provides businesses with access to market intelligence, state-specific opportunity mapping, regulatory guidance, strategic introductions, investment facilitation, and partner identification to help transform business aspirations into tangible outcomes.
"The next chapter should not be limited to trade in goods alone," says Priya Rawat, Founding Partner of GITA and former Chief Operating Officer of Invest India. "The real opportunity lies in creating partnerships—joint ventures, investments, technology collaborations, tourism initiatives and business ecosystems that allow companies from both countries to grow together."
The India Trade Desk has been established with a clear objective: to simplify market entry and accelerate business growth opportunities between Sri Lanka and India. Whether a company is looking to export products, establish a local presence, attract investment, identify distributors, explore manufacturing partnerships, or engage with India's innovation ecosystem, the Desk provides a structured pathway to connect businesses with the right stakeholders and opportunities.
Recognizing that India is not a single market but a collection of diverse states, industries, and consumer segments, the Desk works closely with businesses to identify the most suitable entry points based on their sector, business objectives, and growth ambitions. Opportunities in Tamil Nadu may differ significantly from those in Maharashtra, Karnataka, Telangana, or Gujarat, making localized knowledge and strategic guidance critical to success.
"Companies often see India's size as a challenge," notes Saisudha Chandrasekaran, Advisor to GITA, and former Vice President and Head of the Asia Pacific Region at Invest India. "But every successful expansion starts with one market, one customer, one partner or one pilot project. The businesses that succeed are those that focus on the right entry point rather than trying to conquer the entire market at once."
The India Trade Desk is particularly focused on supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), many of which possess strong products, services, and ambitions but lack access to the networks, information, and connections required to navigate a new market. Through its extensive ecosystem of government agencies, investors, industry bodies, and business leaders across India, the Desk helps level the playing field by providing access to relationships that would otherwise take years to establish.
For a food manufacturer, this may involve identifying distribution channels and understanding regulatory requirements. For a tourism operator, it could mean connecting with strategic partners and investors. Technology companies may gain access to innovation ecosystems, investment opportunities, and potential clients, while manufacturers can explore supply chain partnerships, industrial clusters, and market expansion opportunities.
The timing of this initiative is significant. As businesses globally seek more resilient supply chains, diversified markets, and stronger regional partnerships, economic engagement between Sri Lanka and India continues to gather momentum. India, now home to more than 1.4 billion people and one of the world's fastest-growing major economies, offers significant opportunities across manufacturing, technology, services, tourism, logistics, healthcare, and consumer sectors. Coupled with geographical proximity, cultural familiarity, and existing trade frameworks, the market presents a compelling growth opportunity for Sri Lankan enterprises.
However, market potential alone does not guarantee success. Businesses require trusted guidance, local insights, strategic networks, and the ability to engage with the right stakeholders at the right time. The India Trade Desk has been designed to provide exactly that support, helping businesses move from initial conversations to meaningful commercial outcomes.
As Sri Lanka and India continue to strengthen economic ties, initiatives such as the India Trade Desk can play a critical role in fostering deeper business-to-business engagement, encouraging investment flows, and creating long-term partnerships that benefit both economies.
The message to Sri Lankan businesses is clear: do not let the scale of India become a barrier to opportunity. Every successful expansion begins with a first step, and for companies ready to explore one of the world's most dynamic markets, that step has never been more accessible.
22.06.2025
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12th International Day of Yoga Celebrated with Great Enthusiasm in Colombo with Over 2,000 Participants
By Vipula Amarasinghe
The 12th International Day of Yoga (IDY) was celebrated with great enthusiasm on 21 June 2026 at the historic Independence Square in Colombo. The event was organized by the High Commission of India and its cultural arm, the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre (SVCC), in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Public Administration, Provincial Councils and Local Government of Sri Lanka. This year's theme, "Yoga for Healthy Ageing," underscored the message that wellness has no age limit, emphasizing yoga's vital role in promoting mobility, strength, mental well-being, and independence at every stage of life.
The High Commissioner of India to Sri Lanka, H.E. Santosh Jha, joined the celebrations along with distinguished guests including Hon. Prof. Chrishantha Abeysena, Minister of Science and Technology; Hon. Dr. Rizvie Salih, Deputy Speaker of the Parliament of Sri Lanka, Hon. Pradeep Sundaralingam, Deputy Minister of Plantation and Community Infrastructure; Hon. Nishantha Jayaweera, Deputy Minister of Economic Development, Members of Parliament, officials of Tri Forces, Sri Lanka Police, Yoga Institutions and other senior dignitaries. The event began with a spiritual invocation through prayers by the Parama Dhamma Chethiya Pirivena and Acharya Dhirendra Krishna Shasthri ji, who offered blessings for peace and well-being. A dynamic and refreshing yoga and meditation session followed, conducted by experts from renowned yoga institutions in India and Sri Lanka. The event brought together thousands of yoga enthusiasts, dignitaries, and students in a shared spirit of wellness and unity. Complementing the main event in Colombo, the Consulates in Hambantota and Jaffna, along with the Assistant High Commission in Kandy, also organized special events to mark the occasion, reflecting the widespread and enthusiastic participation in the 12th International Day of Yoga across Sri Lanka. Serving as a prelude to the main event, the Department of Ayurveda, Ministry of Health, Government of Sri Lanka, in collaboration with the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre (SVCC), organized a landmark island-wide event on 18 June 2026. For the second consecutive year, simultaneous yoga sessions were conducted across Ayurveda hospitals throughout Sri Lanka, with 112 hospitals participating in this year's initiative.
An AYUSH Information Kiosk was also set up at the venue, providing visitors with valuable information on India's traditional systems of medicine and holistic wellness. A team of medical professionals from Siddhalepa Ayurveda offered free consultations and interacted with participants, creating greater awareness of holistic healthcare practices and the therapeutic benefits of Ayurveda. As part of the 12th International Day of Yoga celebrations, the High Commission of India in Colombo supported and facilitated around 55 yoga events in Colombo in collaboration with Government institutions, universities, professional bodies, schools, and civil society organizations. Among the major events were programmes held at the Institute of National Ayurveda Teaching Hospital, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Courtyard by Marriott Colombo, Chartered Accountants of Sri Lanka, Colombo Municipal Council and the Sri Lanka Foundation Institute, among several others. These events witnessed enthusiastic participation from yoga practitioners, students, professionals, and public, further strengthening the message of health, harmony, and holistic well-being. It may be recalled that the United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution piloted by India in 2014, proclaiming June 21 each year as the International Day of Yoga. The resolution was supported by more than 170 countries, with Sri Lanka being one of its proud co-sponsors.
22.06.2025
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Joseph Fraser Hospital Highlights Expertise in High-Risk Maternal Care
As part of its Art of Healing series, Joseph Fraser Hospital highlights the expertise and advanced medical infrastructure that support safe motherhood and positive birth outcomes.
With a fully equipped Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), High Dependency Unit (HDU), modern labour suites, upgraded operating theatres, blood bank, and laboratory services, the hospital is well-equipped to manage complex maternal and neonatal emergencies.
A key contributor to this specialised care is Dr. Rameez Furukan, Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist, who is widely recognised for managing high-risk and complex pregnancies. Through close monitoring of maternal health and fetal development, combined with timely interventions, he has helped countless families navigate challenging pregnancies with confidence.
Dr. Rameez also supports couples through subfertility management, helping many take their first steps towards parenthood. “Every pregnancy is unique, and while challenges can arise, early identification of risks, close monitoring, and timely intervention can make all the difference,” said Dr. Rameez. “With the right care and expertise, even high-risk pregnancies can lead to healthy and joyful beginnings.”
In addition to his clinical practice, Dr. Rameez has contributed extensively to specialist training through the University of Ruhuna and Teaching Hospital Karapitiya, further strengthening his reputation as a respected leader in women’s healthcare.
Through Art of Healing, Joseph Fraser Hospital celebrates the expertise, compassion, and commitment that guide families through one of life’s most important journeys, ensuring every mother and baby receive the highest standard of care.
19.06.20258
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The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce to Hold 187th AGM
The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce will convene its 187th Annual General Meeting on Thursday, 25th June 2026, at 5.30 PM at The Forum, Cinnamon Life.
This year's gathering welcomes His Excellency Andrew Patrick, High Commissioner of the United Kingdom to Sri Lanka, as Chief Guest, who will deliver the keynote address. His presence reflects the close and longstanding ties between Sri Lanka and the United Kingdom, and is especially fitting at a juncture when strengthening trade ties, investor confidence, and sustained economic reform remain front of mind for the nation's business community.
Chairperson of the Ceylon Chamber, Krishan Balendra, will also address the audience, reflecting on a year of progress and setting out the priorities ahead. His remarks will provide an overview of the Ceylon Chamber's continued push to sharpen private sector competitiveness, drive evidence-based policy advocacy, and anchor long-term economic stability.
Following the formal proceedings, members and guests are invited to a networking reception.
Ceylon Chamber members wishing to attend may register by contacting Alikie at alikie@chamber.lk / 9411 558 8805.
17.06.2025
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‘CRESCENDO ’26’, a musical fusion of Western music, at the Dharmapala Auditorium in Kottawa
Kottawa Dharmapala Maha Vidyalaya is one of the top Buddhist schools in Sri Lanka. It has an enrollment of around 5000 students and is the largest provincial school in the Western Provincial Council. It is a spiritual treat to have the opportunity to enjoy the deep and subtle flavors of music. You will be able to enjoy such a beautiful and enjoyable musical evening at the CRESCENDO '26 concert on July 10th at the Dharmapala College Auditorium, Kottawa. The initiative is taken by the college's senior western band. CRESCENDO '26 is their second concert.
Under the guidance of the former Principal, Captain Kapila Weerasuriya, under the supervision of the Sri Jayewardenepura Zonal Office and the Deputy Principals, with the support of the entire teaching staff, the School Development Society, the Old Students' Association, parents and well-wishers, the CRESCENDO '25 musical concert was successfully concluded. All arrangements are being made to hold the CRESCENDO '26 concert under the guidance of the current Acting Principal, Jayantha Karunajeewa and with the support of everyone else. Based on the musical experience gained from the CRESCENDO '25 concert and the audience's response, all preparations are underway to present the CRESCENDO '26 concert at a high level and with quality, said Ms. Yamuna Amarasinghe, the head of the Senior Western Musical Ensemble. Crescendo '26 is the stage that will bring the talents of the students to the world.
17.06.2025
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Australia and Sri Lanka strengthen maritime security partnership for third consecutive year through Disi Rela 2026
The Australian Border Force and Sri Lanka Coast Guard have launched Disi Rela 2026, marking the third consecutive year of the joint maritime security initiative aimed at strengthening maritime surveillance, operational capability, and public awareness across Sri Lanka’s coastal regions.
This year, Disi Rela 2026 expands its community engagement and public awareness activities to Sri Lanka’s Eastern Province, following successful activations conducted in the Western and Southern Provinces in previous years.
Meaning “keeping a watchful eye over the maritime environment,” Disi Rela reflects the continued partnership between Australia and Sri Lanka to strengthen maritime security, combat transnational maritime crime, and promote safer seas across the region. Through intelligence sharing, operational cooperation, advanced equipment support, and public awareness initiatives, both countries continue to work together to address threats including people smuggling, drug trafficking, illegal fishing, and other unlawful maritime activities.
Over the past three years, the Australian Government has supported Sri Lanka’s maritime security efforts under the Disi Rela initiative through the donation of 24 surveillance drones, three all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), three Stabicraft patrol vessels, and the establishment of a dedicated 24/7 hotline number — 106.
Further strengthening Sri Lanka Coast Guard’s operational capability, the Australian Government will donate an additional five all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) under Disi Rela 2026 to support coastal surveillance and rapid response operations.
In reflecting upon the continued partnership and shared commitment of both nations to safeguard Sri Lanka’s maritime boundaries and coastal communities, the Director General of the Sri Lanka Coast Guard, Rear Admiral Rohan Joseph, said:
“Disi Rela 2026 demonstrates the enduring cooperation between the Sri Lanka Coast Guard and the Australian Border Force in strengthening maritime security across our region. As the initiative expands into the Eastern Province, community awareness and public participation continue to play a vital role in helping us protect our seas and prevent unlawful maritime activity.”
Commander Maritime Border Command and Commander Joint Agency Task Force Operation Sovereign Borders, Rear Admiral Brett Sonter AM, Royal Australian Navy, said the initiative reflects the strong and ongoing partnership between Australia and Sri Lanka.
“For the third consecutive year, Disi Rela demonstrates the importance both Australia and Sri Lanka place on maritime security and regional cooperation. Through continued capability building, operational support, and community engagement, we are working together to strengthen maritime safety and security across the region,” Rear Admiral Sonter said.
The public is encouraged to report suspicious maritime activity through the dedicated 24/7 hotline number: 106. Calls can be made anonymously.
Disi Rela 2026 reflects the ongoing cooperation between Australia and Sri Lanka in promoting a secure, stable, and resilient maritime environment across the Indian Ocean region.
11.06.2026
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CDB Celebrates Vesak with Devotion, Unity, Community Spirit
Citizens Development Business Finance PLC (CDB) marked Vesak Full Moon Poya Day with a vibrant evening of devotion, culture and community spirit at its head office premises in Colombo. The CDB Vesak Bakthi Gee Saraniya, Lantern Exhibition and Dansala 2026 brought together team members and the public in a celebration that reflected both Sri Lanka’s Buddhist heritage and CDB’s commitment to religious harmony.
The programme commenced with a Pirith chanting ceremony, setting a sacred tone for the evening. This was followed by a Bakthi Gee recital where the team’s voices came together to honour the spiritual essence of Vesak. The lanterns, crafted entirely from sustainable materials as part of CDB’s sustainability strategy, illuminated the premises while showcasing the creativity and teamwork of employees. The serving of noodles at the Dansala further reflected the true spirit of Vesak, embodying the values of generosity, compassion, and community. Similar Vesak celebrations were held at CDB branches islandwide, with lanterns lighting up each location and religious observances conducted.
Managing Director/CEO Mahesh Nanayakkara stated that Vesak is not only a time of religious observance but also a moment to celebrate unity, compassion and shared humanity. “Our diverse team came together to create an inclusive celebration that embodies the true spirit of Vesak.”
Organised entirely by Team CDB encompassing multiple faiths and cultural backgrounds, these Vesak celebrations reinforced CDB’s workplace culture of inclusivity and volunteerism. By honouring Buddhist traditions while embracing participation from all communities, CDB demonstrates that harmony and respect are at the heart of its values. The Dansala extended that spirit of generosity to the wider community, embodying the Vesak principle of dana (giving).
Through initiatives like these, CDB continues to position itself as a value-driven entity that nurtures employee engagement and preserves cultural heritage, strengthening brand affinity with the public.
11.06.2026
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Asiri Central Hospital’s Kidney Transplant Centre Records 200 successful transplants as Sri Lanka’s Leading Renal Care Programme
By Vipula Amarasinghe
Kidney transplantation at Asiri Health’s Asiri Central Hospital is setting a strong benchmark in advanced renal care in Sri Lanka, offering patients with chronic kidney disease and end-stage renal failure access to highly specialised, safe and comprehensive transplant treatment locally. With more than 200 successful kidney transplant surgeries completed and a success rate exceeding 98%, the hospital’s Kidney Transplant Centre has earned the confidence of both patients and the fraternity through consistently strong clinical outcomes, experienced specialist care and advanced transplant infrastructure.
A key strength of the programme lies in its dedicated transplant unit, developed specifically to support complex renal transplant procedures within a highly controlled environment aligned with international standards of safety, infection prevention and post-operative care. Supported by modern technology and advanced clinical protocols, the centre has become a trusted referral destination for patients requiring specialised kidney transplant treatment. Medical experts at the hospital also stress the importance of early intervention and specialist consultation, particularly for patients with chronic kidney disease, diabetes, hypertension and other conditions that may lead to kidney failure.
Recognised for its multidisciplinary approach and carefully coordinated treatment pathways, the programme brings together consultant nephrologists, transplant surgeons, vascular surgeons, specialised nursing teams and clinical support staff who work collaboratively throughout every stage of the patient journey. From pre-transplant evaluations and donor matching to surgery, recovery and long-term follow-up care, the focus remains on delivering personalised treatment with the highest standards of patient safety and clinical oversight.
Commenting further, Dr. Manjula Karunaratne, Advisor to Chairman & Medical Consultant, Asiri Health, stated: “Our Kidney Transplant Centre has been built on a foundation of clinical expertise and patient-centred care. The outcomes achieved over the years reflect the dedication of our multidisciplinary teams and the trust placed in us by patients and referring doctors across the country. Timely referral and evaluation can significantly improve treatment options and long-term quality of life. We remain committed to continuously strengthening transplant care standards and improving long-term outcomes for patients living with kidney disease.”
For patients and families navigating the challenges of chronic kidney disease, receiving advanced transplant care within Sri Lanka offers both convenience and reassurance. Asiri Central Hospital continues to play an important role in demonstrating that world-class kidney transplant care is accessible locally, reducing the need for patients to seek costly and disruptive treatment overseas.
Asiri Central Hospital’s Kidney Transplant Centre enables access to advanced treatment, experienced clinical expertise and carefully coordinated follow-up care, helping many return to healthier, more independent lives with renewed confidence.
11.06.2025
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Bogawantalawa Tea Estates PLC Advances Climate Positive and Net Zero Leadership through World Environment Week 2026
By Vipula Amarasinghe
Bogawantalawa Tea Estates PLC, the world's first Climate Positive Tea Company, commemorated World Environment Week 2026 through a comprehensive environmental conservation and climate action campaign that brought together government institutions, schools, estate communities, employees, and environmental stakeholders in a collective effort to strengthen biodiversity conservation, ecosystem restoration, and climate resilience, throughout the country.
Aligned with the global theme ‘Inspired by Nature for Climate and Our Future’ and Sri Lanka's national theme ‘Urgent Climate Action’, the initiative was conducted from June 1–7, with the flagship celebration held on June 2 at The Center of Sustainability of Bogawantalawa Tea Estates PLC’s, Wanarajah Estate, Dickoya.
The climate action week featured environmental awareness and training programmes, competitions for school children, awarding scholarships for young environmentalists, biodiversity conservation activities, waste and water management activities, enrichment of catchments and watershed areas, and clean-up drives, in addition to ecosystem restoration projects, and large-scale native and fruit tree planting programmes. The programme further reinforced the Company's commitment to producing premium tea through environmentally responsible practices while protecting natural ecosystems and creating long-term environmental value.
Throughout the week, more than 12 different initiatives were carried out across the Company's estates, featuring community engagement activities designed to promote environmental stewardship, responsible waste management, and climate-conscious practices among employees, students, and local communities. These efforts extended to 43 locations within the Company’s managed areas, including schools, government offices, temples, and other public spaces.
A key highlight of the campaign was the distribution and planting of approximately 15,000 native and fruit-bearing plants across Bogawantalawa's estates. Species included native trees such as Mee, Kumbuk, and Kohomba, together with fruit-bearing species including Delum, Lemon, Guava, and Custard Apple, selected for their contribution to biodiversity enhancement, watershed protection, ecosystem restoration, community well-being, and climate resilience. These initiatives are expected to contribute to the restoration of natural ecosystems, support habitat development, and strengthen natural carbon sequestration, while advancing long-term greenhouse gas mitigation efforts.
The campaign was implemented in collaboration with the Central Environmental Authority (CEA) – Nuwara Eliya District Office, the Regional Forest Office – Hatton, Pradeshiya Sabaha, Urban Councils, Divisional Secretariats, Department of Agriculture, many other Government Organizations and the School Environment Pioneer Brigade (Parisara Niyamu Bata). Estate management teams, employees, school principals, teachers, and students actively participated in environmental awareness programmes, waste management initiatives, biodiversity conservation activities, and tree planting programmes conducted throughout the week.
Lalith Munasinghe, Executive Director, Bogawantalawa Tea Estates PLC said,“Through its World Environment Week 2026 campaign, Bogawantalawa Tea Estates PLC reaffirmed its position as a global sustainability leader. As the world's first Climate Positive Tea Company, Bogawantalawa continues to demonstrate that meaningful environmental progress is achieved through collective action, driving climate resilience, biodiversity conservation, ecosystem restoration, and responsible environmental stewardship to create a greener, healthier, and more sustainable future for generations to come.
Dr. Thusitha Bandara, Director – Low Country Operations, Sustainability, Research & Development added, “At Bogawantalawa Tea Estates PLC, we firmly believe that environmental sustainability is not merely a corporate responsibility but a strategic investment in the future. As climate-related challenges continue to intensify globally, we remain committed to working together with our employees, communities, stakeholders, and future generations to protect natural resources, strengthen biodiversity, build climate resilience, and create a greener, healthier, and more sustainable future for Sri Lanka and the world.
Through World Environment Week 2026, Bogawantalawa Tea Estates PLC further strengthened its commitment to climate action, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable plantation management. By integrating environmental education, waste management, ecosystem restoration, and the planting of approximately 15,000 native and fruit-bearing plants into a single coordinated initiative, the Company continues to demonstrate how science-based, nature-positive solutions can generate lasting environmental value while advancing its Climate Positive and Net Zero leadership for the benefit of present and future generations.
10.06.2025
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Allianz Lanka Promotes Road Safety Awareness Among Three-Wheeler Drivers Across Sri Lanka
By Vipula Amarasinghe
In a continued effort to promote road safety awareness in Sri Lanka, Allianz Lanka recently concluded a large-scale island-wide sticker campaign engaging over 7,000 three-wheeler drivers across nearly 60 locations.
Three-wheeler drivers play an essential role in Sri Lanka’s daily transport network, supporting communities and livelihoods. Recognizing this, Allianz Lanka designed this initiative to go beyond awareness creating a meaningful reminder of the importance of responsible driving and accident prevention.
At the heart of the campaign was the powerful Sinhala and Tamil message: “ජීවීතයට 1, අනතුරට තිත!/ வாழ்க்கைக்கு 1, விபத்துக்கு முற்றுப்புள்ளி” a compelling call to action encouraging drivers to prioritize life and actively avoid accidents.
As part of its commitment to supporting driver communities in Sri Lanka, Allianz Lanka also offered free Accidental Death cover, for one year only, to participating drivers providing added security and protection to those who spend long hours on the road.
By engaging drivers directly across multiple regions, the campaign successfully engaged conversations around road safety, accident prevention, and responsible driving in Sri Lanka. Each sticker placed served as a constant visual reminder of the value of life and the importance of making safer choices on the road.
Through initiatives like this, Allianz Lanka continues to strengthen its role beyond insurance actively promoting safety awareness in Sri Lanka, supporting everyday drivers, and contributing to safer roads for all. To Us, You are Always #1.
Allianz Insurance Lanka Ltd is a wholly owned subsidiaries of Allianz SE, a leading global financial services provider with core businesses in insurance and asset management, headquartered in Munich, Germany. Allianz SE has been recognized as the world’s no.01 insurance brand for the seventh consecutive year by Interbrand’s Best Global Brands ranking.
10.06.2025
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Indian Naval Ship (INS) Sharda visit to Colombo
By Vipula Amarasinghe
Indian Naval Ship ‘Sharda’, a Sukanya - Class Offshore Patrol Vessel (OPV) will visit Colombo from 10-13 June 2026 for Operational Turnaround (OTR) and transshipment of stores from Indian Army for Sri Lanka Army’s deployment in UN mission. The items will be formally handed over in a ceremony at the Ministry of Defence on 16 June 2026.
On arrival, the Commanding Officer of the Ship, Commander Kartik Sachdeva will be calling on the Commander Western Naval Area, Rear Admiral SJ Kumara and the ship’s crew will have professional and sports interaction with Sri Lanka Navy.
In the run up to International Day of Yoga, a joint yoga session is being planned for the ship’s crew and SLN personnel towards showcasing it’s benefits for achieving physical, mental and spiritual well-being.
Visits by Indian Navy vessels to Sri Lanka aim to further strengthen the strong bonds between both friendly Navies, which is in line with India’s policy of ‘Neighbourhood First’ and Hon’ble PM’s vision of ‘Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions (MAHASAGAR)
10.06.2025
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ZWAG AI Launches Mātr, a Breakthrough Model Designed to Bring Human Understanding to AI
Nipuna Abeykoon, Priya M Nair
ZWAG AI has unveiled Mātr, the world's first Universal Interpretation Model (UIM), introducing a new category of metalinguistic infrastructure designed to help artificial intelligence better understand how humans naturally think, reason, and interpret meaning.
While modern AI systems have become increasingly fluent, they continue to struggle with understanding intent. This challenge is particularly evident in low-resource and non-English languages, where AI often misinterprets context, cultural nuance, grammar, and meaning despite producing seemingly accurate responses.
According to ZWAG AI, this remains a major barrier to global AI adoption. While AI technology is increasingly accessible, only around 16% of the world's population currently benefits from it in a meaningful way.
"The barrier isn't access or infrastructure," says Nipuna Abeykoon, Co-Founder of ZWAG AI. "It's structural. Current AI systems understand statistical patterns, not language itself. When working across structurally different languages such as Sinhala or Tamil, they often generate responses that appear correct but violate grammar, context, or cultural meaning. Mātr was built to bridge that gap."
Developed through years of research focused on solving the challenge of interpretation in AI, Mātr functions as a model-agnostic infrastructure layer that integrates with existing large language models without retraining. It applies a typology-driven correction layer during inference, helping outputs align with the grammatical, structural, cognitive, and cultural logic of the target language.
"This is not a data problem," says Priya M. Nair, Co-Founder of ZWAG AI. "It's a structural bias problem. For the first time, we have a system that can effectively recognize when an output violates the rules of a language and correct it."
Mātr achieves this through four interconnected methods: Output Reranking, Linguistic Constraints, Reverse Bias Injection, and Synthetic Data Creation. Together, they help ensure AI outputs reflect the internal logic of a language rather than defaulting to English-centric patterns.
At its core, Mātr is designed to help AI understand the deeper structures behind human communication. Languages shape how people perceive time, assign responsibility, build relationships, and create meaning. When AI fails to recognise these structures, the result can be a misunderstanding of user intent.
The implications span sectors including education, healthcare, governance, and enterprise applications. In education, Mātr helps align AI-generated content with a learner's native language and cognitive environment, supporting more authentic and culturally grounded learning experiences.
Its potential role in AI safety is equally significant. ZWAG AI argues that many risks emerge during interpretation rather than output generation alone.
"If a system begins with an incomplete understanding of a user's intent, even the strongest safeguards may not work as intended," says Nipuna Abeykoon. "In Agentic AI environments, correct interpretation at the first step becomes essential."
Powered by proprietary typological language profiles, a divergence-to-mathematics framework, and a fully model-agnostic architecture, Mātr is designed to integrate into existing AI ecosystems. Rather than competing with today's leading AI models, ZWAG AI positions it as a foundational infrastructure layer for the next generation of global AI deployment.
"AI has reached an important crossroads," says Priya M. Nair. "Mātr is not simply about better translation. It's about ensuring AI systems understand people structurally, not just statistically. We believe interpretation will become one of the most important infrastructure layers in artificial intelligence."
As AI adoption continues to expand worldwide, ZWAG AI believes interpretation layers such as Mātr will play a critical role in extending the benefits of artificial intelligence to billions of users whose languages and cultural contexts remain underserved by today's systems.
10.06.2025
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High Commissioner of India visits Rangiri Dambulla Viharaya
High Commissioner of India to Sri Lanka, H.E. Santosh Jha, visited the historic Rangiri Dambulla Viharaya on 04 June 2026. During the visit, High Commissioner met with Most Ven. Dr. Godagama Dharmakeerthi Sri Chandananda Mangalabhidhana Thero, Viharadhipathi Thero of Rangiri Dambulu Viharaya and senior member of the Karaka Sabha of the Asgiriya Chapter.
As part of India’s continued support towards educational and community development initiatives in Sri Lanka, High Commissioner handed over computers, printers, tables, chairs and other educational equipment to improve learning facilities for young theros and students of the Sri Walagamba Pirivenna.
Highlighting India's broader commitment to preserving shared heritage, High Commissioner noted that under the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India had announced a special USD 15 million grant to promote Buddhist ties between the two countries. He emphasized that a key ongoing initiative under this grant is the project to provide free electricity to around 9,000 Buddhist viharas and pirivenas across the island.
He offered prayers for continued peace, prosperity, and strengthening of the longstanding friendship and close relations between India and Sri Lanka. Reaffirming India’s commitment to deepening people-to-people connections, he stated that shared spiritual values and Buddhist heritage remain at the heart of the "civilizational twins," guiding both nations toward a future of shared prosperity and closer bilateral cooperation.
08.06.2025
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Prime Group Partners with BNS: Two Legends. One Vision
By Vipula Amarasinghe
Prime Group joins legacies to create a new vision of Sri Lankan excellence Ruminda Randeniya, Chief Executive Officer of Prime Lands; Sandamini Perera, Co-Chairperson, Prime Group; Bathiya Jayakody, BNS; Santhush Weeraman, BNS; Premalal Brahmanage, Chairman, Prime Group; and Shehana Brahmanage, Director, Prime Group.
Prime Group, the Real Leader in Modern Real Estate in Sri Lanka, has entered a strategic partnership with Bathiya & Santhush (BNS), the country's most internationally recognized music icons, marking a significant milestone in its journey to take Sri Lankan real estate to the world.
The collaboration brings together two brands that have redefined excellence within their respective industries. While BNS has successfully elevated Sri Lankan music onto international platforms, Prime Group is pursuing a similar vision in real estate by creating developments that meet global standards and attract international attention.
Umaria, one of Sri Lanka’s most celebrated contemporary artists and the current Brand Ambassador of Prime Group, continues to play a pivotal role in strengthening the Group’s connection with diverse audiences, further reinforcing its vision of taking Sri Lankan excellence to the global stage.
For more than three decades, Prime Group has played a transformative role in shaping Sri Lanka’s real estate landscape. Today, the Group stands as the largest listed real estate entity on the Colombo Stock Exchange, with a diversified portfolio spanning luxury apartments, mixed-use developments, and internationally inspired real estate ventures, housing and lands.
Most recently, the Group commenced work on Prime Melwa Port City, a world-class marina-front development within Port City Colombo, poised to redefine luxury waterfront living in the region and position Sri Lanka among the world’s most desirable investment destinations.
Commenting on the partnership, Santhush Weeraman stated: “Throughout our journey, we have always believed in representing Sri Lanka beyond its borders. Prime Group’s ambition to position Sri Lankan real estate on the global stage strongly resonates with us. This partnership reflects a shared commitment to showcasing the very best of Sri Lankan talent, innovation, and excellence to the world.”
Bathiya Jayakody added “Sri Lanka has immense potential to compete globally. Prime Group’s vision, scale, and commitment to international standards demonstrate what is possible when local ambition is matched with global thinking. We are proud to be part of that journey.”
Commenting on the collaboration, Ruminda Randeniya, Chief Executive Officer of Prime Group, stated: “Our vision extends beyond developing properties. We are building a globally recognized Sri Lankan real estate brand. As we continue to attract international investors and create developments that meet world-class standards, partnerships such as this play an important role in strengthening our global visibility. Bathiya, Santhush, and Umaria have become ambassadors of Sri Lankan talent, and together we share a common purpose to showcase Sri Lankan excellence on the world stage.”
The partnership will see BNS and Umaria actively support Prime Group’s brand-building initiatives, strengthening engagement with audiences locally and internationally while reinforcing the Group’s strategic ambition of becoming a globally recognized real estate brand.
More than a collaboration, this partnership represents a powerful statement of intent, demonstrating how Sri Lankan talent, enterprise, and ambition can transcend borders and earn recognition on the world stage.
08.06.2025
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31st National Bartenders Competition Advances to Semi-Finals Following Successful Regional Rounds Across Sri Lanka
By Vipula Amarasinghe
The 31st National Bartenders Competition (NBC) 2026 has successfully concluded all six regional rounds, reaffirming its position as Sri Lanka’s premier platform for bartending excellence, professional development, and hospitality industry advancement.
Organized by the Sri Lanka Hospitality Graduates Association (SLHGA) in collaboration with the Sri Lanka Institute of Tourism & Hotel Management (SLITHM), and supported by International Distillers Limited (IDL), the competition attracted a remarkable number of participants from across the island. NBC 2026 also witnessed one of the highest levels of female participation in the competition’s history, reflecting the growing opportunities available to women within the hospitality industry.
The regional rounds were hosted at leading hospitality establishments across Sri Lanka: Amaya Lake for the Cultural Triangle & East Coast region, Grand Kandyan Hotel for Kandy & Nuwara Eliya, Araliya Unawatuna for Deep Down South, The Blue Water Hotel & Spa for Down South, Club Hotel Dolphin for Negombo, and Sheraton Colombo for the Colombo region.
Prior to the regional competitions, comprehensive training and briefing sessions were conducted in all regions. These sessions focused on the latest bartending trends, emerging technologies, competition guidelines, presentation standards, and modern mixology techniques, ensuring participants were well-prepared to compete at a national level.
Throughout the regional rounds, contestants demonstrated exceptional creativity and technical expertise, crafting innovative cocktails using Sri Lankan spirits alongside locally sourced fruits, herbs, spices, and other indigenous ingredients. Their creations highlighted both the versatility of local ingredients and the evolving standards of Sri Lanka’s bartending profession.
Beyond competition, NBC continues to play a vital role in strengthening Sri Lanka’s hospitality workforce by fostering skill development, creativity, professionalism, and career growth opportunities. The initiative also contributes towards enhancing service standards within the hospitality sector, supporting Sri Lanka’s ambitions as a world-class tourism destination.
Through its continued support of NBC, IDL reaffirms its commitment to empowering hospitality professionals and supporting the long-term development of the industry, while SLHGA remains dedicated to creating meaningful opportunities for talent across the country.
Following the successful completion of the regional rounds, selected contestants participated in an exclusive Master Class held on 4th June at Cinnamon Grand Colombo, where they received valuable insights and advanced training from industry experts. The competition now moves to the Semi-Finals on 15th June at Cinnamon Lakeside Colombo, before culminating at the Grand Finale on 26th June at Cinnamon Grand Colombo, where Sri Lanka’s finest bartenders will compete for national honours..
As NBC 2026 moves into its final stages, it continues to celebrate the passion, innovation, and talent that define Sri Lanka’s bartending community.
08.06.2025
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Kings Hospital Colombo Marks 25 Successful Liver Transplants, Strengthening Local Access to Life-Saving Care
By Vipula Amarasinghe
Kings Hospital Colombo has marked a significant milestone in Sri Lanka’s healthcare sector with the successful completion of 25 adult living- donor liver transplant surgeries, reinforcing its position as a leading local center for advanced transplant care.
Formally launched in early 2025, the hospital’s liver transplant program was established to address a longstanding gap in access to definitive treatment for patients living with chronic end-stage liver disease. For many Sri Lankan patients, liver transplantation has historically required overseas travel at substantial financial and logistical cost, while others were left without timely access due to limited awareness, inadequate referral pathways and the scarcity of specialized local facilities.
Kings Hospital Colombo’s program provides patients with a structured, locally available alternative, enabling them to undergo complex life-saving procedures in Sri Lanka while remaining close to their families. The hospital has invested strategically in advanced infrastructure, specialized medical technology and clinical expertise to support the delivery of a sustainable, high-quality transplant program aligned with international standards.
The program is led by Professor Thamara Perera FRCS (Eng), whose international experience in liver surgery and transplantation has supported the development of a dedicated multidisciplinary team at Kings Hospital Colombo. The hospital’s transplant pathway includes comprehensive donor and recipient assessments, rigorous clinical planning and coordinated perioperative care across surgical, critical care, dialysis and support teams.
A key strength of the program is its dedicated intensive care facility for liver transplant patients, supported by advanced monitoring systems, life-support equipment and real-time clinical data analysing capabilities. Together with the hospital’s dialysis technology, this enables the management of complex pre- and post-transplant cases, including patients with concurrent organ dysfunction, while supporting timely intervention and continuity of care.
Professor Perera noted that many patients are referred only after medical management options have been exhausted, often at a stage when liver failure has begun to affect other vital organs. Early diagnosis, awareness and referral therefore remain central to improving long-term outcomes for patients with chronic liver disease.
Commenting on the milestone, Dr. Shani De Silva, Director Medical Services, Kings Hospital Colombo, said, “With access to the newest medical technology and a team of well- experienced consultants, we are pleased to offer superior liver transplant services to Sri Lankan society, reflecting our commitment to excellence in private healthcare.”
The successful completion of 25 liver transplants represents more than an institutional achievement. It signals meaningful progress in strengthening Sri Lanka’s healthcare capacity, reducing dependence on overseas treatment and offering patients a clinically advanced, family-centered pathway to life- transforming care within their own country.
08.06.2025
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High Commissioner of India visits Hybrid Power Project in Northern Sri Lanka
High Commissioner of India to Sri Lanka, H.E. Santosh Jha, visited the ongoing Hybrid Renewable Energy Project in Delft island on 03 June 2026. This project is currently implemented in three islands of Delft, Analathivu, and Nainathivu, off Jaffna in Sri Lanka.
The project is being implemented under grant assistance of USD 11 million from the Government of India and reaffirms India’s commitment to the bilateral cooperation in the energy sector, as well as the human-centric nature of India’s development partnership initiatives in Sri Lanka.
The project combines solar, wind and diesel generator with battery backup systems to deliver a reliable and integrated energy solution with a total output capacity of nearly 4.3 MW. This addresses the energy needs of the people of these three islands During the visit, High Commissioner reviewed the progress of the project at the Delft site and interacted with officials from the Sri Lanka Sustainable Energy Authority (SLSEA), project contractor and beneficiary communities.
The High Commissioner emphasized that the project stands as a symbol of the enduring and people-centric development partnership between India and Sri Lanka. He noted that India remains committed to supporting Sri Lanka’s sustainable development priorities through impactful grant projects that directly benefit local communities.
08.06.2025
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Inauguration of Pathini Gama Model Village in Kurunegala District built with Indian Grant Support
High Commissioner of India to Sri Lanka, H.E. Santosh Jha and Minister of Housing, Construction and Water Supply Hon. (Dr.) Susil Ranasingha jointly inaugurated and handed over Pathinigama Model Village in Kurunegala to the 24 beneficiary families on 04 June 206. This event was attended by a distinguished delegation, including Hon. Tissa Kumarasiri Warnasooriya, Governor of the North Western Province; Hon. (Dr.) Namal Sudarshana, Deputy Minister of Women and Children’s Affairs and Hon. Sujeewa Indika Dissanayaka, District Parliamentarian.
The event was also attended by senior officials from the Ministry of Housing, Construction and Water Supply of Sri Lanka; Chairman and senior officials from National Housing Development Authority; officials from Kurunegala District Administration.
In his keynote remarks, High Commissioner H.E. Santosh Jha underscored India’s enduring commitment to Sri Lanka’s national development. He emphasized that India remains a steadfast partner in enhancing local livelihoods and supporting the holistic growth of communities throughout the island.
The Model Village Housing Project is being implemented in all 25 districts of the island jointly with the Ministry of Housing, Construction and Water Supply of Sri Lanka with grant support from the Government of India. A Memorandum of Understanding between the Government of India and the Government of Sri Lanka was signed for the project in October 2017. The project encompasses housing facilities for 600 low-income families of Sri Lanka, with a model village each consisting of 24 houses per district for families selected by the District Housing Committees.
To date, model villages have been inaugurated and handed over in 17 districts: Batticaloa, Vavuniya, Jaffna, Kandy, Gampaha, Anuradhapura, Badulla, Matale, Puttalam, Colombo, Trincomalee, Monaragala, Kilinochchi, Mannar, Mullaitivu, Ratnapura and Ampara. With the overall project reaching a completion rate of approximately 98.5%, the remaining villages are expected to be handed over to their respective communities soon.
05.06.2025
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SLT-MOBITEL PEOTV Secures Exclusive Media Broadcast Rights for FIFA World Cup 2026™, Bringing Every Match LIVE to Sri Lankan Audiences
SLT-MOBITEL PEOTV, Sri Lanka’s pioneering Internet Protocol Television (IPTV) service provider and leading digital entertainment platform, announced a landmark partnership with Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA), securing the exclusive media broadcasting rights for the FIFA World Cup 2026™ in Sri Lanka.
The strategic partnership marks one of the most significant sports media acquisitions in the country’s broadcasting landscape, granting SLT-MOBITEL PEOTV exclusive rights to deliver every match of the FIFA World Cup 2026™ to audiences across Sri Lanka. Through PEOTV, PEO MOBILE, and digital platforms, football fans nationwide will have unparalleled access to the world’s most prestigious sporting event, ensuring they experience every moment of the tournament live, from the opening match to the final championship.
The acquisition of FIFA World Cup 2026™ rights represents another significant milestone in SLT-MOBITEL PEOTV’s continued investment in premium sports broadcasting. Over the years, PEOTV has built a strong reputation for delivering major international sporting events, offering customers reliable, high-quality coverage and enhanced viewing experiences through advanced IPTV technology. Viewers will enjoy the tournament in true High Definition (HD), delivering exceptional picture quality and an immersive viewing experience. Whether watching from home through PEOTV, on the move via PEO MOBILE, or through digital access points, fans can follow every defining goal and unforgettable celebration throughout the competition. The tournament will kick off on 12 June 2026 and is set to conclude on 20 July.
The FIFA World Cup 2026™ is set to make history as the largest edition of the tournament ever staged, with 104 matches featuring 48 nations competing across Canada, Mexico, and the United States. Expected to captivate billions of viewers worldwide, the tournament represents the pinnacle of international football and stands among the most celebrated sporting events on the global calendar.
05.06.2025
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Sri Lanka Takes Centre Stage at Landmark UN Disability Rights Conference as Nilshani De Silva Selected to Represent the Nation
This year marks a significant milestone in the global journey towards disability inclusion and equal rights, as the world celebrates the 20th Anniversary of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD)—the landmark United Nations treaty dedicated to protecting and promoting the rights, dignity and full participation of persons with disabilities.
The milestone carries special significance for Sri Lanka, which signed the Convention on 30 March 2007 and ratified it on 8 February 2016, reaffirming its commitment to creating a more inclusive society where persons with disabilities can participate fully and equally in all aspects of life.
As part of this year's commemorations, Sri Lanka will chair the 19th Session of the Conference of States Parties to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, widely regarded as the world's premier forum on disability rights. The conference, to be held at the United Nations Headquarters in New York, brings together governments, policymakers, advocates and disability leaders from around the world to review progress, share best practices and advance the global disability rights agenda.
Over the years, Sri Lanka has taken important steps towards strengthening inclusion and accessibility for persons with disabilities. These efforts include the introduction of inclusive education policies, examination accommodations for students with disabilities, social protection initiatives such as Aswesuma and Prajashakthi, vocational training and rehabilitation programmes, and community empowerment initiatives aimed at promoting independent living and economic participation.
Against this backdrop of progress, Sri Lanka will be represented at the conference by prominent disability rights advocate, Nilshani De Silva.
Nilshani has been officially selected by the Government of Sri Lanka to represent the nation as its Youth Representative and has received the distinct honour of being invited to address the opening session on 9 June alongside the Secretary-General of the United Nations and other distinguished international leaders.
Born with Down Syndrome, Nilshani is one of Sri Lanka's most recognised advocates for the rights and inclusion of persons with disabilities. As a motivational speaker, teacher and fashion designer, she has spent years challenging stereotypes and championing the rights and inclusion of persons with disabilities inspiring countless individuals across Sri Lanka and beyond.
Her contributions have earned her numerous accolades, including recognition as Most Outstanding Woman of the Year and Most Courageous and Inspirational Woman of the Year.
Nilshani's participation at the United Nations is more than a personal achievement. It is
a powerful symbol of how persons with disabilities can and should be represented in
conversations that shape policies and decisions affecting their lives.
As world leaders gather to reflect on two decades of progress under the Convention, Nilshani's presence on the global stage sends a powerful message—that disability should never be a barrier to leadership, achievement or participation.
For Sri Lanka, her invitation to address one of the world's most important disability rights forums is a moment of national pride. For the disability community, it is a symbol of hope, representation and possibility. And for future generations, it stands as a reminder that when barriers are removed and opportunities are created, every individual can reach their fullest potential.
05.06.2025
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Ceylon Chamber Expresses Concern Over New US Labour-Related Tariffs and Calls for Urgent Engagement
The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce is concerned by the announcement of new labour-related tariffs by the United States on several countries, including a proposed 12.5% tariff on exports from Sri Lanka. This development comes at a time when Sri Lanka was continuing discussions with the US following the suspension of the previously announced reciprocal tariffs and was seeking to secure a more favourable trading arrangement.
The imposition of an additional tariff on Sri Lankan exports risks undermining the competitiveness of key export sectors compared to other countries, which are at a lower rate of 10%. At a time when Sri Lanka is working to accelerate export growth, attract investment, and create employment opportunities, any increase in trade barriers presents a significant challenge. At present, key goods exports such as Apparel and Tea are down by 7% and 6% respectively in the first four months of 2026.
Sri Lanka has built a strong reputation as a responsible sourcing destination, with many industries adhering to high labour, environmental, and governance standards. The country has also made substantial progress in strengthening regulatory frameworks and promoting ethical business practices.
The Ceylon Chamber therefore requests the relevant authorities to engage proactively and at the highest levels with the United States to better understand the basis for the tariff and to present Sri Lanka's case. Every effort should be made to secure a reduction in the proposed tariff and, ultimately, to seek its removal altogether. It is important that Sri Lanka seeks to return to the lower tariff band while continuing discussions towards achieving a more competitive and predictable trading environment.
Given the importance of the US market to Sri Lankan exports, timely engagement and clear communication on the way forward will be critical in providing confidence to exporters and investors. The Ceylon Chamber stands ready to support these efforts and work collaboratively with all stakeholders to safeguard Sri Lanka's export competitiveness and long-term economic interests.
05.06.2025
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