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The depositing of the sacred relics and treasures at the historic Dighavapiya Chaitya took place today (14) with the participation of President Ranil Wickremesinghe.

The restoration work of Dighavapiya Chaitya, which is the fourth largest chaitya in Sri Lanka, was started in 2020 under the direction of the Ministry of Defence, and it is special that this is the last chaitya to be renovated among Solosmasthana.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe deposited the relics in the Dighavapiya Chaitya amidst ‘Seth Pirith’ by the Maha Sangha and at that time flowers were also sprayed by the air force while offering floral tributes.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe also offered the newly built Relics Shrine (Dhathu Mandiraya) where Sarvagna Dhatu and other relics were deposited and Refectory (Danasalava) to Maha Sangha.

Secretary to the Ministry of Defence, General G.D.H. Kamal Gunaratne (Retd), commented on the occasion, highlighting the on-going restoration efforts of the Dighavapiya Chaitya and the Muhudu Maha Viharaya under the Presidential Task Force dedicated to safeguarding the Buddhist heritage of the Eastern Province.

He announced the establishment of the “Dighavapiya Trust Fund “, emphasizing its successful provisioning. Currently, the chaitya stands at a height of 62.3 feet, requiring 72,000 clay bricks to construct each inch of its structure. General Gunaratne praised the labour contributions and acknowledged the substantial support from the tri-forces and devotees alike.

Ven. Ankumbure Premawansa Thera, Deputy Chief Sanghanayake of the Malwathu Chapter; Ven. Mahaoya Sobitha Thera, Chief Incumbent of Dighavapiya Rajamaha Vihara and Trinikayika Maha Sangha; former President Mahinda Rajapaksa; Minister of Buddhist and Cultural Affairs Vidura Wickramanayake; Member of Parliament D. Weerasinghe; Senior Adviser on National Security and Chief of Presidential Staff Sagala Ratnayaka; Chief of the Defence Staff General Shavendra Silva; Army Commander Lt. Gen. Vikum Liyanage; Navy Commander Vice Admiral Priyantha Perera; Air Force Commander Air Marshal Udeni Rajapaksa; former Minister Daya Gamage; Archaeology Commissioner Prof. Thusitha Mandis; and many other dignitaries and devout attendees graced the event.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe announced plans to implement a program aimed at transforming Anuradhapura, once a major trade and economic center, into a globally renowned city. He emphasized the need to highlight Anuradhapura’s cultural, educational, commercial, and economic values and to initiate archaeological research to bring its significance to the world stage. While cities like Tanjore, Madras, and Sanchipuram receive global attention, Anuradhapura has yet to be developed to the same extent.

The President mentioned that he would discuss these plans with the Director General of UNESCO, who is visiting Sri Lanka this week. Several universities worldwide have already expressed interest in supporting these initiatives.

President Wickremesinghe made these remarks during the ceremony to inaugurate the 150-kilowatt solar power system installed by the LTL Group at the historic Jaya Sri Maha Bodhiya premises in Anuradhapura this morning (13). He also stated that the government would support powering the Atamasthana and the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi premises.

During his visit to the Anuradhapura shrine, the President met with the Chief Incumbent of the Atamasthana in Anuradhapura and Chief Sanghanayake Thera of Nuwara Kalaviya Most Ven. Dr. Pallegama Hemarathana Nayake Thera and engaged in a brief discussion. After paying obeisance to the historic Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi and receiving blessings, he participated in the solar power system’s inauguration.

Additionally, President Wickremesinghe interacted with the public gathered at the Anuradhapura sacred grounds, engaging in friendly conversations and gathering their input.

In a significant move towards the government’s national policy of reducing carbon emissions and achieving a zero-emission target, LTL Holdings has dedicated a 150-kilowatt solar power system to Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi. This marks the first phase of its net zero carbon emission plan.
This solar power system meets the entire power requirement of the Sri Maha Bodhiya precinct, making the premises of Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi a net zero carbon emission zone for the first time in history.

Expressing his views at this ceremony, President Ranil Wickremesinghe said;

“We extend our gratitude to LTL Holdings for their commitment to introducing renewable energy, including solar power, to Sri Lanka. Despite achieving global recognition today, LTL has remained rooted in its Sri Lankan origins.

The government continues to support initiatives at the premises housing the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhiya and at the Atamasthana, ensuring ongoing and future support. Anuradhapura boasts a rich history spanning over a millennium, once renowned as a hub of trade and economics. Preserving and exploring this ancient city’s archaeological treasures remains a significant endeavour.

During President J.R. Jayawardene’s tenure, the Cultural Triangle initiative, developed in collaboration with UNESCO’s Director General, and brought international acclaim to cities like Polonnaruwa, Sigiriya, Dambulla, Kandy, and Anuradhapura. Following the completion of this landmark project, new archaeological efforts in the Anuradhapura district are now imperative.

Meanwhile, UNESCO has undertaken extensive archaeological projects in Angkor Thom, Cambodia, supported by France and other nations over the past few decades. Similar efforts have enhanced Luang Prabang in Laos, facilitated by UNESCO in collaboration with France. Additionally, the Chinese government has initiated archaeological ventures across various sites, utilizing its financial resources effectively.

However, we have not taken the necessary steps to implement these activities in Anuradhapura city. Therefore, I have advised both the Department of Archaeology and the Cultural Triangle to undertake these initiatives. Additionally, an agreement has been reached with Durham University to conduct excavation work at the Maha Viharaya. I have consulted with leaders and instructed them to expedite these efforts, with Dr. Prashantha Gunawardena coordinating these activities.

The Maha Viharaya represents just a portion of Anuradhapura’s rich history. Hence, I have invited the Director General of UNESCO to visit Sri Lanka and discuss initiatives for long-term archaeological endeavours in the Anuradhapura city. Several universities overseas have shown interest in supporting us for these activities, and we are moving forward with their collaboration.

These efforts are part of a comprehensive program aimed at establishing Anuradhapura as a globally renowned city.

While Sigiriya has gained international fame, we have not adequately highlighted Anuradhapura’s historical significance as a major trade and economic center in the past. Cities like Tanjore (Thanjavur), Madurai, and Sanchipuram are often discussed, yet Anuradhapura, the fourth city, has been overlooked. Therefore, it is crucial to develop Anuradhapura city.

As part of these initiatives, preparations are underway to establish new hotels in Anuradhapura, which will contribute significantly to its development.”

Chief Sanghanayake Thera of Nuwara Kalaviya Most Ven. Dr. Pallegama Hemarathana Nayake Thera,

“It should be noted that the President, who attended the event, received blessings from the Maha Vihara faction. His participation in charitable activities brings continuous blessings. Two years ago, there was a power crisis which the current president successfully resolved. Issues with electricity bills in religious places were resolved through the government’s program to provide renewable energy, which has proven effective. Today, the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi precinct is illuminated by solar energy, a significant spiritual merit according to dharma. As the Maha Sangha, we wish for all your aspirations to be fulfilled.”

State Minister of Finance Shehan Semasinghe,

“President Ranil Wickremesinghe’s economic reform initiatives, aimed at steering the country away from economic crises, have shown significant progress today. These efforts have necessitated several economic reform programs. The government has actively promoted renewable energy expansion, enhancing opportunities in this sector. The introduction of the net metering system ensures fair billing based on actual electricity consumption. As part of accelerating the provision of electricity to religious shrines through renewable energy, solar panels are being installed and provided to Jaya Sri Maha Bodhiya. It is noteworthy that the government is also implementing various programs to safeguard religious sites.”

Presidential Chief of Staff and Senior Advisor to the President on National Security Sagala Ratnayaka,

“Twenty-two years ago, LTL initiated electric lighting at the Ruwanweli Seya premises, with Mr. Ranil Wickremesinghe participating as Prime Minister at the time. LTL has significantly impacted Sri Lanka’s electricity sector, establishing itself locally and gaining international prominence through dedication and innovation. In 2002, during Mr. Ranil Wickremesinghe’s tenure as Prime Minister, Sri Lanka faced severe power cuts of up to 18 hours daily.

Upon assuming office as President in 2022, power cuts persisted for nearly 13 hours daily. However, within six months, President Ranil Wickremesinghe effectively managed these challenges, significantly improving the country’s energy landscape. Sri Lanka has introduced the net metering system, enabling consumers to pay for actual electricity consumption only.

India has awarded a $10 million prize to support renewable energy expansion in Sri Lanka, alongside a $100 million loan for further initiatives in this sector.”

Chief Executive Officer of LTL Nuhuman Marikkar,

“The installation of solar panels at religious shrines commences today. In addition to illuminating these sacred sites, there are plans underway to establish a 150 MW renewable power plant in the Siambalanduwa area. LTL Company remains steadfast in its commitment to meeting public energy needs through the promotion of renewable energy.”

Notable attendees at the event included the Maha Sangha of the province, Members of Parliament S.M. Chandrasena and Duminda Dissanayake, former Minister P. Harrison, former Chief Minister S.M. Ranjith, Ceylon Electricity Board Chairman Nalinda Ilangakoon, and other dignitaries.

An extraordinary gazette was issued declaring public transport services and the provision and maintenance of facilities for transport services, as essential services.

The extraordinary gazette was signed by Secretary to the President Saman Ekanayake.

Accordingly, public transport services for passengers or goods and the provision and maintenance of facilities for transport services by road, and rail, including roads, bridges, culverts, and railway lines will be essential effective yesterday.

Heavy showers more than 100 mm arlikely at some places in Western and Sabaragamuwa provinces and in Kandy and Nuwara-Eliya districts.

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

116,000 scholarships are to be awarded for the year 2024 under the “Presidential Scholarship Program”, which is implemented according to the concept of President Ranil Wickremesinghe, for the upliftment of the education of the children of the underprivileged.

Accordingly, Rs. 824 million have been allocated for the scholarship program, which will provide Rs. 6000 per month for 24 months to 6000 students studying for their G.C.E. (A/L)s. Additionally, Rs. 3600 million have been allocated for a scholarship program that grants Rs. 3000 per month for 12 months to 100,000 students from grade 1 to grade 11.

In addition, Rs. 288 million has been allocated for the scholarship program offered to student monks, Sheela Matha, and lay students studying in Piriven and Sheela Matha educational institutes. Furthermore, Rs. 720 million has been allocated for the scholarship program jointly offered by the Regulatory Commission and the President’s Fund for students studying telecommunication as a subject for the G.C.E. (A/L) examination.

Accordingly, in addition to the existing scholarship programs, more than Rs. 5000 million will be allocated to students for these scholarship programs.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe stated that a robust economy can be established by enhancing the export economy, manufacturing, tourism, technology sectors, and modern agriculture. He highlighted that the government has already laid the foundation for this vision.

The President made these remarks today (12), during the inauguration ceremony of the second and third phases of the Export Processing Zone in Bingiriya, which is the largest of its kind in Sri Lanka. Addressing the ceremony, the President emphasized that efforts are underway to create new investment zones to further bolster the export economy of the country.

Upon completion of the Bingiriya Investment Zone, it is estimated that an export income of USD 2,600 million will be generated, and 75,000 job opportunities will be created.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe inaugurated the newly constructed Dongxia Industrial & Commerce Co. Ltd in the Bingiriya Export Processing Zone. During his visit, the President toured the premises and engaged in cordial conversations with the employees.

Following the tour, President Ranil Wickremesinghe held a discussion with officials from the Board of Investment, the Urban Development Authority, investors, and entrepreneurs. During the discussion, the President instructed officials to take steps to develop the areas of Bingiriya, Dummalasuriya, and Madampe to metropolitan standards, alongside the development of infrastructure in the export processing zone.

Plans to develop Bingiriya into a major economic region of the country were also discussed at these discussions. These plans include the development of agriculture, the manufacturing industry, information technology, tourism, and the fishing industry.

Addressing the gathering President Ranil Wickremesinghe further elaborated;

“Dongxia started its business in Sri Lanka in 2018. Even when the country faced bankruptcy, they trusted us and stayed to open this new factory. So far, the company has provided job opportunities to around 400 people, creating a promising future for the youth of the country. We should establish more such investment zones. The Bingiriya area should be developed as an investment zone to boost the overall economy. In 2018, we initiated the Bingiriya Investment Zone, and today, another thousand acres have been added to this zone.

We all went through a very difficult time. When the country’s economy collapsed, no one stepped forward to take over. A party with only one seat in Parliament had to assume the presidency, an unprecedented event in the world. Today, Sri Lanka is free from bankruptcy. Through the debt restructuring process, we have received relief of USD 08 billion from our total debt. Additionally, the entire loan repayment period has been extended to 2043, giving the government some breathing room to stabilize the economy.

If this program is not carried forward, the country’s economy may collapse again. Even today, our import costs exceed our export earnings. If this continues, the country may face bankruptcy again in 15 years. Therefore, proper economic management should be maintained by controlling the acquisition of foreign loans. Countries like Vietnam, Thailand, and Indonesia have progressed to an export-driven economy, but Sri Lanka has not yet reached that level.

Therefore, we must uphold the agreement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and advance the country’s economy. Steps should be taken to strengthen the export economy. The factory opening today is a good example of fostering an export economy. A strong economy can be built by developing the export economy, manufacturing sector, tourism sector, technology sector, and modern agriculture. The government has already laid the basic foundation for this.

If this program is preserved, there is a bright future ahead.

With the aim of developing the export sector in Sri Lanka, the Bingiriya Export Zone was established here in 2018. This initiative aims to develop Kuliyapitiya, Dummalasuriya, Madampe, Bingiriya, and Chilaw areas too. Through the development of this entire investment zone, 75,000 job opportunities can be created. Additionally, Iranavila, Bingiriya, and Chilaw are to be developed as tourist areas, with plans to build a golf course in the Iranavila area. There is also a focus on creating an IT zone and utilizing the estate of the Chilaw Plantation Company for an agricultural modernization program.

With the development of this investment zone, new housing and a new city will emerge, creating numerous business opportunities for its residents. We aim to develop Bingiriya as a major economic zone in the country through the advancement of agriculture, industry, manufacturing, information technology, tourism, and the fishing industry. This will also significantly improve the Pannala and Kuliyapitiya areas, and we believe that the restoration of Madampe will be achieved through these efforts.

All these programs have been implemented for the development of the country. We are currently in a period of gradual recovery after a difficult time. There are still unresolved issues affecting the people. To address these, we must adhere to a unified economic system. For success, we need to enact economic transformation in the country, with Bingiriya playing a pivotal role. Let’s build a new economy centred on Bingiriya and Iranavila areas. It should be stated that you all are part of this transformation.”

State Minister of Investment Promotion, Dilum Amunugama;

President Ranil Wickremesinghe initiated the establishment of the Bingiriya Export Trade Zone in 2018, when he was the Prime Minister. Today marks the inauguration of the first factory in this zone, with an additional 1000 acres allocated for the second and third phases. The President has directed us to develop new investment zones, and we are exploring opportunities in Iranavila, Mankulam, and Kankasanthuari areas.

Under the robust economic leadership of President Ranil Wickremesinghe, Sri Lanka has entered into 35 investment agreements this year. The Ministry of Investment Promotion has successfully achieved its target of attracting investments totalling Rs.01 billion, as set by the Ministry of Finance. These achievements herald a promising future for Sri Lanka’s economy.

Governor of the North Western Province Ahamed Nazeer Zainulabdeen, State Ministers Shantha Bandara, Ashoka Priyantha, and D.B. Herath, Members of Parliament Anura Priyadharshana Yapa and Sumith Udukumbura, Former Minister Akila Viraj Kariyawasam, Secretary to the Ministry of Investment Promotion Meera Muhiadeen Nayeemudeen, Director General of the Board of Investment Renuka M. Weerakone, and Managing Director of Dongxia Industrial & Commerce Co. Ltd. Sho Wing were also present at the event.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe emphasized that true revolutions are not about violence or destruction, but about creating a foundation where people can advance with dignity.

Pointing out that the “Urumaya” program has been able to create that background for the people of Sri Lanka, the President said that everyone should unite with the “Urumaya” program, which will popularize the genuine socialist ideals beyond partisan politics.

The President made these remarks at the “Urumaya” freehold land deeds award ceremony held at Tambuttegama Mahaweli Stadium, where he symbolically awarded 47 freehold land deeds. Accordingly, 4,012 individuals across nine Mahaweli divisions in the Anuradhapura district received their freehold land rights.

President Ranil wickremesinghe further elaborated;

“I visited Tambuttegama area 50 years ago, in 1974. At that time, there was a contention within the Bandaranaike family regarding who would step forward after the passing of Mr. Ratnamalana, a member of the Left Front who was active here.

Anura Bandaranaike expressed his intention to take up the mantle. Opposition leader J.R. Jayawardena asked Mr. Jayawardena if he would lend his support, to which Mr. Jayawardena agreed. However, Mrs. Chandrika and Mr. Vijaya Kumaratunga opposed this. Eventually, Mrs. Bandaranaike presented Mr. Ratnamalana’s son. Mr. Adhikari from the United National Party arrived in this province for our interim election.

During that period, there was no any development in these provinces. I returned to Tambuttegama in 1984, it’s after a decade, during which time we had formed a government and appointed Mr. Adhikari as Deputy Minister under Minister Gamini Dissanayake. Mr. Gamini Dissanayake entrusted him with the Mahaweli H zone, and with the support of all of us, he worked towards its development.

Mr. Gamini Dissanayake inaugurated Tambuttegama as the new main town of the Kalawewa area under the Mahaweli Development Program. On that day, Madhya Maha Vidyalaya, a new bus stand, a fully equipped hospital, the Deputy Governor’s office, and shops were all inaugurated.

I attended the event as the Minister of Education, alongside M.H. Mr. Mohammad, the Minister of Transport, and Mr. Ranjith Atapattu, the Minister of Health. Prior to this, at the request of Mr. Adhikari, I had arranged for Tambuttegama Maha Vidyalaya to receive advanced education facilities and a new building.

Today, Tambuttegama has blossomed into a highly developed city. When I first visited the province in 1984, my friend MP Anura Dissanayake was a student at that school. Through our efforts to enhance its educational standards, he excelled in his exams and subsequently attended the University of Kelaniya, which we helped establish. Now, he has the privilege of working alongside us in Parliament.

When the “Dhawala Pathrika” was introduced, it faced significant opposition from the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna. Today, I take pride in seeing one of its members emerge as a presidential candidate, a testament to the success of our education system.

During my visit today, the principal mentioned that Tambuttegama College still lacks adequate resources. Therefore, plans are underway to construct a new building for the college. Our efforts have propelled significant advancements in these provinces. Several Irrigation Ministers and Mahaweli Ministers have originated from this province, reflecting our collective progress.

While MP Anura Dissanayake and I collaborate in Parliament, our political affiliations differ. He recently affirmed this in Parliament, identifying Mahinda Rajapaksa as the key figure in his political stance. This divergence doesn’t concern me; whether someone aligns with Rajapaksa or the United National Party or other parties, our imperative remains collaboration for the common good.

I recall when Mrs. Chandrika Bandaranaike was there to give the presidency to Mr. Anura Bandaranaike when she gave up the office of President. At that moment, Mr. Anura Dissanayake courageously stepped forward and requested Mr. Mahinda Rajapaksa to take up the opportunity, supporting him during the election. For me, their political affiliations are not an issue. Today, we stand united beyond political divides. Whether they are Rajapaksa supporters or United National Party supporters, our common goal is the recovery of our country. Recently, the United States acknowledged Sri Lanka’s remarkable progress, urging other nations to follow suit.

Two years ago, our political system faced a collapse. Which country faces a three-day search for a prime minister? Such disruptions are unheard of in politics. Moreover, in any country, a single-seat holder becoming president is unprecedented. Despite these challenges, through collaborative efforts devoid of political agendas, we have stabilized the country’s economy. This achievement underscores the power of working together for the greater good.

Before that, we experienced various political conflicts. However, during times of national crisis, we cannot afford division. If we do not unite, there will be no country left to govern. Over the past two years, we have focused on providing relief to the people. Instead of remaining in the depths of economic despair, we introduced a program three times larger than ‘Samurdhi’ called ‘Aswesuma,’ bringing comfort to the nation. Government employees received an allowance of Rs.10, 000. In 2015, following the salary increase I implemented as Prime Minister, this allowance was granted for the first time. We also bolstered agriculture by ensuring farmers had ample fertilizer.

The economic crisis affected all citizens, but as we rebuild, we must not forget those who struggled. The farmers of this province have consistently yielded good harvests, which has bolstered our economic recovery. As a token of appreciation, we have initiated a ground-breaking program to grant freehold land rights, a move emblematic of true socialism in our democratic socialist nation. This echoes China’s approach to developing its economy through traditional socialism, ensuring prosperity reaches the people.

We have initiated a program aimed at establishing an export-driven economy in our nation. This endeavour ensures that people are empowered with rights—a true testament to socialism and revolution. Unlike past upheavals involving violence and destruction, this is a peaceful and transformative revolution. Through the “Urumaya” program, 2 million people in our country will secure their land rights. I urge everyone to embrace this opportunity and advance with pride. This marks your liberation, freeing you from dependency on officials. Hence, I invite all to support and participate in this initiative without political divisions.

MP S.M. Chandrasena;

Today marks a joyful occasion for the residents of Rajarata, a province rich in tradition and inhabited by many. President Ranil Wickremesinghe visited Rajarata today to inspire the next generation and address longstanding land issues that have plagued the people. Land disputes have frequently inundated the courts across the country for years.

To alleviate these challenges, the President launched the “Urumaya” program aimed at resolving land issues. Despite past efforts by local land ministers and leaders like the JVP, including the province’s economic recovery from the turmoil of ’88-’89, challenges persist. The region, crucial for the country’s rice supply, awaits the benefits of the Moragahakanda project initiated in 2007, which has yet to bring water to Rajarata. In light of these circumstances, urgent implementation of a water supply program for Rajarata is imperative, ensuring the prosperity and well-being of its people. Hence, I urge the President to swiftly initiate a program to ensure water supply to Rajarata.

Former Minister P. Harrison;

The President’s long-held vision of granting “Urumaya” freehold land deeds has finally come to fruition. Although conceived seven years ago, the program faced delays for various reasons until now. Today, the “Urumaya” program is being rolled out across the country in phases; thanks to the dedication of political leaders and government officials who have made the President’s dream a reality.

During times of crisis in our nation, farmers in Rajarata did not waver in their struggles. They sought essential resources such as fuel for machinery, fertilizers, and milk powder for their children. Under the current administration, subsidized fertilizers have been provided to farmers, along with fuel for agricultural machinery. The issuance of these freehold land deeds aims to further bolster the government’s agricultural initiatives, enabling farmers to cultivate without hindrance. It is undeniable that Mr. Ranil Wickremesinghe has emerged as a true leader in fostering a socialist revolution in our country.

MP Duminda Dissanayake;

Today is a lucky day for all of us, as three generations have eagerly awaited these deeds. The President initiated this program without regard to political affiliations. Let us take ownership of this “Urumaya” and utilize it responsibly. It is unfair to blame the entire society for the mistakes of a few individuals.

Despite the President’s affiliation with the United National Party, today, the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna and the Sri Lanka Freedom Party stand united with him on this platform. This occasion sends a powerful message to our nation: by setting aside political animosities, we can collectively work towards the advancement of our country.

Minister of Wildlife & Forest Resources Conservation and Irrigation Pavithradevi Wanniarachchi;

To ensure every individual’s basic needs are met, it is essential they have absolute rights to land. This principle guided the President’s decision to pursue these initiatives despite numerous challenges. Within a short span, he launched the ‘Aswesuma’ program and took steps to provide presidential scholarship grants to students from low-income families, ranging from primary to secondary education levels.

Under this initiative, Advanced Level students receive Rs. 6,000 per month, while selected students from grade 01 to grade 11 across all 10,126 schools acorss the country receive Rs. 3,000 per month. The President firmly believes that investing in education will pave the way for the country’s reconstruction.

His extensive international relations and political experience have contributed significantly to the current state of the country. He has also focused on revitalizing the agricultural sector, which had been neglected in previous administrations’ development efforts. The President has strategized to globalize our country’s agricultural produce through an agriculture modernization program. This marks an era of significant advancement, aimed at uplifting traditional farmers. It can be said that during this period, he is making decisions that will shape your life.

Religious leaders, led by the Maha Sangha, North Central Province Governor Maheepala Herath, Senior Adviser on National Security and Chief of Presidential Staff Sagala Ratnayaka, State Minister Shehan Semasinghe, Member of Parliament Ishak Rahuman, United National Party District Leader Kasthuri Anuradhanayake, Secretary to the Ministry of Irrigation Saman Darshana Pandikorala, Mahaweli Authority Director General Mahendra Abeywardena, Senior Additional Secretary to the President Chandra Herath, District Secretary J.M.J.K. Jayasundara, and other government officials and policymakers were present at the event.

Former Health Minister Keheliya Rambukwella and six others, arrested over the alleged importation of substandard human immunoglobulin vials, have been further remanded until July 25.

The order was issued after the defendants were produced before the Maligakanda Magistrate’s Court on Friday (12).

President Ranil Wickremesinghe emphasized his commitment to building a robust economic framework that ensures long-term stability for future generations, steering away from short-term solutions that could risk economic collapse. He made these remarks today (13) during the inauguration of the state-of-the-art swimming pool at the Anuradhapura Central College.

Reflecting on past economic and political crises, President Wickremesinghe highlighted the necessity of a national-level political apparatus capable of strategic governance beyond the five year electoral cycles. He underscored the need for governance focused not merely on short-term power dynamics but on sustainable national development.

During the ceremony, President Wickremesinghe inaugurated the state-of-the-art swimming pool and engaged with students participating in various activities. He also formally handed over the swimming pool premises to the Anuradhapura Central College and congratulated students who excelled in the 2023 GCE Advanced Level Examination, personally acknowledging their achievements.

Principal Mr. Percy Mahanama presented a donation of Rs. 10,000 to the President’s Fund, contributed by the students of the Anuradhapura Central College, as a token of appreciation.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe further commented;

The Government, along with support from the Alumni Association, has contributed to the construction of this swimming pool, providing your school with a valuable addition. This school, where the educational reforms initiated by Mr. C. W. W. Kannangara began in the North Central Province, holds the distinction of being its first Madhya Maha Vidyalaya.

Since then, the school has made significant strides. The principal has requested a three-storied building, and I will personally notify the Ministry of Education to facilitate its construction.

As we approach the 77th anniversary of the college and celebrate the completion of the swimming pool, I am pleased to announce that the President’s office is actively working towards establishing a fully-equipped fitness center for the college.

During a student’s speech on behalf of the school, the aspiration for a better future was prominently expressed. This aspiration is both reasonable and timely, especially considering recent years. It is imperative that we strategize on how to build this envisioned future.

By averting bankruptcy, we have achieved our first milestone. However, continuing with the current economic trajectory risks accumulating unsustainable levels of debt, jeopardizing the future these students aspire to. In the next 15 years, we could potentially face a severe economic crisis unless we chart a sustainable course forward.

As a nation, we must decide whether to advance or risk economic collapse once more. Considering that you will reside here for at least another 50 years, our focus as a government should extend beyond 2050 and aim towards securing prosperity by 2075.

Therefore, we are planning to transition our country’s economy from one reliant on imports to one driven by exports. This necessitates a fundamental overhaul of our existing economic structures, for which we have introduced the Economic Transformation Act.

Central to this transformation is the agricultural modernization program, crucial for revitalizing our economy. Thanks to the dedication of our farmers, who received essential fertilizer support, we achieved successful harvests in 2022, 2023, and 2024. In recognition of their contributions, we launched the inheritance tax exemption program, benefiting farmers across the North Central Province.

Looking ahead, the global population is projected to increase by an additional 2 billion by 2050, necessitating a focus on utilizing modern technology to maximize agricultural output and ensure food security worldwide. From these arid regions, we aim to achieve self-sufficiency in rice production, which will drive economic prosperity in Anuradhapura, Dambulla, and Vavuniya.

Furthermore, these provinces possess significant potential for solar energy projects and tourism development. Embracing innovation, we are embarking on ambitious initiatives such as the Trincomalee port development project in collaboration with India, which will also benefit Anuradhapura.

In line with our forward-thinking approach, plans are underway to establish three new technological universities, supported by foreign institutions offering technical expertise. Embracing advancements in artificial intelligence, we are poised to chart a new course towards a prosperous future.
As we navigate this transformative journey, it is imperative to continuously reassess and innovate for sustained growth and development.

Some politicians focus solely on gaining power for a five-year term or on ousting their rivals from office. This narrow approach to politics has historically led to economic and political crises in our country.

Through collaboration across political divides, I successfully revitalized the national economy. This effort marked the establishment of a national-level thinking group for the first time in our history. Such a system is crucial for our future, transcending partisan interests to prioritize the nation’s well-being.

Regardless of political affiliation, it is essential that every representative prioritizes the nation’s interests. Our collective success as a nation hinges on the decisions we make in the coming years. Therefore, I urge everyone to focus on the future and work towards our shared prosperity.

State Minister of Finance Shehan Semasinghe;

Today marks a significant milestone as the swimming pool of this school, which holds a special place in Anuradhapura, is handed over to the students. The completion of this project faced challenges amidst recent turbulent conditions in the country. However, following successful economic stabilization efforts led by President Ranil Wickremesinghe, funding was secured to finalize its construction. Under the President’s strategic initiatives, comprehensive measures were implemented to advance the nation’s economic recovery while restoring stability.

Through effective decision-making and a partnership with the International Monetary Fund, the government swiftly restored both the economy and livelihoods. President Wickremesinghe continues to spearhead reforms aimed at safeguarding the economy from future collapses, with new legislation and programs already underway. Concurrently, transformative initiatives are enhancing infrastructure across education, healthcare, and the broader economy, fostering a brighter outlook for the nation’s future.

The ceremony was attended by North Central Province Governor Mahipala Herath, Members of Parliament S.M. Chandrasena, Duminda Dissanayake, Rohana Bandara, former Minister P. Harrison, former Chief Minister S.M. Ranjith, Anuradhapura Central College Principal Mr. Percy Mahanama, members of the staff, parents, alumni, and students.

Mr. K. Parinda Ranasinghe P.C. was sworn in as the Attorney General of Sri Lanka this morning (12). The ceremony took place at the Presidential Secretariat, where he took the oath before President Ranil Wickremesinghe.

This appointment, made by President Wickremesinghe in accordance with the powers vested in him under Article 61E (b) of the Constitution, marks a significant step in the nation’s judicial landscape.

Mr. Ranasinghe is the 49th Attorney General of Sri Lanka.

President’s Secretary Mr. Saman Ekanayake was also present at the swearing-in ceremony.

Sri Lanka still ranks high in suicides although the situation is much better from the 1996-97 period, said health minister Dr. Ramesh Pathirana.

He said his ministry is taking all action possible in collaboration with other stakeholders to improve on this.

The minister was speaking at a ceremony on 11 July to mark the 50th anniversary or Sumithrayo.

Dr. Pathirana commended the volunteer service institution for its half a century of contributions to prevent suicides.

To mark its anniversary, Sumithrayo is holding a four-day international conference to be attended by more than 150 delegates from 15 countries.

The institution was formed in 1974 by British national Joan de Mel as an affiliate of Befrienders Organization.

Present on the occasion were Befrienders chairman Neil Hawkins and chairperson of Sumithrayo Suranjani Wickramaratne.

The Sri Lanka Cricket in a statement announced that National Men’s T20I Captain Wanindu Hasaranga has decided to resign from the captaincy.

According to Sri Lanka Cricket, Wanindu Hasaranga said it is in the best interest of Sri Lanka Cricket that he decided to relinquish the captaincy duties and remain in the side as a player.

Wanindu Hasaranga in his resignation letter said that Sri Lanka will always have his utmost best efforts as a player, and vouched to continue his support and stand by his team and leadership as always.

Sri Lanka Cricket, while accepting his resignation, said that Hasaranga will remain an important player for the team in their international cricketing plans.