News

The Department of Meteorology Sri Lanka has forecast intermittent showers today (20) across the Northern, North-central, Eastern, Uva, and Central provinces.

According to the latest weather outlook, certain areas in the Eastern Province and the districts of Matale, Badulla, Mullaitivu, and Polonnaruwa could experience fairly heavy rainfall reaching around 75 mm.

In addition, Hambantota district is likely to receive several periods of rain throughout the day. Elsewhere in the country, showers or thundershowers may develop in various locations after 1.00 p.m.

The department also noted that rainfall exceeding 50 mm is possible in Rathnapura, Galle, Matara, and Nuwara Eliya districts.

Early morning mist is expected in parts of the Central and Sabaragamuwa provinces, as well as in Galle and Matara districts.

The public has been advised to remain cautious and take necessary safety measures to reduce the risk of damage caused by sudden gusty winds and lightning during thundershowers.

Bill Gates pulled out of India’s AI Impact Summit hours before his scheduled keynote address on Thursday, dealing another blow to a flagship event already marred by organisational lapses, a robot bungle and delegate complaints over traffic disruptions.

The Gates Foundation said the billionaire will not deliver his address “to ensure the focus remains on the AI Summit’s key priorities”.

Only days ago, the foundation had dismissed rumours of his absence and insisted he was on track to attend.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to address the event on Thursday, alongside French President Emmanuel Macron, Google CEO Sundar Pichai, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman and Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei.

Gates’ absence, followed by another high-profile cancellation by Nvidia’s Jensen Huang, adds to a difficult opening for a summit billed as the first major artificial intelligence forum in the Global South, where India has sought to position itself as a leading voice in global AI governance.

Gates’ cancellation comes after the U.S. Department of Justice released emails last month that included communication between late financier and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein and the Gates Foundation’s staff.

The documents indicate Gates and Epstein met repeatedly after Epstein’s prison term to discuss expanding Gates’ philanthropic efforts. Gates has said the relationship was confined to philanthropy-related discussions and that it was a mistake for him to meet Epstein.

The Gates Foundation, the philanthropic organisation started by Microsoft, co-founder Bill Gates and his then-wife in 2000, is one of the world’s biggest funders of global health initiatives.

CHAOS AND TRAFFIC SNARLS

India’s first major AI summit has not dominated news headlines for the products on display, but for management lapses that have left attendees shocked and angry over what they described as a lack of planning by the Indian government.

The summit exhibition halls were shut to the public on Thursday in a surprise move that led to more anger among attendees.

On Wednesday, Indian university Galgotias was asked to vacate its stall after a staff member presented a commercially available robotic dog made in China as its own creation.

Chaos has gripped the city, with people on social media complaining of traffic snarls as police shut roads to give preference to VIP movement.

On Wednesday, footage on social media showed scores of attendees at the summit walking for miles in central Delhi as roads were shut for traffic, with no availability of taxis and no shuttle services arranged.

Source: adaderana.lk

Canada introduced new immigration priority categories on Wednesday to bring in skilled workers in fields ranging from research and health care to aviation, and to include certain military recruits.

The new categories align with Prime Minister Mark Carney’s goals of broadly reducing the number of new permanent residents in Canada while recruiting skilled workers and scholars and boosting defense capabilities to lessen dependence on the United States.

The government said the shift was aimed at restoring immigration to sustainable levels while finding workers for key industries. Canada’s government in recent years has sought to reduce the number of immigrants to ease strains on housing and social services.

Immigration Minister Lena Metlege Diab said the 2026 changes to the Express Entry system will help to attract talent that can “contribute from day one” as Canada faces labour shortages in critical sectors.

The new categories include researchers, senior managers, transport‑sector workers such as pilots and aircraft mechanics, and foreign medical doctors with Canadian experience. They will also include highly skilled foreign military applicants recruited by the Canadian Armed Forces, including military doctors, nurses and pilots.

“Canada’s future depends on a workforce ready for a changing economy,” Diab said in a statement.

Carney, seeking to reduce reliance on the United States, announced a new defense strategy on Tuesday that aims over the next decade to lift government investment in defense-related research and development by 85%, boost defense industry revenues by more than 240%, increase defense exports by 50% and create up to 125,000 quality new jobs.

Like other NATO members, Canada has pledged to raise defense spending to 5% of gross domestic product by 2035.

Invitation rounds in existing Express Entry categories — including French-language candidates, health-care workers and skilled trades — will continue alongside the new targeted streams.

Source:adaderana.lk

Former Minister Patali Champika Ranawaka has stated that the lowest electricity tariff is expected to rise following the implementation of the government’s new National Electricity Policy.

Addressing the media in Colombo, he explained that financial losses resulting from the import of reportedly low-quality coal to the Norochcholai Coal Power Plant have ultimately placed a burden on electricity consumers.

He emphasized that these losses have contributed to increased costs within the power sector, which may be reflected in future electricity pricing.

Meanwhile, M.D.R. Athula, Chairperson of the Electricity Consumers’ Association, stressed the importance of taking prompt legal measures against those allegedly involved in the coal procurement controversy.

He urged authorities to ensure accountability and transparency in order to protect consumers from further financial impact.

Sri Lankan students aiming to pursue higher studies in Australia will gain a rare opportunity this February as Jeewa Education hosts the Australian Education Roadshow 2026, showcasing over 30 leading Australian universities and institutions.

Celebrating 23 Years of Excellence

Since 2003, Jeewa Education has been a trusted bridge between Sri Lankan students and globally recognised Australian qualifications. With offices in Sri Lanka and Australia, the consultancy continues to provide award‑winning guidance and support, marking 23 years of service in 2026.

Event Details

•⁠ ⁠20 February – Kandy City Center (12 PM – 6 PM)

•⁠ ⁠22 February – Cinnamon Grand, Colombo (12 PM – 6 PM)

Hundreds of students and parents are expected to attend, connecting directly with official representatives from top universities.

Participating Institutions

Prestigious names include:

•⁠ ⁠RMIT University

•⁠ ⁠Deakin University

•⁠ ⁠Victoria University

•⁠ ⁠Western Sydney University

•⁠ ⁠Macquarie University

•⁠ ⁠Curtin University

•⁠ ⁠Queensland University of Technology

•⁠ ⁠University of Adelaide

•⁠ ⁠University of Sydney

•⁠ ⁠University of Technology Sydney …and many more.

Beyond Admissions – Comprehensive Support

Jeewa Education has transformed consultancy services by offering value‑added support such as discounted air tickets, airport pickups, accommodation assistance, and student networking events. With onshore offices in Brisbane, Melbourne, and Perth, students continue to receive guidance even after arrival in Australia.

Why Attend?

The Roadshow provides:

•⁠ ⁠Direct access to university representatives

•⁠ ⁠Guidance on programmes, admissions, and visas

•⁠ ⁠Insights into scholarships and pathways

•⁠ ⁠Personalised advice for students and parents

For aspiring students, the Australian Education Roadshow 2026 is a must‑attend event—bringing clarity, opportunity, and access to world‑class education in one place.

More details available at www.jeewaeducation.lk

The Colombo High Court has announced that the hearing of the case filed against Parliamentarian Namal Rajapaksa in relation to the controversial ‘Krrish’ project will continue on April 2, 2026.

The matter was called before High Court Judge Nadee Aparna Suwandurugoda earlier today for proceedings.

During the court session, Namal Rajapaksa, who is named as the defendant in the case, was present before the judge.

The case concerns allegations linked to the ‘Krrish’ development project agreement, which has drawn significant public and legal attention. Further hearings are expected to continue as scheduled in April.

The SLAF is also engaged in discussions with the United States regarding the possible acquisition of two C-130 Hercules transport aircraft along with additional utility helicopters, signalling continued efforts to expand airlift and humanitarian capabilities.

Meanwhile, previously grounded and ageing aircraft are being brought back into service. The MA-60 passenger transport aircraft is expected to return to operations with assistance from its Chinese manufacturer, while Chinese-built F-7 and K-8 aircraft are currently undergoing overhaul at the Katunayake facility with Chinese technical support and are anticipated to be operational later this year.

Attention is also focused on combat capability restoration. The long-standing Kfir fighter jets are nearing completion of a comprehensive upgrade programme conducted with Israel Aerospace Industries. The upgrades — including modern avionics, advanced radar and improved sensor systems — are expected to return the aircraft to active service by the end of the year.

Reflecting on recent disaster operations, Air Vice Marshal Seneviratne noted that the Air Force successfully responded to the Ditwah cyclone despite operational limitations, highlighting how the experience underscored the need to prepare for evolving natural disasters amid constrained resources and global disruptions, including the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

Looking ahead, the SLAF plans to launch a Space Research and Innovation Section at Air Force Headquarters in Akuregoda on March 1, under the vision of Air Marshal Bandhu Edirisinghe, aiming to build future space-related capabilities for national defence and technological advancement.

Anniversary celebrations will include a year-long programme of multi-religious observances, community initiatives and capability-development activities. Key events include the Air Force Day Parade on March 2 at Katunayake, the release of a commemorative stamp and anniversary song, and an aircraft exhibition and display from March 6–8 at SLAF Base Ratmalana.

In addition, the Air Force, together with the Cycling Federation of Sri Lanka, will host the Guwan Hamuda Papedi Sawariya 2026 cycling race from February 27 to March 1, featuring a three-day men’s competition and a single-day women’s race.

Litro Gas Lanka Limited has issued a special statement addressing public concerns over the recent temporary shortage of LP gas cylinders in the market, assuring consumers that there is no need for panic buying.

The state-owned LPG importer and distributor explained that the short-term supply issue was mainly due to an unexpected rise in consumer demand, along with a two-day interruption in gas supplies on February 14, 2026.

Chairman Channa Gunawardana stated that immediate steps have been taken to normalize distribution across the country. He noted that 284,000 domestic refill cylinders were already released on February 17 and 18, while an additional 351,000 cylinders are scheduled to be distributed between today and Saturday (21).

The company also confirmed that orders have been placed to secure sufficient reserves, with three gas shipments expected to arrive before the end of the month to strengthen supply levels.

Litro emphasized that these measures will ensure uninterrupted availability moving forward, reassuring the public that no long-term shortage of LP gas is anticipated.

Former Officer-in-Charge (OIC) of the Cyber Crime Investigation and Intelligence Analysis Unit of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), Mr. M.M.U. Subhasinghe, today expressed his regret in writing to civil activist and comedian Ms. Nathasha Edirisooriya at the Supreme Court regarding her arrest under the ICCPR Act.

The Attorney General’s Department, appearing on behalf of the respondents, informed the court that the Inspector General of Police (IGP) will issue a set of guidelines via a circular to all police officers to prevent unlawful arrests under this Act in the future. It was further noted that the circular would be issued within two weeks, and the petitioner, Nathasha Edirisooriya, has examined and agreed to these guidelines.

These submissions were made today before a three-judge bench of the Supreme Court, led by Chief Justice P. Padman Surasena, during the hearing of the Fundamental Rights (FR) petition filed by Ms. Edirisooriya challenging her unlawful arrest.

Following these developments, the court ordered the respondents to inform the court via a motion within two weeks of issuing the IGP circular and ordered the conclusion of the case proceedings.

Nathasha Edirisooriya was present in open court today. Addressing her, Chief Justice P. Padman Surasena stated that the court appreciates the manner in which the legal proceedings were brought to a conclusion. The letter expressing regret stated:

“As the arresting officer, considering the totality of circumstances, I wish to express deep regret to you for the arrest on 27th May 2023 and your incarceration in remand custody till 5th July 2023 consequent thereto. I also extend my deep regret regarding the damage that may have been caused to your reputation and dignity, and mental and emotional trauma caused by her arrest and incarceration.“

The respondents agreed to express this regret and issue the circular based on the specific conditions put forward by Ms. Nathasha Edirisooriya in consultation with her counsel Suren Fernando and the legal team.

The US government has given its official backing to the UK’s plan to hand over the Chagos Islands to Mauritius and lease back an important military base.

In a statement, the US Department of State said it “supports the decision of the United Kingdom to proceed with its agreement with Mauritius concerning the Chagos archipelago”.

It will come as a relief for the UK government after rapid changes in the position of US President Donald Trump on the deal, going from calling it an “act of great stupidity” to saying the deal was the “best” the prime minister could make.

The announcement comes ahead of talks between the US and Mauritius planned for next week.

In its statement, the US Department of State said that “the US reiterates its desire” for guaranteed “continued use” of the military base on Diego Garcia.

Diego Garcia is the largest island in the archipelago, and is used by the UK and US armed forces. Under the new plan, the UK will lease back Diego Garcia for a period of 99 years.

Continuing on the military base would “advance US national security” and ensure the “security and stability across the Indian Ocean”, the US Department of State added.

The US government had previously signalled it would back the deal worth £3.4bn ($4.6bn) that was signed by the UK in May.

At the time the Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the US “welcomed” the deal, before Trump described the plan in a post on Truth Social last month as “an act of great stupidity”.

The comments came amid high tensions between the White House and European nations over the US President’s desire to purchase Greenland from Denmark and his threats to impose tariffs on the UK and other nations that had backed Denmark.

The UK government said it would “never compromise on our national security”, while at the time the prime minister’s official spokesperson insisted the US still supported the move.

The talks set to take place next week will be held in the capital of Mauritius, Port Louis.

They will focus on “security co-operation” and “effective implementation of security arrangements” to ensure long-term success between the Mauritius government and the US, the US State Department has said.

The Chagos Islands – officially known as the British Indian Ocean Territory – are located about 5,799 miles (9,332km) south-east of the UK and about 1,250 miles north-east of Mauritius, in the Indian Ocean.

The islands have been under British control since 1814 and were bought by the government for £3m, which led to the establishment of the islands as an overseas territory in 1965.

But Mauritius has long argued that it was illegally forced to give the islands away as part of a deal to gain independence.

Source: adaderana.lk