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The Cabinet of Ministers has granted approval to take necessary steps to provide ambulances to the ‘1990 Suwa Seriya’ Foundation, free of charge as a grant.

Issuing a statement, the Department of Government Information (DGI) stated that ‘1990 Suwa Seriya’ Foundation had been initiated by the utilization of 297 ambulances which were obtained from India’s TATA Sons Pvt. Ltd, under a grant of the Indian Government in 2016, with the objective of providing the pre-hospital treatments and emergency treatment services.

At present, 322 of ambulances are operated including 25 ambulances provided by Government of Sri Lanka. According to the target of the ‘Suwa Seriya’ Foundation, it has been identified that 450 ambulances and 25 back-up ambulances are required and accordingly, there is a dearth of 150 ambulances at present, it added.

The statement further mentioned that TATA Sons Pvt. Ltd has agreed to provide 50 ambulances while Asian Development Bank (ADB) has agreed to provide 45 ambulances as a grant.

Accordingly, the Cabinet of Ministers has agreed to the proposal presented by Minister of Health Ramesh Pathirana to take necessary steps to obtain the said ambulances to the ‘1990 Suwa Seriya’ Foundation.

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Secretary to the Treasury Mr. Mahinda Siriwardana stated that granting the salary increase demanded by striking public servants would necessitate raising the current VAT from 18% to between 20% and 21%. He emphasized that the government cannot impose such a burden on the public. Mr. Siriwardana made these remarks during a discussion held today (08) at the Presidential Secretariat, chaired by President Ranil Wickremesinghe, concerning the demands of public service trade unions.

The discussion addressed the trade union actions taken by several trade unions in the public service and explored potential positive solutions to their demands. It was noted that while a salary increase is not feasible this year, there is a plan to revise public service salaries in the 2025 budget, based on recommendations from an expert committee investigating salary disparities.

The Treasury Secretary highlighted that a salary increase of Rs. 10,000 for government employees would require an additional Rs. 140 billion annually, and an increase of Rs. 20,000 would necessitate an additional Rs. 280 billion.

To generate the required income, even with optimal management of current revenues, additional tax increases will be necessary, the Treasury Secretary pointed out. Specifically, he noted that to raise salaries by Rs. 10,000, the VAT would need to be increased by 2%. Furthermore, to meet the wage demands of the trade unions, the VAT would need to be raised by more than 3%. He emphasized that this is not feasible at this time, as the VAT is already at a maximum rate of 18%.

The Treasury Secretary also explained that, due to the government’s efforts to stabilize the country’s economy, the Central Bank can no longer print money as it did before. Doing so would jeopardize the program with the International Monetary Fund.

Senior Advisor to the President on Economic Affairs, Dr. R.H.S. Samaratunga, remarked that while increasing public servants’ salaries again this year is challenging, the President has committed to allocating funds for this in next year’s budget. He also mentioned that a separate expert committee has been appointed to study and report on salary discrepancies.

The discussion included President’s Secretary Mr. Saman Ekanayake and a group of senior government officials.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe, reflecting on the destruction of his home by fire two years ago, emphasized the importance of having a secure home. This realization prompted him to launch a program aimed at granting full ownership of homes to 250,000 residents living in flats in Colombo.

He highlighted this initiative yesterday (09) during the inauguration of the “Randora Urumaya” housing deed awarding program. In the first phase, 50,000 houses are being provided to low-income families residing in Colombo flats.

During the event, the President symbolically participated in awarding ownership of 130 houses located in 31 apartment complexes in the Colombo district.

As per a concept of President Ranil Wickremesinghe, the 2024 budget proposals introduced the Urumaya program, which aims to provide free land rights to 2 million people and grant full ownership of homes to 250,000 low-income families living in flats in Colombo.

The National Housing Development Authority has paid Rs.150,000 for each of the homes, including flats, that are rented out to low-income earners at Rs.3,000 or less per month. Although the payment has not yet been completed, within a month, 50,000 beneficiary families will receive full home ownership under the first phase. The Authority plans to award title deeds to 1,070 beneficiaries by the end of this year.

President Wickremesinghe further elaborated that through the “Urumaya” program, 2 million people will receive freehold land rights, and 50,000 people will gain full rights to their homes. He emphasized that owning land and a home fulfils the aspirations of the people of this country, and the government is committed to providing as much relief as possible to its citizens.

Addressing the gathering President Ranil Wickremesinge further stated;

Today, we stand united for the people living in Colombo flats to gain full ownership of their homes. This marks the arrival of the “Urumaya” program in the city. We initiated the “Urumaya” program during a time of great hardship for our country, providing as much support as the government could offer.

Our primary focus was on granting rights to the people. Owning land or a house is crucial and represents the hopes of the people. We implemented this program to fulfil those aspirations, successfully achieving it within two years.

Before achieving all this, it was essential to establish economic stability and maintain law and order in the country. Two years ago, there was widespread fear about the future of our country. Today, we have achieved economic stability. Without this, our country could have faced crises similar to Lebanon and Kenya.

We are now working to ensure that the people benefit from this newfound economic stability. In just two years, we managed to lift the country out of bankruptcy. I have long advocated for granting land rights to the farmers of this country, and we, as a government, united to make this a reality.

I truly understood the value of a house when my home burned down two years ago. If the Air Force had come to put out the fire, they would have had to shoot, and I didn’t want anyone to be harmed. As a result, everything in my house, including my books, was destroyed.

This experience deepened my appreciation for the importance of having a home, which inspired us to launch this project to grant people the right to own their houses. We extended the “Urumaya” program to the city, ensuring it wasn’t confined to rural areas. Under this program, 2 million people in villages will receive freehold land rights; while 250,000 families in Colombo will gain home ownership. You must protect and maintain these homes, keeping them nice and clean, and build your future within them. This is a valuable opportunity in your life, and I urge you to make the most of it.

As a government, we are committed to providing as much relief as possible to the people. We are all acutely aware of the hardships faced by our citizens. When I assumed leadership, I believed the country needed a significant change. This change cannot be achieved through slogans, street protests, or petitions. Real change requires purposeful action towards clear goals.

No one expected our country to reach the state it is in today. Through the “Aswesuma” program, similar to the “Samurdhi” grant, we provided triple the benefits to the people. We also increased the paddy production of the country and arranged for low-income families to receive 10 kilos of rice for two months. Additionally, government employees received a salary increase of ten thousand rupees.

We have also focused on developing tourism and agriculture in the country. The “Urumaya” program was implemented to grant freehold land rights to the people, and arrangements have been made to provide ownership of flats to those in need.
Our achievements were possible due to our dedication. Why were previous governments unable to accomplish these tasks? I must extend my gratitude to all the ministers involved. We must continue these efforts together.

We have reached an agreement with our official creditors, including China Exim Bank and private creditors, on how to repay the foreign loans we have taken. As a result, Rs.8 billion has been reduced from our debt obligations, and we have been given until 2042 to repay the remaining debt. We must move forward with this plan. I believe no one wants to revert to the old ways. If we fail to uphold our agreement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF), we will face even greater difficulties as a nation. We cannot remain perpetually in debt; therefore, we must transition to an export economy to generate income.

We must accomplish these two goals and ensure no one derails our efforts. Your future is in your hands today.

Additionally, we need to create employment opportunities for the youth. An expert committee has been appointed to address salary discrepancies among government employees.

I have also instructed the Treasury Secretary to implement a program to provide relief to retirees. Funds should be allocated by the end of this year to support these individuals. The government aims to maintain low interest rates in the future. For business development, bank interest rates need to be kept low. However, lower interest rates can disadvantage pensioners, so I have directed the Treasury Secretary to develop a program to address this issue.

We have a long journey ahead to secure a better future for your children. We must build the society that future generation’s desire. I believe that granting rights to the people today is one of the best steps we can take towards that goal.

Minister of Urban Development and Housing Prasanna Ranatunga;

During the presentation of the 2024 Budget, when the President proposed granting free land deeds to 02 million people, some opposition groups mocked the idea.

However, the President confidently instructed us to implement the freehold land deeds program. Today, the “Urumaya” freehold land deeds initiative has commenced. Additionally, the program to provide full ownership of houses to residents of flats begins today. With these freehold deeds, recipients can secure bank loans for various needs, such as school fees or medical expenses.

Two years ago, President Ranil Wickremesinghe’s house was destroyed by protesters. It was not just a house; it was a piece of history. The house contained a valuable library, statues, paintings, and more. Despite this loss, the President has initiated a program to ensure home ownership for many.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe was the only leader who stepped up for the country and its oppressed people when other leaders, businessmen, and scholars left due to the crisis. A leader’s true character is revealed during times of crisis. President Wickremesinghe took on the responsibility of stabilizing the country and has provided relief to the affected people through various programs like “Aswesuma and Urumaya.”

State Minister, Thenuka Vidanagamage;

Two years ago, on this very day, protesters burned down the President’s private residence. However, today, the President has initiated a program to grant ownership of houses to people living in flats in Colombo.

Under the concept of President Ranil Wickremesinghe, the “Urumaya” freehold deed program for land and house titles has commenced. This initiative grants free housing rights to residents of Colombo flats. Between 2015 and 2019, we continued the projects initiated by President Wickremesinghe during his tenure as Prime Minister through the Ministry of Housing. As a result, today, people have freehold rights to their flats.

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

Since 2001, President Ranil Wickremesinghe has consistently advocated for land and housing rights. Upon assuming the executive presidency, he accelerated the provision of free land rights. Laws and ministerial papers were prepared under his guidance. Today, these programs are being successfully implemented thanks to the dedication of ministers, state ministers, and government officials.

Two years ago, the nation faced a severe economic crisis. In response, President Wickremesinghe worked to restore law and order and stabilize the country. Within this period, the “Urumaya” program has been implemented to stabilize the economy and secure rights for the people.

State Minister Arundika Fernando, Secretary to the Ministry of Urban Development and Housing W.S. Satyananda, Chairman of the National Housing Development Authority Rajeev Suriyarachchi, and others were present at the event.

Local businessman Surendra Wasantha Perera also known as Club Wasantha was killed in a shooting that took place in Athurugiriya on Monday (8) morning.

Five other individuals, among them the popular local singer K. Sujeewa, sustained injuries in the shooting in the Athurugiriya town.

According to the Police Spokesperson's Office, all of them were hospitalized.

Member of Parliament Wajira Abeywardena stated that some parties that failed to win the elections are initiating strikes to destabilize the country.

He emphasized that the public should be aware of the groups making false promises and warned that if the people make a mistake again, it cannot be undone.

These sentiments were shared by MP Wajira Abeywardena during the media briefing at the Presidential Media Center (PMC) today (09), held under the theme “Collective Path to a Stable Country.”

MP Wajira Abeywardena further commented:

We should all remember that every government that came to power after independence has done its utmost for the country, though there have been weaknesses. President Ranil Wickremesinghe has worked to address these on-going weaknesses. For instance, Articles 27 and 28 of the Constitution outline the principles and basic duties guiding public policy, focusing on how rights can be granted to the public. However, Article 29 lacks accountability and does not assign any legal rights to protect democratic politics. Additionally, there is no provision for courts or tribunals to enforce the promises made by politicians.

In this context, the country’s political parties have continuously made false promises to the public, leading to periodic collapses.

To address this situation, the current President has submitted the Economic Transformation Bill to Parliament to ensure accountability for Articles 27, 28, and 29 of the Constitution. This 165-page bill aims to protect the rights of two million people.

According to Articles 148, 149, 150, 151, and 152 of the Constitution, the primary responsibility of members of parliament elected by the public is related to public finances. However, this financial responsibility is undermined by the false statements made by political parties. To prevent this, the budget office has presented the bill to Parliament to verify and report the accuracy of claims made by political parties.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe took significant steps by presenting the Economic Transformation Bill to Parliament, thereby strengthening that article in the Constitution to end the era of political parties making false promises.

Ranil Wickremesinghe took his oath as a Member of Parliament on June 23, 2021, warning that the country was in decline and urging careful action. He advocated for an immediate approach to the International Monetary Fund and a change in the country’s direction, but these recommendations were not implemented by the then rulers, rendering their governance ineffective.

Subsequently, on May 12, 2022, Ranil Wickremesinghe, the leader of the United National Party who held only one seat in Parliament, was sworn in as Prime Minister. Following the Constitution, he gained the support of all political parties in Parliament and received 134 votes on July 20, thus assuming the role of the eighth executive president of the country.

Two years ago, the President took over a bankrupt country and, with the support of the international community, managed to stabilize the economy. However, challenges remain. The country has until 2027 to repay its foreign debt and currently holds about USD 500 million in foreign reserves. The Economic Transformation Act aims to build the country by initiating projects to increase the income of the Sri Lankan public. This law sets a target economic development rate of 5% by 2027. Additionally, the President has ensured that the responsibility of political parties is enshrined in law for 2030 and 2042, regardless of who is in power.

We must proceed with caution. If anyone is pushing the country toward another mistake, we need to identify them. For example, a list of liars should be displayed in the village to help the public recognize the groups that deceive them with false promises. If we make another mistake this time, it will be a serious, irreversible one. Therefore, we must act very carefully now.

When appointing leaders, the Sri Lankan public must consider this carefully. If anyone other than Ranil Wickremesinghe is deemed suitable for the next presidency, it is essential to evaluate their suitability thoroughly. The public bears a significant responsibility at this time.

At the moment, some parties are on strike. Having failed to win the elections, they are attempting to destabilize the country. According to the Secretary to the Ministry of Finance, to meet the wage demands of the strikers, the VAT would need to be increased from 18% to 21%. This would result in higher costs for everyday items like a cup of tea and a packet of rice, burdening working people. This could push the already bankrupt country back into a dangerous situation, and we believe the entire Sri Lankan public will not support this.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe paid tribute to the late Mr. R. Sampanthan, acknowledging him as a leader who championed the rights not only of the Tamil people but also of all Sri Lankans. He emphasized that both Mr. Sampanthan and himself were committed to the cause of an undivided Sri Lanka. The President urged everyone to unite in successfully concluding the discussions initiated with Mr. Sampanthan.

President Wickremesinghe made these remarks while attending Mr. R. Sampanthan’s funeral at his residence in Trincomalee this afternoon (07). The funeral ceremony, honouring the former Leader of the Opposition and the Tamil National Alliance (TNA), as well as the late Trincomalee District Member of Parliament, was attended by numerous political leaders, both from the Government and the opposition.

Expressing his sorrow over the death of Mr. R. Sampanthan, President Ranil Wickremesinghe mentioned that his passing is the loss of a long-time friend. The President affirmed his commitment to addressing the issues faced by the Tamil people, which Mr. Sampanthan consistently advocated for. He announced that the draft of the National Land Commission Bill is ready to be submitted to Parliament. This commission will have the authority to resolve issues faced by the Sinhalese, Tamil, and Muslim communities in coordination with the Department of Forest.

The President appreciated Mr. Sampanthan’s role as Leader of the Opposition, highlighting that an opposition leader is essentially an alternative prime minister. He praised Mr. Sampanthan for displaying the qualities of a true opposition leader by addressing the concerns of all Sri Lankans, not just the Tamil community.

Additionally, the President commented on the upcoming elections, stating that regardless of any court challenges, the presidential election will be held this year. He also indicated that arrangements will be made to hold parliamentary and provincial council elections following the presidential election.

Addressing the funeral gathering the President further mentioned:

“I have lost a long-time friend with the demise of Mr. R. Sampanthan. I met him 50 years ago when he was a lawyer and I was a new lawyer. In 1977, Mr. Sampanthan and I came to Parliament as new MPs. In that parliamentary election, I supported Mr. Navaratnam Raja, the working committee member of our party from Trincomalee. But Mr. Sampanthan won the seat.

The Parliament was divided into two parties, especially according to the proposal that a separate state should be formed. Mr. Sampanthan had a special relationship with the members of the Government. He always said that this country cannot be divided and we should advocate for a federal system or for granting more powers than the district council system that we created.

There was a problem between us. When I was taken over a piece of land in Trincomalee to the Youth Service Council, there were debates between us in Parliament. His efforts to control this and our efforts were not successful. He left Sri Lanka in 1983. After he returned to Parliament, we reconnected. After the end of terrorism in 2009, I had the opportunity to work with him again on the problems of the Tamil people.

He never demanded a separate state. He always said that everyone should be together. He emphasized that the Tamil people are suffering and their problems should be solved immediately.

We have worked together in elections and supported common candidates. We all worked together especially for President Maithripala Sirisena’s victory. Before that, he worked for Mr. Sarath Fonseka’s election. I always talked to him about past events and politics. He was the only living person as a MP who saw the opportunity of the country gaining independence in 1948. We often discussed politics and our shared experiences.

After that, he worked as the leader of the opposition. He showed his character well in his tenure. He not only talked about the problems of the Tamil people and worked on them, but he also presented the problems of all Sri Lankans as the leader of the opposition. At that time, he acted as a true opposition leader, who becomes an alternative prime minister.

He demonstrated great leadership as the leader of the opposition when I lost the prime ministership during the political crisis in 2018. For various reasons, our negotiations did not succeed, especially after the Easter Sunday bombings, when we lacked the background to present political solutions.

After I assumed the presidency, I discussed these issues with him and with Tamil parties and MPs. Some very important ideas were gathered during these discussions.

Both of us agreed to find solutions to these issues in an undivided Sri Lanka. While these negotiations were on-going, I had to prioritize leading the country out of bankruptcy. As a result, our negotiations had to be postponed for the last few months.

I looked into whether these discussions could be resumed this parliamentary week. But before that opportunity came, Mr. Sampanthan left us. Nevertheless, we must continue these discussions and conclude them. The draft of the National Land Commission Bill is now prepared to be submitted to Parliament. There are issues among Sinhala, Tamil and Muslim communities with the Forest Department regarding the acquisition of their villages. I hope to empower this commission to resolve those issues by law.

It is declared necessary to hold provincial council elections. However, we have discussed and decided to hold the presidential election first. Regardless of any legal challenges, the presidential election will be held this year. Following that, parliamentary elections will be conducted, and then provincial council elections will be held.

Due to the complexities in the new system, requests were made to hold the provincial council elections according to the old system. There was an agreement among us for that. It was decided to ensure women and youth representation and to allow parliamentarians to compete for these elections while retaining their membership.

By implementing the 13th amendment, we are negotiating with the Chief Ministers who are now represent the Parliament to transfer a number of other powers from the central government, excluding police powers. Other powers can be discussed later.

As a new proposal, the government has suggested decentralizing maximum power within the framework of the 13th amendment in the distribution of power. Additionally, the report of the Nawaz Commission needs to be discussed. The Foreign Minister has informed me that the drafted bill of the Truth, Unity and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) is prepared to be submitted to Parliament. Moreover, we have discussed and reached an agreement on the Jana Sabha system. We intend to take these discussions forward and bring them to a conclusion.

Mr. Sampanthan was a leader who worked tirelessly for the rights of the Tamil people and advocated for the rights of all Sri Lankans. Both of us were dedicated to an undivided Sri Lanka. We initiated these discussions with mutual agreement and request everyone’s support to complete this important work.”

Governor of the Eastern Province Senthil Thondaman, Members of Parliament Lakshman Kiriella, Rauf Hakeem, Rishad Bathiudeen, M.A. Sumanthiran, Mano Ganesan, Shanakiyan Rasamanickam, Dharmalingam Siddharthan, Mavai Senathirajah, former Member of Parliament Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa, and other political party leaders and representatives, along with the Indian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka Santosh Jha, Tamil Nadu BJP leader K. Annamalai, several Indian leaders, and a large number of local people attended the funeral.

Non-executive government employees, who reported for duty on July 8 and 9, 2024, will be granted a special salary increment as a token of appreciation for their dedication during a challenging economic period. This increment was approved by the Cabinet following President Ranil Wickremesinghe’s proposal.

Accordingly, the Secretary of the Ministry of Public Administration, Home Affairs, Provincial Councils, and Local Government has been directed to inform all Ministry Secretaries, Department Heads, and Provincial Chief Secretaries and to issue the relevant circulars.

Certain trade unions in non-executive services had planned actions such as sick leave and strikes on the mentioned dates. Despite previous economic instability, the government managed to stabilize the situation through extensive economic reforms implemented over the last two years, including the provision of a monthly allowance of Rs. 10,000 to all public servants.

The Treasury Secretary highlighted the existing financial constraints, stating that further salary or allowance increases would not be feasible without imposing additional tax burdens on the public. The government remains committed to avoiding decisions that could worsen the financial strain on citizens already facing economic challenges.

Nonetheless, the government acknowledges its responsibility to recognize and assess non-executive officials who fulfilled their duties without resorting to disruptive measures during this critical period.

Accordingly, instructions will be issued in a circular to all Ministry Secretaries, Department Heads, and Provincial Chief Secretaries in the presence of the Secretary of the Ministry of Public Administration, Home Affairs, Provincial Councils, and Local Government.

Over 200 trade unions in the public sector, including Grama Niladhari officers and surveyors will resort to trade union action by reporting ‘sick’ on Monday (8) and Tuesday (9), according to the Trade Unions Collective.

However, the teachers and the principals will be reporting sick only on Tuesday (09 July).

President Ranil Wickremesinghe emphasized the profound connection between Buddhism and the modern scientific and technological world, highlighting that the teachings of Buddha offer insights to win future global challenges.

The President said that he is discussing the establishment of a new institution in the country where Buddhist philosophy including the Thripitaka can be studied, the history, civilization and the spread of Buddhism in the world and where knowledge of Pali, culture and other languages can be developed. He also expressed that its objective is to revive the legacy of the Anuradhapura Maha Vihara.

President Wickremesinghe made these remarks during his participation in the Amarapura Day celebration of The Sri Lanka Amarapura Maha Nikaya, held at the Sabaragamuwa Provincial Council Auditorium today (08).

The Amarapura Maha Nikaya was founded in 1802 through the dedicated efforts of Venerable Welitara Mahakarave Gnanavimalatissa Thero. Amarapura Maha Nikaya has been led by eminent figures such as Most Venerable Madihe Pannaseeha Thero, Most Venerable Agga Maha Panditha Balangoda Ananda Maithri Maha Nayaka Thero, Most Venerable Dawuldena Gnanissara Maha Nayaka Thero, Most Venerable Kotugoda Dhammawasa Thero and Most Venerable Dodampahala Chandasiri Mahanayaka Thero.

The Amarapura Day commemorated the 222-year legacy of the founders who dedicated themselves to the Sambuddha Sasana. The event was organized by the Sabaragamuwa Amarapura Samagri Sangha Sabha.

Acting Chairman of Amarapura Maha Nikaya Most Venerable Mahodhyapadha Karagoda Uyangoda Maithri Murthy Maha Nayaka Thero presided over the ceremony. All 22 Mahanayaka Theros representing the Amarapura Maha Nikaya were in attendance, and the president paid homage to their esteemed presence.

In recognition of President Ranil Wickremesinghe’s efforts for the improvement of the country and the support of all factions within the Amarapura Nikaya, a commemorative gift was presented to him.

Furthermore, Sabaragamuwa Provincial Governor Navin Dissanayake was bestowed with the honorary title of ‘Janahithakami Sasanabandhu’ by Most Venerable Karagoda Uyangoda Maithri Murthy Maha Nayaka Thero, the Chairman of Sri Lanka Amarapura Maha Sangha Sabha.

Addressing the gathering President Ranil Wickremesinghe further elaborated;

Since its inception, the Amarapura Maha Nikaya has maintained a tradition of honouring its founding leaders.

Amarapura Nikaya holds a significant place in the history of modern Sri Lanka, originating under the leadership of Venerable Welitara Mahakarave Gnanavimalatissa Thero. In the 20th century, amidst a Buddhist revival and the Sinhala movement’s strength, the Amarapura Maha Nikaya played a pivotal role in shaping Sri Lanka’s social fabric, contributing to religious, political, and societal discourse. The contributions of the Amarapura Maha Nikaya are therefore regarded as profoundly momentous, shaping the historical narrative of the nation.

In today’s world, dominated by scientific and technological advancements, we are witnessing unprecedented changes.

With a significant global focus on Artificial Intelligence (AI), it is imperative for us to also concentrate on this field. Over the next 5-10 years, we need to explore the intersection between AI technology and the human mind. To initiate this exploration, I have directed the Ministry of Technology to launch a government-funded research program on the relationship between Buddhism and AI technology. We aim to engage the Maha Sangha and the general public in discussions to advance this initiative.

Today, as a society, we must progress without hesitation. The Anuradhapura era stands out as a pinnacle in our history. It was during this era that major temples like Mahavihara, Jethavanarama, and Abhayagiriya were established. These temples served as centres of learning where Lay clergy received their education from piriven. This educational system empowered our people with the knowledge to undertake monumental undertakings such as Mahasaya, Jethavanarama, and Abhayagiriya. Additionally, our impressive irrigation culture, admired even by today’s engineers and grand creations like Sigiriya owe their existence to the piriven education system.

As a country, our advancement hinges on integrating modern knowledge and these achievements. Currently, global attention is sharply focused on environmental issues and climate change. The teachings of Buddha offer essential wisdom for addressing these challenges, emphasizing environmental stewardship from the childhood.

Today, the innovative ideas circulating globally find resonance in Buddha’s teachings. We stand at a crossroads where science and dharma intersect. As a government, our priority lies in exploring the correlation between Buddha’s teachings, as documented in the Thripitaka, and contemporary scientific insights. This endeavour demands collective effort; it cannot be achieved by the government alone. It requires the participation of all citizens to propel this initiative forward.

We are currently in discussions with Durham University in the United Kingdom to undertake excavation work at the great temple. Professor Cunningham, known for his excavation work at Mahamaya Devi Temple in Lumbini, has been involved in these discussions. Our aim is to conduct thorough excavation at the great temple, a project that may span 20-25 years, ensuring our history is preserved for future generations.

Additionally, the Director-General of UNESCO is scheduled to visit Sri Lanka next week. During her visit, I plan to request UNESCO’s assistance regarding mining activities across the entire city of Anuradhapura. According to one of our Professors, this undertaking could require up to 50 years to complete. It is worth noting that Egypt, having been excavated for over a century, still has on-going excavation projects.

We also intend to establish a new institution dedicated to continuing the legacy of Anuradhapura Maha Vihara. This institution will offer opportunities to study Buddhist philosophy, including the Thripitaka, with a focus not limited to Theravada Buddhism. It will encompass the exploration of diverse dharmic traditions, including Mahayana Buddhism, and research into ancient sects such as Āḷāra, Kālāma, Uddaka Rāmaputta, prevalent during the Buddha’s time.

Emphasis will be placed on studying philosophy, history, civilization, and the global spread of Buddhism.

Furthermore, the institution will prioritize the study of languages relevant to Buddhist philosophy, including Pali, cultural languages, and Chinese. It will also foster understanding of contemporary world religions. Discussions are currently underway for the establishment of this institution within the coming year. Recognizing the profound connection between Buddhism and the modern technological world, we aim to progress by embracing and understanding this intersection.

Acting Chairman of Amarapura Maha Nikaya Most Venerable Mahodhyapadha Karagoda Uyangoda Maithri Murthy Maha Nayaka Thero;

During this occasion, we extend our respects to the former secretary of the Sri Lanka Amarapura Maha Sangha, the Most Venerable Welitara Gnanawimalatissa Na Thero, and other key leaders.

The religious contributions made by the Amarapura Sangha Sabha to our country have been immense and deserve recognition. We express our gratitude to the Trinikayika Mahanayaka Theros and other venerable theros who have graced this event.

It is crucial to address issues among laypeople, including those who undermine the integrity of the noble dharma. Legal measures should be considered to address these concerns. Initiatives must be launched to make temples central to village life and to enhance Dhamma school education.

Maha Sangha led by Galpoththawela Sri Pada Raja Maha Vihara Chief Incumbent, Sri Padasthanadhipathi Venerable Bengamuwe Sri Dhammadinna Nayaka Thero, Sabaragamuwa Amarapura Samagri District Maha Sangha Sabha Registrar Venerable Delwala Muditha Nayaka Thero, Rajakeeya Panditha, Dharshanapathi Balapitiye Siri Seewali Nayaka Thero, Venerable Diviyagala Vijithaseeha Thero, Minister Pavithra Wanniarachchi, Former Speaker of the Parliament Karu Jayasuriya, Sabaragamuwa Provincial Council Chief Secretary Mahinda Sanath Weerasooriya, Ratnapura District Secretary Wasantha Gunarathne were also present at the event.

President’s Fund scholarship program for students from low-income families, spanning from grade 1 to grade 11 and G.C.E. (A/L), will be implemented at the district level starting from July 12, 2024. District secretaries, in collaboration with all zonal education offices and school principals, will oversee the scholarship distribution process.

Details regarding the dates, times and venues for scholarship awards in each district, as well as the list of selected scholarship recipients, will be announced. This information will be published on the official Facebook page of the President’s Fund in the coming days.

The list of students selected for the scholarships for G.C.E. (A/L) scholarship scheme in each district has already been published on the official Facebook page of the President’s Fund at the regional level. These scholarships will be awarded to 6,000 students, with 60 students selected from each educational zone. Each recipient will receive Rs. 6,000 per month for a duration of 24 months.

At the scholarship award ceremony, selected students will receive a grant of Rs. 30,000 along with any outstanding instalments. Starting from next month, Rs. 6,000 will be provided to students monthly until they appear for their G.C.E. (A/L) examinations.

Additionally, the scholarship program will be implemented covering all 10,126 schools across the island, from grade 1 to grade 11, for a duration of 12 months. Each selected student will receive Rs. 3,000 per month, totalling Rs. 36,000 over the year. The arrears for the selected students will amount to Rs. 12,000, which will also be provided at the scholarship award ceremony. Starting from the following month, the scholarship will continue to be paid Rs. 3,000 per month.

Accordingly, the President’s Fund invites the public to follow/like its official Facebook page to stay updated on the scholarship programs being awarded at the district level. This will ensure the public receive timely information about these important initiatives.

State Minister for Technology, Kanaka Herath, stated that by launching unjust strikes on the eve of an election, children have been deprived of their opportunity to receive education.

The State Minister further asserted that the opposition should clarify whether these strikes and protests are intended to disrupt the comfortable living conditions currently enjoyed by the people.

The State Minister of Technology, Kanaka Herath, mentioned this during the news conference held today (08) at the Presidential Media Centre (08) under the theme ‘Collective path to a Stable Country’.

The State Minister further commented,

“Since 2022, our ministry has initiated numerous policies and reforms. Several bills have been introduced in parliament, and additional bills are anticipated to be presented soon.

Additionally, we have launched the 2020-2030 Digital Economy Plan in collaboration with the World Bank. Our goal is to expand the current USD 03 billion digital economy to USD 30 billion by 2030.

Amendments to the Telecommunications Act are anticipated to be introduced in Parliament tomorrow (09), marking the first revision in 28 years. These amendments aim to enhance customer protection and foster fair competition among telephone companies. Previously, the act was restricted to telecommunications system licenses only. With the proposed amendments, the licensing process itself will undergo changes.

Additionally, there are plans to utilize satellite technology for internet provision in the future. Efforts are underway to regulate and license undersea cable services. The Technology Promotion Act is slated for presentation this year.

Moreover, there are expectations to establish the Technology and Innovation Commission. This commission aims to allocate resources for national development and innovation, facilitate the commercialization of research, and provide advisory services.

According to current trade union activities, a request has been made for a LKR 20,000 allowance for all government employees. This would necessitate an additional annual expenditure of LKR 280 billion. The opposition is urged to clarify how these expenses can be managed given the current economic situation.

Furthermore, unjust strikes launched on the eve of an election have deprived children of their educational opportunities. Those participating in these strikes must understand that their actions impact the welfare of ordinary citizens.

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has recommended providing LKR 11 billion this year for low-income earners. The opposition parties should clarify whether their protests aim to disrupt the public’s access to a comfortable standard of living.

Former Sri Lankan captain Sanath Jayasuriya has been named as the interim Head Coach of the Sri Lanka men's national Cricket team.

While Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) continues their search for Chris Silverwood's replacement, Sanath Jayasuriya will take over the job in the interim for the home series against India and the Test tour to England.

Jayasuriya also joined the team at this year's T20 World Cup as a Consultant.