Daily NEWS Srilanka

Light is now being shed on concealed information about the LTTE with the apprehension of three key tiger activists from Malaysia recently.

It is reported that these tiger terrorists are revealing about their past air capabilities. Sandralinga Raja Dushanthan and also called by the LTTE as Mullichelvam is a senior ranking member of the LTTE’s Air Tigers (Air Wing). He had been dedicated to strengthening the LTTE at a time when the LTTE’s Air Wing was at the research stage.

An Engineer by profession he was a close associate of Velupillai Prabhakaran. Dushanthan had been involved in all air activities of the LTTE since his first testing process. He possesses the capability of improving sling type small air craft to attack aircraft. Accordingly Sandalinga Raja Dushanthan has been identified as a powerful tiger cadre who played a key role in launching air attacks in several areas including Colombo.

It is reported that he had also revealed several vital information on the attacks that had been launched at several places in the South. It would be possible to release more information in this respect in the future.

Today is World No Tobacco Day. This year, World No Tobacco Day is celebrated under the theme “Raise Taxes of Tobacco. Lower Death and Disease”.

The World No Tobacco Day is observed on May 31st to highlight the health risks associated with tobacco use and the need for strengthening effective policies to reduce tobacco consumption.

The global tobacco epidemic kills nearly six million people each year, of which more than 600,000 are non-smokers dying due to second-hand smoking. Approximately 65 people die per day in Sri Lanka.

The economic costs of tobacco use are equally devastating. In addition to the high public health costs of treating tobacco-related diseases, tobacco users are also less productive due to increased sickness, and those who die prematurely deprive their families of much-needed income.

Sri Lanka can be proud and happy due to many reasons when combatting the killer tobacco. Firstly the country has a President whose propaganda is “Mathata Thitha” and a Health Minister who is determined to take all the tobacco controlling measures to ensure a secured future for youth.

The NATA Act although there are few loose ends, provides a framework and policy background for tobacco control. There are a few towns which do not sell cigarettes and some of the trade associations have decided to stop the sale of cigarettes in the near future. The CTC reports show that sales have decreased by 14% from first quarter of 2012 to 2013.

The contribution for tobacco control of professions from many fields, celebrities, policy makers, policy implementers, academics, and general public including youth and even smokers, is at an extraordinary level. Especially media play an important role in raising awareness among all the Sri Lankans.

Meanwhile to commemorate World No Tobacco Day, a walk was organized in the Delkanda area in Nugegoda. Action was initiated to educate shop owners, pedestrians and drivers among others on the ill effects of smoking. The funds raised from the walk will be credited to the Cancer Patients Fund.

More programmes will be further implemented to safeguard the rights of children and women in the Northern Province.

The Ministry of Child Development and Women Affairs points out that comprehensive programmes have been launched on behalf of protecting the rights of children and women within the Northern Province. These are in place with the support of the Security Sectors.

A workshop to raise awareness on the programme for members of the Armed Forces and the Police serving in the Northern Province was held at Iranamadu in Kilinochchi.

About 200 members of the Security Forces serving in the Kilinochchi and Jaffna areas participated in the workshop held under the patronage of Minister Tissa Karaliyadda. Discussions at this workshop centred at length on the protection of rights of children and women as well as empowering them. Parliamentarian Murugesu Chandrakumar, Secretary to the Ministry of Child Development and Women’s Affairs Eric Ilayapperuma and Security Forces Commander of Kilinochchi Major General Sudantha Ranasinghe were among those who were present at this workshop.

The Sri Lanka Freedom Party restructuring programme will be launched countrywide from tomorrow with a new look. It is planned to be carried out at the electoral level. This has been revealed by Minister Maithripala Sirisena.

Minister Maithripala Sirisena who is also the General Secretary of the Sri Lanka Freedom Party, addressing a news conference at the party head office said that Sri Lanka will be holding Party Conventions in every electorate next month. Thereafter they expected to hold the National Convention of the Party.

The Minister pointed out that the people will be made aware of the development that is taking place in the country while engaging in the magnanimous task of further strengthening the political camp.

Action is being taken to implement 17 projects approved under the Strategic Development Act.

The Strategic Development Project Act was introduced in the year 2008 to embolden societal and economical profitable investments.

17 Projects have already been identified under this Act for implementation. Among them is the Colombo Harbour Terminal Yard Development Project, the Sampur Coal Power Plant and the modernization of the Sri Lanka Steel Corporation. The nod of the Parliament has already been received for these Projects. Investments totaling more than one billion US Dollars have already been received for the approved strategic development projects.

Investment opportunities will expand to a great extent in the future as a result of these projects.

The Bangladeshi Government will be extending support for development in many fields in the North Central Province.

The Government of Bangladesh is ready to extend support in technology for the inland fishery industry as well the development of the textile industry. This assurance was given by High Commissioner of Bangladesh Mohamed Safeer Rahman. He had a meeting with Chief Minister of the North Central Province S.M. Ranjith in Anuradhapura.

Expressing further support to the programme mooted by the Government to uplift the indigenous medicine system in Sri Lanka, Mr. Rahman said he was satisfied with the progress achieve by the indigenous medicine system in the North Central Province.

Among those present at this discussion was Secretary of the North Central Province H.M.R.B. Herath.

The Annual Colours Nite of Ananda College has been held on a grand scale.

Students who excelled in the field of sports last year were feted at this Colours Nite organized at the Kularatne Hall. Commanding Officer of Mullaitivu Major General Jagath Dias and Turf Specialist of Sri Lanka Cricket Anuruddha Polonnowita graced the occasion as the Chief Guests. More than 150 students who displayed their skills in the sports field were presented with awards.

K.T. Cheratne de Silva was given the Award for the best 2013 national and international sports star of the College. Among those present on the occasion was School Principal Kithsiri Liyanagamage.

Sri Lanka’s first Montessori cricket practice wicket has been opened.

It is a unique concept and brainchild of Anura Amaratunge, the Chief Executive Office of the Tiny Tots Montessori at Averiwatte Road in Wattala. Deputy Minister Sanath Jayasuriya was the Chief Guest at the opening ceremony. The aim of this effort is to encourage the children during the early stages to play cricket.

Former Central Province Minister Saliya Dissanayake has passed away. He was 49.

Saliya Dissanayake passed away at the Peradeniya Teaching Hospital last night after a prolonged illness.

He entered politics from the Sri Lanka Freedom Party in the year 1994. He was a former Chairman of the Central Provincial Council as well as a Minister. He was the youngest brother of Minister S.B. Dissanayake and a father of two children. The remains of Saliya Dissanayake are now lying at his residence at Madanwala in Hanguranketha.

The funeral is scheduled to take place at the Hanguranketha Public Burial grounds on Monday.

Croatia’s Ajla Tomljanovic made history in the French Open on yesterday by upsetting third seed Agnieszka Radwanska of Poland 6-4, 6-4 in the third round.

The defeat meant that the tournament’s top three seeds had all been ousted inside six days, with top seed Serena Williams losing in the second round and second seed Li Na departing in the first. It was the first Grand Slam in the Open era where the top three women seeds all failed to make the last 16.

Ranked 72nd in the world, Tomljanovic will play the winner of the tie between Taylor Townsend of the United States and 14th seed Carla Suarez Navarro of Spain for a place in the quarter-finals.

Turning the clock back, Virender Sehwag showed his vintage best with a power-packed century as Kings XI Punjab humbled Chennai Super Kings by 24 runs to reach the IPL final for the first time.

Sehwag flattened the Chennai attack with a 58-ball 122, which propelled his side to an imposing 226 for six after being invited to bat on a batting paradise at Wankhede stadium. The Punjab side then survived carnage from Suresh Raina, who responded with a majestic 25-ball 87, as Chennai managed 202 for seven in their chase.

The Internet’s Own Boy: The Story of Aaron Swartz is a 2014 American documentary film written, directed and produced by Brian Knappenberger.

Aaron’s story touched a nerve with people far beyond the online communities in which he was a celebrity. The movie will be released on the 27th of next month in the United States.

President Rajapaksa has said that the Malwatte Mahanayake Thera who renders a great service by displaying piety and virtue while protecting the identity of the nation is a meritorious endowment of the nation.

The President made this reference in a message of greetings issued to mark the 70th birthday of the Mahanayake of the Malwatte Chapter, the Most Ven. Thibbotuwawe Sri Sumangala Thera. He is a great exemplary Bhikkhu who truly epitomised the Buddha’s saying that if a Bhikkhu speaks with a guarded tongue knowing his limits with a composed mind and properly espouses purpose and the Dhamma the style of his speech will be most pleasant.

The coincidence of the Mahanayake’s 70th birthday and the 10th anniversary of elevation to the highest post of Mahanayake Thera is a great fortune.

The President said he joins the nation in wishing the Mahanayake long life on this momentous occasion with the hope and feeling that this colourful bhikkhu service will be evident in the future too.

President Rajapaksa declares open two more luxury tourist hotels in the beautiful Southern coast, further expanding facilities for both local and foreign tourists.

A programme is already in place within the country to increase tourist hotel facilities and the construction of new hotels in parallel to the efforts made to attract 2.5 million tourists to the island by the year 2016. Accordingly the newly built tourist hotels in the Bentota and Induruwa areas were declared opened by President Rajapaksa.

The President first opened the Sentara Sea Sand Holiday Resort Hotel in the beautiful beach located in Bentota. It has 165 room and is equipped with all modern facilities. After its opening, the President inspected the hotel. The President was presented with a memento.

The President also declared open the Pandanas Beach Resort Tourist Hotel located in the beautiful sandy beach in Induruwa. It is a five star hotel and has 96 rooms.

President Rajapaksa also joins in the release of sea turtle hatchlings to the sea.

The release of baby sea turtles to the sea took place at the Sea Turtles Conservation Project premises at Bentota yesterday. The President who was on a visit to Bentota joined in the release of sea turtle hatchlings according to an invitation extended to him.

After joining in the release of the baby sea turtles to the sea, the President also seized the opportunity of exchanging pleasantries with the people who gathered there.

Managing Director of the Sea Turtle Conservation Research Project in Bentota Jagath Kannangara said that the programme of releasing sea turtles hatchlings to the sea was carried out wishing long life to the President, the tri forces and the entire nation.

IMF Representatives have announced that they visited Sri Lanka to extend their support for the development of the economy. They emphasized that they are not involved in any curtailment of funds for education.

Addressing a news conference in Colombo today, Todd Schneider, the head of the IMF staff mission visiting Sri Lanka said that education budgets was not the delegation’s area of expertise and that they believe increasing funds allocated for education is important. He was responding to a query raised by a journalist at the news briefing. The IMF insisted that spending on education was vital of the country.

The news conference was organized at the end of their visit from May the 20th to the 30th of this month to conduct discussions for the 2014 Article IV consultation – the IMF’s regular exchange of economic views with member nations.

Sri Lanka’s export earnings last month alone have reached 1.67 Billion US Dollars. Minister Basil Rajapaksa claims that this is the highest income earned by Sri Lanka through exports within one month.

The Minister made these references addressing Ambassadors, High Commissioners and State Officials of eleven countries including Afghanistan, Germany and the Maldives who were recently appointed to Sri Lanka. The meeting took place at the Ministry of Economic Development.

The Minister revealed these details at this meeting on Sri Lanka’s achievements in the economic sector during the last few years. The Minster told them that the development in the road network including the newly constructed expressways assisted in achieving this feat. Noting that the number of tourist arrivals had also surged, the Minister said that the Government’s aim was to increase the number of tourist arrivals to 200 thousand per month during the final four months of this year.

The Cabinet has approved the launch of a Fund on behalf of journalists, artistes and writers.

The welfare fund is aimed at providing assistance to ensure the future wellbeing of aged artistes, journalists and writers who had been previously engaged in creative work as professional artistes and journalists on a full time basis, and are now in retirement. The Fund will begin with an initial capital of 50 million rupees allocated from budgeted funds. Also 10 percent of the income earned from the Bandaranaike Memorial International Conference Hall and the Nelum Pokuna Mahinda Rajapaksa Theatre will be allocated for the maintenance of the Fund. The proposal was submitted to the Cabinet by the President.

The Cabinet has granted approval to instruct the Legal Draftsman to draft necessary legislation for the purpose.

Sri Lanka and Russia will sign an agreement aiming to cooperate on combating transnational crimes. The Ministry of Interior of the Russian Federation and the Ministry of Law and Order of Sri Lanka will sign an MoU on Combating Crimes and Promotion of Police Cooperation. Its objective is to promote cooperation between the two countries by way of exchanging information on major criminal issues such as terrorism, crimes against lives and property, corruption, drug trafficking, human trafficking and money laundering. The Cabinet gave the nod for the President’s proposal.

Another proposal which received the assent of the Cabinet was the inking of an MOU between Sri Lanka and Bangladesh to purchase drugs and health equipment. Sri Lanka spends around 30 Billion Rupees on health and medical equipment annually. Of this around 17 Billion Rupees is being expended on the purchase of drugs. Only between ten and 15 percent of the local pharmaceutical needs are supplied by local Western Drugs manufacturers. The balance is procured through tenders. The aiming of entering into this MOU is to constantly meet this need. This is a proposal submitted to the Cabinet by Minister Maithripala Sirisena.

A group of 100 Islamic devotees from the Eastern Province has left for Mecca from Mattala.

Hitherto, Islamic devotees had to come to the Katunayake Airport to leave on pilgrimages to Mecca. But this time a group of 100 Islamic devotees from the Eastern Province left for Mecca from the Mattala Mahinda Rajapaksa International Airport.

When travelling to Mecca, these pilgrims hitherto had to come to the Katunayake International Airport a day earlier. But these devotees referred to the convenience they enjoyed by travelling from Mattala as it takes only about four hours to reach the Airport from their homes.

Minister Piyankara Jayaratne has said that he is inviting the opposition to view how development has been effected to all Airports within the country rather than making accusations by only visiting Mattala.

7.3 million tourists arrived in the island last year from the Katunayake International Airport. There was a need for a second International Airport in the country and the President fulfilled this need. Development is taking place in every part of the country. He said development is not only limited to Mattala. The Minister invited the Opposition to visit the other internal Airports and join in the development of the country.

The Minister was expressing after joining in a visit to inspect the development that is being effected to the Uhana Airport in Ampara.

Speaking further the Minister said that the modernization of the internal Air services will serve as a catalyst for the growth in the tourism industry.

Officials including the Secretary to the Ministry of Civil Aviation Services joined the Minister in the observation tour.

Public amenities in many villages are being developed under the programme of “One Project for One Village.”

This Rural Development Project is being launched under the guidance of the Ministry of Economic Development. Action had been taken to upgrade public amenities of many villages within the Kebetigollewa Divisional Secretariat Division. The launch of access road development of the Wahalkada D-4 and D-6 villages and the construction of the community hall of the D-5 village took place under the patronage of Minister Tissa Karaliyadda.

The opening of the Projects launched within the Kahawatte Divisional Secretariat Division under the “One Project for One Village” programme took place under the patronage of Deputy Ministr Premalal Jayasekara. Parallel to this work, the Deputy Minister also launched work on several new projects worth one million rupees.

A new Holiday Resort is being launched for the benefit of employees of the Independent Television Network.

The launch of construction work on this Holiday Resort in the Katukeliyawa area in Anuradhapura took place under the patronage of Special Project Minister S.M. Chandrasena, North Central Chief Minister S.M. Ranjith and Chairman of Independent Television Network Rosmand Senaratne. The Project is being launched under the guidance of the Workers Welfare Society of ITN.

Chairman of the Central Nuwaragam Pradeshiya Sabha P.B.N. Jayasundera, General Manager of ITN Aruna Wijesinghe, Working Director P.G. Dasanayake and Board member J. Devapiran as well as Deputy General Managers of the Institution were present. Officials of the Welfare Society also participated in the occasion.

Buoyed by their convincing seven-wicket win over title holders Mumbai Indians, Chennai Super Kings will take on Kings XI Punjab in their second IPL knockout game inside three days today with swashbuckling batsman Glenn Maxwell likely to prove major threat to their chances.

Riding on the 25-year-old Australian batsman’s incandescent 90-plus run knocks in Abu Dhabi and Cuttack in the group stage, Kings XI Punjab had flattened two-time champions Chennai Super Kings. today’s Qualifier 2 at the Wankhede Stadium will provide Chennai a great platform to avenge those two defeats and leapfrog into the 1st of next month summit clash against Kolkata Knight Riders in Bangalore.

Defending champion Rafael Nadal handed out a bruising lesson to highly-rated Austrian Dominic Thiem victory took the Spaniard into the French Open third round. Eight-time winner Nadal, bidding to be the first man to clinch five Roland Garros titles in a row, had been expected to face a severe test from the 20-year-old world number 57. But Thiem, who trains for big matches by running through forests carrying tree trunks to build stamina, ran out of steam on Philippe Chatrier court despite showing occasional glimpses of potential.

Nadal took his career record in Paris to 61 wins against a single loss and goes on to face either Leonardo Mayer of Argentina or Russia’s Teymuraz Gabashvili.

American artist Pitbull and pop sensation JLO have released the official Brazil 2014 World Cup video. The vibrant tune, which is set to be the anthem of the summer, also features Brazilian singer Claudia Leitte, who unequivocally steals the show. The 2010 South Africa World Cup song was made by Shakira and was called Waka Waka.

President Rajapaksa has emphatically mentioned that the Government is bound to carry forward free education providing all the required facilities, without curtailing it. As such the President has requested the Opposition not to betray the children with the aiming of achieving political mileage.

The President laid this emphasis during a meeting with teachers and past pupils of Richmond and Mahinda Colleges in Galle. The meeting took place at Temple Trees yesterday. The meeting was organized by the Past Pupils Associations of the two Colleges with the intention of promoting mutuality between the students of these Colleges. Among those present were Richmond Past Pupils Presidential Chief of Staff Gamini Senarath.

Speaking further, the President said that his Government is dedicated to uplift education of all children by granting equal facilities to all schools in the country. He pointed out that initiatives would be taken to effect the changes necessary by identifying the needs of the country. The Opposition is carrying out a false campaign saying that the Government is determined to privatize schools. The President challenged the opposition to prove if the Government has crafted any programme to curtail free education.

The President said that at a time when UNP stalwarts in the past objected, CWW Kanangara, who revolutionized education of Richmond College and who discharged a national task, dedicated to introduce free education. The President said that he is proud as his father D.A. Rajapaksa who also studied in Richmond College was able to raise his hand for the Free Education Bill. A major revolution is taking place in education in the present era. Mahindodaya Technical Laboratories are being inaugurated in 1000 schools in the island. It is the first time that this curricular has been introduced to schools. He emphasized that they are dedicated to carry forward the free education system, without curtailing it. Physical facilities in every school have been developed. He said there should be a change in religious attitudes in the schools.

The President mentioned that the national schools should get together to put forward the national responsibilities to the children as well as to the country. All schools in the island are being treated alike. He said he considered children of all schools as their children.

The President has told the Anunayake Thera of Thailand that the long standing friendly and religious ties between Sri Lanka are outstanding.

President Rajapaksa made this reference when a Buddhist delegation including the Anunayake of the historic Vat Arun Vihare, a Royal Vihare belonging to the Thailand King’s family as well as the Northern Province of the country, the Ven. Para Sri Sutvit Thera. The meeting took place at Temple Trees. The impetus received from the Buddha Dhamma to mould a society enriched with religious ideals is immense. In such a process, the President underscored the need for frequent advice to the laity from the Maha Sangha.

The Thai Anunayake Thera pointed out that Sri Lankan citizens were leading peaceful lives heeding the Dhamma. The Buddhist monks from Thailand chanted Seth Pirith near the Vijaya Sri Jaya Sri Mahabodhi at the Temple Tree premises and blessed the President.

A special memento sent by the Thai King was presented to the President.

President’s Religious Affairs Coordinating Secretary, the Ven. Watinapaha Somananga Thera and the Sri Lankan Airlines Regional Manager Shamindra Perera were present on the occasion.

The President inquires into the wellbeing of a sick child.

The President who summoned Saubaghya Devmini of Ransegoda in Kamburupitiya who is suffering from the bone fracturing disease to Temple Trees made inquiries into her wellbeing. Drawing his attention to recent media reports on the child, President Rajapaksa took action to direct her to the Lady Ridgeway Hospital for special treatment.

Saubaghya who expressed her views to the President on her studies and other skills displayed her capabilities to the President. Instructions were issued to the Housing Minister to provide a permanent house to her family.

The President also issued instructions to provide her the necessary facilities for future treatment.

Defence Secretary Gotabhaya Rajapaksa and the parents of the child were present on the occasion.

Finance Secretary Dr. P.B. Jayasundera has said that Sri Lanka is moving towards a democratic economic path endorsed by the entire world. This concept was presented by the President to the Commonwealth. He said that the Sri Lankan economy has so far achieved an outstanding growth.

The Finance Secretary was addressing the function organized with respect to the release of the Annual Report of the Finance Ministry. Dr. Jayasundera focused on a horde of economic growth statistics and evaluations by financial organizations to paint an “unstoppable Sri Lanka”.

The Finance Secretary turned to many ranking tables where Sri Lanka was in the top half for economic competitiveness, infrastructure, transparency and economic freedom. In terms of IT rankings he pointed out that Sri Lanka was among the top 21 countries of the world. Touching on GDP, per capita income, inflation, exports and reserves he tracked how they had all improved substantially over the last few years.

“Reserves that were about one Billion Dollars have now reached above eight Billion. Next to China Sri Lanka has the highest growth rate. Sri Lanka is overshooting her per capita target of 4,000 Dollars by 2016; it will likely be reached next year. The general consensus is ‘Sri Lanka is a success story,’ but this is a story that is rarely told.

By 2016, Dr. Jayasundera said Sri Lanka’s debt as a percentage of GDP will be reduced to 65% and the Government has already focused on a historically-low deficit for this year. The Government is now looking at East Asian countries such as Japan and South Korea to map the next stage of growth.

Malaysia has strengthened operation in the search for terrorists are determined to revive the LTTE in Sri Lanka from Malaysian soil.

About 4000 Tamil refugees in Malaysia are being examined.

The Malaysian Police recently succeeded in apprehending three key tiger terrorists who had been engaged in LTTE activities after securing identity cards of the United Nations High Commission for Refugees. Following their arrest it had been possible to uncover many secrets of the LTTE.

Malaysian Police Chief Tan Sri Khalid Abu Bakar said that following these developments Tamil refugees numbering nearly 4000 will be thoroughly examined. There was a key leader among the three suspects who were recently apprehended in Malaysia. The suspects who were brought to Sri Lanka are under full interrogation.

In the meantime, authorities in Switzerland have said that applications seeking political asylum will be scrutinized again.

Spokesperson of the Office of Migration Affairs of Switzerland, Selin Kolprath said that the applications will be separately scrutinized. A majority of the 2000 applications seeking political asylum in Switzerland have been submitted by Tamils. The Swiss spokesperson pointed out that there is no clear proof to indicate that Tamil civilians who are deported to Sri Lanka are facing harassment.

The Ugandan Foreign Minister has said that the freedom and development achieved by Sri Lanka is a fitting example to the world.

Ugandan Foreign Minister Henry Oryem visited the Northern Province yesterday. Thereafter during a meet with Northern Governor G.A. Chandrasiri at the Governor’s Office in Jaffna, the Ugandan Foreign Minister said that the freedom enjoyed by the Northerners is significant. He pointed out that the development victories achieved by Sri Lanka in the past few years after the end of the 30-year old conflict and the peace enthroned in the country are fitting examples to the world.

The demining of the North and the resettlement done by the Government headed by the President since routing terrorism earned accolades from the Ugandan Minister. Democracy has been enthroned in the North. He emphasized that everyone should accept that effective changes had taken place in Sri Lanka during the reigns of President Rajapaksa.

Pointing out that democracy has been consolidated in the North, the Governor asserted that several programmes are in place to improve the economy and upgrade the livelihoods of the civilians.

Applications for the GCE Ordinary Level Examination will be entertained only until the 20th of next month. The Commissioner General of Examinations has made a request that only one application should be forwarded by each candidate.

The Examinations Department has announced that applications for the GCE Ordinary Level Examination will be received only until the 20th of June. School candidates should direct their applications through the Principal while private candidates should forward them through Registered Post.

In the meantime a special programme is in place to provide identity cards to the Ordinary Level candidates. Around 400 thousand candidates who will be sitting the Examination are eligible to secure the National Identity Card. The Department for Registration of Persons has called on the candidates to submit the applications before the day after tomorrow that is on Saturday. The Department says there is a need to submit the applications in time so that it would facilitate its work.

Indo-Sri Lanka relations will further strengthen under the new Indian Government led by Narendra Modi.

This has been mentioned in a congratulatory message by the Sri Lankan External Affairs Minister to his Indian counterpart.

Sri Lanka expressed satisfaction that India has appointed Sushma Swaraj as the new Minister of External Affairs in the Indian government. In a congratulatory message to Ms. Swaraj on her appointment as India’s Minister of External Affairs, her Sri Lankan counterpart Prof. G.L. Peiris said Sri Lanka is pleased that she has been “entrusted with the important assignment of the Minister of External Affairs at this momentous juncture for both India and the region.”

Recalling Swaraj’s visit to Sri Lanka in April 2012 leading an All Party delegation of the Lok Sabha, Minister Peiris in his message said the visit was a milestone in the two countries’ relations.

The Sri Lankan Minister expressed confidence that the two countries can “together guide already close and friendly relations between India and Sri Lanka to flourish and grow from strength to strength, and usher in an era of greater partnership between the two countries in regional and global multilateral organizations in particular, SAARC and the United Nations.”

Children of war heroes of the Security Forces and police who had displayed exceptional performance at the GCE Ordinary Level Examination have been awarded educational scholarships.

Scholarships were awarded to 50 children of families of war heroes of the Armed Forces and the Police. It took place at the auditorium of the Ministry of Defence and Urban Development. These children are at present pursuing studies in the GCE Advanced level classes. The scholarships were presented under the patronage of Defence Secretary Gotabhaya Rajapaksa.

The National Savings Bank and several other institutions offered financial contributions towards the Scholarship Scheme.

Chiefs of the Army and the Air Force as well as senior military officials graced the occasion.

Two bridges along the Haputale-Boralanda Road are being expanded and developed.

The Road Development Authority has embarked on a programme of expanding two small bridges along the Haputale-Boralanda Road in close proximity to the Ratkarawwa area. The development of these bridges will enable heavy vehicles plying towards Welimada and Keppetipola areas from Colombo to reach the Welimada and Keppetipola towns within a short period. Hitherto these vehicles had to take the route to travel to Welimada and Keppetipola via Bandarawela.

The length of one of the bridges that is being repaired will be 21.2 metres and the width 9.8 metres. The other is located close to this bridge and plans are afoot to develop this bridge too. The allocation made for this work is 80 million rupees.

The work is being carried out under the supervision of the Bandarawela Road Development Authority.

President Rajapaksa has said that the Government has nothing

to hide in development. Addressing a ceremony held to launch the Annual Report of the Finance Ministry, the President said that details of the programme had been presented to the country.

The ceremony for the launch of the 2013 Annual Report of the Ministry of Finance and Planning was held in Colombo this morning under the patronage of the President. Finance Secretary Dr. P.B. Jayasundera presented the report to the President who is also the Finance Minister.

Speaking further at this ceremony, the President underscored that the present Government had clearly done much on behalf of the country as well as the people. Some secure advice from foreigners to implement their policies. But the President emphatically mentioned that he needed no assistance or advice from foreigners to take decisions on behalf of the welfare of the country and the people.

The President said that the country had been battered by terrorism as well as the tsunami. It was with these difficulties that the Government had to commence its journey. It should be understood how the country had reached the present situation. The President said that 40 factories in the country were shut down. It does not matter if these were sold and then developed. The village economy had melt down. These are issues which surfaced due to the economic and political policies during these eras. No one talked about these matters. The country continuously faced a bleak economy.

The Government had to bring them to a halt. A series of policies was presented to the people through the Mahinda Chinthana. Mandates presented during an election are dumped in the dustbin after the polls. But the President said that they did not do so. The Government did not take decisions to protect safeguard the power. Decisions needed to develop the country were taken. The President mentioned that Sri Lanka is the only country which provides electricity round the clock. He pointed out that they have decided on the journey they should traverse by building the Private Sector and strengthening the Public Sector.

The President declared that the aspiration of the Government was to create an environment for all communities to lead peaceful lives sans any impediments and to help them to lead prosperous lives effecting development to all sectors in the country.

The President said that he is not interested in slinging mud at anyone. What should be done is develop the country for the betterment of the people.

Expressing his views on the occasion Finance Secretary Dr. P.B. Jayasundera said that the per capita income last year was 3300 and this year it is 3600. The President’s target was 4000 Dollars by the year 2016. He was optimistic that this target could be reached next year.

Minister Basil Rajapaksa and Central Bank Governor Ajith Nivard Cabral were among those who joined in this occasion.

The President who ended his Indian tour returns to the island

further strengthening Indo-Sri Lanka ties.

President Rajapaksa who left the island for New Delhi to participate in the inauguration of new Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and several other activities returned to the island last evening.

The prime aim of the President’s tour was to participate in the swearing-in ceremony of India’s new Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a Chief Guest. The Indian Prime Minister expressed his gratitude to President Rajapaksa for attending his inauguration. Narendra Modi pointed out that the participation of the leaders of the South Asian Regional Solidarity Association including the Sri Lankan President in his inauguration will lead to better prospects and future cooperation among SAARC nations.

A meeting of the Sri Lankan and Indian leaders was held at the Hyderabad House in New Delhi.

The two leaders had an in-depth discussion of issues of mutual concern. President Rajapaksa described the initiatives taken by Sri Lanka with regard to rehabilitation, resettlement, reconstruction and the ongoing reconciliation process in the country. President Rajapaksa and Prime Minister Modi also discussed the issue of fishermen of both countries and measures that can be taken to find a permanent solution through a process in which the views of fishermen from both countries can be taken into consideration.

Both leaders agreed that talks between the fishermen and the meeting of the joint committee of officials must continue. The Prime Minister was of the view that SAARC must focus on common issues that can benefit the region and reflect our concerns on a global platform.

President Rajapaksa stated that India’s leadership is crucial for the success of SAARC ventures and Sri Lanka looks forward to working with India in taking forward SAARC operations.

In the meantime, the meeting between the President and his Indian counterpart Pranab Mukherjee was held at the Rasthrapathi Bawan. Both of them focused attention on matters which are of mutual interest to the two countries. The President referred to the development programmes mooted in Sri Lanka and the activities of the present national unity alliance. The Indian President said he is happy to have met the Sri Lankan President. Among the Sri Lankan representatives present were many Parliamentarians.

New Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has accepted

an invitation extended by President Rajapaksa to visit Sri Lanka.

This invitation was extended to the new Indian Prime Minister during the meet between the Sri Lankan President and the Indian Prime Minister in New Delhi yesterday.

Secretary to the Indian Ministry of External Affairs Sujatha Singh, addressing the media in New Delhi, confirmed that the Sri Lankan President invited the Indian Prime Minister to visit the island. Accordingly, the India media reported that Narendra Modi may undertake a tour of Sri Lanka in August or September this year.

The current peaceful environment prevailing in the North has come

in for praise from the Australian High Commissioner in Sri Lanka. She has pledged further Australian assistance for the development projects.

Australia’s High Commissioner in Sri Lanka Robyn Mudie appreciated the immediate development that has taken place in the Northern Province within a short period after the ending of the 30-year conflict. She said she is happy to witness the civilians of the North fully reaping the peace dividends. She made these observations during a discussion with Northern Governor G.A. Chandrasiri after a brief tour of the Northern Province.

During the meeting held at the Northern Governor’s Office, the Australian High Commissioner declared that that the action initiated by the Government to remove landmines in the North and resettle the displaced was laudable. She further said that the Australian Government would continue to grant further assistance for development projects that are to be launched in the future.

The Northern Governor gave a detailed description of the situation prevailing in the Northern Province.

Reconstruction work on the historic Somawathiya Road which

is frequently subject of floods every year has been completed.

It is scheduled to be vested in the public by the President on the 11th of next month.

The historic Somawathiya Road was in a serious dilapidated condition as it is frequently impacted by floods every year. Certain points along the road had also been washed away. As a result it was very difficult to travel. The road came in for President’s inspection when he visited the Somawathi Sacred Area two and a half years ago. The Chief Incumbent of the Somawathi Vihare appraised the President about the dilapidated condition of the Road.

Accordingly the President instructed the officials concerned to reconstruct the road and set aside the financial allocations needed for the repairs. The reconstruction which commenced two and half years ago has now reached the final stages. Work on this single lane road with a distance of 38 kilometres has now been completed with two lanes with a width of seven metres. The road spanning from the Polonnaruwa City to Sungawila with a distance of 26 kilometres has been carpeted and developed. Also the 12 kilometre road from Sungawila up to Somawathiya has been totally concreted and developed.

Hitherto it took at least two and a half hours to travel on this road. But devotees can now reach the Somawathiya Sacred Area within 30 minutes as a result of the development of the Road. The Road is an impetus to the people of the area who earn their living through agriculture.

South Korea has assured support for many spheres in Sri Lanka including health and education.

Korea’s new Ambassador Chang Chon Sum gave this assurance to Minister Basil Rajapaksa.

The new South Korean Ambassador met Minister Rajapaksa at the Economic Development Ministry and held discussions. The Korean diplomat announced that his Government is prepared to further solidify relations with Sri Lanka.

South Korea expects to support Sri Lanka in many fields including health, tourism and agriculture. Minister Basil Rajapaksa thanked the Korean Government for the support given to Sri Lanka.

Army Commander Lt. Gen. Daya Ratnayake has emphasized the need to impart

to the world genuine information about the heroic soldiers who subdued the world’s deadliest terrorists.

The Army Commander made this observation joining in a ceremony to award certificates of competence to 47 Army personnel who followed a one-month media training. The Course was jointly organized by the Information Department and the Army. The aim of this effort was to provide a wider perspective e and exposure to the fast changing subject of Mass Communication and Media. The Army Commander pointed out that certain elements attempted to take the war heroes to the War Tribunal due to their lack of knowledge on media.

The Army Chief said that they succeeded in routing the world’s deadliest terrorist outfit through a humanitarian operation.

Soldiers with the weapon on one hand and the Humanitarian Charter on the other hand were deployed to the war front. It is these heroic soldiers, who liberated the civilians through a humanitarian operation, that some are attempting to take to the War Tribunal. When analyzing the reasons for this, it was found that the real concept of ending the war had not reached the world. If so the Army Commander said that no one would have been able to denigrate the country.

Director General of the Information Department Prof. Ariyaratne Ethugala also expressed his views on the occasion.

The Customs have apprehended a woman who had illegally

brought 26 animals to the country. She was also arrested along with the animals.

Airport Customs Director Deepal Siribaddana said that the woman who had come from Thailand was arrested at around 12.30 last night. It was found that she had concealed these birds and animals in her luggage. She is a resident of Negombo. She had thus brought to the island two love birds, 10 doves, six rabbits, nine parrots and a garden lizard. Its value is estimated at around 132 thousand rupees. Deputy Customs Director S.N.G. Mohotti conducted the customs inquiry. The Customs Director said that a fine of 25 thousand rupees was imposed on the woman and that orders were given to hand over the birds and the animals to the Zoo.

All arrangements are in place for the celebration of the10th Raigam Tel’ees.

The Raigam Tele Awards Festival will be staged at the BMICH on the 06th of next month.

66 teledramas and 588 various programmes have been presented for the 2013 Raigam Tele Awards Festival of the Tele artistes. SMS for the selection of the Popular Actor, Actress and the Tele drama will be open until the 05th of next month.

A special function was organized the SLFI in Colombo last night for artistes and creators who had been nominated for the Tele Awards Festival. It was organized under the patronage of Minister T.B. Ekanayake. Many teledramas and programme telecast by ITN have been nominated for the Festival. Journalists as well as presenters who have displayed their skills will be feted at the Awards Festival. Journalists, Jurists, Chairman of the Kingdom of Raigam Dr. Ravi Liyanage and members of the Board of Directors as well as the senior management of the Sampath Bank supporting the event joined in this occasion.

The theme of last year’s Raigam Tele’ees was Sooriya Kantha Kedapatha.

Veteran media personality Rosmand Senaratne who had discharged

yeoman service to the electronic media for a period of nearly 48 years has been feted by the International Lions Club.

The Lions District 306 B 2 presented an Award to Mr. Senaratne for the valuable services he has rendered to the Electronic media in the fields of radio and in the Engineering, Programmes, News, Commerce and Managements fields in the television media for a period of nearly 48 years. He was feted with this Award at the Ninth Annual District Convention of the Lions Club held at the BMICH.

The function was held under the patronage of District Governor Attorney Sumith Senanayake and 2008/2010 International Director Lion Bishnu Abjoria.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed his gratitude to President Rajapaksa for attending his inauguration. The new Indian Prime Minister also told the Sri Lankan President that the presence of leaders of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation augurs well for the future of SAARC cooperation and solidarity. President Rajapaksa and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged in bilateral discussions at the Hyderabad House in New Delhi. The President Rajapaksa was accorded a rousing welcome by the Indian Prime Minister on his arrival at the Hyderabad House for the bilateral discussions. The two leaders had an in-depth discussion of issues of mutual concern. President Rajapaksa described the initiatives taken by Sri Lanka with regard to rehabilitation, resettlement, reconstruction and the ongoing reconciliation process in the country. President Rajapaksa and Prime Minister Modi also discussed the issue of fishermen of both countries and measures that can be taken to find a permanent solution through a process in which the views of fishermen from both countries can be taken into consideration. Both leaders agreed that talks between the fishermen and the meeting of the joint committee of officials must continue. The Prime Minister was of the view that SAARC must focus on common issues that can benefit the region and reflect our concerns on a global platform. President Rajapaksa, welcoming the views expressed by Prime Minister Modi, stated that India’s leadership is crucial for the success of SAARC ventures and Sri Lanka looks forward to working with India in taking forward SAARC operations. Ministers Prof. G.L. Peiris and Arumugam Thondaman, Supervision MP Vass Gunawardena, Jaffna Mayor Yogehwari Patgunarasa. President’s Secretary Lalith Weeratunge, Foreign Secretary Kshenuka Seneviratne and Sri Lanka’s High Commissioner to India Prasad Kariyawasam joined in this discussion.

President Mahinda Rajapaksa completes 44 years in politics. He entered Parliament for the first time in the General Election held on May 27th 1970. 27th May 1970 was day that marking a watershed in Sri Lanka’s history. It was on this day that the Coalition Government led by the Sri Lanka Freedom Party which paved for the reaching of many people’s friendly decisions, assumed office, following the General Election. Among those who were privileged to enter Parliament at this election was the 24-year-old youngest candidate, a son of Ruhuna. The dynamic Mahinda Rajapaksa not only won the Beliatta electorate but also set a new record by becoming the youngest parliamentarian at the age of 24. He won the Beliatta electorate with a convincing majority of 7000 votes. No one would have ever thought that the young Mahinda Rajapaksa who was groomed under D.M. Rajapaksa who was known as the Lion of the Ruhuna and D.A. Rajapaksa a pioneer of the Sri Lanka Freedom Party, would one day unite the country, when he seconded the Throne Speech of Prime Minister Sirimavo Bandaranaike. Since this people’s leader served as a Minister, an Opposition Leader and also as Prime Minister. He reached the apex of his political career after he won the Presidential election held in 2005 and became the country’s Sixth Executive President. He was also elected the Seventh Executive President in the Presidential election held on January 27th 2010. If not for his unwavering and bold leadership the country would have still been experiencing the fear psychosis period plagued with terrorism. The masses continue to repose implicit faith in the leader who has always been close to them and feels the pulse of the common man. The President has always gone that extra mile to reach out to the poorest of the poor and find solutions to their pressing needs. This has been the President’s hallmark for the past 44 years; from the day he entered Parliament as the youngest member of the House. In this scenario, President Rajapaksa would undoubtedly fare even better when he seeks a fresh mandate from the masses.

The United Nations High Commission for Refugees has vowed to perform a close and comprehensive examination of all facts following the detention of suspected LTTE members bearing the commission’s cards in Malaysia. UNHCR spokesperson Yante Ismail said in principle, refugee protection was for those who are in genuine need of international protection when they have been forced to flee their countries due to armed conflict, persecution and serious human rights abuses. Refugee protection is not extended to individuals who have committed very serious crimes, or acts contrary to the purposes of the United Nations. Given the seriousness of these issues, she said a close and full examination of all facts would need to be undertaken. She was commenting on the arrests of three tiger terrorists in Selangor, Malaysia. The men were also found to have been issued UNHCR cards.

The Mobile Service programme at the Grama Niladhari Divisional level planned to identify the problems of the people of the Badulla and Moneragala Districts will commence on the 02nd of next month. Minister Basil Rajapaksa apprised public representatives, leaders of community organizations and public officials at a discussion at the Parliamentary complex recently of the areas in which the mobile service programme is planned to be launched. The people achieved many benefits following the mobile services launched in three Districts parallel to the Deyata Kirula programme. Minister Basil Rajapaksa pointed out that this has helped to solve many problems. It was also possible to grant many essential facilities which had long been due after identifying the requirements through their views and proposals made by the people. Further expressing his views at this discussion, the Minister asserted that it would be possible to achieve the target of making the country the Wonder of Asia by upgrading the living standards of the people through a more efficient public service. The Minister further said that mobile services will be in place within the Matara, Galle, Hambantota and Ratnapura Districts this year. Present at this discussion were Ministers W.D.J. Seneviratne, Dulles Alahapperuma, Ranjith Siyambalapitiya, Pavithra Wanniarachchi and Vasudeva Nanayakkara.

The National Poson Festival will be held centering Anuradhapura, Mihintale and Thanthirimale Sacred Areas. A Poson Week under the theme “Kalaguna Salakamu – Mihindu Himi Samaramu” has been declared from the 9th to the 16th of next month. Plans are afoot to hold a series of programme making the National Poson Festival centering on the Anuradhapura, Mihintale and Thanthirimale Sacred Areas. It is also planned to expand facilities as a large number of pilgrims and local as well as foreign tourists are expected at these sites. Arrangements are being made to provide food, water, sanitary facilities, public amenities as well as security needed by the devotees with the assistance of the North Central Provincial Council and local authorities. Sil and medication campaigns will be held at places of worship including the Ruwanweliseya, the Samadhi Statue and the Sri Sambuddha Jayanthi Vihare. A special Train service free of charge will be operative between Anuradhapura and Mihintale while special trains will also be operative from other locations. The public have been requested to adhere to the instructions displayed near the reservoirs.

Pope Francis has confirmed that he will be visiting Sri Lanka next January. During an inflight news conference aboard the papal flight on his return from Jerusalem to Rome, the Pontiff announced that he planned to visit Sri Lanka in January. Archbishop of Colombo Rt. Rev. Early this year Pope Francis accepted an invitation from Archbishop Malcolm Cardinal Ranjith to undertake a visit to Sri Lanka. Also President Rajapaksa last August wrote to Pope Francis extending an invitation to visit Sri Lanka. Accordingly, the Pontiff announced yesterday that he expects to visit Sri Lanka and the Philippines next January. Pope Paul VI visited Sri Lanka in 1970, and Pope John Paul II visited the island in 1995 to preside over the religious rites in the Beatification of Sri Lankan missionary Fr. Joseph Vaz.

A new programme is being planned to find immediate solutions of health issues of the estate community. The Health Ministry has made arrangements to undertake this immediate programme of addressing health problems of the people living in affiliation to estates. Several programmes are already being implemented while mobile medical clinics are also being held in parallel to these programmes. Such a mobile service with the participation of 40 doctors of the Medical Faculty of the Colombo University was held at the Tamil Maha Vidyalaya in Kahawatte. The Past Pupils Association of the School and the Kahawatte Plantations Company support the event.

The future of India has been endowed to Narendra Modi. He took oaths as the 15th Prime Minister of India. The glorious event was graced by many foreign State Leaders including the Sri Lankan President.

Narendra Modi took oaths today as the 15th Prime Minister of India,

the world’s largest democracy. The ceremony was held in the forecourt of Rastrapathi Bhawan, the Indian Presidential Palace within a splendid environment. Foreign media reported that the entire Indian capital New Delhi was in a festive mood in view of the swearing-in of the new Prime Minister. Nearly 4000 guests including State Leaders joined in this function.

President Rajapaksa was the first state leader to arrive in New Delhi to participate in the inauguration of the new Indian Prime Minister. He was thereafter followed by Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and Afghan President Hamid Karzai.

Expressing views to the media before leaving for New Delhi, the Pakistani Prime Minister said that he was today taking the message of peace to India. Naveen Ram Ghulam, the Prime Minister of Mauritius which is an observer state of SAARC also arrived for the ceremony. Among the other state guests at the ceremony were Prime Minister of Bhutan Shering Tobbe, Prime Minister of Nepal Sushil Koirala and Maldivian President Abdullah Yameen.

A notable feature was the presence of former Indian Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, Congress Party Leader Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi.

The Bharatiya Janata Party led by Narendra Modi secured a resounding victory at the recently concluded General Election winning 337 of the 543 seats in the Lok Sabha. Addressing the media after the election victory, Narendra Modi said that the victory was not a triumph of the Bharatiya Janata Party was that of the Indian people. He was optimistic that a bright future would dawn for India after the election victory. Narendra Modi succeed in establishing a Government without a coalition or the support of any other political party. It is only after 30 years that an Indian political party had succeeded in securing such a large majority. Narendra Modi took over the reigns of India with a solemn pledge to brighten the future of the all Indians.

President Rajapaksa who left the island to participate in the swearing of the new Indian Prime Minister has received a very warm welcome in New Delhi.

The President left for New Delhi this morning from the Katunayake International Airport to join in the inauguration of India’s new Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Minister Prof. G.L. Peiris and Arumugam Thondaman, Foreign Ministry Supervision MP Sajin Vass Gunawardena, Jaffna Mayor Yogeshwari Patgunarasa, President’s Secretary Lalith Weeratunge and Foreign Secretary Kshenuka Seneviratne joined the President in this visit.

On arrival at the Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi in a SriLankan Airlines flight, the President and his entourage were warmly greeted by Sri Lanka’s High Commissioner to India Prasad Kariyawasam and India’s High Commissioner to Sri Lanka Y.K. Sinha. Security was tightened at the Airport for the Sri Lankan President.

President Rajapaksa is due to participate in a banquet to be hosted by Indian President Pranab Mukherjee at the Rastrapathi Bawan after the swearing in ceremony. Also during his stay in India, the Sri Lankan President is scheduled to hold bilateral talks with the new Indian Prime Minister and several State Leaders.

The Indian media spoke high of the visit of the Sri Lankan President during live commentaries given by NDTV.

The entire world attention is drawn to India, as Narendra Dharmodardas Modi begins a new innings today as the Prime Minister of India. This is a brief description about the new Indian Prime Minister.

Narendra Dhramodardas Modi was born on 17 September 1950. He is a member of the Bharatiya Janata Party.

Modi was born on 17 September 1950 to a family of grocers belonging to the backward oil-presser community, in Vadnagar in Mehsana district of what was then Bombay State and known as Gujarat the present-day. He was the third of four children born to Damodardas Mulchand Modi and his wife, Heeraben. He helped his father sell tea at Vadnagar railway station. As a child and as a teenager, he ran a tea stall with his brother near a bus terminal. In 1967, he completed his schooling in Vadnagar, where a teacher described him as being an average student, but a keen debater who had an interest in theatre. That interest has influenced how he now projects himself in politics.

In 1978, Modi graduated with an extramural degree through Distance Education in political science from Delhi University. In 1983, while remaining as a pracharak in the RSS, completed his Master’s Degree in political science from Gujarat University.

Modi was a key strategist for the BJP in the successful 1995 and 1998 Gujarat state election campaigns. He became Chief Minister of Gujarat in October 2001 and served longer by far in that position than anyone else to date. He was a major campaign figure in the 2009 general election, which the BJP led National Democratic Alliance lost to the Congress-led United Progressive Alliance. He led the BJP in the April-May 2014 general election, which resulted in a majority for the BJP in the Lok Sabha.

A group of tiger loyalists including Vaiko which staged a protest against the President’s Indian tour has been apprehended.

The New Delhi Police arrested a group including DMK Party Leader Y Gopalswamy alias Vaiko for staging a protest against the invite extended to President Rajapaksa to join in the swearing-in ceremony of Narendra Modi as the Indian Prime Minister and his tour of India.

The protest has been staged in the Chandar area in New Delhi.

A special security network was in place in New Delhi in view of the State leaders who were participating in the Indian Prime Minister’s inauguration. As a result, the Indian media reported that Vaiko and his supporters were rounded up for defying prohibitory orders.

The Bukit Aman Special Branch Counter Terrorism Division in Malaysia is hunting down more suspected LTTE members. The Star.com reported that the Malaysian Terrorism Division believes that more LTTE terrorists are hiding in the country.

Meanwhile a source told the New Straits Times that the three LTTE suspects arrested recently included a senior ranking member, the LTTE’s Air Tigers (air wing) deputy commander and media division deputy chief. The men were held after raids conducted in Petaling Jaya and in Klang. Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Khalid Abu Bakar said they were believed to have been in the country since 2004. In a statement he said they had been using Malaysia as a base to secure funds, spread their propaganda and were attempting to revive the defunct terrorist group.

Among the items seized were LTTE propaganda materials, media equipment and foreign currency notes. He said they managed to track them down using the identities given on their UNHCR cards. He said all three had been detained under the Immigration Act

Khalid said Bukit Aman would work closely with UNHCR to prevent terrorists from exploiting the refugee card to enter and remain in the country. He emphasized that they would not allow Malaysia to be used as a place for them to hide or conduct terror activities In Malaysia or on foreign soil. In the meantime, Security sectors in Malaysia said that immediate action will be instituted to deport the arrested LTTE cadres to Sri Lanka, where they will face prosecution for terrorist acts.

Two New Trade Zones which will generate new employment avenues for 8000 young men and women in the North are to be launched.

These jobs will be available for the youth following the construction of the new Trade Zones within the Jaffna and Vavuniya Districts. Construction is now in progress and the estimated cost of 5000 million rupees.

The New Trade Zones are being built at Kondavil in Jaffna and at Omanthai in Vavuniya. A notable feature is the willingness expressed by investors in the South to invest in these Zones.

Northern Governor G.A. Chandrasiri inspected the construction work of these Trade Zones. The Governor announced that plans are afoot to launch more programmes to meet the employment requirements of the young men and women of the North.

The debris of a helicopter has been recovered from the Chalai sea bed. The Sri Lanka Navy discovered debris of the helicopter, believed to have crashed several years ago and belonging to the Air Force, in seas east of Chalai.

The operation to retrieve the debris was carried out on the advice of Navy Commander Vice Admiral Jayantha Colombage and the guidance of Northern Naval Commander Rear Admiral Sarath Dasanayake.

The discovery was made during a search operation carried out by a team of personnel from the Northern Naval Command using the “Ranajaya” vessel. The debris of the helicopter has been brought to the Kankesanthurai area. A special team from the Sri Lanka Air Force has come to Kankesanthurai to conduct investigations regarding the discovery of the helicopter debris.

Sarath Dharmasiri’s “Suvisi Vivarana” film has been honoured with the Golden Award at the Fourth SAARC Film Festival.

The Fourth SAARC Film Festival was held at the cinema hall of the State Film Corporation. 22 films representing South Asian countries were presented for the Festival. The film “Suvisi Vivarana” directed by Sarath Dharmasiri and adjudged as the best film was presented with the Golden Award.

The Film ‘Saanguru’ presented by Nepal won the Silver Award while the film “Igili” presented by the Maldives bagged the Bronze Award. “Makra” presented by India won the Award for the Best Short Film. Ismail Rashid who played the leading role in the “Igili” film received the Best Actors Award while Sharima Fanta of the film “Jola” presented by Nepal won the Best Actress Award.

Sarath Dharmasiri received the Best Director’s Award. The Jury’s Special Award was given to the film “Samige Kathawa.” Among those present at the Award Festival was Senior Minister Athauda Seneviratne.

Terrorism was fast spreading like a pestilence in the island for three decades and no one can forget the carnage and destruction caused to public property by these blood thirsty monsters.

The end to this brutality was registered with the total elimination of the terrorism from the motherland by the Commander in Chief and the heroic soldiers.

If not no one could estimate the extent of the damage that would have been unleashed within the country.

17 war heroes were killed in an assault unleashed by the tiger terrorists in the Yalanaya area on 26th May 1987. In another attack mooted at a location between Old Medawachchiya and Kokilai, the terrorists took away the lives of five war heroes. Valachchenai was the next target of the ruthless terrorists. Lurking in the area, the terrorists killed another war hero in a heinous attack.

The terrorists took away the life of another brave soldier mooting a mortar attack on a series of military bunkers in the Mannar area on 26th May in the year 2000. Four innocent civilians were killed in a series of cowardly attacks mooted in the Kalviyankadu, Ariyalai and Achchuveli areas on 26th May 2006. They were brutally murdered within their houses.

A bomb exploded while a train was plying between Panadura and Dehiwala on 26th May 2008. As a result of this explosion nine innocent civilians lost their lives.

Terrorism which plagued the country in this manner was subdued on 18th May 2009. By then these ruthless terrorists had taken away a total of 41lives. Among them were 14 innocent unarmed civilians. The other 27 were heroic soldiers.

The heroic soldiers who advanced in the humanitarian operation due to the unwavering and bold leadership of President Rajapaksa, who is also the Commander in Chief and the apposite guidance of Defence Secretary Gotabhaya Rajapaksa, killed the murderous tiger leader at the Nanthikadal Lagoon in Wellamulliwaikkal and ended the fear psychosis era. If not the country would have become a land of the dead.

Peace now reigns in the country. The entire nation is enjoying the dividends of peace for the past five years.

The present Government headed by the people’s leader has paved the way to make the peace enduring. But it is pathetic to note that certain local as well as extraneous forces are determined to destroy this peace. They are preferring false and unfounded allegations on these war heroes.

It is the grit and bravery displayed by the war heroes who made supreme sacrifices on behalf of the country that are being reminisced in this feature. No one can erase it.

Whatever was said by anyone, the war heroes who safeguarded the country are immortal. It should be underscored that the memories of these war heroes of the era who gave up their lives on behalf of genuine freedom, will continue to be refreshed in this feature also tomorrow.

Intellectuals have praised the decision of the President to take part

in the Swearing-in Ceremony of new Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The official Swearing–in ceremony of new Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be held tomorrow. The Indian Government invited President Mahinda Rajapaksa to attend the ceremony and he accepted the invitation. Intellectuals point out that the President’s decision will further strengthen Indo-Srilanka relations and it would also be a blow to the elements who want to damage the relationship between the two countries. It is a positive sign that the BJP ignored the objections of Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Jayalalitha Jayaram and MDMK Party Leader Vaiko. The new Indian Prime Minister has said that he hoped for stronger relations with Sri Lanka. The Indian media reports that a large number of people have been invited to the swearing in ceremony, including Asian State Leaders, Indian actors, actresses and singers.

The President has viewed the exhibition of the small and medium scale industrialists.

The exhibition is held in connection with the 45th anniversary of the Industrial Development Board at the BMICH premises. The exhibition which is organized for the first time will end today. Modern equipment and machinery will be introduced at the exhibition named “Smidex 2014”. The Consumer Affairs Authority is having a special stall at the exhibition to educate the public on consumer rights and fair trading. Sri Lanka Industrial Development Board states that the exhibition is an encouragement to develop small and medium scale industries. It provides an opportunity for local small and medium scale industrialists to showcase their talent to the world. Senior Minister A.H.M. Fowzie, Ministers Douglas Devananda and Bandula Gunawardena, Deputy Ministers Geethanjana Gunawardena and Weerakumara Dissanayake and a large gathering were present on the occasion.

The President has joined to watch the final round of the Tamil Mediam – Kavitha National

Talent Show. The final round of the Tamil Medium Kavitha National Talent Show which is held to appreciate creative talents of students in Universities and higher educational institutes, took place last evening at the BMICH in Colombo. President Mahinda Rajapaksa took part as the Chief Guest. The show is organized annually by the Ministry of Higher Education. The President presented awards and certificates to the winners of 2013/2014 competitions. A large gathering of people including Ministers S.B. Dissanayake, Douglas Devananda, Wasudeva Nanayakkara, Deputy Minister Nandimithra Ekanayaka and MP Weerakumara Dissanayake were present on the occasion.

The Government has taken measures to beautify the sacred Mihintala

area in connection with the Poson Poya Festival. A number of development projects are now taking place at the Mihintala Sacred area on the instructions of President Mahinda Rajapaksa and under the direction of Defence and Urban Development Ministry Secretary Gotabhaya Rajapaksa. New shops have been built by removing improperly built shops at the entrance. A vehicle park has been built and all the routes leading to the sacred city have been renovated. The Civil Defence Department is assisting to maintain the Mihintala City and its environs in an eco-friendly manner. The Mihintala Poson Committee states that all arrangements have been made to provide facilities for the devotees who would arrive at Mihinthalaya in connection with the Poson Poya.

The public servants have an opportunity to provide a maximum service

to the public through mobile services. Minister Basil Rajapaksa says that people and officials should make use this opportunity. Minister Basil Rajapaksa said that the success of the service would depend on the interest of the members of community based organizations and the public servants. He requested the members of the community based organizations to take maximum benefit from the public officials who would arrive for the mobile service. The people should be briefed about the knowledge, ability, financial resources and the services available. He said that a good opportunity has been provided for the officials to provide a better service to the public covering 39 Grama Seva Divisions within 39 days. The Minister mentioned this while taking part at the inauguration ceremony of the mobile service in the Uva Province. The inauguration ceremony took place in Diyatalawa. The mobile service expects to provide solutions for people’s problems including that are related to health, education and lands. The mobile service will be conducted covering all Divisional Secretariat areas of the Uva Province within next 39 days. A group of people including Minister Nimal Siripala de Silva, UVA Province Chief Minister Shashendra Rajapaksa and MP Uditha Lokubandara were present on the occasion.

Public views will be sought regarding the periodical changes

required for the National Bus Fare Policy. The Cabinet Sub Committee on preparing the National Bus Fare Policy and the committee of intellectuals are taking steps to amend the present Bus Fare Policy. The views of the public will be sought regarding the necessary changes. The National Transport Commission states that the views could be given on the telephone number 1955.

Sri Lanka and Belarus are planning to establish an economic and trade committee.

The preliminary work in this regard, is taking place at present. The Ministry of Industries and Commerce Affairs stated that it could be possible to establish the Committee by July. There has been a significant growth of trade between the two countries in the recent past. The Ministry reports revealed that the transactions have doubled in the last year when compared with 2010.

The entire country was under terror when the dark shadows of terrorism

were all over the motherland. The sacrifices made by soldiers led by the Commander in Chief have been written in golden letters in history Displaying the brutality of terrorism the LTTE terrorists stormed the Maha Divulwewa village on 25th May 1986 and killed 20 civilians including innocent children. Three soldiers lost their lives when the terrorists ambushed them on 25th May 1987 at Wakarai in Batticaloe. Displaying the brutality of the LTTE terrorists, they hacked and shot to death 42 civilians at Kallawawa village on 25th May 1995. LTTE terrorists ambushed a group of soldiers and killed two of them on the 25th May 1997 in Vavuniya. Another two soldiers sacrificed their lives to the motherland during an attack by the LTTE terrorists on the same day at Irana-Irruppai in Vavuniya. On 25th May 2000 a LTTE Pistol Gang shot dead two civilians inside their homes in Vavuniya. The terrorism was eradicated from the motherland on 18th May 2009. By that day 89 people including 65 civilians and 24 soldiers had been killed by the terrorists. If the heroic soldiers who advanced under the brave leadership of the Commander in Chief President Mahinda Rajapaksa and under the guidance of Defence Secretary Gotabhaya Rajapaksa, did not eliminate the brutal killer at the Nandikadal Lagoon in Wellamulli-waikkal the country would have experienced more blood baths. The country has achieved freedom now. The people are enjoying the freedom for the last five years. The people’s President and the present government have taken measures to restore permanent peace in this country. However local and foreign elements are attempting to destroy that peace. The elements who are against the country are making wild allegations against the heroic soldiers. The diary of dark memories contains the eternal heroic biographies of soldiers who sacrificed their lives for the freedom of the country. The memories of the heroic soldiers who rescued the country are eternal despite the utterances made by certain people. We will continue to recall the memories of the heroic soldiers who sacrificed their lives to the country, in the dark memories.

Three terrorists who were attempting to re-activate LTTE

in Sri Lanka have been arrested in Malaysia. Malaysian Inspector General of Police Khalid Abu Bakar said that there was no room for terrorism in his country. Malaysian Police said that they have collected funds and engaged in propaganda activities. Malaysian Police have seized foreign currency and publicity material from the possession of the suspects.

The President declares open the public fair at Padukka which was built expeditiously on his orders.

The consumers and traders in Padukka are fortunate that the President while passing the Padukka area about an year ago to open a development project in the location came across the public fair in a dilapidated condition sans any maintenance. During a brief stopover, the consumers as well as the traders made a fervent appeal from the President to develop the fair. The President responded to the appeal. The President also does not make promises that cannot be fulfilled.

The renovation work on the public fair was launched instantly under the directions of the President. The work was handled under the sponsorship of the Ministry of Defence and Urban Development and the contribution of Security Forces.

The Consumers as well as the traders can now derive its full benefits. The expenditure incurred by the Government on the construction of the public fair which spans about one acre was 122 million rupees. In addition to the 226 trade stalls, it also has sanitary facilities and also facilities to park vehicles.

The opening of the public fair took place at an auspicious time this morning under the patronage of President Rajapaksa and amidst the warm response of the public. The President inspected the Fair after its opening and also exchanged pleasantries with the traders. He also made inquiries about the condition of the Weekly Fair. Solar power is being mainly used at this location although there are also electricity supplies.

The Traders expressed their gratitude to the President for converting the area, which was a marshy land, into a beautiful environment.

Senior Minister A.H.M. Fowzie, Ministers Dinesh Gunawardena and Bandula Gunawardena and Deputy Minister Geethanjana Gunawardena were among those present on the occasion.

In the meantime, the President after opening the public fair visited the Sri Maha Vihare at Moragahatenna in Padukka and engaged in religious observances and secured blessings. The President did not forget to call on the Chief Incumbent of the Vihare, the Ven. Doronnawe Wimala Thera and make inquiries into his wellbeing. Located near the Padukka-Ingiriya Road, the Vihare is of historic value.

The list of proposals of the Jathika Nidahas Peramuna has been handed over to the President.

The set of proposals adopted by the Jathika Nidahas Peramuna Convention has been handed over to President Rajapaksa. Party Leader and Minister Wimal Weerawansa presented the proposals to the President at Temple Trees this morning. The contents in these proposals were discussed at length.

The President said that he intends to discuss the proposals with senior members of the Sri Lanka Freedom Party. President Rajapaksa asserted that he would not hesitate to take political as well as economic decisions that should be taken to make the future of the country salutary.

Among those present on the occasion were Ministers Susil Premajayantha and Dulles Alahapperuma and Deputy Minister Weerakumara Dissanayake.

Minister Vasudeva Nanayakkara has said that it would have been a more meaningful step if the Northern Chief Minister joined President Rajapaksa in the oath-taking ceremony of India’s new Prime Minister. Expressing views in this respect he claimed that it value would further enhance in the future.

The Minister pointed out that the Sri Lankan President was invited to participate in the inauguration of the new Indian Prime Minister. The President invited the Northern Chief Minister also to accompany him to India to join in this ceremony. But it is known that he had not accepted this invitation.

If the Northern Chief Minister positively responded to this invitation and joined the President in this visit, a joint discussion between the Indian Prime Minister, the President, the Chief Minister would have resulted in a more meaningful step for future. But the Minister added that this has now become futile.

Many programmes have been launched to upgrade agricultural activities in the Eastern Province at the behest of the President. Action has also been taken to improve the economy of the farmer families.

President Rajapaksa has given instruction to Agricultural authorities to launch a number of programmes targeting the acceleration of agricultural development in the Eastern Province. In addition to paddy cultivation which is already being carried out, the President has intimated to the Provincial agricultural authorities to take immediate action to expand the cultivation of additional agricultural crops and to modernize the irrigation network with the aim of providing the necessary facilities to the cultivators.

Many successful results have already been achieved as a result of the programmes mooted by the Government to develop the Eastern Province after the end of the conflict. A significant growth is witnessed in the agricultural sector and the farmer community that has succeeded in providing a successful yield through the cultivation of paddy during the last two years had done their utmost to uplift the national economy.

The Agricultural Ministry is of the view that the economy of the farmer families could be further enhanced by expanding the cultivation of additional crops. Several projects are in place to impart the technical knowhow to the farmers, grant them the required relief and also the consultancy services.

Plans are afoot to extend many facilities to devotees who will be arriving in Mihintale and Anuradhapura for Poson.

It is estimated that more than 1.6 million devotees would be arriving at the Atamasthana and Mihintale in view of Poson. The National Poson Festival will be held with state patronage. The Poson Week has been declared from the 09th to the 15th of June. The Anuradhapura Poson Committee said that action was being taken to grant all facilities required by the devotees.

A special discussion in this respect was held at the Anuradhapura District Secretariat. It was held under the patronage of District Secretary Mahinda Seneviratne.

Expressing views on the manner in which the programme will be launched, the District Secretary said that arrangements are now being made to meet all the needs of the devotees who will be arriving in Anuradhapura for Poson.

These arrangements are being finalized under the guidance of the Chief Incumbent of the Atamasthana in collaboration with the political leadership and the administrative officers. He said they expected around 1.6 million devotees. Discussions have already been concluded with respect to the provision of food, transport, health and sanitary facilities.

The SMIDEX 2014 Small and Medium Scale Industrial Exhibition and Fair will draw to a close tomorrow. It is being held at the Sirimavo Bandaranaike Exhibition and Convention Centre in Colombo.

The SMIDEX 2014 Small and Medium Scale Industrial Exhibition and Fair organized for the first time by the Sri Lanka Industrial Development Board opened yesterday under the patronage of Minister Basil Rajapaksa.

The purpose of the event is to showcase the best capabilities and capacities of Sri Lankan SMIEs, to provide a platform for for them to introduce new products and services to both local and international markets. There are 300 stalls at the exhibition which showcases the products of SMIEs.

An opportunity has been provided for the public to purchase products of high quality at reasonable prices.

Deputy Minister Weerakumara Dissanayake who joined in today’s opening ceremony pointed out that the task discharged by Minister Basil Rajapaksa to encourage local producers deserve plaudits.

The need of the era is to produce goods locally. It is possible to provide the required support, guidance, leadership and incentives in this respect. He said that Minister Basil Rajapaksa frequently mediated and provided the necessary encouragement.