Daily NEWS Srilanka

Five new Heads of mission who handed in their credentials to President have said that their countries too are willing to grant relief to the landslide victims. The handing over of credentials by these news Ambassadors and High Commissioners took place at the Presidential Secretariat today. Heinz Walker-Nederkoorn presented his […]

President Rajapaksa has asserted that more positive expectations can be placed on the future of the country with the effectual changes that are taking place in the educational sector. The President laid this emphasis at the presentation of Presidential Awards for scientific publications. It was held at the Water’s Edge […]

There is a landslide threat to Ella Bolvilagalakanda. 60 families have been evacuated from the area. An occurrence of a landslide is reported at Bolvilagalakanda affiliated to the Kottagaswatte village within the Ella Divisional Secretariat Division. As a result residents of 60 villages have been evacuated. Ella Divisional Secretary Samanthi […]

The President has instructed the Inspector General of Police to hold an immediate probe into the Haldummulla landslide to determine whether it was due to the negligence of officials and whether initiatives were taken to apprise the people of the danger looming before the incident happened. This was revealed by […]

The Spill Gates of the Castlereigh, Wimalasurendra and Upper Kotmale Reservoirs have been opened. The Castlereigh Reservoir has started overflowing following the heavy rainfall experienced in the Western Slopes of the Central Hills. Even the Wimalasurendra Reservoir is also overflowing. As such the Spill Gates of these Reservoirs have been […]

Deputy General Manager of the Ceylon Electricity Board and Media Spokesman Senajith Dasanayake has said that the water levels of the Hydropower plants have increased rapidly. As a result the capacity of generating hydro power has reached the maximum level. Mr. Dasanayake said that the water levels of the Castlereigh […]

Minister Keheliya Rambukwella has said that accusations made by certain parties that Sri Lanka did not mediate in the case on LTTE sanctions in the European Court, are unfounded and baseless. The Minister was responding to a query raised at the weekly Cabinet news briefing held today. The Minister pointed […]

Plans are afoot to continuously implement the programme of granting a glass of fresh milk to preschool children. Accordingly preschool children will receive a free glass of fresh milk next year too. The Ministry of Child Development and Women’s Affairs has allocated 250 million rupees to provide a fresh glass […]

Andy Murray booked his place at the ATP World Tour Finals with an emphatic win over Wimbledon conqueror Grigor Dimitrov at the Paris Masters. The Briton, who lost in straight sets at Wimbledon, beat the Bulgarian 6-3 6-3 to reach the quarter-finals. The 27-year-old Scot, seeking to win his fourth […]

Batsman Jesse Ryder has been thrown a lifeline toward a possible recall for the World Cup after being included in a 13-man New Zealand A squad for a four-match 50-over tour to the UAE beginning 23rd November. Ryder has not played international cricket for New Zealand since the home ODI […]

Children and their family members may find their favored designs during the ongoing China Fashion Week as designers made efforts to use garment to form children’s character and behavior. The fashion show not only focused on children’s clothes, but also designed for their family members like parents and grandparents in […]

The Disaster Management Centre says that hundreds are still missing in Koslanda and 66 houses have been destroyed in the area. The relief efforts are being continuously carried out and 872 people of 263 families have been housed in two relief camps. Meanwhile, the Building Research Organization has cautioned the […]

The President during a visit to the landslide affected Meeriyabedda area this morning made inquiries into the persons impacted by the disaster and issued instructions to the authorities concerned to ensure the security of the children who had lost their parents. President Rajapaksa visited this morning the Miriyabedda area in […]

Chief Government Whip and Minister Dinesh Gunawardena has called on the opposition not to exploit the situation arisen following the Haldummulla landslide to achieve political mileage. Responding to a query raised by UNP Parliamentarian John Amaratunge, the Minister said the Government is totally dedicated to granting maximum relief to the […]

Minister Prof. G.L. Peiris has said that the United States and India are ready to extend support for any work including the rescue of persons affected by the landslide. The External Affairs Minister told Parliament that these countries had intimated their decision to him. Representatives of many political parties condoled […]

The President declares open the new three storeyed building of the Padavi Sripura Pradeshiya Sabha. The new building of the Padavi Sripura Pradeshiya Sabha has been constructed with the intention of imparting maximum facilities to the people. The building was opened by President Rajapaksa. The President who arrived for the […]

The new building complex constructed for the Gomarankadawala Pradeshiya Sabha has also been opened. The building was put up at an outlay of 40 million rupees. The vesting of the new building Complex of the Gomarankadawala Pradeshiya Sabha took place last afternoon. It is equipped with an administrative complex, an […]

The Child Protection Authority has requested the public to intimate details on children who have been orphaned as a result of the Haldummulla landslide on contact number 1929. The National Child Protection Authority has called on the public to contact the Authority on 1929 and give information on children who […]

Another significant relief is endowed to the public servants under the Mahinda Chinthana Way Forward. Construction work on a large Housing Complex for public employees with 608 housing units gets underway. The launch of construction work on this huge Housing Complex for the benefit of the state employees based on […]

Eight persons including several Indians have been sentenced to death for engaging in the smuggling of heroin. The Colombo High Court today issued the death sentence on eight people, including five Indians, after they were found guilty of heroin smuggling. The three Sri Lankans and five Indians had posed as […]

Andy Murray moved to within one win of qualifying for the World Tour Finals with a 6-3 6-4 victory over Julien Benneteau at the Paris Masters. The Briton, who is fifth in the race to qualify for November’s finals, outclassed his French opponent in 71 minutes to reach the third […]

In the absence of Lasith Malinga and Rangana Herath, the Sri Lankan team management is hoping for the experienced batsmen to flourish and inexperienced bowlers to step up. Sri Lanka is the second-most successful team in ODIs in this year. And India will be without captain MS Dhoni. Meanwhile after […]

The world’s first production-ready flying car, which transforms from an automobile to a plane in just several seconds, has been unveiled to the public by its Austrian inventors. The presentation of AeroMobil 3.0 took place at the Pioneers Festival in the Austrian capital of Vienna. The AeroMobil 3.0 transforms from […]

Jessabelle is an upcoming American horror thriller film directed by Kevin Greutert and written by Ben Garant. The film stars Sarah Snook, Mark Webber and Ana de la Reguera. Returning to her childhood home in Louisiana to recuperate from a horrific car accident, Jessabelle comes face to face with a […]

Hundreds of people are missing after a landslide smashed into a row of line houses in a mountainous area in Haldummulla of the Badulla District, early hours of this morning. Rescue missions are underway with the aid of police, army and the Disaster Management Centre. The District Management Centre said […]

President Rajapaksa has expressed his deep concern on behalf of the people who had been impacted by the Koslanda landslide in Haldummulla. He has given instructions to the authorities concerned to take optimum measures to grant relief to the affected families. On hearing the disaster the President immediately issued instructions […]

Minister Mahinda Amaraweera said that continued search operations are in progress. The Minister who visited the site of the disaster said that he gave instructions to those concerned how to proceed with the operations. The Minister said that it is believed that there were about 300 persons at the location […]

It has been emphasized in Parliament that the Government would do its maximum with respect to those affected by the Haldummulla massive landslide.This emphasis was made by Minister Mahinda Samarasinghe in response to a query raised by Opposition Leader Ranil Wickremasinghe. The Opposition Leader said that it is reported that […]

People’s representatives of the area visited the disaster-hit location to look into the requirements. Minister Nimal Siripala de Silva and Uva Chief Minister Shahindra Rajapaksa visited the site and inquired into the immediate needs. They issued instructions to the sectors concerned to speed up the rescue operations and other relief […]

10 schools within the Bandarawela Education Zone will be kept closed until Monday following the disaster situation. Bandarawela Zonal Director Ariyadasa Ratnayake said that among the schools are those which are sheltering the displaced families. The Bandarawela Zonal Director said that the Chief Minister has instructed him to close several […]

President Rajapaksa has emphasized that attempts made by certain elements along with the Diaspora to reverse the country should be defeated. He declared in Muttur that opportunists should not be permitted to paralyze the development path of the country to meet their aspirations. President Rajapaksa vested in the public the […]

A new building complex has been constructed for the Kuchchaveli Pradeshiya Sabha. Its opening took place under the patronage of the President. President Rajapaksa vested in the people the new two storeyed building complex constructed for the Kuchchaveli Pradeshiya Sabha. The building constructed at a cost of 30 million rupees […]

United National Party supporters have expressed their protest over the negligence of Matara District Parliamentarian Mangala Samaraweera by the UNP Leadership. United National Party internal sources have confirmed that that Parliamentarian Mangala Samaraweera who played a prominent role in the Party had been totally neglected by the Party in the […]

Sri Lanka is recognized in the world as a leading country exporting rubber products. The Global Rubber Conference opens in Colombo with this recognition.The Global Rubber Conference opened in Colombo under the patronage of Minister Basil Rajapaksa. The Global Rubber Conference 2014 themed “Sowing the Seeds for Sustainable Future” is […]

The Supreme Court has dismissed a case filed by former DIG Vass Gunawardena against the Colombo High Court trial at bar proceedings. The Apex Court rejected the appeal filed by former DIG Vaas Gunawardena and five others accused, against the Colombo High Court trial at bar proceedings into the murder […]

South Africa have moved to the top of the International Cricket Council (ICC) one-day rankings for the first time in five years, the Proteas climbing above Australia following their 2-0 series win in New Zealand. The last time South Africa headed the ODI rankings was in September 2009 but they […]

Virat Kohli has slipped a rung but is still the best-placed Indian batsman at third position in the latest ICC ODI batsmen’s rankings list released in Dubai on Wednesday. Kohli, who has lost a place following South African Hashim Amla’s upward movement, will have a chance to climb up the […]

Models paraded a range of decadent designs at the annual Chocolate Fashion Show in Paris yesterday. The event, now in its 20th year, saw approximately 70 models hit the runway wearing designs created by world-famous chocolatiers. Former French tennis player Marion Bartoli and American choreographer Mia Frye were among those […]

Taylor Swift played a special gig on a private New York City rooftop last Monday to celebrate the release of her new album, “1989.”The star hand-picked the lucky audience members for the event – titled “Taylor Swift’s 1989 Secret Session with iHeartRadio” – from her fan club.She kicked off proceedings […]

President Rajapaksa has given orders to the authorities concerned to take immediate action to provide relief to those impacted by the massive landslide. The President has also given instructions to the Defence Sectors to expedite operations to rescue those who have disappeared and impacted by the landslide which was reported […]

Around 120 line houses and about 07 government quarters in the Haldummulla area in Badulla were destroyed due to a landslide this morning. It is believed that about 250 people are trapped inside. 02 bodies have so far been recovered by rescue teams. The Disaster Management Centre said an area […]

Google is aiming to diagnose cancers, impending heart attacks or strokes and other diseases, at a much earlier stage than is currently possible. The company is working on technology that combines disease-detecting nanoparticles, which would enter a patient’s bloodstream via a swallowed pill, with a wrist-worn sensor. The idea is […]

Every Muslim will be given at least one opportunity to visit Mecca in their lifetime. This assurance was given by the President to the people of the East. President Rajapaksa gave this assurance joining in several functions and programmes organized in Trincomalee. The President received a rapturous welcome on his […]

Members of the Maha Sangha have pointed out that the President should further rule the country for the benefit of the people. President Rajapaksa who is on a tour of Trincomalee paid obeisance at the Agrabodhi Vihare in Kantale. Members of the Sangha in the area gathered at the Vihare […]

The President has vested in the public “Sirisara Uyana” and “Methsara Uyana,” two Housing Complexes in Borella. President Rajapaksa declared open the “Sirisara Uyana” and “Methsara Uyana” Housing Schemes constructed according to the Mahinda Chinthana of providing a house to every citizen of the country which has been liberated from […]

Senior Minister and Deputy Finance Minister Dr. Sarath Amunugama has said Sri Lanka’s per capita income will reach 7000 US Dollars by the year 2020. This is the target of the Government. Addressing a media conference at the Sri Lanka Freedom Party Head Office in Colombo, the Minister said that […]

Jaffna is among the leading railway stations that is earning a higher income. The income received from Yaal Devi within 13 days exceeded 7.5 million rupees. The Yaal Devi resumed operations to Jaffna after a lapse of 24 years on the 13th of this month, under the auspices of the […]

Commonwealth Secretary General Kamalesh meets the Speaker. The Commonwealth Secretary General who is on a visit to Sri Lanka met Speaker Chamal Rajapaksa and held discussions. The meeting took place at the Parliamentary Complex. Their discussions centred on the activities of the recently concluded Commonwealth Summit. Kamalesh Sharma arrived in […]

The 100th vessel calls over at the Magam Ruhunupura Harbour for bunkering. The Singaporean vessel MV Gelbray Express became the 100th ship to call over at the fuel bunkering terminal at the Magam Ruhunupura Harbour. The vessel obtained 400 metric tons of fuel. It was transporting livestock from Australia to […]

Operations offices for the future Presidential Election are being opened. The opening of the Presidential Operations Office of the Bibila electorate in the Moneragala District took place recently under the patronage of Minister Vijith Vijayamuni Soysa. A meeting to apprise the people of the Presidential elections was also held at […]

The Balapitiya Sri Lanka Freedom Party Bala Mandala meeting has been held with the participation of a large gathering. A large group from the United National Party and Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna joined the Sri Lanka Freedom Party. The Balapitiya Electoral Sri Lanka Freedom Party Bala Mandala meeting was held in […]

Cricket’s global governing body on Monday justified its crackdown on bowlers with illegal actions, vowing to only allow unorthodox deliveries like the ‘doosra’ within the rules. The International Cricket Council (ICC) in its major drive to root out the problem of illegal deliveries suspended high profile bowlers like Pakistan’s Saeed […]

India last Sunday dropped to sixth place in the ICC Test rankings after Pakistan took a 1-0 lead in the ongoing series against Australia. To move ahead of South Africa, Australia needed to win both the Tests. Now, their best series result can be a 1-1 draw, which will keep […]

Sri Lanka captain Angelo Mathews said his team did not have an ideal preparation for the upcoming tour of India as they were concentrating on fitness and not skills during the break from international cricket. After the series against Pakistan in August, the Sri Lankan players had a long break […]

Universal Studios has announced the official title for the seventh part of the Fast & Furious franchise as Furious 7. The studio announced the news on film’s Facebook page. The trailer of the film will be released on the 1st of November live from Universal Studios in Los Angeles, where […]

President Rajapaksa has said that the Government has succeeded in passing on the benefits of 10 years of development and the prudent management of the economy to the people. The President declared that the Government has now embarked on a programme of paving the way for the people to lead […]

Commonwealth Secretary-General Kamalesh Sharma briefs President Rajapaksa, the Commonwealth Chair-in-office on the ongoing work and the progress of objectives agreed upon at the Commonwealth Summit in Colombo. The Commonwealth Secretary General called on the President at Temple Trees this morning. Calling it a routine “health check” of work resulting from […]

Permanent appointments have been granted to workers of the Urban Development Ministry who have completed a service period of 180 days, making a reality of the proposals of the 2015 National Budget. The President proposed in the 2015 National Budget to grant permanency to casual and temporary employees who had […]

Several UNP Parliamentarians who are accused of trespassing and assault at the defence training school of Sri Lanka Ports Authority, have been released on bail. Granting bail, the Magistrate said that such a situation would not have arisen if they had adhered to the principles that should be followed when […]

Small Scale industrialists have said that they too have received much relief from the budget. They expressed their appreciation to the President for providing this relief. The President said that a separate price category will be formulated for industries and services consuming less than 300 units of electricity, thereby reducing […]

Families who have taken lodging in Housing Schemes have expressed their gratitude to the President for proposing in the budget to repair their houses which had not been subject to proper renovation for a long period. The President said that work on one third of the 50 thousand houses for […]

The Opposition Leader of the Northern Province has claimed that the Provincial Council was deceiving the people misusing the funds given by the Government. The Opposition Leader of the Province S. Thavarasa challenged any person who claims that this allegation is false for a public debate. Mr. Thavarasa made this […]

Army Commander Lt. Gen. Daya Ratnayake has emphasized that the Government has taken the necessary initiatives through the budget to accord a value to the war heroes, who had not received hitherto. The Army Commander said that the present Government was according the highest tribute to the soldiers. They have […]

The Lanka Samasamaja Party has decided to extend its fullest support to President Rajapaksa at the future Presidential Election. Senior Minister Prof. Tissa Vitharana said that this decision was reached when the Party’s Central Committee met yesterday. The Minister said that when the Central Committee of the Lanka Samasamaja Party […]

The Wall Street Journal has promoted Sri Lanka among the Americans. The Wall Street Journal in its 24-25 October weekend edition gave a promotion spread for Sri Lanka. It encouraged visits to the South Asian nation in the Indian Ocean. The article highlighted four unique tourist experiences noting that it […]

South Africa’s football captain and goalkeeper Senzo Meyiwa has died after being shot, South African police say. The incident reportedly happened at Meyiwa’s girlfriend’s house in Vosloorus, south of Johannesburg. The 27-year-old played for Orlando Pirates and had played in South Africa’s last four Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers. On […]

The President has pointed out that this year’s budget has provided many economic benefits to the people. President Mahinda Rajapaksa said that the Government has taken steps to distribute benefits of developments among the people after eradicating terrorism. The President mentioned this during a meeting with Grama Niladhari officers at […]

Ministers say that everyone including public servants have received benefits from the budget notwithstanding the false propaganda of the opposition. Minister Susil Premajayantha said that all allowance has been added to the basic salary. The basic salary of a public servant was less than 7,500/- by 2005 and now it […]

The Government has provided benefits to all sectors through the 2015 budget. Ministers’ say that the opposition cannot criticize the budget, which has a planned and methodical process. Minster Mahinda Yapa Abeywardena said that the budget has considered all segments of the society. Therefore the opposition leader has nothing to […]

President Mahinda Rajapaksa is the only leader who recognized the sufferings of the July strikers. The United National Party which dismissed workers who demanded a 10/- rupee salary increment, has no right to speak about the budget. The President proposed to remove all pension anomalies based on the 2015 salary […]

The Ayurveda Doctors have praised the President for providing benefits to them, through the budget. The President proposed to allocate 500 million rupees to renovate Ayurveda hospitals and research. An allowance of 5,000/- rupees monthly will be given to Ayurveda doctors. A loan of 500 thousand rupees, at a concessionary […]

Tomorrow, is the second day of the debate of the 2nd reading of the budget. The debate on the second reading which commenced yesterday, will take place until next Saturday, except today. Minister Dr. Sarath Amunugama said that the budget has been prepared by considering the demands and financial allocations […]

The National Freedom Front, has expressed their fullest support to the 2015 budget.Media Spokesman of the Front Mohamad Musammil said that the opposition is following political duplicity and displaying their hypocrisy. Media Spokesman of the National Freedom Front – Mohamad Musammil pointed out, that this was a successful budget. All […]

Secretary General of the Commonwealth Kamalesh Sharma has appreciated the development programmes implemented by the Government for the people in the North. Secretary General of the Commonwealth Kamalesh Sharma who has arrived in Sri Lanka for a five day tour, left for Jaffna this morning. He held discussions with Northern […]

Water has been released to 63 thousand acres of paddy for the Maha season. The Irrigation Department said that the water capacity of Kala Wewa increased due to the torrential rains recently. The Department said that all sluice gates of the left bank of the old Yodha Ela and South […]

Maria Sharapova went out of the WTA Finals and missed her chance to end the year as world number one despite a win over Agnieszka Radwanska in Singapore. The Russian could have kept alive her hopes with a straight-sets win in her final group match, but missed three match points […]

Luis Suarez, whose four-month ban for biting Giorgio Chiellini ends today, may well go straight back into Luis Enrique’s starting XI at the expense of Pedro. Javier Mascherano is likely to keep his position in midfield where he has been so impressive this season though, with Sergio Busquets available again. […]

Russian fashion designer Oleg Biryukov represented his new Spring/Autumn 2015 collection at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Russia in Moscow. He said that wanted the collection to be light and some kind of unfinished, so the skirts that are curved give the feeling of incompleteness. “Biryukov” design studio was established almost 20 […]

President Rajapaksa maintains that the Government will oppose outside intervention and pressure on the Sri Lankan issue. In his opening remarks while presenting the budget for 2015, President Rajapaksa insisted that the war was against terrorism and not against any particular community. The President emphasized that all those displaced by […]

Canada is mulling over enacting anti-terrorism laws, following the recent terror attacks. With the advent of terrorism in Canada, the Stephen Harper administration plans to bring anti-terrorism laws before its parliament. The Canadian Government is planning to enact anti-terrorism laws similar to that of Sri Lanka’s Prevention of Terrorism Act. […]

Shah Rukh Khan’s 2014 Diwali offering Happy New Year releases today. Directed by Farah Khan, the film features a stellar cast of Shah Rukh Khan, Deepika Padukone, Abhishek Bachchan, Boman Irani, Sonu Sood and Vivaan Shah. The film also stars actor Jackie Shroff in a negative role. The film follows […]

A doctor who treated Michael Schumacher for nearly six months after his brain injury in a skiing accident says the F1 champion has made “some progress”. But Jean-Francois Payen, a doctor at the French hospital in Grenoble where he was treated, warned that any recovery would take time. The typical […]

A doctor who treated Michael Schumacher for nearly six months after his brain injury in a skiing accident says the F1 champion has made “some progress”. But Jean-Francois Payen, a doctor at the French hospital in Grenoble where he was treated, warned that any recovery would take time. The typical […]

President Rajapaksa has condemned yesterday’s shooting incident in Canada and said everyone should unite to fight this menace. The President expressed concern over the escalating terrorism in the world, following yesterday’s shooting in Canada’s Parliament. President Rajapaksa said he was disturbed over the increasing number of terrorist attacks taking place […]

The people’s friendly Budget which will inject strength to the country’s continued forward journey and pave the way for an active journey will be presented to Parliament tomorrow. This is Sri Lanka’s 69th Budget and also the 10th Budget to be presented by the United People’s Freedom Alliance Government. President […]

The President calls on the Bishop of Galle, Raymond Wickremasinghe. The President who was in Galle to participate in several programmes seized the opportunity to pay a courtesy call on Bishop of Galle, Raymond Wickremasinghe. The President who had a cordial discussion with the Bishop apprised him of some of […]

The Central Bank Governor Ajith Nivard Cabral has revealed that a people’s friendly Budget granting more benefits to the people will be presented while at the same time strengthening the journey of steering the country towards development. The Central Bank Chief said that special attention will be diverted in this […]

The Ministry of External Affairs has emphasized that all necessary measures had been taken against the annulment by the European Court of Justice’s EU regulations proscribing the LTTE. In a special statement the Ministry pointed out that there is no truth in the accusations made by certain parties that the […]

It has been emphasized that there is no room for the LTTE within Sri Lanka although the sanctions imposed on the LTTE in the European Union have been lifted. Also the programme adhered to in the country against terrorism will remain as it is for its safety. These references have […]

The first sessions of the Sixth Uva Provincial Council begin. The Sessions commenced under the patronage of Provincial Governor Nanda Mathew. Governor Nanda Mathew, Chief Mionister Shashindra Rajapaksa and Chairman A.M. Buddhadasa entered the Provincial Council auditorium after the arrival of the Ministers and members of the Council. The National […]

External Affairs Minister Prof. G.L. Peiris has accused that some within the United Nations are politicized and are working against certain countries. He asserted that such partisan policies could not be endorsed. The External Affairs Minister was addressing a function held at Bishops College Colombo. It was organized to mark […]

Compensation has been awarded to expatriates who had died while serving abroad in addition to the presentation of salary arrears. The handing over of compensation on behalf of 31 persons who had been serving abroad after being registered with the Foreign Employment Bureau took place and the Foreign Affairs Ministry. […]

This year’s G.C.E. Ordinary Level Examination is scheduled to commence on the 09th of December. Examinations Commissioner General W.M.N.J. Pushpakumara said that the Examination will continue until the 18th of December. The Examinations Chief said that all arrangements have been finalized for the conduct of this Examination. He said that […]

A rapid growth has been achieved in the revenue earned by the Northern Railway track. General Manager Railways Vijaya Amaratunge claims that the Northern railway line will become the track that would make the highest contribution to development. The Railways General Manager said that the operation of the train up […]

The CWE has embarked on a programme of purchasing big onions by visiting the cultivators. The aim of this programme is to ensure a guaranteed price to the farmers. The Government has already taken the necessary measures to grant facilities to the cultivators of marketing their produce sans any issue, […]

100 thousand acres are to be cultivate with maize during the Maha Season in the Anuradhapura District. A conducive weather situation prevails in the Anuradhapura District to commence cultivation in the Anuradhapura District. The farmers encountered immense hardships due to the severe drought experienced in the District in the past. […]

Sri Lanka on Wednesday named their 15-member squad for the five-match ODI series against India next month, with notable omissions being former T20 captain Dinesh Chandimal and Lahiru Thirimanne. The five ODIs will be played at Cuttack, Hyderabad, Ranchi, Kolkata and Ahmedabad between November 2 to 14. Sri Lankan team […]

Simona Halep handed an out-of-sorts Serena Williams the joint heaviest defeat of her long and illustrious career as the Romanian beat the world number one 6-0, 6-2 at the WTA Finals. As well as Halep played in moving her opponent around Singapore’s purple Indoor hardcourt, the 33-year-old American only had […]

Drinking recycled urine may be the stuff of Dune novels, and a drastic response to California’s ongoing drought. But officials in Santa Clara County in the heart of Silicon Valley are hoping its new high-tech purification plant will help residents get past the ick factor and eventually allow treated wastewater […]

Hindus commemorate Deepavali today. It is a very important Festival for the Hindus. Diwali also known as Deepavali and the “festival of lights”, is an ancient Hindu Festival celebrated in autumn every year. The festival spiritually signifies the victory of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, good over evil, and […]

The Hindu clergy showers blessings on the President marking the Deepavali Festival. Many members of the Hindu clergy showered their blessings on President Rajapaksa in view of today’s Deepavali Festival. The ceremony was held at Temple Trees. The Hindu clergy representing the Colombo District joined in this occasion. They showered […]

The 2015 Budget will be presented in Parliament on Friday the 24th. President Rajapaksa as Minister of Finance will be presenting the Budget to Parliament. The final touches to the Budget are now being given. The President was accomplishing this task at the President’s House this morning. Finance Secretary Dr. […]

It’s only two more days for the 2015 Budget which will pave the way for the country’s journey to become the “Wonder of Asia” while meeting the aspirations of the people. Sri Lanka has now embarked on a mega development drive and the progress achieved in every sphere is significant. […]

The Sri Lanka Freedom Employees Union of the Ports Authority has emphasized that the UNP Parliamentary group forcibly entered their work site breaking open the gates. They also behaved in a clamorous manner. A tense situation prevailed at the worksite of the Sri Lanka Freedom Employees Union of the Ports […]

US Trade Representative for South and Central Asia Michael Delaney has said that Sri Lankan export goods are of high quality. He revealed that there is a high demand for Sri Lankan apparels in the United States. Michael Delaney made these references during a discussion with Minister Basil Rajapaksa. The […]

The Education Ministry has called upon parents go give information on Principals and teachers who accept bribes for admission of students to Grade One. The Education Ministry said that it has unveiled a new programme to prevent irregularities that may occur in the admission of children to Grade One. The […]

All arrangements are in place for the issue of the gazette notification on the new Principals and Teachers Service Minutes. The new Service Minutes has been formulated with the aim of addressing issues with respect to principals and teachers. It has already received the nod of the Cabinet and the […]

The Minister of External Affairs claims that the United Nations is today going against its policies. Minister Prof. G.L. Peiris made this claim participating in a ceremony in Colombo to mark the 69th United Nations Day. The United Nations was launched with the aim of preventing bitter experiences encountered by […]

Iran has assured its continued support to enhance the local energy sector. Iranian Deputy Energy Minister Ismail Moshovul has arrived in the island to monitor the work on the Uma Oya Scheme which is being launched with assistance from the Iranian Government. He met Minister Pavithra Wanniarachchi for discussions. Mr. […]

The 55th Congress of leaders of Asian Productivity Organizations is now in progress in Colombo. The 55th sessions of the Annual Congress of the Chief of Asia Productivity Organization opened under the patronage of Senior Minister Dr. Sarath Amunugama. It is being attended by many local as well as foreign […]

Gamini Dissanayake, a senior politician, has been commemorated. Gamini Dissanayake became a Member of Parliament from the Nuwara Eliya District. He was first elected to Parliament in the year 1970. He held several Ministerial portfolios in the 1977 United National Party Government and was the pioneer of the Accelerated Mahaweli […]

Oscar Pistorius won’t be allowed to run in the Paralympics for the whole of his five-year jail term, even if he is released early under house arrest. International Paralympic Committee spokesman Craig Spence says even if he is released early, Pistorius won’t be able to compete for five years. Pistorius, […]

The Global Health Group has described the efforts made by Sri Lanka to wipe out Malaria as a spectacular achievement. The Global Health Group said that Sri Lanka has remained free of malaria for two years. This is described as a significant achievement of the island nation. During a recent […]

Its only three days more for the 2015 budget which will meet the aspirations of the people with a future vision in massive development. This is a brief analysis of the journey in which many initiatives have been successfully completed honouring the pledges made. Many development projects including massive infrastructure […]

UK seafood importers have slammed the European Union’s decision to slap a ban on Sri Lanka’s fish imports which will go into effect from January 2015. Seafood industry website Undercurrent News reported that UK seafood processors – Icelandic Seachill, Direct Seafoods and New England Seafood – have expressed disappointment over […]

Opposition Leader Ranil Wickremasinghe leaves for Singapore while terrorist loyalists are finalizing arrangements for the Malaysian Conference of the LTTE Diaspora. It is reported that the LTTE Diaspora is organizing a special conference targeting the Presidential elections which is planned to be held in Sri Lanka in the future. Informed […]

Sri Lanka and India have discussed enhancing military ties. Defence and Urban Development Secretary Gotabhaya Rajapaksa discussed the enhancement of military ties when he called on India’s Defence Minister, Arun Jaitley, in New Delhi. They also discussed a number of other issues. A Times of India report said India plans […]

The agreement with respect to the Third Stage of the Outer Circular Project has been signed. The inking of the agreement for the construction of the third stage of the Outer Circular Road from Kerawalapitiya to Kadawatha took place in Colombo yesterday. Secretary to the Ministry of Highways R.W.R. Premasiri […]

The New Secretary to the Ministry of Law and Order has pledged to further enhance the standard of the Police Service. He gave this assurance assuming duties in his new position. Dr. Mahinda Balasuriya assumed duties as the New Secretary to the Ministry of Law and Order today. He had […]

The main Ampara District United People’s Freedom Alliance office has been opened with the participation of a large gathering of party activists. The main Operations Offices of the United People’s Freedom Alliance on behalf of the forthcoming election are now being established at the District level. Accordingly the Ampara District […]

Hindu devotees are preparing to commemorate Deepavali tomorrow. Tamil civilians countrywide now have the opportunity of holding their religious festivals sans any obstructions following the peace that is reigning in the country with the elimination of terrorism. The Government took the initiative of building houses with all facilities for the […]

The considerable task accomplished by Private Security Firms for the country’s speedy development programme and the nation-building effort has been emphasized. This emphasis was laid by Additional Secretary to the Ministry of Defence and Urban Development Damayanthi Jayaratne at the first Chief Executive Officers Forum of Private Security Companies in […]

South African athlete Oscar Pistorius has been given five years in jail for killing his girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp. Judge Thokozile Masipa also gave Pistorius a three-year suspended sentence for a firearms charge. The parents of Reeva Steenkamp told the BBC they were happy with the sentence and relieved the case […]

Fashion designer Ji Cheng showed her new collection in her home town as part of Shanghai Fashion Week. The ongoing 8 day event is showing more than fifty Spring-Summer 2015 collections, with local designers representing more than half of the shows, an increase over previous years. Ji Cheng was inspired […]

Daley Blind’s late second half strike helped a lacklustre Manchester United salvage a 2-2 draw against West Bromwich Albion at The Hawthorns in the Premier League. United, who have now gone six games without an away win in the Premier League, their worst run for 18 years, looked sloppy in […]

Former Australian World Cup winning captains Allan Border, Steve Waugh and Ricky Ponting are of the opinion that leading India in all three formats of the game is troubling Mahendra Singh Dhoni, especially in Tests, and Virat Kohli should be groomed to take over the Test captaincy. According to Ricky […]

The Sixth Stage of the Divi Neguma National Drive which will pave the way to lead the country to prosperity, begins under the patronage of President Rajapaksa. The Divi Neguma national programme mooted according to the Mahinda Chinthana Policy of building a prosperous country is successfully progressing throughout the country. […]

The main ceremony with respect to the launch of the Divi Neguma Sixth Stage in the Gampaha District was held under the patronage of Minister Basil Rajapaksa. The launch of the programme was organized at the residence of Heenatiyana Balachandra Gunaratne in Katana with the participation of Minister Basil Rajapaksa. […]

Minister Susil Premajayantha has accused the United National Party of establishing a Tamil Diaspora through the Black July incident. Addressing a news conference at the Sri Lanka Freedom Party Head Office in Colombo today, the Minister said that it is also the United National Party that is inducing Tamil separatism. […]

The annulment of the sanctions imposed by the European Union on the LTTE is a grave danger to Sri Lanka. This has been emphasized by the Sri Lanka Freedom Party. The European Union has lifted the LTTE ban based on a judicial ruling on a direct contribution by Britain. Issuing […]

International Terrorism Expert Prof. Rohan Gunaratne has revealed that the LTTE is engaged in an effort at the international level to revive, making optimum use of the legal loopholes abroad. Terrorist loyalists in Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom and India, are endeavouring to file a series of lawsuits […]

A countrywide programme will be launched to collect signatures to protest against the decision to lift sanctions imposed on the LTTE within the European Union. Minister C.B. Ratnayake said that their aim is to express the protest of the entire nation to this ruling. The Minister said that their desire […]

Bangladesh has progressed much going by different social and health indicators among the SAARC member states, but Sri Lanka despite its long civil strife remains the star performer in more ways than one. This has been revealed at the SAARC Development Goals progress report. Bangladesh launched it yesterday ahead of […]

The Galle District operation for the victory of the President at the Presidential election gets underway. The Galle District Operations Committee to consolidate the victory of President Rajapaksa at the Presidential election has been launched. The event was held under the patronage of Minister Susil Premajayantha. Deputy Speaker Chjandima Weerakkody, […]

Without some miraculous breakthrough in propulsion technology the future of space travel is going to be a lot like a family holiday driving to France. People are going to have to endure long journeys in cramped conditions with people they slowly come to despise. Well, okay, so astronauts aren’t likely […]

A bridegroom and bride appearing together prior to participating in the wedding celebrations has now become a vogue. Published below is a collection of such photos taken at Marina Bay Sands of a Sri Lankan couple who travelled to Singapore.



Marina Bay is a famous casino hotel comprising of 3 tall buildings combined together with a swimming pool erected on top with a boat-shaped construction.


Pix By -Indika Mallawarachchi / Dress By -Champi Siriwardane /Groom outfit - Abisaka Mandapaya

Jayalalitha Jeyaram granted bail



The Indian Supreme Court granted bail to former Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, Jayalalitha Jeyaram.



The Karnataka Supreme Court rejected the bail application made in two instances after Jayalalitha was sentenced to a 4 year jail term under allegations of corruption 21 prior to this.



After her lawyers filed action challenging that verdict to the Indian Supreme Court, subsequent to considering the petition filed by her lawyers she has been allowed bail.



Whatever it is, though she has not been freed from guilt in this case, according to the law of that country if she is still found guilty of this accusation and finds freedom, she would still have to wait for a period of 10 years is she is to enter Politics once more.



The number of individuals who died during the 3 weeks' period when she was imprisoned until Jayalalitha was granted bail totalled close upon 150.

10,500 sarees

750 pairs of footwear

28 kilogrammes of gold

Several vehicles, houses, farmyards, tea plantations .... Jayalalitha's assets!





The strongest political leader Jayalalitha Jayaram who came into power for the third time in the Tamil Nadu Province not being able to prove accumulation of her assets of 66 crores was subjected to a four-year jail sentence. Among the assets are farmyards, houses, petrol sheds, tea

plantations, gold jewellery as well as over thousands of sarees, a large number of footwear and valuable wrist-watches.



The point that raised suspicion in this respect is the fact that she had acquired a sum of Indian Rs. 3 crores at the time she accepted the position of Chief Minister for the first time in 1991 while it is incredible to understand how she earned a sum of over 61 crores after 5 years.



Hr enormous assets which she had amassed through corruption has been documented after a special investigation conducted by the courts. That list is as follows:



* Silver -- 800 kilogrammes

* Gold -- 28 kilogrammes

* Pairs of shoes -- 750

* Sarees -- 10,500

* Valuable watches -- 91

* The farmyard in Chennai and several houses

* An agricultural cultivation land in Tamil Nadu

* A farmyard in Hyderabad

* A tea plantation in Nilgiri

* A network of filling-stations

* Super-luxury vehicles

* Large cash investments and bank deposits



It was her Opposition political counterpart Subramaniam Swami who had made allegations to the Bribery Commission in that country in 1997 about Jayalalitha's financial funds. Political influence has been the cause for this legal case to be dragged on for 17 years while much effort had been taken to suppress the case as her powers of Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu.



It was in this manner that the case was transferred away from the province to the Bangalore courts of Karnataka Province. By that time, the case was being heard without a verdict for a period of 6 years.



Subsequently however, apparently a number of judges had changed in the process and when the final verdict was given yesterday (27), it was a case that had been heard for a period of 17 years. This corrupted political leader who should have been expelled in 1997 itself .... it was a special feature to note had assumed power twice after that.



What Jayalalitha's lawyer said was that though an Appeal would be forwarded against the judgement of her 4 year jail sentence, it was somewhat doubtful. According to Indian Law she is not permitted to come into Politics after being released after 4 years even after that freedom .... she still has to wait another 6 years after that too.

Five from same family in Sangha Sasana



News is received of 5 monks resident in one and the same temple. They all belong to one and the same family too and all are from Akuressa area.



These 5 monks who lived in Wilpita Managoda area in Akuressa during the period of their lay life had entered the Sasana a few years before this. These monks who reside in Gangarama Vihara in Akuressa are, Wilpita Piyasiri (20), Wilpita Sumedha (18), Wilpita Narada (17), Wilpita Indrasiri (15) and Wilpita Sarada (14).



There has been another two children in this family and in all are seven while the 2 elder children have not entered the Sasana. Walpiti Managoda Piyavansha couple have bestowed their offspring to the Sangha Sasana this way.

Reginald Uncle who husks coconuts .... with his mouth!



News is received from Athureliya of a person who husked coconuts in a strange way. On the occasion when a festival was organised in Athureliya area on behalf of World Elders' Day, the

aged 67 year old Reginald Abeywickrema husked coconuts with the aid of the teeth of his mouth. See the video BELOW

Solution for Facebook image-loading issue



What has become a terrible headache for most Facebook users in Sri Lanka these days is the problem that some images over the website are displayed either partially or are not seen at all. On an inquiry made by us about this problem it was reported that it was an inconvenience faced only by Sri Lanka Telecom customers using the internet and that because of a certain technical

change, the data on the server containing images of Facebook are not properly grasped and is thus displayed in this manner.



Though this situation could be rectified in the next few days, it is with pleasure that you are informed hereby of finding a solution to this issue by effecting a minor change in the computers of those who still face this inconvenience.



For this purpose, what could be done is only to change your internet settings to Google DNS settings. There would be no attendant negative results in doing so while you who sometimes browse the internet could do so with a better speed than before. The Google DNS values are 8,8,8,8 and 8,8,4,4. If you are a Windows 7 user, how that change could be carried out could be seen from the undermentioned video



----------------------------------------



If you are a Windows XP user, how the change could be effected, could be seen from the video below

Kaluwitharana suffers from heart attack



Mr. Rumesh Kaluwitharana, former outstanding cricketer and present Coach of Sri Lankan 'A' team was admitted to Hambantota Hospital as a result of a heart attack.

Subsequently, for further treatment he was airlifted to Colombo today.



This has occured when he was with the 4 day match when he was involved with the West Indies team 4 day match while in a hotel in Hambantota.



The Sri Lankan Cricket also confirmed he being admitted to the hospital.

The President says that the aim of world powers is to destroy countries which build on nationalism and to install puppet rulers who create slave societies. President Mahinda Rajapaksa joining a meeting with agriculture officials at the Temple Trees said that the world powers wanted to destroy the countries which […]

Defence and Urban Development Ministry Secretary Gotabhaya Rajapaksa says that a weekend newspaper report which has said the Pope’s tour of Sri Lanka is uncertain, is totally false. Mr. Gotabhaya Rajapaksa told ITN that the Pope’s arrival in Sri Lanka is confirmed and there is no uncertainty about the visit. […]

The Government plans to open new garment factories to provide thousands of jobs to the youth in the North. Selecting of lands in this regard has been completed. Five garment factories will be set up initially at Vavuniya, Mullaithivu and Mannar Districts. 75 acres have been selected and allocated for […]

Japan has given an ocean dredging craft to Sri Lanka adding strength to the fisheries sector. The Japanese grant of the craft was handed over to Minister Rajitha Senaratne at the Dickowita Fisheries Harbour. It had become difficult for port operations due to sand at the fisheries port. It would […]

Plantation Industries Minister Mahinda Samarasinghe says that Sri Lanka is second only to Kenya in Tea exports. Minister Mahinda Samarasinghe mentioned this while addressing the 23rd Annual General Meeting of Sri Lanka Tea Factory Owners Association. He said that Sri Lanka is at the forefront of exporting tea to China. […]

The National Transport Commission says that 43 new bus permits will be issued with the aim of improving passenger bus services on the Southern Highway. The National Transport Commission says that 43 new permits for super luxury bus services will be issued from tomorrow. It said that 28 permits will […]

Distribution of seeds for farmers in connection with the 6th phase of Divineguma, has commenced. The 6th phase of Divineguma will commence tomorrow. The distribution of seeds is taking place, covering all Grama Niladhari Divisions in the island. It has been implemented targeting Divineguma member families and Samurdhi recipients. The […]

Transportation of fuel to North by trains will be launched soon. The Railway Department has decided to commence transportation of fuel by trains, to North, including Jaffna Peninsula. Fuel will be transported from Kolonnawa depot of the Petroleum Corporation by train, to Jaffna. It is possible to transport 500 thousand […]

The Government has taken steps to provide relief for the people affected by bad weather condition. People in several districts have been affected due to floods following heavy showers during past few days. Relief is provided for displaced families in Galle, Matara and Puttalam districts. Cooked food is provided through […]

The youth protecting the country, “Nilbalakaya”, has been further strengthened by the power of youth. A large number of youth are attending the meetings of “Nilbalakaya” which are being held at regional level, with the aim of empowering Sri Lanka Freedom Party youth associations. Parliamentarian Namal Rajapaksa presided over the […]

Anura Senanayake’s Musical Show “Maage Kirilli” has been held under the patronage of the President. Senior DIG Anura Senanayake has sung several popular songs including “Maage Kirilli Soya Yanne Ma”. The launching of CD, “Maage Kirilli” and the music show took place at Nelum Pokuna, Mahinda Rajapaksa Theater. The CD […]

The President says that certain people have not given up their schemes to divide the country although the people now live in a unitary state. The Government has been able to create a unitary country by defeating three decades of terrorism. However President Mahinda Rajapaksa pointed out that certain people […]

The President has vested in the public the Blumendhol Siri-Sanda Sevana Housing Complex making it a part of the accelerated programme to create a Sri Lanka without slums as mentioned in the Mahinda Chinthana Forward Policy. The Blumendhol Sirisanda Sevana Housing Complex built in Colombo under the programme to provide […]

TULF Leader Ananda Sangare has charged that the European Courts judgment to lift sanctions on the LTTE is a security threat to the entire world. Tamil United Liberation Front Leader V. Ananda Sangare mentioned this while giving a special statement to the ITN. He said that the Tamil people underwent […]

All measures are in place to launch the 6th phase of the Divineguma programme which aims to build a prosperous country. The 6th phase of the programme will be launched on Monday morning under the patronage of President Mahinda Rajapaksa. The first phase of the programme was launched in 2011 […]

A meeting has taken place between Minister Keheliya Rambukwella and the Russian Telecommunication and Media Deputy Minister. The meeting took place between Minister Keheliya Rambukwella and Deputy Minister Alex K. Wollin in Colombo. They held discussions on number of issues important to both countries. Minister Rambukwella said that attention was […]

South Korea has pledged its un-conditional support against the division of Sri Lanka. South Korea’s Ambassador in Sri Lanka Chang Won Sam mentioned this when he met Minister Wimal Weerawansa. He said that his country which has repulsive experiences in separatism would un-conditionally stand with Sri Lanka internationally against the […]

A Ministerial Sub Committee will be appointed to regulate all programmes and projects designed to create co-existence between communities. The Ministerial Sub Committee headed by President Mahinda Rajapaksa, is expected to study all projects on reconciliation and co-existence. A Committee consisting of Ministry Secretaries headed by President’s Secretary Lalith Weeratunga […]

The violent behavior of certain students under the instigation of the Janatha Wimukthi Peramuna and the Front Line Party delayed the setting up of the management faculty of the Peradeniya University. During a press briefing at the University Grants Commission yesterday Minister S.B. Dissanayake said that the relevant Gazette notification […]

The renovated Crows Island housing complex in Mattakuliya has been handed over to the public. The housing complex which was renovated was vested in the public by Minister Wimal Weerawansa. The 353 unit housing complex has been renovated at a cost of 70 million rupees. The Community Hall, Sports Ground […]

Andy Murray moved a step closer to qualify for the World Tour Finals in London by defeating Germany’s Jan-Lennard Struff at the Vienna Open. The 27-year-old Briton continued his pursuit of ranking points with a 6-2 7-5 win to set up a semi-final with Serbian Viktor Troicki on Saturday. Murray, […]

Ouija is an upcoming American supernatural horror film directed by Stiles White and co-written with Juliet Snowden. The film stars Daren Kagasoff, Douglas Smith, Olivia Cooke, and Vivis Colombetti. It shows a group of friends attempting to make contact with a recently deceased classmate through an Ouija board which awakens […]

The Jathika Nidahas Peramuna has pledged full support to the President at the future Presidential poll. The Jathika Nidahas Peramuna has emphasized that it would be dedicated to the victory of President Rajapaksa at the future Presidential election. This declaration was made by the leader of the Party Minister Wimal […]

The 60th Anniversary of Mahanama College Colombo and its Annual Prize giving has been held under the patronage of the President. The students accorded a very warm welcome to President Rajapaksa on his arrival at Mahanama College to participate in its 60 Anniversary celebrations and the Annual Prize Giving. Thereafter […]

Tiger loyalists in the world are upbeat about the decision taken by European Union judges to lift anti-terrorism sanctions imposed on the LTTE. But people worldwide are on alert. LTTE loyalists have said that they consider the ruling given by the European Union judges yesterday as a significant victory in […]

President’s Counsel Ali Sabri has emphasized that as a country they should understand the conspiratorial forces that were behind the lifting of sanctions slapped on the LTTE by the European Union. He expressed this view joining in the “Ethulanthaya” programme telecast by ITN last night. The LTTE has already announced […]

Minister Basil Rajapaksa has said that the Divi Neguma national programme has helped women to strengthen the domestic economy safeguarding the family. He said their aim is to launch this programme continuously. The Minister was speaking at the opening of the Pasyala Mahima Anthuriam Sales outlet and the Service Centre. […]

The Central Bank is holding policy interest rates at 6.5 and 8.0 percent. It says there is further room for banks to reduce lending rates, as inflation continued to be slow. According to the Bank’s October monetary policy review, in nominal terms, most market interest rates are at historic lows, […]

An immediate programme is being planned to examine rocks of archaeological value located in various parts of the country. Finance Secretary Dr. P.B. Jayasundera has instructed the Department of Archaeology to begin this progrmame by next year. The Department of Archaeology is receiving a number of requests daily on the […]

According to Forbes magazine, late King of Pop Michael Jackson has been named the world’s top earning dead celebrity of 2014 with his estate minting $140 million. MJ’s estate is said to have made almost three times as much as perennial list topper Presley, who made $55 million over the […]

In a perfect world, cigarette waste simply wouldn’t exist. Given that it does, though, scientists have explored a number of methods of repurposing it – these have included using compounds from cigarette butts to store energy, make shipping pallets, and rust-proof steel. Now, researchers have shown that cigarette ash can […]

An Indian athlete has described how she was tied up and severely beaten after being branded a witch in her village in the north-eastern state of Assam. Debjani Bora, a javelin thrower who has won several gold medals, fears her injuries may prevent her representing India in a forthcoming Asian […]

Pakistan will be able to call on veteran all-rounder Mohammad Hafeez for the upcoming Test series against Australia in the UAE, as he has recovered from his hand injury. Hafeez split the webbing between two of his fingers before the limited-overs portion of the encounter, and thus missed the T20 […]

The Ceylon Workers Congress has assured unconditional support to the President and the United People’s Freedom Alliance at future elections. This assurance was given by Ceylon Workers Congress leader and Minister Arumugam Thondaman when he met President Rajapaksa. The meeting took place at Temple Trees this morning. Minister Thondaman was […]

New Ministers of the Uva Provincial Council have taken oaths before President Rajapaksa. The swearing-in of the new Ministers of the Uva Provincial Council took place before President Rajapaksa at the Presidential Secretariat this morning. Chief Minister Shashindra Rajapaksa took oaths as Minister of Finance and Planning, Law and Order, […]

US Trade Representative for South and Central Asia Michael Delaney has said that Sri Lanka which had ended terrorism is the best country for investment and the island nation should be viewed in a new angle. Michael Delaney made these references at the 11th Joint Council meeting held under the […]

The Colombo Bloemendhal “Sirisanda Sevana” New Housing Scheme will be vested in the public tomorrow making a reality the programme of moulding a country devoid of slums. A significant programme is in place to build a Sri Lanka sans slum dwellings within the next two years through the Mahinda Chinthana […]

Marking another milestone in the Expressway network, plans are afoot for the launch of work on the Northern Expressway Project within the next two months. It is intended to implement the Northern Expressway Project in eight stages. Project Minister Nirmala Kotalawala said that work on two stages is being planned […]

The Indian Express says that after the successful culmination of the war fought over three decades with the LTTE, Sri Lanka has started enjoying peace and normalcy. The paper said this is reflected in almost every aspect of individual and collective life throughout the country. The relationship of the central […]

Vehicle exporters in Japan and Thailand are planning to transship vehicles from the Hambantota Magampura Mahinda Rajapaksa International Harbour. Representatives of the Jumuweya Association of Japan and the AUCI Association of Thailand visited the Magampura Harbour in Hambantota recently. They were greeted by Project Minister Rohitha Abeygunadardena. They observed the […]

20,000 milch cows are being provided to dairy farmers to make Sri Lanka self-sufficient in milk. The agreement to import cows from Australia was signed by Secretary to the Ministry of Economic Development Dr. Nihal Jayatilake and the Trade Director of the Australia Institute Scott Beretvet. Minister Basil Rajapaksa and […]

Barcelona forward Luis Suarez is looking forward to ending his FIFA ban and says he will be fit to face Real Madrid if selected later this month. “There’s not long to go, and my eagerness to play is always there,” Suarez said Wednesday as he picked up a Golden Boot […]

An official joint trade and investment agreement has been signed further expanding trade ties between Sri Lanka and the United States. The inking of the Sri Lanka US official joint trade and investment agreement took place in Colombo. Minister Risath Bathiyuideen inked the agreement on behalf of Sri Lanka while […]

Pakistan’s National Assembly Speaker Ayaz Sadiq has said that the government and people of Pakistan greatly value its relations with Sri Lanka in the regional and bilateral context. The Daily Times in Pakistan reported that Ayaz Sadiq had also said Pakistan and Sri Lanka are historically bonded in a relationship […]

A special discussion is slated for tomorrow to thrash out issues within the fisheries sector. The meeting will be attended by European Union representatives and representatives of the Fisheries Department. The discussion will draw special attention to the allegations made by the European Union against the Sri Lankan fishermen that […]

The salary issue of the Sri Lanka Transport Board workers will be solved within the next three months. The SLTB has now become a viable venture and as such its Vice Chairman A.L. Wimalaratne said that it would lead to sorting out the issues they confront Mr. Wimalaratne said that […]

Minister Basil Rajapaksa has said that rural organizations will not be debilitated. These organizations will be frequently granted the requisite funds and guidance. The Minister was speaking at a get together of officials of rural organizations organized at the “Ape Gama” premises in Battaramulla. The Minister emphasized that the Government […]

Minister Wimal Weerawansa has said that it was only the President who succeeded in surmounting all challenges which no one could do. The Minister said that no investors came to Sri Lanka in the past while the economy was at a standstill. It was during such a situation that the […]

Sri Lanka has entered into an agreement with China to cooperate closely to face serious cyber threats and to share information on such threats in the future, in a move to boost cyber security. The Memorandum of Understanding was signed at the Information and Communication Technology Agency of Sri Lanka. […]

Chief Health Officer of the Colombo Municipal Council Ruwan Wijemuni has said that action is being taken to issue special identity cards to employees of food production and sales outlets within the Colombo City. He said that these identity cards will be given to them after a special training to […]

The National Secretariat on Voluntary Service has been established. The voluntary service in Sri Lanka has a very long history. The establishment of the National Secretariat on Voluntary Services took place under the patronage of First Lady Shiranthi Wickremasinghe Rajapaksa, with the intention of further strengthening these activities. The Secretariat […]

Akshar Patel, the Gujarat and Kings XI Punjab left-arm spinner, has been added as the 15th member to an otherwise unchanged India squad for the remaining two ODIs against West Indies. Akshar, along with Manish Pandey, has also been included in the 14-man squad for the only T20 international that […]

Shahid Afridi has said that Misbah-ul-Haq was the “best choice as Pakistan captain” for the upcoming World Cup. His comments in support of Misbah’s captaincy came through a PCB media release after Shaharyar Khan, the PCB chief, had expressed disappointment with Afridi’s remarks in a post-match conference after the third […]

Pakistan are hopeful Saeed Ajmal will pass a bowling test in time to play in the World Cup, starting in February. The off-spinner was reported for a suspect action during the first Test with Sri Lanka in August, and banned from bowling the following month. Ajmal, 37, has been working […]

Shades of white and sparks of light glittered on the catwalk at Tokyo Fashion Week, yesterday with Japanese designer Ritsuko Shirahama’s spring-summer collection.Her’s is one of over 40 brands slated to saunter down the runway as the week unfolds. The collection showcases 37 outfits – ranging from white and metallic […]

A sensor giving doctors real time information about what’s happening in the brains of their most severely injured patients has being developed by British scientists. The brain sensor is still at the stage of being a prototype, but doctors say it’s already been used on patients who’ve suffered serious traumas. […]

The services provided to the people of the North are being further streamlined. The President vests the new Delft Divisional Secretariat in the public. The Divisional Secretariat that existed was no longer sufficient to expeditiously meet all the needs of the people of Delft Island. The group that served within […]

President Rajapaksa has emphasized that he is prepared to abolish the Executive Presidential system if terrorism and the Eelam dream are given up. The President said there were calls for a change in the Presidential system in the South, in the North as well as among the Tamil Diaspora. But […]

President Rajapaksa has stressed that the Kannangara Education Policy is being implemented with more dedication during this era than in any other period in history. The President laid this emphasis participating in the 130th C.W.W. Kannangara commemoration organized in Kankesanthurai. The President who arrived at the Nelli-adi Maha Vidyalaya in […]

The President engages in religious observances at the Nagadeepa Purana Raja Maha Vihare in Jaffna. President Rajapaksa who is in Jaffna to vest many development projects in the people engaged in religious observances at the Nagadeepa Purana Raja Maha Vihare. The President called on the Chief Incumbent of the Vihare […]

India says the reconstruction of the destroyed Northern Railway line in Sri Lanka with its assistance represents a milestone in the historic partnership between India and Sri Lanka. The Indian High Commission in Colombo said the completion of the rail line would also enhance connectivity between the two countries. President […]

All arrangements are in place to embark on the Sixth Stage of Divi Neguma. The Economic Development Ministry said that the launch of this stage is slated to take place next Monday. The Divi Neguma national programme is currently operative with the intention of building a prosperous country. The President […]

Sri Lanka has the least number of hungry people in South Asia. According to the 2014 Global Hunger Index released yesterday, the number of people in hunger has steadily declined worldwide. Sri Lanka ranked 39th this year in the Global Hunger Index, released for the ninth year jointly by International […]

Many of us drink green tea for its wonderful health benefits, including proven antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-aging and anti-cancer properties. Now, researchers in Singapore have taken its cancer-fighting properties to the next level, developing a green tea-based nanocarrier that encapsulates cancer-killing drugs. It is the first time green tea has been […]

Pix By - Dynamic AV Technologies & Vimukthi Hawajulige

How Lionel Richie sang"Hello" in Colombo



The only concert performed in Sri Lanka by renowned American singer Lionel Richie during his tour here was held on Saturday at the Trade Exhibition and Conference Hall.

This is how a member of the audience had videoed him singing one of his most popular songs "Hello"

Most famous Western singer Lionel Richie arrived in Sri Lanka last night.

He is scheduled to hold a performance on behalf of the 25th anniversary of Access Holdings and limited guests are invited for that occasion.

This concert will beheld on Saturday at Sri Lanka Exhibition and Conference Hall with the participation of 4,000 in attendance. A collection of photos of his arrival, from BELOW

The collection of a photo-shoot in which model Thilini Gunasekera, from BELOW


Pix By -Mihira Bandara Dissanayake

The marriage ceremony of Chandana of Seeduwa Sakura Music Group and Priyangi of Nugasevana, National Rupavahini who was its producer was held recently in the company of several artistes. Priyangi happens to be a sister of Itthepana Saddhatissa Thero.

Yaal Devi, the outstanding gift bequeath to the people of the North and the South through the Mahinda Chinthana reaches Jaffna further solidifying the brotherhood of the North and South. The President marked this milestone by boarding the Yaal Devi from the Palai Station and embarking on this maiden journey […]

The President who linked the North and the South with Yaal Devi, also provide 70 new buses to improve the transport services of the rural fraternity of the North. The symbolical handing over OF 70 buses to seven Depots took place under the patronage of President Rajapaksa near the Weerasingham […]

96 Mahindodaya Technical Laboratories are being established in the North to impart knowledge on Information Technology to the Northern children. The Government has taken the necessary initiatives to provide 96 Mahindodoaya Technical Laboratories for the Northern Province to arm children of the North with Information Technology and Language capabilities. President […]

New life is being injected into the lives of the Northern civilians who are awakening under “Uthuru Wasanthaya.” the Delft Island in Jaffna will receive continuous power supplies with the commissioning of the new Electricity Scheme tomorrow. A massive development drive is in place in the Northern Province with the […]

The Tamil civilian leaders have accused the Tamil National Alliance of meeting the needs of the LTTE Diaspora. It is for this reason it is boycotting mega development in the North. Arun Thambimuttu, the Sri Lanka Freedom Party Organizer of Batticaloa claims that no one endorses the initiatives of Northern […]

Local as well as foreign devotees will be given an opportunity to deposit Treasure Troves in Sandahiruseya which is being put up to commemorate the second from gained by the Sri Lankans with the liberation of the motherland from terrorism. The Pinkama for the deposit of the Sacred Relics in […]

Six pictorial warnings have been sent to the Tobacco Company for use on cigarette packs. The National Authority on Tobacco and Alcohol has given six pictorial warnings to the Tobacco Company to be used on cigarette packets. Chairman of the Authority Dr. Palitha Abeykoon said that the World Health Organization […]

The road network of the country strengthened with the introduction of a new road culture to the entire country, thereby making a massive contribution to the development that is taking place since the freedom gained by the motherland. The developing road network succeeded in regularizing civilian life in the City […]

A large gathering joined in the Sri Lanka Freedom Party Senkadagala Electoral Women’s conference held under the theme “Nil Pavuren Rata Rakinna.” The Sri Lanka Freedom Party Senkadagala Electoral Women’s convention was organized by Parliamentarian Dilum Amunugama. The meeting was held at the Pushpadana Society auditorium in Kandy. Many Party […]

The cancellation of their third ODI against the West Indies in Visakhapatnam due to cyclone ’hudhud’ has cost India a chance to regain the number one spot even as Australia grabbed the numero uno position in the ICC rankings issued on Monday. “Australia has surged to the top of the […]

​A robot snake, built for a project to uncover the secret of sidewinder rattlesnake locomotion, has learnt a few tricks from nature and can now climb up slippery sand dunes. Such robots, researchers say, can be useful in search and rescue missions. In a study published in the latest Science […]

India’s new football league kicked off Sunday with a spirited clash and a glitzy pyrotechnic opening ceremony that organisers hope will ignite the country’s passion for the “beautiful game”. Atletico de Kolkata trounced Mumbai City 3-0 in the first match of the Indian Super League (ISL), that has lured former […]

The President says that a methodical process will be implemented to further enhance the living standards of the people and to resolve their problems. President Mahinda Rajapaksa has said that the Government which is implementing proper plans to develop the country will introduce a streamlined programme to enhance the living […]

The President has said in Panduwas-Nuwara that the free education system in the country was made more meaningful and the mega development projects that are taking place are for the future generations. President Mahinda Rajapaksa vested in the students the three storied building complex and the Mahindodaya Technological Laboratory at […]

The President has vested in the public the newly constructed sports complex in the North Central Province. Under the Mahinda Chinthana Policy, constructing of sports complexes, island wide with the aim of opening doors for local and international competitions for talented rural youth, is successfully being implemented. President Mahinda Rajapaksa […]

The President has paid homage to the Jayasri Maha Bodhi in Anuradhapura. President Mahinda Rajapaksa who arrived in Anuradhapura called on the Chief Incumbent of the Atamasthana Venerable Dr. Pallegama Siri Niwasa Thera. A meeting took place at the Bo Maluwa Temple yesterday. A special Ashirwada Pooja took place near […]

Government’s policy is to strengthen the community based organizations. No one will be allowed to destroy those. A system will be introduced to absorb the workers in to the public service says Minister Basil Rajapaksa. The Minister made this comments while attending a function to brief the Rural Development Officials […]

The Yaal Devi train is ready to run up to Jaffna tomorrow, after 24 years. The ‘Colombo – Jaffna’ train service which commenced in 1905, took a new face with the introduction of the Yaal Devi train in 1956. The train which connected two unique cultures, weather patterns and two […]

It is reported that UNP Parliamentarian Mangala Samaraweera has been removed from the post of Head of Communication of the party. Mr. Mangala Samaraweera who joined the UNP after leaving the SLFP, was instrumental in establishing the communication unit, against the Government and the President. It is reported that the […]

The Navy Commander says that the President, Defence Secretary and the Government have always recognized the invaluable services rendered by the military towards the nation. Navy Commander Vice Admiral Jayantha Perera mentioned this at the commissioning and passing out parade held at the main parade ground of the Naval and […]

The mega development projects that are taking place following the eradication of terrorism, are for the future generations. The President says that he would not be shaken up by the accusations of the opposition. It is the present Government which implemented development programmes by improving infrastructure. President Mahinda Rajapaksa has […]

Many development projects and common amenities are ready to be vested in the Northern people by the President. The Government launched mega development projects after rescuing the Northern people from the grip of terrorism which lasted nearly three decades. The people in the North are already experiencing the benefits of […]

All measures are in place to vest in the students of the Northern Province, eight Mahindodaya Technological Laboratories. Mahindodaya Technological Laboratories have been built at Wattakaddi, Jaffna Hindu, Manipay, Delf, Kytes St. Anthony’s, Killinochchi, Karainagar and Waddukoddai Colleges. Northern Province Governor G.A. Chandrasiri inspected the constructions of the new laboratories. […]

The President says in Kuliyapitiya that the Government is further improving the education in the country according to a future plan. Mahindodaya Technological Laboratories built at three schools in the Kuliyapitiya Educational Zone were vested in the students under the patronage of President Mahinda Rajapaksa. He was warmly received by […]

A strong leader in the opposition and pro-LTTE diaspora have launched a conspiracy against the country. Information has been received about an attempt to create a Government friendly to the LTTE by toppling the present administration through a conspiracy against Sri Lanka in the International arena. According to information, several […]

Minister Basil Rajapaksa says that Sri Lanka’s Police Department has been praised even by the foreigners due to the quality of service. Minister Basil Rajapaksa mentioned this while taking part in the occasion to distribute 1000 motorcycles at the Police Field Force Headquarters in Colombo. Motorcycles were distributed for Police […]

The tourism industry is continuing its growth momentum. 100,000th Chinese Tourist has arrived in the island. Chinese tourists in the island has shown a remarkable progress and marking a mile stone the 100,000th Chinese Tourist arrived in the country today. He arrived at the Katunayaka Bandaranaike International Airport, this morning […]

Colombo Rotary Club has held a function to honor individuals who render services to the society apart from their vocations. Ananda Gamage who works as a Tourist Guide has been recognized for his efforts to improve the economic conditions of the rural people. He has obtained the assistance of even […]

Defender Giorgio Chiellini scored all three goals as Italy beat Azerbaijan 2-1 for a second straight win in Euro 2016 qualifying Group H. Chiellini headed in the opener from Andrea Pirlo’s cross but then deflected a Dimitrij Nazarov corner into his net. The Juventus centre-back made amends in the 82nd […]

Glenn Maxwell decimated Pakistan’s spinners by hitting 76 off 81 balls and carried Australia to a five-wicket victory in the second one-day international. Pakistan had spoiled a terrific opening century-stand between Sarfraz Ahmed and Ahmed Shehzad to get bowled out for 215. Maxwell made Pakistan pay heavily for dropping him […]

The Book of Life is an upcoming American 3D computer-animated adventure comedy film produced by Reel FX Creative Studios and distributed by 20th Century Fox. The film stars the voices of Diego Luna, Zoe Saldana, and Channing Tatum. Set in a fantastical, colorful world, The Book of Life is the […]

The President participates in religious observances at the Sri Dalada Maligawa. President Rajapaksa who arrived at the Sri Dalada Maligawa in Kandy this morning engaged in religious observances and secured blessings. The President offered flowers to the casket where the Sacred Tooth relics are placed. Members of the Maha Sangha […]

President Rajapaksa has assured that the issues in the Principal and Teacher Services will be sorted out by next January. Cabinet has granted the nod to grant promotions and increments to the entire teacher’s service. The President was speaking after vesting in the students the Mahindodaya Technical Laboratory of the […]

President Rajapaksa has asserted that the Government’s aim is to impart knowledge on Information Technology to every child. It is in this respect that the Government is providing the facilities enjoyed by urban children to the children in the villages. The vesting of the Mahindodaya Technical Laboratory constructed at the […]

The Colombo District Court has issued an enjoining Order calling on the Railway workers to immediately end their strike. Colombo District Judge Sujatha Alahapperuma who considered petitions filed by three railway commuters, gave this ruling. More than 300 railway journeys had to be cancelled during the two days of the […]