SRI LANKA’S NATIONAL NEWSPAPER I SINCE 1918

TUESDAY SEPTEMBER 28, 2021 I 24 PAGES I VOLUME - 103 - NO 230 I RS. 30.00 I REGISTERED AS A NEWSPAPER IN SRI LANKA I LATE CITY ★

FOREIGN MINISTER CONDEMNS

INTERFERENCE IN INTERNAL AFFAIRS
LNG has bright prospects in
Sri Lanka – Minister Gammanpila
UNHRC ‘EVIDENCE Sri Lanka will forge ahead with plans to
import Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) in
the next few years, even as a global supply
crunch sends prices of the fuel soaring.
“We should not be worried about gas
Gammanpila said he expects gas prices to
have declined from record highs.
Sri Lanka is the latest of many Asian
nations turning to LNG for the first time
or ramping up purchases. Demand on the

COLLECTION’
prices,” Energy Minister Udaya Gamman-
pila said in an interview. “These are the
result of a sudden shock.”
New York-based New Fortress Energy
Inc. is building an LNG import terminal
near Colombo, Sri Lanka’s capital. It is
scheduled to start in 2023, by which time
continent is rising faster than anywhere
else, in part due to Governments trying to
reduce their use of dirtier fossil fuels such
as coal and oil.
Prices for cargoes arriving at the Sri
Lankan facility will be the cheapest of
either Asian TO PAGE 02

GROSSLY UNFAIR Foreign Minister Prof. to get together to support

‘Vaccination
key to ending
pandemic’
SOME COUNTRIES G.L. Peiris asked interna-
tional organizations as to
how fair it is to give prior-
administering at least one
vaccine dose to every citi-
zen worldwide, some of the
ISHARA MUDUGAMUWA

INCLUDING SL ity to the internal issues of

Sri Lanka without paying
organizations are attempt-
ing to achieve their ulterior
Vaccination is essential
to ending the pandemic and
TARGETED AMIDST due attention to the pan-
demic situation suffered by
motives and engage in a
witch hunt against selected
the only way to get rid of
a viral disease is to raise
PANDEMIC the entire world.
Minister Prof. Peiris was
countries amidst the pan-
demic.
the level of immunity of
the people in the country,
speaking to the media at He also stressed that Professor of Community

WORLD MUST the Sri Lanka Podujana

Peramuna (SLPP) head-
finding solutions to inter-
nal issues and Human
Medicine at the Faculty of
Medicine of the Universi-

CLOSE RANKS quarters in Battaramulla

yesterday.
Rights violation claims will
only be done following a
ty of Colombo Dr. Manuj
Weerasinghe said.

TO VACCINATE
The Foreign Minister
claimed that the process of
collecting evidence against
EVERYONE Sri Lanka by international
organizations including the
UNHRC is not transparent
and is grossly unfair. He
said although it has become
a timely need for every
international organization
local mechanism and no Speaking at a media con-
decision would be taken ference held yesterday at the
as per the will or instruc- Government Information
tions of any international
organization. TO PAGE 02
Department, TO PAGE 02

No changes
Consumers owe Jab drive not to BIA PCR
Rs.28,400 mn to CEB hindered by health procedures
strike – Health DDG
The process of conduct-
SUBASHINI SENANAYAKE ing PCR tests for passen-
Electricity consumers owe Rs. gers arriving at the BIA has
28,400 million to the Ceylon Electric- not been stopped, said Air-
ity Board (CEB) due to the relief pro- SANDYA KARUNARATNE port and Aviation Services
vided by the Government during the Deputy Director General of Health Services, Dr. Deputy Chairman Rajiv
Covid pandemic, CEB sources said. Hemantha Herath stated that Covid vaccination pro- Suriyarachchi.
The Ceylon Electricity Board gramme was not hampered by the trade union action The Deputy Chairman
(CEB) has to recover Rs.7,000 million launched by several health unions yesterday (27) pointed out that the reports
from those who have not paid their bills for one month, based on several demands. published that the process
Rs. 8,600 million for from defaulters for a period of one He added that he believed that health professionals of conducting PCR tests
to three months and Rs.12,800 million for more than would not launch an unnecessary struggle at such a A health worker checks the blood oxygen level of a youngster who had just been had been suspended and
vaccinated at the Diyatha Uyana yesterday. (Picture by Sulochana Gamage)
three months. TO PAGE 02 critical time of the Covid outbreak. TO PAGE 02 that the newly TO PAGE 02

New type of land grab evident - Sajith
BHAKTHI MENDIS
Opposition Leader Sajith Pre-
madasa says that a new type of
land grab is taking place in the
country and that Paanama in
Ampara has become a victim of
Unreliable
it. The Leader of the Opposition
said this when he came to the
evidence: CA
Sri Bodhirukkaramaya in Paana-
ma to inquire into an alleged
land grab in the Ragamwela vil-
acquits suspect
lage in Paanama. TO PAGE 02 NELKA MEDEGEDERA
The Court of Appeal has
acquitted a man who was sen-
tenced to life imprisonment by
the Colombo High Court for
Prof. Mohan Munasinghe UK, UNICEF provide
enhanced support for
wins Blue Planet Prize COVID-19 response
The Blue Planet Prize, sponsored by the Asahi
Glass Foundation of Japan, the top global award
for environmental sustainability and equivalent to
The UK is providing life-
saving medical equipment
a Nobel prize for environment, was presented to for high-risk pregnant
Deshamanya Prof. Mohan Munasinghe, TO PAGE 02 mothers and infants identi-
fied with COVID-19 to 11
public maternal hospitals
across the island.

Govt has no solution to COL problem - JVP possession and trafficking of

9.64 grams of heroin.
The Court of Appeal ruled
Merkel’s party defeated in Germany
This is in response to
a request from the Min-
istry of Health Sri Lanka
DINULI FRANCISCO

poll; horse-trading ahead

that the evidence given by the through UNICEF, follow-
Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) General Secretary narcotics officers at the trial ing the rapid escalation of
Tilvin Silva said that a continuous increase in prices of goods against the accused could not be COVID cases since mid-
and a shortage of goods can be observed, and relied upon. Asanka Fernando April 2021.
the Government has no solutions to address alias Sanjeewa, a resident of GERMANY: The center-left Social right Union bloc in a closely fought The initiative is funded
these issues. Colombo 14 was released by the Democrats have won the biggest race. Election officials said early by the UK’s International
He said that the Government is not interven- Court. The verdict was handed share of the vote in Germany’s September 27 that a count of all Programme Fund and led
ing to fulfill the people’s basic needs in the face down by a panel of Court of national election, beating outgoing 299 constituencies showed that the by UNICEF. It will support
of the COVID-19 pandemic. TO PAGE 02 Appeal judges TO PAGE 02 Chancellor Angela Merkel’s center- Social Democrats TO PAGE 02 the healthcare TO PAGE 02
 DN page 2 NEWS T U E S D AY, S E P T E M B E R 2 8 , 2 0 2 1

No final decision on reopening

of schools - Education Ministry Secretary
SITHARA SENANI
Education Ministry Secretary
Prof. Kapila Perera said that his
Ministry is preparing to start
schools at the earliest while adher-
ing to the recommendation given by
the Ministry of Health.
“However, the Ministry of Educa-
tion has not yet taken a final deci-
sion regarding the dates for the
commencement of schools,” he said.
The Secretary said that the educa-
tion of children could not be started
as soon as schools reopen, adding
that the first task should be to iden-
tify the specific problems of stu-
dents who have been confined to
home and online education for a
long period.
He also said that schools which
have been advised by the health sec-
tor to start first should prepare for it
about a week in advance. According
to the guidelines issued by the
Director General of Health Services,
schools will be reopened in three
phases, with Grades 1 to 5 in schools
with less than 200 students under
the First Phase.
Under the Second Phase, Grades
1 to 5 will be started in schools with
more than 200 students and all
grades will be started in schools
with less than 100 students. Also,
under the Third Phase, Grades
10,11,12 will be started in schools
with less than 200 students and all
grades will be started considering
the mitigation of the COVID-19 pan-
demic.

Protesters urge Japan immigration to fully
disclose video of detained Sri Lankan who died
NAGOYA -- People took to the streets
across Japan on Sept. 25 urging the full dis-
closure of surveillance camera footage of a
Sri Lankan woman who died in March while
detained at the Nagoya Regional Immigration
Services Bureau.
Wishma Sandamali died at age 33 on
March 6. Her younger sister Poornima, 27,
eign nationals doesn’t have the authority to
detain and repatriate them,” and called on
passersby to sign a request for full disclosure
of the video.
The footage of Wishma that was disclosed
to the bereaved family by the Immigration
Services Agency of Japan in August was a
roughly two-hour edited version of video
Request to register all lands within
CMC limits - Colombo Municipal
Commissioner
SUBASHINI SENANAYAKE
A mortar bomb had got entangled in a fishing net near the Paddiruppu Lagoon in the
Colombo Municipal Commissioner Roshini Dis- Kaluwanchikudy Police area yesterday (27), OIC Upul Gunawerdena said. Picture by Sivam
sanayake said all properties within the limits of the Packiyanathan, Batticaloa Special Correspondent
Colombo Municipal Council (CMC) should be regis-
tered as private properties without further delay.
Dissanayake, said information on properties that

Death of former Lake House Deputy Librarian

said in front of Nagoya Station, “The immi-
gration bureau is lying to us, and is playing
with us. No matter what I do here, my sister
won’t come back, but I will fight to find out
the truth.”
People including members of a students
and citizens’ association seeking for the truth
about the death of Wishma, formed by multi-
ple foreigner support groups and other
organizations, attended the rallies. They held
up signs, such as ones reading, “An immigra-
tion bureau that disregards the lives of for-
taken from Feb. 22 to March 6. Lawyers were
not permitted to attend while the bereaved
family watched the footage. Poornima, who
participated in the rally, recalled, “I was dis-
tressed seeing my sister suffering, and
couldn’t watch until the end. The documents
I received from the immigration bureau were
blacked out, and the truth remains unknown.”
Wishma’s younger sister Wayomi, 29,
returned to Sri Lanka on Sept. 23 due to
psychological shock after seeing the footage.
- The Mainichi
have not yet been registered can be obtained from
the official website of the Colombo Municipal Coun-
cil. She said it was essential for all properties to be
duly registered.
“There are lands in the city of Colombo that are The death occurred on Sunday of Mahinda Silva (66), a former
not primarily owned. All lands in the city of Colom- Deputy Librarian of Lake House, after a brief illness. He was the hus-
bo should be registered with the Colombo Munici- band of Vinusha Gamage, who also worked at the ANCL Library. They
pal Council. We will not pass anything without the have one daughter, Anjali.
letter confirming that right.” Mr. Silva had worked for the ANCL Library from 1979 until his
The Colombo Municipal Commissioner also stat- retirement a few years ago. His funeral was held yesterday in Ganemul-
ed that the Municipal Council has the power to take la in accordance with the prevailing health guidelines.
over unregistered properties.

Consumers owe Rs.28,400 mn... From page 01 Prof. Mohan Munasinghe wins... From page 01 New type of land... From page 01

The CEB points out that out of the total 6.3
million household electricity consumers in the
country, about 6.2 million have outstanding pay-
ments.
The CEB also said that Rs. 17,200 million is to
be recovered from hotel and factory owners.
A breakdown of this amount suggests that
Rs.9,300 million have to be recovered from facto-
ries, Rs. 6,800 million from shops, Rs. 1,000 mil-
lion from hotels and Rs. 274 million from govern-
ment agencies.
The electricity bill is prepared one month after
the consumption of electricity. That time and
another month will be allowed to pay the elec-
tricity bill. By taking that time and not paying
the electricity bill for about two and a half
months causes a number of difficulties to the
CEB, a spokesman said.
“The monthly income of the CEB is Rs. 20,000
million. Losing this income in these few months
is a problem.
The coal required to operate the coal power
plant has to be imported during a specific period
of time.
Coal ships cannot be imported during the dry
season. If there is no money and coal cannot be
imported on time, power generation will face a
crisis,” he added.
for having continuously contributed
to improving the global environment,
and making the world a better place
for us all.
The award recognizes Prof. Munas-
inghe’s deep research on environment
and sustainability through his pioneer-
ing ideas like the Sustainomics frame-
work, sustainable development trian-
gle, Millennium Consumption Goals
(MCG) and Balanced Inclusive Green
Growth (BIGG) path, which have been
applied globally. His work has contrib-
uted to key international agreements
like the 1992 Agenda 21 & UNFCCC,
1997 Kyoto Protocol, 2005 Copenha-
ment and UN 2030 Agenda & Sustain-
able Development Goals. Prof. Munas-
inghe, was Vice Chair of the UN Inter-
governmental Panel on Climate
Change (IPCC) that shared the 2007
Nobel Peace Prize.
Professor Munasinghe is Chairman
of the non-profit Munasinghe Institute
for Development (MIND), a UN rec-
ognized centre of excellence working
globally on all aspects of sustainable
development, as well as the MIND
Group in Colombo. He is Chairman of
the President’s Expert Committee on
Sustainable Sri Lanka 2030 Vision and
Distinguished Guest Professor at
He also said that no one should be allowed to
plunder these lands for the sake of political
power and money.
He said that all possible and appropriate
action will be taken against the issue.
UNHRC ‘evidence... From page 01
He had forcefully expressed this view at the
UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC) and in
his engagements with leading international
figures during his recent visit to the US for
UN General Assembly sessions with Presi-
dent Gotabaya Rajapaksa.

Jab drive not hindered... From page 01

He was speaking at a media briefing held at
the Health Promotion Bureau yesterday (27).
A total of 44 trade unions in the health sector
went on strike from 7.00 am yesterday (27)
against the suspension of the Rs. 7,500 COVID
relief allowance and several other demands.
The protest was based on eight demands,
including the payment of the Covid relief allow-
ance, the granting of special COVID leave with-
out any restrictions, the removal of overtime pay
restrictions, the filling of vacancies in all servic-
es, the immediate issuance of circulars relating to
the staff service etc.
The strike was launched at major hospitals
including Colombo National Hospital, Colombo
South Teaching Hospital, Colombo North Teach-
ing Hospital, National Eye Hospital, Kandy
National Hospital. Staff at maternity, pediatric
and cancer hospitals did not participate in the
strike.
gen Accord, 2015 Paris Climate Agree-
‘Vaccination key to... From page 01
Prof Weerasinghe said that vaccina-
tion was the ultimate weapon as well
as the major means of prevention.
He said that the vaccination of
groups over 60 and 30 years of age has
been completed significantly and the
mortality rate of those who have not
been vaccinated is increasing while the
mortality rate of those who have been
Peking University, China.
He added that nearly 40,000 Sri
Lankan students of this age group
who went abroad for education and
employment have already received
that vaccination. Joining the media
briefing Director of the Family Health
Bureau of the Ministry of Health,
Community Medicine Specialist Dr.
Chithramalee De Silva said the youth
SLPP General Secretary MP Sagara Kariya-
wasam on this occasion said that by signing
an investment agreement on the Yugadhana-
wi Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) plant in Ker-
awalapitiya, the US will have no provisions to
make any impact on Sri Lanka.
He said by making the general public
apprehensive of the agreement with the US
Company New Fortress Energy (NFE), Oppo-
sition elements are striving to disrupt the
national development drive which is now in
high gear.
Some individuals and parties with vested
interests are attempting to obtain political
gains at this time through such fear monger-

LNG has bright prospects... From page 01

vaccinated is very low.
Prof. Weerasinghe emphasized that
the vaccine was effective in counter-
have an undue fear over a negative
impact on reproductive health through
vaccinations based on various myths.
ing, he added.

LNG or a US gas hub pricing formula, said

Gammanpila. New Fortress, which will operate
the terminal, will charge an extra 15 per cent for
turning the liquid fuel back into gas, he said.
Asian LNG futures have almost doubled this
year to around US$ 27.50 per metric million
British thermal units, roughly the energy-equiva-
lent of US$ 155 per barrel of oil.
Prices have soared as shortages of coal and
wind power in parts of Asia and Europe boost
demand for gas.
U.S. gas is far lower, but has still climbed
more than 100% since the end of 2020.
Sri Lanka will seek to take in around 35,000
MMBtu a day of gas, which will be sent to sev-
eral power stations that now run on oil. While it
may increase imports over time, it probably
Merkel’s party defeated in Germany...
won’t build a second import terminal because it
wants to start producing its own gas within four
years, said Gammanpila.
The country’s Mannar Basin holds nine tril-
lion cubic feet of potential gas reserves and two
of the four wells drilled in the area have struck
gas, said Gammanpila.
By the end of the year, he will invite interna-
tional companies to develop offshore gas
reserves in an area that Indian billionaire Anil
Agarwal’s Cairn India Ltd. relinquished in 2015.
Energy firms will also be able to request licenses
to explore Sri Lanka’s other blocks, Gammanpila
said.
The Minister said that a regulator for the
upstream oil and gas industry will be estab-
lished next month. (Bloomberg)
From page 01
acting the ill effects of diabetes and
that it was effective in treating all
ages.
He said that Sri Lanka’s population
between the ages 20-30 is around 2.5
to 3 million and 400,000 of them have
already been vaccinated within around
two to three weeks.
Govt has no solution to...
Due to this, there has been a con-
tinuous increase in commodity prices
and a shortage of goods.
Silva added that leaders have no
vision of where to take the country.
He said that the Government has
failed to provide the basic needs to
people to survive. “A Commissioner of
She added there is no connection
between complications in reproductive
health and the vaccine. Dr. De Silva
said such claims have spread fast, add-
ing however that these claims have no
scientific basis. Dr. Chithramalee De
Silva added the youth need not have
an undue fear over vaccinations.
From page 01
Furthermore, Silva said that instead
of building a productive economy in
the country, loans were taken for Com-
missions, which were vainly wasted.
He said that the Government is inca-
pable of paying the debts, and due to
this, foreign exchange reserves are
declining. Therefore, the Rupee is
No changes to... From page 01
started PCR laboratory had been closed
were baseless. “We check those who arrive 14
days after receiving both Covid vaccines. A dif-
ferent method is followed in relation to those
who have received one Covid vaccine. We have
stated that this report will be given in three
hours. There is no change to this,” he added.
But some reports have been delayed and
upon searching, it was discovered that some of
them were issues related to e-mail addresses,
and telephone numbers. “We are working to
rectify the situation,” he added.
Unreliable evidence:...
From page 01

won 25.9% of the vote, ahead of 24.1% for the
Union bloc.
The environmentalist Greens came third with
14.8% followed by the pro-business Free Demo-
crats with 11.5%. The two parties have already
signaled that they are willing to discuss forging a
three-way alliance with either of their two bigger
rivals to form a government.
The far-right Alternative for Germany came
fourth with 10.3%, while the Left party took
4.9%. The party, known by its German acronym
AfD, failed to get its core issue — migration —
onto the campaign agenda this year.
Despite the projected outcome, party co-leader
Tino Chrupalla said he was “very satisfied” by
the result and welcomed the heavy losses for
Chancellor Angela Merkel’s Union bloc. AfD said
four years ago that it would “hunt” Ms. Merkel
who said in 2018 that she would not run for a
fifth term. Other parties have ruled out any coop-
eration with AfD.
OBITUARY NOTICE
CARRON - RONALD FRANKLIN
(RONNIE)
passed away in Melbourne, Australia
on 21 September, 2021.
Loving son of Hazel and the late Brian
Carron, beloved husband of Tarnia and
father to Annalene, Andre and Warren,
father-in-law of David Steer, Tina and
Fostina, loving brother of Marguerite and
Shireen, brother-in-law to Chris Campbell
and Randy Ferdinand, grandfather to
Mathew, Shyla and Zander, Tia and Lexi.
Forever in our hearts and memories.
For the first time since 1949, the Danish
minority party SSW was set to win a seat in par-
liament, officials said.
Germany’s Left party has scraped into Parlia-
ment, despite failing to meet the required 5%
threshold.
The Left, which is partly rooted in the commu-
nist party that ruled East Germany for decades,
managed to win three constituencies outright in
the September 26 election.
Had it failed to win those constituencies it
would likely have been kicked out of the Bunde-
stag, as it is currently projected to receive only
4.8% of the vote.
Another party, the South Schleswig Voters’
Association, looks set to win its first seat in Par-
liament since 1949, German public broadcaster
ARD reports. Election officials said that the
party is exempt from the 5% rule because it rep-
resents a national minority group, the Danes in
northern Germany. - THE HINDU
UK, UNICEF provide enhanced...
system by adding over 100 pieces of medi-
cal equipment, including High Dependency
Unit beds, multipara monitors, syringe pumps,
adult suckers and infusion pumps.
While receiving the equipment today at the
Ministry, the Minister of Health, Keheliya
Rambukwella remarked that, “The equipment
so generously donated could not have arrived
at a better time to boost the efforts of Sri
Lanka in tackling the COVID-19 pandemic.”
He further recognized the UK’s long-standing
partnership with Sri Lanka as a trusted ally
with this latest contribution demonstrating the
concerted efforts required in combating the
COVID-19 pandemic”. With the emergence of
new variants of COVID-19 from mid-April
2021, pregnant mothers and children have
Essential Services has been appointed.
But, unfortunately, that the Commis-
sioner has not been able to provide
the essential items, including LP Gas.
The price of rice in the market is
increasing. All these are just shown by
the media to deceive the people. The
real problem is that the Government
does not want to reduce commodity
prices; No plan; There is no pro-
gramme,” Silva highlighted.
He also added that at present, even
essential commodities have to be bor-
rowed from abroad. “Around US$ 500
million has been requested to import
oil from India. When businessmen
said that goods could not be imported
due to the shortage of dollars, the
Prime Minister said that he would
intervene and solve them, but we see
that the country is in chaos and no
solution is presented,” he said.
From page 01
become a high-risk group with increased
maternal deaths reported in the third wave of
COVID-19. British High Commissioner, Sarah
Hulton said, “The UK is proud to support Sri
Lanka’s fight against COVID 19. This contri-
bution is not only providing urgently needed
life serving medical equipment, but also
strengthening Sri Lanka’s child and maternal
health system.” Essential medical equipment
like this, not only helps strengthen the health
system’s capacity to respond to COVID-19 at
present, but also contributes to health care
service delivery in the long term. For instance,
setting up High Dependency Units in the
maternity wards in specialist hospitals had
been identified as a critical need for many
years pre-COVID by the Ministry of Health
depreciating. On the other hand,
money is being printed. Both of these
increase the price of goods.
Silva emphasized that the Govern-
ment should intervene to provide
essential food items without any
shortage.
If we are to move towards prosperi-
ty, there must be unity. But what the
Government is doing is inciting rac-
ism to cover up the current economic
crisis and Government disunity.
Therefore, we urge the people to be
aware of the groups that are inciting
racism. These are not people who love
the country or people.
They are the ones who divide the
people by fulfilling the contracts of the
rulers. We urge the public to act with
the understanding that they are the
ones who contribute to take the coun-
try to the abyss,” he added.
and will remain in the maternity wards even in
a post-COVID context as well, to care for high
risk pregnant mothers, contributing to the
reduction of maternal and new-born deaths.
“COVID-19 has again shown that the most
vulnerable, including pregnant women and
young children are the most affected by its
consequences. This equipment procured with
the support of the UK is not only helping to
address the immediate needs of those infected
with the virus but generally improve the quali-
ty of healthcare for the long term. Since the
onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, UNICEF
has supported the efforts of the Government
of Sri Lanka to ensure that critical healthcare
is provided, especially to the most vulnerable”,
said UNICEF Representative, Christian Skoog.
comprising Priyantha Fernando and Sampath
Abeykoon after hearing an appeal filed by the
accused against the High Court verdict sentenc-
ing him. The accused said he was arrested in
the morning and police took him to various
locations and beat him. Evidence thus presented
suggests that there was a question mark over
the credibility of the testimony of key police
officers who participated in the operation.
Accordingly, the appellate court granted leave to
appeal and acquitted the accused.
WITANACHCHI - LALITHA nee
KARALLIADDE . Beloved wife of late
Douglas D. Witanachchi (former Additional
Secretary - Ministry of Agricultural Research
& Development,​former Vice Chairman
Freedom From Hunger Campaign (FFHC)),​
Teacher at Visakha Vidyalaya Colombo and
Nuwara Eliya,​ Anuradhapura,​ Kalutara,​
Kurunegala,​ Kandy,​ Colombo,​ Features
Editor,​Daily News,​Lake House,​Colombo,​
Kalabhooshana. Daughter of late A.B.
Karalliadde and Gunaseeli Lankatilleke,​
loving mother of Dharini Neelanjani,​
Anandi,​Arjun and Dr. Channa. Mother-
in-law of Gamini Palipane,​Amitha de Silva
and Nelum. Sister of Nihal and Swarna,​and
of late Tilaka,​Ranee,​Dineli,​Seetha and
Manil,​beloved grandmother of Dhilmini,​
Surekha,​Savithri and Anushka. Great-
grandmother of Kiran and Anika. Passed
away peacefully on 26th September 2021.
Private funeral took place with cremation
at Crematorium,​Borella Kanatte Cemetery
on Monday 27th September 2021. 057136
T U E S D AY, S E P T E M B E R 2 8 , 2 0 2 1 NEWS page 3 DN

Livelihood development main focus Dr Sashi Tharoor meets

of forthcoming budget - Namal
DINULI FRANCISCO
Minister of Development
Coordination and Supervision
and Youth Affairs and Sports
Namal Rajapaksa said that live-
lihood development will be the
main focus in the forthcoming
budget, and thereby, a people-
centred economy will be estab-
lished, to uplift the national
economy.
A series of discussions on
obtaining rural level develop-
ment proposals for the prepara-
tion of the budget for the year
2022 was presided by Minister
Namal Rajapaksa last week.
These discussions were held
at several places covering the
Weligama, Matara, Yatinuwara
and Hakmana electorates.
It was stated at this discus-
sion that when allocating funds
for 2022, the Government has
decided to prioritize regional
development to expedite the
provision of development bene-
fits to the public.
The Minister said that the
budget proposal for the year
2022 presented by the Govern-
ment is more specific, as it
allocates more funds for the
creation of new entrepreneurs
in the country, giving priority
to development projects to be
carried out at the rural level.
Issuing a statement, the Min-
istry of Youth and Sports stated
that the local representatives
were made aware that the Min-
ister of Finance Basil Rajapaksa
is scheduled to present the new
government's budget report for
the year 2022 to create local
entrepreneurs in the country
and make the country self-suffi-
cient through a productive
economy to uplift the rural
economy and give strength to
the national economy.
Minister Rajapaksa high-
lighted the fact that the present
Government has been able to
successfully bring the country
back to normal by remaining at
the forefront of vaccination in
the world.
During the discussion, the
Minister said that the Govern-
ment, which has continued to
carry out development projects
in the country in the face of
the COVID-19 pandemic, has
made plans to launch a mas-
sive development initiative in
2022 with a large number of
rural development as well as
large scale projects.
The Minister added that
measures have been taken to
provide Rs. 4 million from this
year's budget to the Local Gov-
ernment bodies to revive the
rural development, which was
hampered by the pandemic. In
addition, all Grama Niladhari
Divisions islandwide will
receive allocations of Rs. 3 mil-
lion each. It is requested to
create proposals prioritizing
the development of public
affairs and the uplift of entre-
preneurs in the village.
It was stated that a Chair-
man of the Divisional Coordi-
nating Committee will be allo-
cated Rs. 100 million for devel-
opment activities in his constit-
uency and a sum of Rs. 20 mil-
lion will be allocated for the
Deputy Chairman of the Divi-
sional Coordinating Commit-
tee. Accordingly, it aims to find
solutions to the short-term
challenges posed by the pan-
demic and address local barri-
ers to economic growth.
The statement further read
that arrangements have been
made to allocate 40% of this
year's budget for livelihood
development, 40% for public
infrastructure development,
10% for environmental and
sustainable development and
10% for social welfare and
social development.
The Minister has also point-
ed out to local representatives
that the money allocated from
this year's budget should not
be spent on the distribution of
machinery/equipment but
should be given to the exten-
sively studied and prepared
livelihood project proposals.
"The Sri Lanka Podujana
Peramuna achieved all the vic-
tories that could be achieved
in the shortest period in its
history as a party. We are
bound to protect the trust of
the people. We are going to
the next election after reviv-
ing the collapsed economy
and fulfilling the promises
made to the people. We have a
proper plan to achieve those
development goals. Ten state
ministries are working togeth-
er to build a rural economy.
Project reports are prepared,
and the programs are imple-
mented and monitored in the
respective Grama Niladhari
Divisions," Minister Raja-
paksa added.
He also mentioned that if
one new entrepreneur comes
from each Grama Niladhari
Milinda Moragoda
Division, 14,000 new entre-
preneurs will be born in the
country, and many job oppor-
tunities will be created." It has
been instructed to use 40% of
the benefits of this year's
budget for livelihood develop-
ment activities to make these
activities a success. In addi-
tion to these benefits, large
scale development projects in
rural and urban areas are
being carried out through the
respective Ministries", he
said. Dr Sashi Tharoor well known author, politician and former international
Moreover, he said that Rs. civil servant met with High Commissioner of Sri Lanka to India Milinda
206 billion worth of develop- Moragoda for an exchange of ideas and thoughts on the Indo-Lanka
ment projects are already relationship and the strengthening of bonds with Kerala State.High
underway in the Matara Dis- Commissioner Moragoda also briefed Dr. Tharoor on the Integrated
trict. In addition, 195 billion Country Strategy for the Sri Lanka Diplomatic Missions in India
development projects are 2021/2023.
being implemented in the
Hambantota district. "In addi-
tion, we plan to invest over
Rs. 200 billion in the Matara Sri Lanka underlines developing
District through 12 new devel-
opment projects identified
within the next five years. The
bilateral ties with Iran
opposition is always in need Speaking in a meeting with CEO of Tehran Oil Refining Company
of a lockdown; they do not Hamed Armanfar, Energy Minister Udaya Gammanpila Gammanpila
want to send the children to referred to Tehran-Colombo common interests, expressed satisfaction
schools and people to love over bilateral cooperation, and stressed the importance of maintaining
with a thriving economy. technical, engineering, and economic interactions in oil and gas field.
Amidst all, the Government is Meanwhile, Armanfar presented a report of the quality of products,
taking every step possible to Tehran Oil Refining Company activities, and its 14-percent share in
eradicate poverty and bring Iranian oil refinery industry.
forward a prosperous econo- He added that the Sri Lankan delegation was provided with techni-
my," he added. cal knowledge and suggestions. He also expressed Tehran Oil Refin-
ing Company readiness for establishing technical, engineering, and
trade cooperation. - IRNA

Navy rescues injured fisherman COVID-19 relief in Colombo

The Sri Lanka Navy helped bring
ashore a fisherman injured at sea on Sep-
tember 26 and transferred him to hospi-
tal for treatment. The fisherman was
injured following an accident in mid sea,
while aboard a local fishing vessel about
30 nautical miles (approx. 55 km) off
Trincomalee.
The fishing vessel ‘Sudu Ruwan 3’ from
which the fisherman was rescued has left
the Ambalangoda Fisheries Harbour on
September 19, 2021 to fish.
The rescued took place after the
Department of Fisheries and Aquatic
Resources had informed the Maritime
Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC)
Colombo at the Navy Headquarters about
a fisherman who had sustained injuries
from falling while aboard.
The Sri Lanka Navy directed the Fast
Attack Craft P 4444 of 4th Fast Attack
Flotilla (4 FAF) attached to the Eastern
Command to the location of the fishing
vessel to retrieve the patient. Upon tak-
ing the injured onboard the Fast Attack
Craft, he was brought to Trincomalee and
administered first aid.
The patient was later transferred to the
Sri Lanka Coast Guard Inshore Patrol
Craft CG 210 and brought to the Trinco-
malee Port. Subsequently, the patient
was transferred to the Trincomalee Dis-
trict General Hospital for further treat-
ment.
Dist.:Rs.7,947 million spent ‘COVID vaccines
in 13 DS Divisions
do not cause infertility’
Dr. Ajith Karawita, a specialist He added that although a per-
Rs.7,947 million has been spent spent to provide food rations for in Sexually Transmitted Diseases son with serious Covid symptoms
for the welfare of the people in 13 80,370 quarantined families. at the Anuradhapura Teaching may develop problems with infer-
Divisional Secretariat Divisions in Rs.1,550 million has been spent Hospital, said that there is no tility, the Covid vaccine itself does
the Colombo District which were to provide a bag of essential items truth in the opinion that infertility not cause infertility. He also said
affected during the COVID-19 peri- worth Rs. 5,000 per week to 33461 occurs as a result of taking the that it was important to have faith
od, said Colombo District Secretary families living in isolated areas at Covid vaccine. in the vaccine programme and not
Pradeep Yasaratne. various times. He said it was imperative for believe false rumours.
On four occasions, Rs. 5,336 mil- Yasaratne points out that the gov- even a HIV infected person to get He said it was important to get
lion was spent on the Rs.5,000 ernment has spent a large amount of the Covid vaccine as soon as pos- the vaccine to save the lives of
allowance and Rs.258 million on the money for the welfare of the people sible, He said research on the people with complications such as
Rs. 2000 allowance. in the Colombo District who were Covid vaccine shows that it has no heart disease, kidney disease and
A sum of Rs. 803 million has been affected by the corona pandemic. connection with infertility. diabetes.
DN page 4
Media Minister Dullas Alahapperuma launches ‘Guruthalawa’ while SLRC Chairman Reginald Cooray and others look on.
GURUTHALAWA
SLRC BRINGS SCHOOL TO HOME
NADIRA GUNATILLEKE
T
he Sri Lanka Rupavahi-
ni Corporation (SLRC)
commenced a series of
programmes titled
‘Guruthalawa’ to teach schoolchil-
dren from September 23 under
the guidance of Media Minister
Dullas Alahapperuma and SLRC
Chairman Reginald Cooray, Depu-
ty Director - Publicity and Media,
SLRC, Nilar N. Cassim said.
According to Cassim, for the
first time in Sri Lankan television
history, popular tuition masters
take part in a television telecast
to provide free tuition for school-
children through ‘Guruthalawa’.
The programme focuses on con-
ducting revision sessions for
Advanced Level (A/L) students
covering the 10 most popular sub-
jects in all streams, which are
being studied by the highest num-
ber of students across the coun-
try.
He pointed out that the revision
classes are telecast over the SLRC
on weekdays from 2 pm to 4 pm
with the participation of popular
tuition masters in Sri Lanka.
Chemistry, Physics, Accounting,
Sinhala, Combined Mathematics,
Biology, IT, Economics, Business
Studies and Political Science are
covered by tuition masters such
as Dr. Gunapala Rathnasekara,
Dr. Manjula Ranasinghe, Bandara
Dissanayake, Tharindu Vithanage,
Hasitha Madhusanka, Dushyantha
Mahabaduge, Devendra Silva,
Miginda Rathnayake, Chamal Idd-
agoda, Prabuddha Shrimal, Ranil
The Media Minister with resource persons for the programme.
The launching ceremony of ‘Guruthalawa’
Prabhath and Sajith Kelum. There
is a huge competition among A/L
students to obtain a place in their
private tuition classes.
In addition to ‘Guruthalawa’,
the SLRC telecasts ‘Gurugedara’
from 4 am to 12 midnight every
day through Channel Eye
(Nethra) in both Sinhala and
Tamil languages covering all
grades and subjects, he said.
The ‘Jathika Pasala’ (National
School) is being telecast over the
SLRC on weekdays from 5 am to
6 am for Ordinary Level students.
The ‘Nena Mihira’ programme is
being telecast every Monday from
5 pm to 6 pm for Grade 5 scholar-
ship students and this programme
is live streamed from Tuesday to
Thursday every week, he said.
Since the day the SLRC com-
menced transmission in 1982, pri-
ority has always been given to tel-
ecast educational and non-formal
educational programmes accord-
ing to a request made by Japan
which donated the SLRC to Sri
Lanka, Cassim said.
The SLRC conducts all educa-
tional programmes in coordina-
tion with the National Institute of
SLRC Chairman Reginald Cooray addressing the launching
ceremony.
NEWS FEATURE
Education (NIE) and all teachers
are popular Government teachers
who teach in state schools. All
teaching programmes are telecast
in both Sinhala and Tamil lan-
guages. The teaching programme
‘Jathika Pasala’ commenced
almost a decade ago, he said.
The SLRC started its 16-hour
teaching programme for school-
children following the outbreak of
COVID-19 in March 2020. Educa-
tional programmes are telecast
on Channel Eye every day
except on Poya Days. All school-
children in Sri Lanka, no matter
whether they receive online edu-
cation or not, are benefited from
these educational programmes
that are being telecast over the
SLRC day and night, allocating
many commercial hours, he
pointed out.
All students who obtain island
ranks every year in the Grade 5
Scholarship Examination watch
‘Nena Mihira’. They are also invit-
ed and interviewed by the SLRC
in order to give due recognition
for their talents. A question paper
collection named ‘Nena Mihira’ is
available for a low price at all
T U E S D AY, S E P T E M B E R 2 8 , 2 0 2 1
‘Guruthalawa’ begins
Media Minister Dullas Alahapperuma signs the Special Visitors’ Book to mark the
launching of ‘Guruthalawa’ while SLRC Chairman Reginald Cooray and others look on.
The programme focuses on conducting revision
sessions for Advanced Level (A/L) students
covering the 10 most popular subjects in all
streams, which are being studied by the highest
number of students. The revision classes are
telecast over the SLRC on weekdays from 2 pm to
4 pm with the participation of popular tuition
masters in Sri Lanka.
bookshops islandwide for the use respecting one of the requests nals or receive online education
of Grade 5 students. There is a made by Japan when the SLRC or not. Tuition masters have
huge demand for this collection was donated to Sri Lanka four made education a public prop-
of question papers, he added. decades ago. The SLRC has erty by contributing to
Addressing the launching cer- been providing education for ‘Guruthalawa’.
emony of ‘Guruthalawa’, SLRC children since April last year SLRC Director General
Chairman Reginald Cooray said spending 18 hours per day. Bandara Heenkenda and all
the SLRC completes 40 years With the launch of ‘Guruthala- popular tuition masters who
next year and it always gives wa’, all children will receive conduct tuition classes at
the priority for providing education no matter whether ‘Guruthalawa’ and several oth-
knowledge for the people they have mobile phones, sig- ers were also present.
Commendable step According to this figure, one in every 100 children
completed writing a book which is a landmark in Sri
– Media Minister Lankan history, he said.
Minister Alahapperuma pointed out that the GCE
Advanced Level Examination in Sri Lanka is the
Addressing the launching ceremony of ‘Guruthala- toughest examination of all 300 examinations conduct-
wa’, Media Minister Dullas Alahapperuma said that ed by the Examinations Department. Local Advanced
the SLRC commenced ‘Guru Gedara’ shortly after the Level Examination can be the toughest examination in
very first lockdown in March last year as the first pos- the world. Today, Sri Lankan schoolchildren stand at
sible step to provide free education for children who the end of the dark tunnel of COVID-19 and the light
had been imprisoned in their own homes for months is now visible at the end. This is one of the hardest
due to COVID-19. challenges we face once in every century. It is signifi-
The children showed their talent and enthusiasm by cant to commence ‘Guruthalawa’ on the commemora-
writing 42,000 books during the lockdown responding tion day of C.W.W. Kannangara, the Father of Free
to my request made as the then Education Minister. Education in Sri Lanka, he added.
About SLRC In 1986, Rupavahini expanded their facilities and,
in 1998, replaced most of the original equipment
using digital technology under three grant aid pro-
The Sri Lanka Rupavahini Corporation also known jects from the Japanese Government. Its studio com-
as Jathika Rupavahini (the National Television), is plex is in Colombo, the commercial capital of Sri
the National Television Network of Sri Lanka. Lanka. The complex comprises a master control
Established by Parliament under Act No. 6 of 1982 room, four studios, two dubbing studios, a digital
on February 14 for the provision of a national televi- post-production unit, two analogue post-production
sion service, it produces and broadcasts programmes units, several editing suites including non-linear edit-
in three languages. The SLRC is the largest televi- ing, and four outside broadcast vehicles.
sion broadcaster in Sri Lanka and has an islandwide Rupavahini-2 which was launched in April 1999
reception of its channels. The SLRC broadcasts its changed its name to the current Channel Eye in
channels in both VHF and UHF frequencies. Current- August 2000.
ly, the network’s all services are available through On January 1, 2008, Channel Eye became a time-
analog transmission. From 2011, Kokavil transmis- shared channel, altering the newly created Nethra
sion was started using DVB-T2 for the Northern area TV. In 2009, a series of Rupavahini productions were
of Sri Lanka. Over 1,000 employees are attached to made available in DVD and VCD formats under “RU
the SLRC. Entertainments”.
T U E S D AY, S E P T E M B E R 2 8 , 2 0 2 1 NEWS page 5 DN

‘YOU CAN SRI LANKA’

programme launched
DINULI FRANCISCO
The State Ministry of
Skills Development and
Vocational Education,
Research and Innovation,
intending to guide the
youth towards the accepted
and proper vocational edu-
cation, has launched the
‘YOU CAN SRI LANKA’
programme.
The programme’s goal is
to aid in the promotion of
positive attitudes in society
toward successful and pro-
This would assist the
country in producing a
young skilled workforce to
fulfil current demands in
accordance with the Vistas
of Prosperity, equalizing
President Gotabhaya Raja-
paksa’s expectations.
The State Ministry of
Skills Development and
Vocational Education,
Research and Innovation
has taken steps to publicize
the roadmap of ‘YOU CAN
SRI LANKA’ through the
grammes will be telecasted
on Channel Eye on Septem-
ber 27 and 29 and on Octo-
ber 1, from 7 to 7.30 am.
And also, the Sirasa TV
Channel will telecast the
same programme on Octo-
ber 2, 2021, from 4.00 to
4.30 pm.
The State Ministry has
also planned to hold daily
Webinars for targeted
groups from September 27
to October 03, from 7 to 8
pm.
regarding the relevant mat-
ters.
Moreover, provincial-lev-
el awareness sessions have
been scheduled, and Skills
Development Officers
attached to Divisional Sec-
retariats will participate as
resource persons in these
sessions.
The programme aims to
raise awareness among
children, young people,
teachers, parents, and pub-
lic and private sector
such education, informa-
tion on how to reach job
markets, and successful
vocational education to
obtain productive work
possibilities.
The State Ministry of
Skills Development and
Vocational Education,
Research and Innovation
implement these pro-
grammes in collaboration
with the Education Minis- Foreign Minister Prof. G. L. Peiris meeting British Minister of State for South Asia, United
try. In addition, the Nation- Nations and the Commonwealth Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon at the Sri Lanka Mission in
al Education Institute, Ter- New York.

GL meets British Minister of State

ductive vocational educa-
tion possibilities, therefore
leading the youth commu-
nity into the appropriate
occupations.
mainstream media and digi-
tal technology methods as
well as via Provincial aware-
ness programmes.
Accordingly, the pro-
Meanwhile, www.youth-
jobs.lk will be launched on
September 30 to dissemi-
nate updated information
and obtain information
employees. Some of the
areas addressed by these
programmes are how to
pick effective vocational
education, where to acquire
tiary and Vocational Educa-
tion Commission and You
Lead Project have also
joined with the series of
programmes. Foreign Minister Prof. G. L. Peiris and reconciliation with particular reference
British Minister of State for South Asia, to relations with the diaspora.
United Nations and the Commonwealth Minister Peiris briefed Lord Ahmad in

Priority to issue sand mining permits to Trinco families

Residents of the Trincomalee
district have not yet been given
priority in issuing sand mining
permits. Therefore, the Minister
of Environment Mahinda
Amaraweera has instructed the
Geological Survey and Mines
Bureau (GS&MB) to give priority
to the people living in sand min-
ing villages in Trincomalee in the
future when issuing permits for
sand mining.
Recently, the Minister paid an
official visit to Trincomalee to
inquire into sand mining and
other environmental issues. A dis-
cussion on sand mining was held
at the District Secretariat. In
order to eradicate poverty in the
villages, the benefits of the natu-
ral resources available in the vil-
lage should be given to the villag-
ers.
Therefore, from now on, priori-
ty should be given to the perma-
nent residents of the villages,
especially in the Trincomalee Dis-
trict, in issuing sand permits.
The Geological Survey and
Mines Bureau should take neces-
sary action in this regard.
The people of the village should
be given the right to the resources
of the village. No villager wants to
see people from the outlying areas
plunder their village resources.
The other thing is that there is
some truth in media reports that
there is a great deal of environ-
mental damage in the Trinco-
malee district.
The situation is very serious,
especially with regard to the fill-
ing of lagoons. Lagoon filling is
also done in other areas. This
work is done using soil removed
from the tanks. Therefore, the law
should be enforced against such
persons irrespective of their rank.
Some of our officials are also
promoting these activities. We
have information about that. So
we want to punish some of our
officers who help to destroy the
environment, regardless of rank.
Take action. I would like to
remind you that natural resources
should be used sparingly. Envi-
ronmental resources are limited.
We do not have infinite resources.
Therefore, the available resources
should be managed, the Minister
said.
Secretary to the Ministry Dr.
Anil Jasinghe and officials from
the Geological Survey and Mines
Bureau were also present on the
occasion.
Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon had discus- detail about the substantial progress on
sions recently at the Sri Lanka Mission in the ground in a variety of sectors by
New York. domestic institutions, despite con-
The Ministers discussed a wide range straints imposed by the COVID pan-
of issues including trade, investment demic.
opportunities available in the Port City Lord Ahmad accepted with pleasure
and elsewhere, resumption of tourism, the invitation by Minister Peiris to visit
and matters relating to development and Sri Lanka at his early convenience.
Select Committee of Parliament to
ensure gender equity in agriculture
The Select Committee of agriculture face problems ther. The State Minister
Parliament to look into and in five main areas: natural also said that steps will be
report to Parliament its rec- resources and land owner- taken to inform the Minis-
ommendations to ensure ship, market access, access ter of Finance to pay atten-
gender equity and equality to financial services, new tion to these matters in the
with special emphasis on technology, and family- budget to be presented for

Third Saubhagya Week inaugurated

looking into gender-based related care responsibili- the year 2022.

Indo-Lanka discriminations and viola-

tions of women’s rights in
Sri Lanka held discussions
ties. Therefore, the partici-
pating resource persons
pointed out that the rele-
Several agriculture
based female union lead-
ers also joined the discus-

The local production process

shall be implemented in a more
commercial freight with several parties on the
challenges faced by women
engaged in agriculture in
vant parties should pay
attention to this matter.
They further pointed
sion online and expressed
their views.
Parliamentarians Sivag-

sustainable and efficient man-
ner for the purpose of building
up a people centric economy.
The Saubhagya is considered
the most viable project
launched in terms of President
Gotabaya Rajapaksa's National
Policy Framework, “Vistas of
Prosperity and Splendour”
national development agenda
in the recent history achieve
this goal," said Development
of Samurdhi Home Economy,
Microfinance, Self-Employ-
ment and Businesses and
Under-Utilized State Resources
State Minister Shehan Semas-
inghe. He said so in inaugurat-
ing the third quarterly Saub-
hagya Week programme at 455
Grama Niladhari divisions in
the Rajangane DS division.
Semasinghe opened the
Weheragala hand paper pro-
duction plant under the Saub-
hagya Production Village Pro-
gramme. In addition he inau-
gurated a "Karapincha and
Naimiris" cultivation village in
the Thambuttegama DS divi-
sion and a "milti Murunga"
growing village in Palagala DS
division.
"The country is going
through a difficult period as a
result of the COVID-19 pan-
Development of Samurdhi Home Economy, Microfinance, Self-
Employment and Businesses and Under-Utilized State Resources
State Minister Shehan Semasinghe inaugurating the third quar-
terly Saubhagya Week programme in the Rajangane DS Division.
demic, but the Government is
working hard to usher prosper-
ity to the people and the coun-
try despite many obstacles. We
hope to complete 560 Saub-
hagya production villages by
the end of 2021. In 2021, the
people of these villages will
add Rs.2,000 million to the
national income while it is
planned to bring in Rs.18,000
million in 2022. The Govern-
ment is investing investing
large sums of money under this
programme for the empower-
ment of the livelihood pro-
grammes and it is evident that
the number of low - income
group people who are depend-
ent on Samurdhi benefits will
decrease as a result of the
Saubhagya Production Village
Programme," Semasinghe
pointed out.
Samurdhi Additional Secre-
tary E. D. Kalunarachchi, Anu-
radhapura Government Agent
Janaka Jayasundara, District
Planning Director Sugah Naya-
nananda and Samurdhi Direc-
tor W. A. Wasantha were also
present on the occasion.
services to begin
Sri Lanka. out that women can active- nanam Shritharan, Imran
The discussion on the ly contribute to the pro- Maharoof, Manjula Dissa-
challenges faced by women cess of shaping and trans- nayake, Dr.Harini Amaras-
engaged in agriculture in forming the food system in uriya, Diana Gamage, offi-
RASULA DILHARA GAMAGE Sri Lanka was held with Sri Lanka if some solu- cials including the Secre-
Northern Province Special the participation of many tions to these problems tary to the Ministry of
resource persons repre- are found. Agriculture, Additional
Commercial freight services will begin senting various sectors, as Chairperson of this Secretary to the Ministry
between Karaikal, India and Talaimannar, they met with the Select Select Committee, State of Women and Child
Sri Lanka by sea and it will be followed by Committee of Parliament Minister Dr. Sudarshini Development, Pre-Schools
passenger transportation, said the Chief to look into and report to Fernandopulle stated that and Primary Education,
Minister of Puducherry Province, India N. Parliament its recommen- there were issues common School Infrastructure and
Rangaswamy. dations to ensure gender to the entire agricultural Education Services Depu-
Speaking to Indian media he has said a equity and equality with sector and through this ty Secretary General of
discussion in this regard has been conducted special emphasis on look- discussion it was possible Parliament and Chief of
with the Sri Lankan political authorities. ing into gender-based dis- to identify several issues Staff, Secretary to the
“The launching of freight services between criminations and viola- that were specific to Select Committee Mrs.
the two countries through the Mannar pier tions of women’s rights in women. Accordingly, Kushani Rohanadheera
will be beneficial to the merchants,” he said. Sri Lanka in Parliament on attention of this Special and several other Parlia-
He has also emphasized that a permanent September 23rd. Committee will be drawn ment officials participated
solution should be sought to the fishermen’s In particular, the parties with regard to this matter, in the committee meeting
issue of the both countries. pointed out that women in said the State Minister fur- held online.
SJB donates equipment to Pottuvil Base Hospital
A.L.M. SHINAS Pottuvil Base Hospital. Ampa-
Periyaneelavanai Special Corr ra District Samagi Jana Bal-
The Samagi Jana Balawegaya awegaya electorate organiser
(SJB) donated essential hospi- M.A. Hassan Ali, Co-organiser
tal equipment worth Rs. Gayan Darshana, Lahugala
3,025,000 to the Pottuvil Base Pradeshiya Sabha Member
Hospital on September 26 Patali Rohana Jayantha, former
under the 28th round of its Lahugala Pradeshiya Sabha
COVID-19 social hospitality Chairman R. Chandrasena and
programme titled Jana others were present on the
Suwaya project launched in occasion.

Diyawanna oil slick: Expert parallel to the Vipakshayen

Husmak programme imple-
mented with the objective of
The Vipakshayen Husmak
programme is implemented by
SJB Parliamentary Group,

team makes recommendations creating a healthy nation.

Opposition Leader and Sam-
agi Jana Balawegaya Leader
organisers, members, foreign
branches and local and foreign
donors with the Jana Suwaya
An expert team which oily waste at that place and Sajith Premadasa donated a project to provide relief to the
studied the oil slick in the drainage did not take High Flow Oxygen Unit people affected by the COVID-
Diyawanna last week place regularly. It has also Machine (Rs. 1,225,000), 5 19 pandemic.
has made several recom- been observed that a thin Function ICU Beds The Samagi Jana Balawegaya
mendations to better layer of oil with air bubbles (Rs.600,000), Defibrillator has so far donated hospital Opposition Leader and Samagi Jana Balawegaya Leader Sajith Prema-
conserve water in the emerges from the bottom (Rs.1,200,000) to Dr. I.L. equipment worth Rs.80.6 mil- dasa donating hospital equipment to Dr. I.L. Mohamed Rifaz, Director
area. when it is shaken with a Mohamed Rifaz, Director of lion under this programme. of Pottuvil Base Hospital.
The recommendations stick and floats on the sur-
include preventing the face of the water.
people of the area from According to the obser-
discharging untreated
and polluted water into
the Diyawanna, remov-
vations made, this situa-
tion has increased due to
the discharge of waste into
Consumers Sri Lanka and Egypt to promote
ing the silt from the bot-
tom of the Buthgamuwa
canal at least once a year
the Buthgamuwa canal and
the growth of algae/bacte-
ria due to the improper
shortchanged by tourism cooperation
and allowing the water
to drain easily.
Last week, a friend of
flow of water in the canal.
The water enrichment may
also increase depending on
unscrupulous traders A Joint Committee is to be
established between Sri Lanka
said that Egypt is included in
the list of countries where on
A.A.L. DIAS Matale district group corr
the Minister of Environ- the amount of nitrogen tively, its retail price has and Egypt to promote coopera- arrival visas are not issued and
ment Mahinda and phosphorus received The vegetables at the Dam- increased by Rs.150. However, tion in tourism. Minister of requested that it be done. Min-
Amaraweera had sent from the polluted and pol- bulla Dedicated Economic the wholesale price of a kilo of Tourism Prasanna Ranatunga ister Ranatunga said in
several photographs to luted water that enters the Centre(DEC) which is consid- beet from Jaffna is Rs.15, though said that this Committee will response that he will get the
the Minister regarding canal through various ered as one of the major vegeta- the retail price of other vegeta- be appointed in accordance Immigration and Emigration
an oil slick floating channels. ble distribution hubs in the bles has gone up beyond the with the Memorandum of sectors to focus attention on
towards the Diyawanna According to the labora- country are being sold to con- reach of consumers. Understanding on tourism this issue.
Oya. Minister tory analysis report, it was sumers at exorbitant prices. Meanwhile, consumers point signed between the two coun- The Egyptian Ambassador
Amaraweera then The layer of oil scattered over the water in also revealed that relevant Vegetable vendors are charg- out that a systematic distribu- tries. commended the COVID vacci-
instructed Central Envi- the Diyawanna Oya. to drinking standards with a ing more than two or three hun- tion method of vegetables is The Minister made this com- nation programme and said
ronmental Authority slight purification for circu- dred percent of the wholesale essential to prevent this situa- ment during a special discus- that he will provide the total
Director General Hemantha taken water samples at the lating water, the chemical oxy- price from consumers. Accord- tion as it is very clear that the sion held at the Ministry of support of Egypt to raise the
Jayasinghe to carry out an Fairway Residencies in Rajag- gen demand and immobility ingly, the consumers have to pay unscrupulous traders always Tourism with Ambassador of standard of tourism in this
investigation on this matter. iriya and Buthgamuwa Canal in have been exceeded, chemicals more than Rs.60 per kilo of rad- charge more than two or three Egypt Hussein El Saharty. country.
Accordingly, the Central Diyawanna Oya and those plac- pertaining to the standards for ish which is sold at around Rs.15 fold than the wholesale price. It had also been decided to Deputy Head of the Egyp-
Environmental Authority es and tested them. bathing and recreation for cir- per kilo at the wholesale price. Therefore, traders call for the implement a special tourism tian Embassy Karim Abule-
deployed senior environmental They note that the water in culating water Oxygen Demand Also, although the wholesale setting up of a formal mecha- promotion programmes in the nein, Secretary to the Ministry
officers to investigate the mat- these places was blackened and (Category B), Ammonia in prices of a kilo of upcountry nism to distribute vegetables to two countries. According to of Tourism S. Hettiarachchi
ter. The report has been hand- that there was a small and thin water according to the stand- vegetables like carrots, cabbage eradicate the unscrupulous activ- statistics about 5000 Egyptian and Director General of the
ed over to Minister layer of oil scattered over the ards set by aquatic organisms and other items, are between Rs. ities of the middlemen and the tourists visit Sri Lanka annu- Tourism Development Author-
Amaraweera. water. Also, there was an odour for circulating water (Category 65 and Rs. 45 per kilo respec- wholesalers. ally. ity Dhammika Wijesinghe par-
Accordingly, the teams have caused by the stagnation of the C) have been exceeded. The Ambassador of Egypt ticipated on this occasion.
DN page 6
GOVERNMENT INFORMATION DEPARTMENT
CHIEF MOHAN SAMARANAYAKE SAYS
‘KNOW THE WORTH OF RTI,
GET ITS MAXIMUM USE’
LAHIRU FERNANDO
T Q.
oday (September 28) is
International Right to
Information (RTI) Day.
Officially known as the
International Day for Universal
Access to Information (IDUAI), the
day was proclaimed at the 74th UN
General Assembly in October 2019.
The theme of the IDUAI-2021 will
highlight the role of Access to Infor-
mation laws and their implementation
to build back strong institutions for
the public good and sustainable devel-
opment, as well as to strengthen the
right to information and international
cooperation in the field of implement-
ing this human right.
Following numerous attempts for
years, Sri Lanka was able to have its
own Right to Information Act under
the Good Governance Government in
2016. This year Sri Lanka marks the
fifth year of the enactment of this
much-needed legislation.
Here is what the Director General
of Government Information Depart-
ment Mohan Samaranayake told the
Daily News about Sri Lanka’s RTI Act
and the citizens’ rights to access to
information.
Excerpts from the interview:
Q.
What is your opinion
about Sri Lankans
receiving the right
to access information?
A. Every citizen has the right to
information. We inherit it. It is
essential for the public to have
knowledge about economic, political
and social factors in order to make
the right decisions and also to live
accordingly. But just a document or
an enacted legislation alone would
not ensure this right within society.
For it to be a successful move, there
needs to have a just, open and right-
eous society. Such a society is the
foundation of the people’s right to
information.
Q.
Your idea about the
existing RTI Act in
Sri Lanka?
A. I don’t say the existing law or
Information DG Mohan Samaranayake
the Act is bad or unsuitable.
“Something is better than noth-
ing”. But, this Act has so many
limitations that prevent citizens
from accessing information. What
I see is that apart from journal-
ists, people at the grassroots level
do not make use of it as expect-
ed. In a country like Sri Lanka,
the ordinary man who is engaged
in a life and death struggle for
survival do not make use of it.
However, this Act has some good
features as well. My idea is that
NEWS FEATURE
there are some points that can be
inserted into this piece of legisla-
tion. As an example, it should be
proclaimed as a punishable
offence if any agreement is
signed or a project is implement-
ed without informing the public
beforehand.
Under different governments,
there were instances where the
public came to know about the
very crucial development projects
or agreements only after the
move was undertaken. This is not
acceptable at all and needs to be
monitored through such Acts.
Advantages and
disadvantages
of Sri Lankans
receiving the right to
information?
A. As advantages, if people have
access to information about upcom-
ing development projects beforehand,
they, especially the knowledgeable
and intellectual groups will be able to
review the pros and cons of them. If
such a mechanism was in effect, the
impacts and the responses for the
recent ban on the import of chemical
fertiliser to Sri Lanka could have
been much more effective and posi-
tive. As for disadvantages, I see the
same point can be misused by the
parties with vested interests to ruin
possible good results as we are living
in a divided society.
Q.
Are you satisfied
with the present
system of
information dissemination
in Sri Lanka?
A. I am not happy with the present
system. This is about both main-
stream and social media. For exam-
ple, during the pandemic period,
we barely received scientific infor-
mation about Covid-19 through
these media. I don’t undermine the
role played by the media during the
pandemic. The media institutions
implemented many good pro-
grammes to educate the public. We
have to admit that. But it is not
enough. I saw the broadcast media
used this pandemic as a way of pro-
moting themselves. I am not 100
percent satisfied with the electronic
media which gave priority to sensa-
tionalise, create panic and make the
public scared, I must say.
Q.
Did mass and
social media play
a responsible
role during the lockdown
period?
A. I am personally satisfied with
the behaviour of the print media than
others during this period. They also
made some mistakes. But, better
T U E S D AY, S E P T E M B E R 2 8 , 2 0 2 1
“If people have access to information about
upcoming development projects beforehand, they,
especially the knowledgeable and intellectual
groups will be able to review the pros and cons of
them. If such a mechanism was in effect, the
impacts and the responses for the recent ban on
the import of chemical fertiliser to Sri Lanka could
have been much more effective and positive.”
Q.
What plans do you
“This Act has so many have to ensure the
limitations that prevent
citizens from accessing journalists’ right to
information. What I see information?
is that apart from
journalists, people at the
A. As the present Director Gener-
grassroots level do not al, I am trying to do whatever is pos-
make use of it as sible. But due to the Covid-19 situa-
tion, many plans have been put on
expected.” hold. We are dedicated to work with
and assist journalists to receive cor-
rect information with regard to the
government institutions and activi-
than electronic and web-based media. ties at every time possible. There
However, social media are the worst. will be discussions with the recently
They were totally irresponsible and appointed Cabinet Minister in charge
full of fabricated news and informa- of the Mass Media subject about the
tion. programmes to be implemented in
Q.
this regard.
Q.
What plans does
the Government Why aren’t the
have to monitor websites of many
social media? government
institutions functioning
properly?
A. There was an ad hoc discussion
to have a regulatory body to oversee
the behaviour of fake social media A. We have identified that there is
accounts. It was highly criticised and a need to streamline the websites
opposed by various parties. However, owned by the government institu-
this was not a well-organised discus- tions in order to facilitate the jour-
sion. Therefore, so far nothing is nalists and the public with easy
going on to monitor them. The main
problem is the inability to trace the
access to the functions of these insti-
tutions.
Q.
culprits in social media. As they are
not properly identified or based with-
in the country it is difficult to trace What is the
them. Anyway, this extremely harm- message the
ful and dangerous social media needs
to be regulated or controlled strictly. Director General
of the Information
Department gives to the
public to make the best
use of the existing RTI
provisions?
A. Mainly, I urge the public to
understand and learn about this
extraordinary piece of legislature
which is one of your fundamental
rights. Make use of it whenever and
wherever possible and necessary.
When people are well aware of this
law, they will make use of it more
and more.
T U E S D AY, S E P T E M B E R 2 8 , 2 0 2 1 NEWS page 7 DN

Sri Lanka, South Africa Govt. allocates 40% for livelihood

development work - Prasanna
to share experience in Minister of Tourism Prasanna Ranatunga
said that the Opposition is spreading various
false propaganda against the Government with
the aim of discrediting the Government and
the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna by spread-
and sustainable development with another 10
percent for social welfare work. The Minister
said Government officials will be summoned
from Gramasewa Division level and the entire
village gathered at one place and awareness

post conflict resolution

South African Minister for International
Relations and Cooperation Dr. Naledi Pandor
received Foreign Minister Prof. G.L. Peiris at
the Permanent Mission of South Africa in
New York, on September 24, for a bilateral
meeting, on the sidelines of the 76th Session
of the United Nations General Assembly.
The Foreign Minister was accompanied by
Foreign Secretary Admiral Prof. Jayanath
Colombage.
Minister Pandor congratulated Prof. Peiris
on his appointment as Foreign Minister and
recalled the close and friendly bilateral ties
between the two countries.
Minister Peiris recalled his long association
with South Africa dating to his Doctoral work
where he had visited South African Universi-
ties and conducted a series of lectures on
Constitutional Law.
The Minister also recalled fondly his close
friendships and connections with prominent
and leading South African Minister Dullah
Omar, and leading personalities Roelf Meyer
and Ebrahim Ebrahim, who played pivotal
roles in the freedom struggle against the
Apartheid government and several visits
undertaken to South Africa at a High Level.
He said that former President Mahinda Raja-
paksa had attended the funeral of the late
President Nelson Mandela.
The Minister highlighted that Sri Lanka had
closely looked at South Africa’s rich experience
and unique history in the areas of reconcilia-
tion and truth, and while noting that many
Foreign Minister Prof. G.L. Peiris having talks with South African Minister for International Rela-
tions and Cooperation Dr. Naledi Pandor at the Permanent Mission of South Africa in New York on
September 24
aspects were particular to South Africa’s own
national experience, Sri Lanka had carefully
reflected on some aspects of this experience.
Minister Peiris briefed his South African
counterpart about Sri Lanka’s own initiatives,
including its own Office of Missing Persons
and Office of Reparations and their contribu-
tion towards Sri Lanka’s post conflict develop-
ment and national unity.
Minister Pandor highlighted that South
Africa was pleased to share their experiences
and lessons with countries looking to address
ing false rumours. should be raised regarding financial provisions
He pointed out that it is the responsibility of received by the village and proposals for the
the people’s representatives of the Sri Lanka village. "Minister of Finance Basil Rajapaksa is
Podujana Peramuna and members of the party ready to provide funds to implement develop-
to act in manner that will not bring the Gov- ment work in the village.
ernment as and the party into disrepute. This work will be taken forward while
The Minister made these comments while obtaining the views of the entire village," he
addressing a meeting at the Kesbewa elector- added.
ate during the series of meetings being held
under the theme “Through the 2022 Budg-
et.”
The Minister said “identifying proposals
for developing the village together with Rural
Development Committees is being done
these days. The entire village has to be gath-
ered together in one place and development
projects required for the division should be
identified. Forty percent is allocated for liveli-
hood development work. If this money is
used to raise the standards of people such as
those engaged in tourism business, that tax
money can improve the economy of the coun-
try”
He said another 40 percent is allocated for
common infrastructure facilities of which 10
percent can be set aside for environmental
post conflict issues and that they continued to
learn lessons in addressing past human rights
abuses and on issues related to reparations.
Minister Peiris invited his counterpart to
visit Sri Lanka to expand on the rich bilateral
relations between the two sides. Minister
Pandora also extended an invitation for the
Minister to visit South Africa and renew close
ties. The two Ministers appreciated the deep
and close ties of friendship between the two
countries and close cooperation in the multi-
lateral arena.

Iran, Sri Lanka pledge to boost ties

Iranian President Dr Seyyed
Ebrahim Raisi said on Sunday that
there are no obstacles for develop-
ment of ties with Sri Lanka and
emphasized on taking new steps in
developing economic, trade rela-
tions with the South Asian island
nation.
The Iranian President made
these remarks during a meeting
with the new Ambassador of Sri
Lanka to Teheran, Wishwanatha
Aponsu on Sunday after receiving
the credentials of the new envoy,
the President’s Office said in a
statement.
Referring to the potential for Iranian President Dr Seyyed Ebrahim Raisi met Sri Lanka’s Ambassador to Teheran Wishwanatha Aponsu on Sunday.
development of relations between
Iran and Sri Lanka, the President cially in the technical and engi- especially in the economic field. international forums,” the Ambas-
said, "The Islamic Republic of Iran neering fields between the two While presenting the credentials sador said.
is ready to activate all capacities countries.” the new ambassador of Sri Lanka He also called for the develop-
for cooperation between the two The President added that with to Tehran described the relations ment and strengthening of coop-
countries." the activation of the Joint Commis- between the two countries as long- eration between the two countries,
"There are no restrictions or sion for Economic Cooperation standing and historical. especially in the energy, trade and
obstacles to the development of between the two countries, new "Sri Lanka has always been and trade sectors, referring to the
economic and trade relations and steps can be taken in the develop- will always be a supporter of the potential for developing the level
the transfer of experience, espe- ment of Iran-Sri Lanka relations, Iranian Government and people in of bilateral relations.

Work on Pamankada-Wellawatte Suspect in assult of Police officers arrested

four-lane road nearing completion RAKSHANA SHRIYANTHA
Gandara Police have arrested
a suspect who assaulted two
approached the witness’s house
and assaulted the neighbors,
Police officers had been deployed
Police officers. He was produced near the house for security.
DINULI FRANCISCO before the Matara Magistrate’s The Police tried to arrest a
Chief Government Court and remanded until Octo- man who was roaming the area
Whip, Highways ber 5. with a sword, but was attacked
Minister Johnston The Victims Protection Divi- by him. Two Police officers who
Fernando said that sion of the Police had received a were injured in the incident were
construction work to complaint on September 25 that admitted to the Thalalla Hospi-
widen and develop a witness to a murder in the tal.
the four-lane road Gandara Police Division had The suspect was later arrest-
from Pamankada-Sri received death threats. ed. The arrested suspect is a
Sambuddha Jayanthi Following a message received 39-year-old resident of Kambu-
Mawatha-W.A Silva from the 119 Information Centre rupitiya. Gandara Police are
Mawatha to Wella- that a gang of seven persons had investigating.
watte on the Colom-
bo-Horana Road is in

More showers expected

the final stages. An aerial view of the four-lane road from
Minister Fernando Pamankada-Sri Sambuddha Jayanthi
further said that With Mawatha-W.A Silva Mawatha to Wellawatte
the widening and on the Colombo-Horana Road.
development of the
road section and the widening will cost Rs. 210 million, the Showers or thundershowers will Uva Province in the evening or
and construction of the Minister in charge of the subject occur at times in the Western, night.
Pamankada Bridge, vehicles said. Sabaragamuwa, Central and The public is kindly requested
that travelled one way until The Minister also added that North-Western Provinces and in to take adequate precautions to
now will be able to travel in this will alleviate the heavy traf- Galle and Matara districts, the minimize damages caused by tem-
both directions across the fic congestion in Kohuwala and Meteorology Department said. porary localized strong winds and
Pamankada-Sri Sambuddha Pamankada. The Ministry of Fairly heavy showers above 50 lightning during thundershowers.
Jayanthi Mawatha. Highways added that the widen- mm can be expected at some Wind speed can be increased up
This section of road will be ing and developing this section places in Sabaragamuwa Prov- to 50 kmph at times over the
widened and developed and the of the road, and the Pamankada ince and in the Kandy, Nuwara- island particularly in the Weestern
Pamankada Bridge will be con- Bridge will be constructed by Eliya, Kalutara, Galle and Matara slope of the Central hills, North-
structed by the Road Develop- the Road Development Authori- Districts. ern, North-Central ,North-West-
ment Authority's Southern Road ty's Southern Road Connection Showers or thundershowers ern, Southern and Western Prov-
Connection Project (SRCP). It Project (SRCP). may occur at a few places in the inces.

SLRPA wants better deal for rice farmers

ANANDA KANNANGARA
The Sri Lanka Rice Producers
Association (SLRPA) expects the
Government to increase the pric-
es of three main rice varieties,
Nadu, Samba and Keeri Samba.
The SLRPA further said even
the farmers in major paddy pro-
ducing areas in the Polonnaruwa
District are reluctant to release
large stocks of paddy in their pos-
session.
SLRPA President Suraj Jaya-
wickrama said at a media briefing
in Polonnaruwa that as long as
the country’s multi national com-
panies urge the Government to
increase the prices of main essen-
tial commodities, such as sugar,
milk powder, LP gas and wheat
flour, the authorities should also
look into the difficulties faced by
paddy farmers countrywide since
they too bear an unbearable high
cost to produce paddy.
“Accordingly, we urge the Gov-
ernment to increase the price of a
kilo of Nadu rice to Rs. 110,
Samba to Rs. 130 and Keeri
Samba to Rs. 160,” he said.
Jayawickrama further said
paddy farmers are not willing to
sell their stocks according to the
prices mentioned in the recent
Government Gazette notification
citing that if so the farmers will
have to suffer a large loss.
SLRPA, Secretary Mudith
Perera highlighted that it is uneth-
ical to import rice when our farm-
ers have adequate paddy stocks in
their possession and the Govern-
ment should increase the price of
paddy considering the requests of
farmers in the country.
He said the country needs
around five million kilos of rice a
day and currently the farmers
own adequate stocks of paddy for
a period of nearly five months.
He therefore requested the rel-
evant authorities to give their
Association an opportunity to
discuss this matter with the Gov-
ernment, especially with the
President or the Prime Minister
and resolve this important issue
without further delay to save the
country from an imminent rice
shortage.
DN page 8 EDITORIAL
Integrated
T U E S D AY, S E P T E M B E R 2 8 , 2 0 2 1
Country Strategy
Protecting For Sri Lanka Diplomatic Missions in India - 2021/2023
the Prisons Part V
A
hornet’s nest has been stirred by the midnight
visit of the former Prisons State Minister Lohan MILINDA MORAGODA
Ratwatte to the Anuradhapura Prison, where High Commissioner to India
he is alleged to have intimidated at least two Mission Objective 5.3: Mark the
LTTE cadres serving their sentences. Government 80th anniversary of the establish-
and Opposition politicians, particularly Tamil politi- ment of official relations between Sri
cians, have called on the Government to investigate Lanka and India, the centenary of
the matter fully and also ensure the security of all the first visit of Gurudev
prisoners islandwide. Rabindranath Tagore to Sri Lanka
We have since seen visits to the Anuradhapura and and the 75th anniversary of the
establishment of formal diplomatic
Welikada (which was also visited by the former Pris- relations between the two countries,
ons State Minister Ratwatte with a group of friends) by by organising appropriate activities:
several senior ministers to assess the situation and The year 2022 marks the 80th
also engage in damage control. In this context, the anniversary of the appointment of
most important visit was by Justice Minister Ali Sabry, Sir D. B. Jayatilaka as the first repre-
PC, whose remit directly extends to the prison system. sentative of the then Government of
After his lengthy visit to the Anuradhapura Prison, Min- Ceylon, and the country’s first step
istry Sabry has assured that there is no issue with the towards initiating formal bilateral
relations with India. His appoint-
security or facilities offered to the LTTE suspects and ment also symbolizes the inception
other inmates. He charged that Opposition groups are of the building of the foundation for
attempting to politicise the Ratwatte rumpus for their exchange of diplomatic agents
own advantage. between the two countries (which
This is no doubt a candid assessment and reassurance then were under the British domin-
by the Minister, who has initiated many programmes ion), and is, thus, a significant mile-
for the welfare of prisoners. He had also talked to the stone in Indo-Sri Lanka relations.
LTTE inmates, perhaps including those who were Commemorating 80 years of bilater-
al relations between India and Sri
allegedly harassed by the former State Minister. They
Lanka provides a unique opportuni-
have expressed satisfaction with the enhanced secu- ty for both countries to reiterate
rity arrangements already in place, with the caveat their age-old connections, and to
that they would feel safer at the Jaffna prison, where it embark on a pragmatic reassessment
would also be easier to meet family members. of, and strengthen current bilateral
Nevertheless, amidst the COVID pandemic the prison relations. The year 2022 also marks
service has enabled meetings with families via video the centenary of the first visit of
link, which admittedly could be out of reach of certain Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore to Sri
Lanka, while 2023 marks the 75th
underprivileged families in remote areas. One sug-
anniversary of the establishment of
gested remedy is for family members to come to the formal diplomatic relations between
Jaffna or Vavuniya prisons and place the calls from Sri Lanka and India.
there. In any case, the Justice Minister should strive to Key Tasks for Implementation
resolve these concerns soon. (1) Issuance of a commemorative
“Prisoners are also human beings” proclaims a mural stamp.
outside the gates of the Welikada Prison in Colombo. (2) Issuance of a commemorative
The Government has indeed taken many steps to coin to mark the 75th anniversary
change the perception of prisoners by the rest of soci- of the establishment of formal
diplomatic relations.
ety. Prisons are simply not places where they lock up (3) Release of joint publications.
miscreants – their primary aim is to rehabilitate them (4) Enhancing public awareness of
and give them a purpose in life. The final aim is to the importance of this milestone
release them back to society as reformed individuals anniversary.
who will contribute to the betterment of the society. (5) High-level dialogues between Sri
This is indeed why the prisons in some countries are Lanka and India and efforts to
called ‘corrections centres’. highlight the occasion, at every
The Government has been regularly releasing prison- possible level.
(6) Facilitating the commemorative
ers who have met these criteria, sometimes well
event to be held at the Vidyalanka-
before their release date. Recently, the Government ra Pirivena on November 01,
released 16 LTTE cadres who had been sentenced 2022, with the possible participa-
under the terms of the PTA, which itself is to be tion of high-level dignitaries from
reformed. The prison records of all other LTTE cadres India.
are also under review and more could be released. (7) Conducting of conferences/sym-
The Government is also addressing the issue of those posia on the evolution of relations
imprisoned due to their inability to pay court-imposed between Sri Lanka and India.
Mission Objective 5.4: Utilize
fines, sometimes just a few thousand Rupees. Many of
social media platforms effectively to
them have already been released, a step that also promote Sri Lanka and project a
reduces the massive congestion in prisons. positive image in India:
As Public Security Minister Rear Admiral (Rtd) Dr. Sar- Effective use of social media plat-
ath Weerasekera said recently, it is also vital to reha- forms, particularly Twitter and Face-
bilitate, not imprison, drug addicts. Prisons generally book which have wide outreach
lead them to an even bigger life of crime. In that con- amongst the educated Indian mass-
text, the authorities must root out all criminal gangs es, to promote Sri Lanka in India, is
that operate from within the prison walls. The jamming of paramount importance. Sri Lanka
Diplomatic Representations in India
of telephone signals within the prisons is a good first should endeavour to constantly use
step, as crime bosses languishing in prisons are these two social media platforms to
known to direct ‘hits’ using mobile phones smuggled promote Sri Lanka as a prime tourist
into their cells with the knowledge and help of corrupt and investment destination. The
prison officials. platforms can also be used for proac-
The public areas of all prisons should henceforth be tive dissemination of vital informa-
equipped with 24/7 surveillance cameras, a glaring tion on Sri Lanka, as well as to
omission that has made evidence gathering compli- counter any disinformation by vest-
ed interests that are inimical to the
cated in the Ratwatte case. It will be hard to establish image of the country.
the true course of events without security camera foot- Key Tasks for Implementation
age. The camera network of all prisons should be (1) Post at least one daily Facebook
linked to a central system for easier command from a post and a Tweet, containing pro-
single location. motional content on Sri Lanka.
Regardless of the lack of CCTV evidence, the Govern- (2) Post/ Tweet messages on every
ment should expedite investigations into the Ratwatte key cultural/ religious event of
incident and mete out justice so that no one will be India and the states, with a view
to reaching out to the wider public
able to repeat such stunts in the future. Minister Sabry
audience.
has indeed promised such a probe. (3) Use local languages in posting/
Many politicians and civil society groups have pointed tweeting wherever possible, in
out that Ratwatte should resign from all State Ministry addition to English.
portfolios (he currently holds the Gem and Jewellery (4) Use Mission social media plat-
portfolio) and become an ordinary MP, lest that State forms to build a network of friends
Ministry power is used to influence any officials, eye- of Sri Lanka.
witnesses and inmates. This is a reasonable request Mission Goal 6: Enhance con-
that the State Minister should consider earnestly in the nectivity between Sri Lanka and
India.
interest of justice and fair play. Overview:
Again, the investigation should be 100 per cent impar- As close neighbours, increasing
tial, involving those who have no connections to the connectivity between India and Sri
former State Minister and to the prisons system itself. Lanka is a vital aspect in the bilater-
That is the only way to ensure that the investigation is al relationship and it is critical in
not derailed midway, like so many other probes enhancing people-to-people con-
against politicians in this country under all Govern- tacts. Given India’s geographical
ments. This incident also brings into focus the need to size and its population, Sri Lanka
stands to benefit from increased con-
bolster external and internal security in prisons, per- nectivity in terms of trade, tourism,
haps by deploying the military and/or the STF. The people-to-people interactions etc.
prisoners and the society sorely deserve it. This would immensely contribute to
the goal of making Sri Lanka an avia-
tion hub and a gateway to South
Asia.
THOUGHT FOR THE DAY Mission Objective 6.1: Facilitate
the increase of air connectivity
Prisons are built with between Sri Lanka and India:
Increasing the number of destina-
Stones of Law. - William Blake tions in India for SriLankan airlines
would be of importance. This could
Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore
Milinda Moragoda assuming duties in India.
be done by mainly targeting Sri Lan-
kan Buddhist pilgrims coming to
India, outbound Indian tourists and
air cargo.
Key Tasks for Implementation
(1) Identify new air destinations for
SriLankan airlines flights.
(2) Operationalize already identified
destinations such as Ahmedabad.
Mission Objective 6.2: Facilitate
the increase of sea connectivity
between Sri Lanka and India:
Increasing sea connectivity, par-
ticularly in terms of passengers,
would be as vital as increasing air
connectivity. This would promote
more people-to-people contacts
between southern India and Sri
Lanka.
Key Tasks for Implementation
(1) Pursue the resumption/ estab-
lishment of passenger ferry ser-
vices between Sri Lanka and
India: Thalaimannar-Rameswar-
am, Colombo-Tuticorin and Kank-
esanthurai- Karaikal.
Mission Objective 6.3: Facilitate
electrical grid connectivity between
Sri Lanka and India:
Establishing electrical grid con-
nectivity between India and Sri
Lanka would be mutually beneficial.
This would enable Sri Lanka to
obtain electricity during operational
maintenance and droughts, and also
to export excess generation to India.
This will also allow greater space for
renewables (e.g., wind farms in
Mannar Basin).
Key Tasks for Implementation
(1) Facilitate projects that create
electrical grid connectivity
between Sri Lanka and India.
(2) Focus on need to address inter-
connection rules.
Mission Objective 6.4: Facilitate
digital connectivity between Sri
Lanka and India:
Sri Lanka has reportedly underuti-
lized potential for E-Commerce plat-
forms, E-payment gateways etc.
More PPP activity in this area can
spur a surge of business beneficial to
T U E S D AY, S E P T E M B E R 2 8 , 2 0 2 1
Sir D. B. Jayatilaka
both countries, especially in the
post-COVID scenario.
Key Tasks for Implementation
(1) Facilitate projects that create
digital connectivity between Sri
Lanka and India.
Mission Goal 7: Promote Sri
Lanka’s interests in protecting its
ocean resources.
Overview:
Sri Lanka and India being mari-
time neighbours gives rise to great
challenges, such as poaching and
bottom trawling by Indian fishermen
in Sri Lankan waters. It is impera-
tive to seek sustainable and long-
lasting solutions for these challeng-
es, while also using the opportuni-
ties presented by the close proximity
of the two countries.
Sri Lanka and India have closely
collaborated on maritime issues over
a long period of time. At the Third
United Nations Conference on the
Law of the Sea, both countries were
successful in securing a Statement of
Understanding on a special method
of delimitation of the Continental
Shelf for states in the southern part
of the Bay of Bengal. The Indo-Sri
Lanka Maritime Boundary Agree-
ments of 1974 and 1976 settled the
maritime boundary between the two
countries in the Palk Straits, Palk
Bay and in the Bay of Bengal respec-
tively. This includes the Kach-
chatheevu issue.
India and Sri Lanka also coordi-
nated the promulgation of national
laws declaring their respective mari-
time zones.
On the Continental Shelf, Sri
Lanka and India held bilateral con-
sultations several years ago. Howev-
er, these consultations were sus-
pended, pending the determination
of the outer limits of Sri Lanka’s
shelf by the UN Commission on the
Continental Shelf. Once this process
is completed, consultations can be
resumed on issues of bilateral delim-
itation of an overlapping area in the
Bay of Bengal, under the guidance of
the National Ocean Affairs Commit-
tee (NOAC).
Mission Objective 7.1: Engage
with Indian authorities (Central gov-
ernment, relevant State govern-
ments and other stakeholders) for a
mechanism acceptable to all sides
for the resolution of fisheries-related
issues:
The Sri Lanka High Commission
in New Delhi along with the Deputy
High Commission in Chennai are to
engage with the government at the
central and state levels, and also
with major stakeholders in Tamil
Nadu to curb poaching and IUU fish-
ing, as well as to impress upon the
Indian side the adverse effects of
bottom trawling. A proposal incor-
porating these issues is to be drawn
up by the Government of Sri Lanka.
The proposal may also highlight the
various resolutions adopted at inter-
national for a pertaining to the eco-
logical damage of bottom trawling,
and provisions of the Sri Lankan law
itself, while proposing a humane
approach to genuine issues faced by
fishermen on both sides of the
IMBL.
Key Tasks for Implementation
(1) Submission of concrete propos-
als from GoSL to the Ministry of
External Affairs of India, also tak-
ing on board the views of Sri
Lanka’s Northern/ Eastern fishers.
(2) The High Commissioner to
engage with the Minister of Exter-
nal Affairs of India and the For-
eign Secretary, to expedite politi-
cal clearances at the central gov-
ernment level.
(3) The High Commissioner and the
Deputy High Commissioner in
Chennai to hold meetings with the
leaders of Tamil Nadu and influen-
tial representatives of fisheries
associations, with a view to
impressing upon them the impor-
tance of the proposal, and how it
can benefit the fishermen of the
state.
Mission Objective 7.2: Engage
with Indian authorities for setting
up a training centre for a marine
disaster task force:
Given the increasing regularity of
major marine accidents around Sri
Lanka which affect Sri Lanka’s eco-
logical environment and destroy the
livelihood of tens of thousands of
people who are dependent on the
sea, setting up of a marine disaster
training centre with Indian expertise
would prove to be of assistance to
handle such future disasters. Much
depends on the initial response dur-
ing such incidents. The Sri Lanka
High Commission in New Delhi may
reach out to relevant institutions in
India, with a view to initiating a for-
mal process in this direction.
Key Tasks for Implementation
(1) Initiation of meetings with the
National Disaster Management
Authority of India, which is involved
in the mitigation and control of nat-
ural disasters in India.
(2) Identification of particular
organisations which could assist
Sri Lankan authorities in setting
up training institutions and organ-
isations to manufacture items
related to disaster mitigation.
Mission Objective 7.3: Promote
joint research in fisheries as well as in
other marine and mineral resources:
Sri Lanka could benefit much from
Indian expertise in research in fish-
eries and other marine and mineral
resources, if engaged in joint endeav-
ours.
Key Tasks for Implementation
(1) Explore possibilities of arrang-
ing joint research projects.
(2) Seek opportunities for Sri Lan-
kan scientists and experts to be
stationed on board Indian research
vessels.
Concluded
T U E S D AY, S E P T E M B E R 2 8 , 2 0 2 1 OPINION page 9 DN

THE SOLIDARITY PRINCIPLE: A SOLUTION

FOR INSTITUTIONS RUNNING AT A LOSS
PROF. TISSA VITARANA

T
here are innumerable private and
government managed institutions
that are run at a loss, some of
them at very big loss usually to
the government. Some of them, like the
plantations, are running at a loss due to
employer based employee problems that
have an adverse impact on productivity at
these workplaces, which then have an
adverse impact on the Gross Domestic
Product (GDP).
A solution that is gaining ground world-
wide is the application of the Solidarity
principle. This concept has taken root in
Scandinavian countries and in many coun-
tries in Europe and in the Third World, like
Argentina. On behalf of the Lanka Sama
Samaja Party (LSSP) I would like to recom-
mend that the Sri Lankan Government give
it serious consideration and implement it
here as well where necessary.
A typical example is the plantation econ-
omy. As a part of the trend tea production
dropped by 7.1% in 2020. A major cause
was the failure to give the fair worker
demand of a minimum wage of Rs.1,000 per
day.
Although the present Government inter-
vened and the matter was apparently settled
to the satisfaction of both employer and
employee, it now appears that the private
companies are scheming to dodge paying
this salary to the workers on the plantations
which is based on written agreements and
have been gazetted by the Government. I
am informed that on the basis of new condi-
tions the Rs.1,000 daily wage for plantation
workers is not being honoured by the pri-
vate companies at this moment. They have
re-introduced the discarded concept of min-
imum output to avoid paying the Rs.1,000.
They have raised the earlier daily quota
requirement, before the Rs.1,000 was
agreed upon, by several extra Kilograms as
a prerequisite that has to be fulfilled to get
the Rs.1,000. As this is unattainable, the
workers will suffer a big wage cut. It is quite
clear that the private owners have no desire
to ever honour the Agreement and the
promise given to the Government. The
Prof. Tissa Vitarana
reason they give is that they are running at
a loss. The Government must take back the
estates and find an alternative solution that
is profitable.
Ownership rights
The only solution is the application of the
“Solidarity Principle” to each enterprise,
whether private or public, which is consist-
ently running at a loss. The principle is that
instead of having an outside owner, be it a
private company or the government, to
establish instead a company of the employ-
ees alone as the owners of the enterprise.
This is for the period of the lease, which
could be renewed on the basis of their suc-
cess in running the enterprise. For funds
besides outside loans from special develop-
ment banks which give low interest loans
for those institutions that come under the
solidarity principle. This has been done in
several countries with success. There could
be private investors to a limited extent, but
without ownership rights. This has worked
well in many countries. Each employee,
besides his salary, is entitled to one share.
The profits are divided equally, or accord-
ing to the wishes of the employees collec-
tively. The Employees Council of Manage-
ment recruits the management and techni-
cal personnel from among qualified profes-
sionals purely on the basis of merit, on a
contract basis. The Board of Management
which runs the institution has representa-
tives from all these categories.
A good example relevant to Sri Lanka is
that of Kerala, India, which could be suc-
Plantations would be an ideal case for the Solidarity Solution.
cessfully applied to revive our tea industry,
which was once world famous. A member of
the LSSP Agriculture Committee, Buddhi
Jayasuriya, a retired General Manager of
the State Plantation Corporation visited
Kerala, India where 64,000 hectares of tea
land owned and run by Tata’s, one of India’s
leading enterprises, had been running at a
loss for a long period. This land had been
taken back by the Kerala Government and
handed over to the workers to run on the
solidarity principle. After an extensive
study, Buddhi Jayasuriya reported there
was an unexpected increase in the level of
productivity and profits. Workers who left
at 6 a.m. for work went on till even 6 p.m.
All malpractices like stealing had stopped.
Unlike in the privately owned companies
unsuitable relations and friends of a private
owner do not occupy key positions. If the
Government tries to run it the politicians
and bureaucrats will invariably interfere to
gain control and benefit at the expense of
the workers. Increased worker dissatisfac-
tion and further drop in productivity would
be the inevitable outcome. The application
of the solidarity principle, like in Kerala is
the only viable solution to the loss of pro-
ductivity in the plantation sector. This is
also applicable to the private industries as
well, and is highly developed in Europe, and
even in the USA.
Reforming public sector
institutions
Another major factor having an adverse
effect on our GDP is the massive losses in
the Public institutions like the Ceylon
Petroleum Corporation. Bureaucratic ineffi-
ciency and political interference are among
the main causes. Worker dissatisfaction is
due to a variety of causes like unjust promo-
tions and neglect of those who deserve
promotions due to political reasons, and
failure to reward or recognize merit and
output. The lack of consultation by manage-
ment with regard to the running of the
institution or even to identify workplace
problems and find solutions which are often
evident to workers, while spending large
sums of money to get outside expert opin-
ion when it is not necessary. The workers
are treated like cogs in the machine to carry
out dull routine jobs. They are often bored
and when good work is not appreciated they
feel left out, the typical sense of alienation
that Marx described is widespread.
Lack of planning and corruption are
other adverse factors. Most Government
institutions lack short, medium or long
The CPC and many other Govt organisations
are running at a loss.
term planning, and the development of the
institution is neglected. The bureaucrats
are content to follow a routine. New ideas
and development means more work and
problems to be solved. Innovative ideas
from workers are resented and generally
opposed. Misuse of institutional property
together with lack of maintenance lead to
frequent breakdowns and work stoppages.
Poor employer/employee relations often
end up as strikes with considerable loss to
the institution.
Positive change in attitude
Employee ownership gets rid of nearly all
these problems. In many countries like Ger-
many worker representatives play a key role
in the management of the institutions. They
are elected representatives of the workers,
often by secret ballot, so that the best are
chosen. When there is total or partial
worker representation in the Board of Man-
agement they ensure that the enterprise is
maintained properly and run at maximum
efficiency, as then their return increases.
The sense of ownership leads to a change of
attitude. It becomes one of looking after
their own property. The decision making
process too looks after both the institution
as well as the employees.
Even in Sri Lanka this positive change in
attitude was visible when the Centre Left
Government led by Sirimavo Bandaranaike
came to power in 1970, together with Left
leaders like Dr. N.M. Perera and Dr. Colvin
R de Silva of the LSSP and Pieter Kuene-
man of the CP. Philip Gunewardena played
a pioneer role when he joined the SLFP led
by S.W.R.D. Bandaranaike, forming the
MEP. Those progressive steps in our histo-
ry would be consolidated into a move ini-
tially through worker participation and then
after practical experience progression to
worker management. The LSSP proposes
this course of action as one that would help
overcome the economic and other crises
that Sri Lanka faces today.

Sri Lanka: A pro-active role at the UNHRC

N. SATHIYA MOORTHY

I
n a low-key yet significant pos-
turing, Sri Lanka has gone on
to defend China, Venezuela,
and Nicaragua at the UN
Human Rights Council (UNHRC),
which is in session at present. It
comes at a time when the Council
has specifically and continuously
called upon Colombo to mend and/
or explain what is seen as Sri Lan-
ka’s habituated behaviour on the
rights front since before the conclu-
sion of the LTTE war in May 2009.
At the General Debate at the
Council’s 48th session in Geneva,
the Sri Lanka delegation said that
the UNHRC and the Office of the
High Commissioner for Human
Rights (OHCHR) should not over-
step the mandates laid out in Reso-
lutions 60/251 and 48/141 of the
UN General Assembly (UNGA),
the parent organisation that has
created them in the first place. This
came after the HR High Commis-
sioner, Michelle Bachelet, ticked off
Sri Lanka again through her ‘Oral
Statement’ at the commencement
of the session.
“We hold that the UNGA never
authorised the UNHRC to assign to
any party, or the OHCHR to carry
out tasks such as the collection of
criminal evidence for use in judicial
proceedings,” the Sri Lankan state-
ment said. It noted that the princi-
ple of non-interference in the
domestic affairs of Sovereign States
is the very bedrock on which the
international order is founded.
As such, Sri Lanka said that
external forces should not seek to
interfere in Xinjiang and Hong
Kong, which are integral parts of
the People’s Republic China (PRC).
In the same vein, the statement
noted with alarm that the unilateral
coercive measures imposed on Ven-
ezuela continues to cause death,
pain, and suffering to the Venezue-
lan people. “We deplore the fact
that supplies of food and essential
medicines, have been blocked even
during the COVID-19 pandemic
due to the freezing of Venezuelan
assets abroad. We call for the lifting
UN General Assembly in session.
of such restrictions on Venezuela,”
the statement read.
Sri Lanka is of the view that any
action aimed at the protection and
promotion of human rights in a
country must have the consent of
the country concerned. In this con-
text, Colombo also called upon the
Council to recognise the action
taken by Nicaragua to respect and
promote human rights over the
years, and to engage in a positive
dialogue with the government of
Nicaragua.
Expanding the reach
Independent of pronouncements
of the kind at Geneva, Sri Lanka
has simultaneously begun expand-
ing the political reach of the
‘UNHRC discourse’ to other inter-
national forums, even those uncon-
nected to the UN system. In a vir-
tual meeting with Patricia Scot-
land, Commonwealth Secretary-
General, Foreign Minister Prof.
G.L. Peiris reiterated that the ‘ad
hoc process’ followed by the
OHCHR to get foreign authorities
to take over or replace local institu-
tions under the guise of ethnic rec-
onciliation was contrary to the UN
Charter.
Prof. Peiris recalled how Sri
Lanka was a founding-member of
the Commonwealth and reaffirmed
the nation’s active commitment to
dialogue and engagement with the
organisation of former British colo-
nies in multiple sectors. He also
elaborated the action taken by local
institutions toward reconciliation,
noting that this is a continual pro-
cess in which the country requires
adequate space for local institu-
tions to carry out their missions.
Days earlier in his initial response
to High Commissioner Bachelet’s
observations, Minister Peiris reject-
ed ‘any external initiatives’ estab-
lished by UN mechanisms, claiming
that they would ‘polarise our socie-
ty’. Aligning with past posturing,
Peiris added that domestic pro-
cesses were ‘vigorously addressing’
questions of accountability and jus-
tice lingering from the civil war
years.
In her customary ‘oral statement’
at the inauguration of the ongoing
48th session, High Commissioner
Bachelet had side-stepped her core
‘negative’ observations and referred
to President Gotabaya Rajapaksa’s
June remarks that his Government
was ‘committed to work with the
UN to ensure accountability’. The
reiteration of the Government’s
position thrice in two weeks now
should set at rest speculation of the
Bachelet kind, if any clarification
was needed.
In a way, the current Sri Lankan
UN Human Rights Chief
Michelle Bachelet
position is only in continuation of
what then Foreign Minister Dinesh
Gunawardena had announced in
February 2020, about the Nation’s
withdrawal from Resolution 40/1,
co-sponsored by the previous Gov-
ernment (2015-19). Yet, the UN
Rights Chief looked forward for
‘concrete actions’ from the Sri Lan-
kan Government on its past com-
mitments (under the Co-Sponsored
Resolutions), and urged Council
Members to continue paying ‘close
attention’ to the nation’s record in
the matter, which to her was not
encouraging as on previous occa-
sions too.
Core principles
The UNGA created the UNHRC
as recently as 2006 to replace the
UN Commission on Human Rights.
Though all five Veto-powers that
included China and Russia voted
for the creation of UNHRC at the
UNGA, they too have felt ‘victim-
ised’ by the system from time-to-
time.
There have since been arguments
that the West created the UNHRC
only to avoid the Veto-vote at the
UN Security Council (UNSC) and
Foreign Minister
Prof. G. L. Peiris
has partially succeeded in it. Oth-
ers argue how at the end of it all,
UNHRC’s decisions and OHCHR’s
budgets for individual investiga-
tions too have to go back to the
UNGA/UNSC.
With the permanent British
Chair of the Commonwealth head-
ing the ‘Core Group’ of Nations
targeting Sri Lanka now at the
UNHRC, it is anybody’s guess what
Colombo now intends achieving by
flagging its Geneva concerns with
Secretary-General Patricia Scot-
land. It leads to the natural ques-
tion if by taking up the issue to the
Commonwealth, Sri Lanka hopes
to stalemate the UK on its home
turf, by pushing for a headcount at
some point.
By expanding the scope of the
UNHRC discourse to include other
nations ‘victimised’ by the system,
and also taking it up in another
forum whose members are also
present in the parent UNGA, the
Sri Lankan leadership seems want-
ing to take on the West, not on
facts and details, as listed out by
the OHCHR but on ‘core princi-
ples’. The idea, it seems, is to trig-
ger internal debates, if possible, in
such other non-UN regional/ethnic
groupings, too, wherein a substan-
tial number of member states may
feel similarly ‘victimised’ by the
UN/UNHRC system.
In such debates, and also in the
UNHRC and UNGA, Sri Lanka has
counted on China’s politico-eco-
nomic reach, worldwide, particu-
larly amongst poorer nations. In the
past, when the West wanted to haul
up Colombo before the UNSC, post-
war, 2009, beginning with informal
consultations, China and Russia
stood their ground.
With the result, the US-led group-
ing turned its glare towards Gene-
va, where they had had their way. It
required much persuasion of a
majority of 47 voting Members at
the UNHRC at the time. That was
only after India, China and Paki-
stan, amongst others, had joined
hands to defeat an anti-Colombo
Resolution of the European Union
(EU) at the UNHRC only 10 days
after the conclusion of the war in
May 2009, and getting a Sri Lanka-
friendly Resolution passed instead.
The UNHRC passed Resolution
46/1 in March this year, to expand
the scope of OHCHR investigations
beyond the original ‘war crimes’
and other ‘accountability issues’ of
the time, to include current and
continuing events and develop-
ments, almost on a day-to-day
basis. It had only 22 of 47 affirma-
tive votes. Half that number, includ-
ing Pakistan, China and Russia,
voted against the resolution while
14 others, including the closest
Indian neighbour, abstained.
- Observer Research Foundation
 DN page 10 GLOBAL T U E S D AY, S E P T E M B E R 2 8 , 2 0 2 1

COVID caused biggest

GERMAN ELECTIONS: drop in Life Expectancy
since World War II: Study
SPD narrowly beats Angela
Merkel's CDU/CSU bloc WO R
LD

Merkel's bloc sees worst result since 1949

GERMANY: Germany's center-left Social Dem-
ocrats won the biggest share of the vote in a
national election Sunday, narrowly beating outgo-
ing Chancellor Angela Merkel 's center-right
CDU/CSU conservative bloc in a closely fought
race that will determine who succeeds the long-
time leader at the helm of Europe's biggest econo-
my.
The Social Democrats' candidate Olaf Scholz,
the outgoing Vice Vhancellor and Finance Minis-
ter who pulled his party out of a years-long
slump, said the outcome was “a very clear man-
date to ensure now that we put together a good,
pragmatic government for Germany.”
Despite getting its worst-ever result in a federal
contest for Merkel's CDU/CSU bloc since 1949,
the Union bloc said it too would reach out to
smaller parties to discuss forming a Government,
while Merkel stays on in a caretaker role until a
successor is sworn in.
Election officials said early Monday that a
count of all 299 constituencies showed the Social
Democrats received 25.9% of the vote, ahead of
24.1% for the Union bloc. No winning party in a
German national election had previously taken
less than 31% of the vote.
Armin Laschet, the governor of North Rhine-
Westphalia state who outmaneuvered a more pop-
ular rival to secure the nomination of Merkel's
Union bloc, had struggled to motivate the party's
base and suffered a series of missteps.
Social Democratic Party candidate Olaf Scholz.
with Merkel departing after 16 years in power, “no
one had an incumbent bonus in this election.”
Laschet told supporters that “we will do every-
thing we can to form a Government under the
Union's leadership, because Germany now needs a
coalition for the future that modernizes our coun-
try.”
Both Laschet and Scholz will be courting the
same two parties: the environmentalist Greens,
who were third with 14.8%; and the pro-business
Christian Democrats candidate
(CDU/CSU) Armin Laschet
the other way. The other option was a repeat of
the outgoing “grand coalition” of the Union and
Social Democrats that has run Germany for 12 of
Merkel's 16 years in power, but there was little
obvious appetite for that after years of govern-
ment squabbling.
The Left Party was projected to win only 4.9%
of the vote and risked being kicked out of parlia-
ment entirely.
The far-right Alternative for Germany —
UK: The coronavirus disease
(Covid-19) pandemic reduced life
expectancy last year by the largest
amount since World War II, news
agency Reuters reported citing a
study by Oxford University.
The study showed that life
expectancy dropped by more than
six months compared with 2019 in
22 countries and reductions in life
expectancy were seen in 27 coun-
tries out of the 29, including the
United States, Europe and Chile.
According to data by worldome-
ters.com, 4,761,895 people have
succumbed to Covid-19 till now
across the world and the US con-
tinues to top the death toll at
706,317, followed by Brazil and
India.
The study revealed that there
was a greater reduction in life
expectancy for men than women in
the majority of the countries.
The largest reduction was seen in
men from the United States, who
saw life expectancy drop by 2.2
years relative to 2019.
"The fact that our results high-
light such a large impact that is
directly attributable to Covid-19
shows how devastating a shock it
has been for many countries," said
Dr Ridhi Kashyap, co-lead author
of the paper, published in the Inter-
national Journal of Epidemiology.
Dr Kashyap appealed to more coun-
tries, including those in the bracket
of low and middle income.
In the US, the surge in mortality
was largely seen in people of work-
ing age and those below 60 years.
On the other hand, deaths due to
Covid-19 among people over 60
years contributed more significantly
towards the increase in mortality,
the Oxford University study also
showed. - PTI

Taliban ban barbers from

“Of course, this is a loss of votes that isn't pret- Free Democrats, who took 11.5% of the vote. which no one else wants to work with —
ty,” Laschet said of results that looked set to The Greens traditionally lean toward the received 10.3%. This was about 2 percentage
undercut by some measure the Union's previous Social Democrats and the Free Democrats points less than in 2017, when it first entered
worst showing of 31% in 1949. But he added that toward the Union, but neither ruled out going parliament. - HINDUSTAN TIMES

France to donate 120mn vaccines to poor nations - Macron
FRANCE: President Emmanuel
Macron has said France will double
the number of vaccine doses it
donates to poorer countries to 120
million.
“The injustice is that in other conti-
nents vaccination is far behind
because of us, collectively,” Macron
said in a message broadcast during
the Global Citizen fundraising con-
cert in Paris. France will also commit
to helping Unicef and health systems
French President Emmanuel Macron with vaccine distribution, Macron
said, noting that only 3% of Africa’s
population is vaccinated. A federal
judge temporarily blocked New York
City’s school system, the largest in
the US, from imposing a vaccine man-
date for teachers and other staff.
South Korea is preparing to offer
booster shots to people over 60, med-
ical workers and other high-risk
groups. Australia’s Prime Minister
called on states to open their borders.
Prime Minister Scott Morrison said
state premiers must not keep borders
trimming beards in Helmand
New diktat: All girls to solemnise marriage
closed once the 80% of eligible Aus-
tralians are vaccinated, a threshold he after attaining age of 20 years
expects to reach by the end of the
year.
Police in Norway on Sunday report-
ed dozens of disturbances and violent
clashes including mass brawls in the
Nordic country’s big cities after
streets, bars, restaurants and night-
clubs were filled with people celebrat-
ing the end of COVID-19 restrictions
that lasted for more than a year.
- THE STATESMAN

Taliban to Delta variant detected across

change Afghan 185 countries: WHO
Passports, NICs SWITZERLAND: The Delta
COVID variant is the current
A barber waits for customers at his shop in Herat, Afghanistan on September
19, 2021

AFGHANISTAN: The Taliban ing all girls in that country to sol-

AFGHANISTAN: The Taliban have
announced they will change Afghan Pass-
ports and National Identity Cards issued by
the previous Government and said the doc-
uments will be valid for the time being,
according to a local media report. The
Khaama Press News Agency reported citing
Zabiullah Mujahid, the Taliban deputy min-
ister of information and culture and the
spokesperson, that it is possible that Afghan
passports and NIDs to have the name
"Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan" in them.
Mujahid also said that the documents
issued by the previous government are still
valid as legal documents of the country.
According to the news agency, passport
and national identity cards departments are
still closed in Afghanistan and only those
who have conducted their biometrics can
get these documents.
The Taliban are already affecting changes
in the country, which they swiftly recap-
tured last month, by replacing women's
ministry with the “Ministries of Prayer and
Guidance and the Promotion of Virtue and
Prevention of Vice”, not allowing to return
to schools and restoring punishments like
amputations and executions to deter crimi-
nals.
dominant strain of the infectious
virus, with its presence reported
in 185 countries, as of Septem-
ber 21, the World Health Organ-
isation has said.
"The Delta variant now
accounted for 90 percent of the
sequences submitted to GISAID
with a sample collection date
(between 15 June-15 September
2021)," the global health agency
said in its weekly epidemiologi-
cal update on Tuesday. GISAID,
which stands for Global Initia-
tive on Sharing Avian Influenza
Data, is an open-access data-
base.
"Less than one percent each
of Alpha, Beta, and Gamma are
currently circulating. It's really
predominantly Delta around the
world," Maria Van Kerkhove,
the World Health Organisation's
technical lead on Covid-19, was
quoted as saying during a WHO
social media live interaction.
Delta "has become more fit, it
is more transmissible and it is
out-competing, it is replacing
the other viruses that are circu-
lating," she added.
Meanwhile, the UN health
agency has revised the classifica-
tion of Eta (detected in 81 coun-
tries), Iota (identified in at least
49 countries), and Kappa
(spread to 57 countries) from
variants of interest (VOI) to
Variants Under Monitoring due
to their substantial decline in
the incidence worldwide. "The
VOIs Eta (B.1.525), Iota
(B.1.526), and Kappa
(B.1.617.1) have been reclassi-
fied as 'former VOIs'. These will
now be assessed as Variants
Under Monitoring," the WHO
said.
"The revision reflects the
rapid spread and current domi-
nance of the Delta variant in
most regions of the world," it
added. - DNA INDIA
have banned hairdressers in
Afghanistan's Helmand Province
from shaving or trimming beards, a
media report said.
"The Taliban have banned stylish
hairstyles and shaving beards in
Helmand Province in southern
Afghanistan," The The Frontier
Post reported citing the Taliban's
letter.
The publication further stated
that officials from the Ministry of
Islamic Orientation, at a meeting
with representatives of men's hair-
dressing salons in the provincial
capital, Lashkar Gah, advised
against styling hair and shaving
beards.
The order, distributed on social
networks, also contains a request
not to play music or hymns on the
premises of hairdressing salons,
The Frontier Post reported.
Meanwhile, After leaving out the
women leaders from induction in
the interim Cabinet in Kabul, the
Taliban has now issued a diktat ask-
emnize marriage after attaining the
age of 20 years in line with the Sha-
ria laws.
Widows below 35 years of age
whose husbands were killed during
the previous regime must register
their names with the local Taliban
leaders who would facilitate their
marriage with the Mujahideens.
In order to strengthen Islamic
ethics, all girls above 20 years will
need to get married, according to a
written order of the Islamic Emir-
ate of Afghanistan All parents are
requested that girls aged 18 years
and wish to attend universities
need to marry so that they can go
to the campuses with their hus-
bands. According to the order,
these measures have been issued to
strengthen Islamic laws. The Tali-
ban has also asked all women to
refrain from joining any office till a
decision in this regard is taken by
the outfit. Experts termed the move
as retrograde and inhuman.
- INDIA TODAY

New lava vents burst open in La Palma volcano

On Saturday, a local government official
in the western Afghan city of Herat said
that the Taliban killed four alleged kidnap-
pers and hung their bodies up in public to
deter others. - NDTV
An Afghan Passport.
SPAIN: Huge bursts of lava were
seen shooting into the air on the
Spanish island of La Palma as new
vents opened in the Cumbre Vieja
volcano. The intense lava flows that
started last Sunday have forced thou-
sands to evacuate, and on Saturday,
an accumulation of ash forced the
small island's airport to close.
Photos posted by the Volcanologi-
cal Institute of the Canary Islands on
Saturday show thick, dark smoke
plummeting out of the volcano. The
institute, known as INVOLCAN, said
that an emission vent had opened
west of the initial one. However, the
amplitude of the volcanic tremor had
"decreased notably" as of Saturday
night local time, the institute said.
The latest eruptions forced the La
Palma airport to close due to an accu-
mulation of ash, Spanish airport oper-
ator Aena tweeted. As the volcano
continues to erupt, those who live on
the island are susceptible to earth-
quakes, lava flows, toxic gases, vol-
canic ash and acid rain. Of major con-
cern to people on the island is the
health effects and damage caused by
the volcano.
Since Cumbre Vieja started erupt-
ing an estimated 6,000 people have
been evacuated from the island, the
government of the Canary Islands
said in a statement on Friday. Rough-
ly 160 people in the nearby areas of
Tajuya, Tacande de Abajo and Tacan-
de de Arriba, located roughly 10
miles from the volcano, also evacuat-
ed.
The damage caused by the erup-
tion could last up to 84 days,
researchers from the Volcanology
Institute said. Huge bursts of lava shooting into the air on the Spanish island of La
- CBS NEWS Palma as new vents opened in the Cumbre Vieja volcano.

Speech from the newly appointed Head Boy
ISIPATHANA COLLEGE, COLOMBO 5
ISHARA JAYAWARDANE
H
ead Boy of Isipathana College, Colombo 5, Devin Sriyarathna believes that it
is important to respect diversity but more than anything he knows the
importance of good judgment. He knows that his judgment is important.
Perfect Prefect features Sriyarathna, who believes in fellowship and unity.
It is very easy to criticize the per-
son who has to do the job. For those
who are not leaders, it can seem like
an easy job. Sriyarathna feels that a
great leader is one who can foresee
future problems and who can come
up with effective solutions. Indeed,
Sriyarathna’s words are certainly
meaningful at a time when the world
has seen an upheaval in Afghanistan.
His comments come at a time when
Covid19 has claimed the lives of
nearly 4.7 million people.
“A leader is one who knows the
way, shows the way and goes the
way. According to my point of view,
a leader should take risks. He should
not be afraid to take risks. Also I feel
that a leader should be pragmatic. I
firmly believe that a leader should
give those around him/her a sense of
security,” says Sriyarathna.
His patriotism is fervent. He
believes that as Sri Lankans, we
should love our country. He believes
that it is our duty to serve our coun-
try. We have heard so many people
use the phrase – ‘We must be unit-
ed’. That phrase alone means noth-
ing. Yet if we take this in the context
of 9/11, then it takes on a very dif-
ferent meaning. Then the words
evoke emotions. If you move to
USA, you will meet people of many
races. This is the same everywhere
in the world. And after 9/11 they
looked to each other. In the face of a
common enemy they were united.
Wushu team, 2nd place in all island Wushu Tournament
Enigma 19, Science Day of Isipathana College, with teacher in charge and crew
Newly Appointed Top Board
This is the love of the homeland that
Sriyarathna possesses.
“Being a Sri Lankan, I care about
the needs of other Sri Lankans. I
believe that we all should defend our
country. This is the spirit of com-
mon brotherhood or sisterhood. As
citizens of Sri Lanka we have many
rights, but we also have responsibili-
ties towards our community and
country. I also need to point out that
in any organization or team solidari-
ty is of utmost importance.”
Sriyarathna, over and over again
T U E S D AY, S E P T E M B E R 2 8 , 2 0 2 1
says that outer appearances do not
matter when it comes to leadership.
The way you speak and behave will
ultimately reveal who you are. He
says that leaders should have integri-
ty. As former U.S. Secretary of State
Colin Powell once said, ‘The essence
of leadership is holding your people
to the highest possible standard
while taking the best possible care
of them.’ This is something that
even he, Sriyarathna believes in.
Leaders who lead through fear, cre-
ate a kind of culture that is marked
by terror, timidity, and low morale.
This is not the kind of leader Sriyar-
athna aspires to be.
In our interview, Sriyarathna
speaks a lot about leadership. Lead-
ership is important because critical
junctures are turning points that
alter the course of the evolution of
society. There are many types of
leaders in history. There are dicta-
tors who rule with an iron fist (some
historians say that Saddam Hussein
was one). Then there are those lead-
ers who were loved by their men and
feared by their enemies. And then
there are of course Spiritual Leaders.
Such leaders are rare. Buddha and
Jesus never once used force. But
their message has endured for more
than 2000 years.
“My biggest inspiration in life is
Lord Buddha. According to my point
of view, Lord Buddha is one of the
PAGE 11
Head Boy Devin Sriyarathna
greatest leaders in history. Even
after 2500 years, people still believe
in his teachings. He certainly had a
magnetic personality, yet people
were drawn to his teachings. I think
when it comes to qualities he is the
ideal role model,” said Sriyarathna.
“As a leader you will be given
many responsibilities. As a leader
you have to know your people and
look out for their welfare. It is vital
that you never compromise your eth-
ics. I believe a code of ethics is very
important, both for you and your
team members. Do not procrasti-
nate. When you leave school and
step into society, you will meet
groups of people more diverse than
those you have encountered at
school. You will meet people from
different social and ethnic back-
grounds. You will meet people who
share different ideologies. You may
even have to go to work overseas. So
you need to respect their beliefs and
traditions. You need to respect this
diversity. There may be disagree-
ments, so you need to trust your
judgment,” said Sriyarathna.
He added that maybe along the
way you may encounter pessimists.
But do not be disheartened. Pursue
your dreams and focus on your
goals. Sriyarathna says that you
more than anyone else know what
you are capable of, so do not under-
estimate yourself and always remem-
ber who you are. Again your judge-
ment is so important in those situa-
tions.
He explains that in the middle of
the Isipathana school logo, is a lamp
and a book. The lighted lamp sym-
bolizes wisdom. The petals symbol-
ize prosperity. Their motto says
‘Strive with Determination’. “Our
logo and school motto mean a lot to
Isipathanians. When I wear the
badge with the school logo, I feel so
Epistimi 19, Science Day of Yasodara Vidyalaya, Head Boy and team winning
1st place
Badge being pinned by Principal
proud to be a son of Mother
Isipathana. We all obey the same set
of rules and the code of ethics. We
do our utmost to make Mother
Isipathana proud.”
Sriyarathna points out that soft
skills and people skills are so impor-
tant in our lives. This is what the
youth really need to stay ahead in
the extremely competitive work-
place. His message to the youth is to
be principled citizens. If you leave
school with a set of principles then
you will never be led astray by bad
friends. We live in a world where
drug addiction is a huge problem.
He puts it succinctly by saying –
‘nature treats and punishes us at the
same time like a boomerang for eve-
rything we do.’
“I really want to be an Engineer
in the future. Furthermore, I would
like to invent something that is use-
ful for the common people. This
involves hard work and I am ready
to put in the hard work. This is one
of my many dreams. I also feel that I
have to give back to my school, so I
hope to guide young Isipathanians
and help them succeed in life. I
want to say a big thank you to my
dear Principal and my school teach-
ers for helping me to become who I
am today,” concluded Sriyarathna.
 DN page 12
TOWN & COUNTRY T U E S D AY, S E P T E M B E R 2 8 , 2 0 2 1

FIVE YEARS BEYOND HALF CENTURYLYCEUM KURUNEGALA CELEBRATES ITS FIFTH ANNIVERSARY
CHANDANA HETTIARACHCHI

F
ive years back, to date, at the
pediment of historical Athu-
gala in the heart of the city
of Kurunegala, North West-
ern Province, marked the embedding
of the sapling of an age old Wise Oak;
the inauguration of the Kurunegala
Branch of the Lyceum International
Schools Network, as the youngest
member of its chain of schools ; Nuge-
goda, Wattala, Panadura, Gampaha,
Ratnapura, Nuwara Eliya and Anurad-
hapura.
On September 16, 2016, the dream
of the eager parents, awaiting the
arrival of Lyceum to Kurunegala, was
realized flourishing their hopes for a
perfect English medium education for
their children. The 8th branch of the
Lyceum International Schools Net-
work started with 136 students and
15 teachers, and there were only 6
classes from Pre-grade to Grade 3.
The school has rapidly grown since
then. The parents, who had been vigi-
lant over the perfect and clear path-
ways for their loved little ones’ future,
found Lyceum to be the best place.
Today, the student body is over thou-
sand three hundred. Currently the
school premises consists of two four-
storeyed buildings, and the staff com-
prises hundred and fifty teachers
divided among 52 classes; from Pre-
primary to Grade 9 in both local and
international curriculum. There is a
promise for much more in the coming
years.
The Lyceum Kurunegala property
houses the Lyceum Adventure Park
completed with a camping area, Day
Care Centre, auditorium, open thea-
tre, playground, gymnasium, swim-
ming pool, hostels, residences, and
several other features, which provide
our students ample opportunity to
enjoy their regular indoor and out-
door activities. It also provides a
range of exciting events throughout
the year.
Lyceum International School,
Kurunegala has already provided tes-
timony to its foreseen future. Within a
year, in 2017, the students brought
home glory, with national level
achievements in varied competitions
while successfully proceeding in their
academic path under the guidance of
an experienced team of teachers. The
students are privileged to engage in a
plethora of co-curricular activities
such as sports, aesthetic, vocational
education and international forums
under the proper guidance of experts
in particular fields. The national and
international level achievements and
the victories gained by the Kurunega-
la Lyceumers within a short period of
time is commendable. They have dis-
played their talents and capabilities at
many occasions in different fields.
With the discipline and training the
students have achieved a number of
victories in sports, including Swim-
The first batch of the school
ming, Chess, Table Tennis, Badmin-
ton, Karate and Gymnastics. The jun-
ior Cricket team too shows promise of
future accolades. Not only in sports,
even in the fields of Dancing, Music
and Arts, Lyceum Kurunegala has
gained islandwide recognition as the
students have claimed several victo-
ries continuously during the past five
years. The western brass band,
orchestra and the eastern dancing
teams of Lyceum Kurunegala are still
young, yet present much maturity and
talents second to no other, through
rather astonishing performances. The
Lyceum Kurunegala Broadcasting
Unit is a paradise for young communi-
cators to sharpen their skills.
The students of Lyceum Kurunega-
la have taken part in speech competi-
tions, debating contests, international
Olympiad competitions and essay
writing competitions as well, and
displayed their talents, proving that
they are competent in bringing honor
to their alma mater in all aspects of a
wholesome education.
In the international arena, Lyceum
Kurnegala is well known because of
the Global Social Leaders team. In
2019 August, the G.S.L team of Lyce-
um Kurunegala represented Sri Lanka
in the global forum, where 105 coun-
tries took part in the United King-
dom. There, they were awarded the
Junior Standout Award for their out-
standing social work, for three con-
secutive years. The members of the
G.S.L team gets involved in environ-
mentally friendly social projects every
year, encouraging the community to
save the greenery for the future, while
boosting the sustainable development
goals of the United Nations. Even
under pandemic conditions, which is
prevailing in the country for almost
two years now, the G.S.L team mem-
bers have been very active via online
platforms. They are unstoppable.
They are strengthening their interna-
tional relationships, while spreading
their wings beyond the horizon.
In the aftermath of the Easter
Attack, while the schools were closed
islandwide, the experienced manage-
ment of the Lyceum International
Schools network recognized the
importance of online education and
found alternatives to continue with
the education beyond the classroom.
When Covid-19 rendered the country
Opening ceremony
paralyzed collapsing the entire educa-
tion system, Lyceum Kurunegala pro-
ceeded with online learning & teach-
ing, thus completing the academic
years 2019/2020 and 2020/2021 suc-
cessfully while most of the schools
were struggling to navigate through
the process under various circum-
stances. The new concept of virtual
school emerged along with the Covid-
19 pandemic and the academic team
of Lyceum Kurunegala has well prov-
en the fact that nothing is impossible.
Under the pandemic conditions
while the entire country is forced to
stay at home, the students of Lyceum
Kurunegala continues to complete
their education within the safe envi-
ronment of their home. While study-
ing via online school, they are involved
in many more skill development activ-
ities. Innovative programmes such as;
‘Study Buddy’, ‘Life Skills Develop-
ment Challenges’, ‘Subject Hubs’,
‘Virtual Assemblies’, ‘Digital Maga-
zines’, ‘Mirror Walls’, ‘The Lyceum
Writers’, ‘Virtual Hikes’, and many
more events have created a meaning-
ful and exciting ‘work/study from
home’ environment for the students
as well as their parents. The religious,
cultural and social activities often
shared via Lyceum social media, have
gained the fullest cooperation and
lively participation of the parents and
the well-wishers. The Lyceum Kurune-
gala Dhamma School inspires reli-
gious education and it is open for all
students of Sri Lanka and overseas.
The school is always benefited with
the blessings, guidance and the
utmost care of the Founder of the
Lyceum International Schools Net-
work, Dr. Mohan Lal Grero, the Coor-
dinating Principal, Dr. Kumari Grero,
the Director, Nikitha Grero, and the
Senior Management Team. The
young innovative leadership of the
present Principal of the school, Chan-
dana Basnayake is also a great asset
to the school.
The concept of ‘Leaf Schools’ initi-
ated by Lyceum Kurunegala, within a
short period of time, has spread its
influence in the territory, providing
more opportunities to the parents liv-
ing in the school’s enclosing areas, to
enjoy the benefits of Lyceum Pre-pri-
mary Education.
Successful five years have passed.
Today, the entire school community
celebrates the Fifth Anniversary of
Lyceum International School Kurune-
gala, with humble pride and the hum-
ble sense of pleasure of working
towards achieving goals, and over-
coming challenges while leading
towards the vision of the Lyceum
Network, ‘To produce global citizens
who will reshape the future of their
Motherland’. There is a long way to
go. Let’s wish all the best to the
Kurunegala Lyceum International
School for a bright future. Congratula-
tions Lyceum Kurunegala! Happy 5th
Anniversary!

FELICITATIONS AND CELEBRATIONS

Text and pictures by I L M RIZAN,
Addalaichenai Central Corr

S
enior Sri Lanka Educa-
tion Administrative Ser-
vice (SLEAS) Officer
Class –I and Akkaraipattu
Zonal Education Director A L M
Cassim who retired after 37 years
service was felicitated.
The staff of the Zonal Education Coordinating Principal, Director - Deputy Chairperson -
Office, Akkaraipattu said farewell Tilina Diyagama Malithi Jayatissa Diyagama
to their boss who had served in
Akkaraipattu for two terms.
Cassim’s service is very much COMPLETING A DECADE
OF EXCELLENCE
valued and highly appreciated by
the schools and community of
Akkaraipattu.

The ceremony presided over by
the Deputy Education Director
(Admin) A G Fasmil held at the
Akkaraipattu Zonal Education
Office Auditorium recently in hon-
ouring COVID 19 health guide-
lines. The incoming Zonal Educa-
tion Director and Senior Sri Lanka
Education Administrative Service
(SLEAS) Officer Class –I A M
Rahumathullah too was in attend-
ance.
On the stage Zonal Education
Director Cassim was sashed with
a golden shawl and awarded a
memento and prizes. Cassim has
served as an Assistant Education
Director at Colombo Zonal Educa-
tion Office, Teacher Centre Man-
ager in Colombo, Zonal Education
Director at Mutur Educational
Zone. He also served as senior
Lecturer, Kalutara Government
Teachers’ College and Dharga
Town National College of Educa-
tion.
Deputy Education Directors
(Education Development) M M
Sithy Fathima, (Planning) A M
Hazeen and (Management) P M Y
Arafath, Accountant K Lin-
geswaran, Administrative Officer
A M Rimzaan, Assistant Educa-
tion Directors, Divisional Educa-
tion Officers, In- Service Advisors,
Management Services Officers
(MSO), Development Officers
(DO) and Office Employees’ Ser-
vice (OES) participated.
L
eeds International School is one
of the prominent brand names
among the prestigious private
school networks of Sri Lanka.
The Matugama branch is one of the main
pillars contributing to it’s success and
glory since its early days.
Leeds Matugama, has completed a
decade of excellence in the classroom
and in extra-curricular activities.
The school is proud of its school com-
munity including students, parents and a
well experienced staff dedicated to creat-
ing an academically rigorous, culturally
caring, inclusive learning and teaching
environment.
The school was originally established
in the year 2011 with the fullest support
of our Chairman and Founder,
Deshamanya Dr. Sarath Jayatissa. The
Co-founder and the former principal
Swarnaki Gunawardana has also been
instrumental when it comes to the suc-
cess of the school.
At present, the school is well equipped
with a number of facilities including new
spacious buildings, home science room,
a well-equipped science laboratory and a
computer laboratory creating a child
friendly environment.
They have reached academic excel-
lence by producing 100 percent results in
the G.C.E Ordinary Level examination
continuously for three years. It must be
Chairman - Dr Sarath Jayatissa
mentioned that they have many achieve-
ments in district and national level too.
At Leeds Matugama priority is also
given to extracurricular and co- curricu-
lar activities. Sports include Karate, Bad-
minton, Athletics, Chess and Swimming.
Students have equal opportunity to
engage in such activities.
The school management includes the
present principal Dilini Senevirathne, the
administrative staff and teachers who are
committed when it comes to providing a
supportive and challenging learning envi-
ronment where all students can succeed
and reach their full potential.
Leeds Matugama understands that
their students live in an ever changing
world and recognize the need of produc-
ing good and able citizens for the coun-
try by discovering their true potential.
T U E S D AY, S E P T E M B E R 2 8 , 2 0 2 1
TOWN & COUNTRY page 13 DN

INSPIRED BY Q:
executed that mission success-
fully.
Do you think “Haamath Sathek” is the
that this kind song that I consider as the
turning point in my music
of style will career. With this single, I
empower the youth and invented a brand new artsy

PSYCHOLOGICAL
persona of myself and a
avoid them from ruining unique aggressive lyrical style.
Most of the listeners believe it
SURESHNI PILAPITIYA
their lives by living in as my masterpiece; my signa-
a fantasy world and

I
ture track.
t is said that Rap and My latest release is “Phoe-
chasing after dreams they

Hip hop music began
isolating the percussion
breaks of funk, Soul,
and disco songs and extending
them. MC’s tasked generated
at block parties in New York
city in the early 70 ‘s, when
DJs began isolating the per-
cussion breaks of funk, soul,
and disco songs and extending
them.
ISSUES
more like a piece of advice. He
also has worked with fellow
could never accomplish?
Yes, I think conscious rap
can arouse youth potential in a
different perspective, that they
can determine the difference
between reality and fantasy. It
of my friends gave me a CD is important that they choose
full of English songs and it what dreams to chase.
nix” which was created with a
whole different concept which
includes my personal experi-
ences and loads of motivation-
al lyrics and bars. The feed-
back of the audience was posi-
tive and many of them con-
tacted me in person and
shared how this song is relat-
ed to their own lives and the
way it helped them to make it

MC’s tasked with introduc-
ing the DJ’s and keeping the
crowd energized would talk
between songs, joking and
interacting with the audience.
During the 90’s, it became a
global craze all over with
artistes such as Eminem,
2Pac, Snoop Dogg, Drake, 50
cent, and progressed up to
modern artistes such as Cardi
artists such as Costa, Drill
team and several others. In
addition, he has a pod cast
channel where he talks about
music and his perspective of
music in general. His iconic
tagline is ‘’ Kana haraha
molayata’’ (through the ear to
the brain ) so therefore meet
Rayvian Floyd Driyon , better
known in his stage name as
Q:
included 2-3 songs by through their hard times.
Eminem. They were Lose One of my music videos
Yourself, Mockingbird and Your songs called “Nirnamika Ganu
How Come. That’s when I was seem to mostly Lamai” featured by Sathyajith
inspired to write my own rap Perera was nominated for the
verses. I used to rap with my focused on Best Hip Hop Music Video
friends at school for fun. In psychological subjects, award at Derana Music Video
2014, Prasa KG from “Ahasa Awards in 2015. Other than
Crew” asked me to join them social issues and politics, that, I have worked with
and that is how I began my Minol Witharana from Drill
journey as a Sinhala rap artist. apart from love and Team Westnahira, one of the
emotions, etc. Why did

B, Travis Scott, Jay Z, Lil’
Wayne. This genre is more
known as R&B /Hip Hop glob-
Q:
‘’Rude boy ‘’ on today’s T&C. pioneers of Sinhala rap scene;
Ajith Kumarasiri, Azim Ous-
Excerpts: Was there any you mostly focus on those man, Prasa KG and more. All
reason to select

Q:
ally, but to the Sri Lankan
audiences it is more familiar
as ‘’ Rap ‘’ music.
When most genres focused
only on lovesick or heartbro-
ken love based themes, Genres
such as Hip hop and Rock
focused on more realistic
themes such as social discrimi-
topics? these tracks were produced by
Harindu Fernando aka Shred-
Tell us about Rap/ Hip hop der Beatz. Many more projects
yourself so that music? Even though rapping is are to be released in the near
mostly about loads of brag- future with various artists
the Sri Lankan ging, I like to think of rap exclusively on my YouTube
audience will get to know The techniques, flows and music as an art form where Channel, Rudeboyray and
word plays in rap music were you can talk about things that every other music platform
you better. really fascinating for me. really matter. Even when we such as Spotify, Apple Music,

nation, social injustice, poli-
tics, depression, greed and
corruption, poverty and war
etc.
Our guest today is also an
upcoming Rap / R&B hip hop
artiste who is creating a name
for himself as a rap artist who
speaks about such themes. He
has a tendency to address the
My name is Rayviyan Floyd
Driyon, goes by the stage
name RUDEBOYRAY. I’m an
independent conscious rap art-
ist in Sri Lanka who has been
in the scene since 2014. I’m
currently working as a quality
controller for a Swedish Fash-
ion company. Other than that
Although rap music was not
so popular in Sri Lanka at the
times, it was an exciting
music genre for me. I was
especially attracted to
Eminem’s songs and the way
he expressed the struggles and
rage of his life through music
and I also thought to myself, if
he could do it, why not me?
experiences as well when
writing the lyrics?
lot for this within a very short
period of time recently. We
Q:
look at the history, we can see Deezer etc.
how rap music was used to
express the sufferings of black In your opinion,
community in the USA. So who are the
this music style is limitless
and artists can use it in many best artists in
different ways. Personally, I this industry, both locally
like to use it to ease the pres-
sure and the stress that I’m and internationally?
going through each and every

audiences by using themes
such as motivation, depres-
sion, politics and social traits.
Q:
I host a Podcast called “Adi-
karam Sithivili Podcast” and a
blog called “Adikaram Sithivi-
can see good upcoming young day. I fought depression for a Locally, I prefer Manasick
rappers, producers and musi- long period of time and music and Minol from Drill Team
What do you Yes, I include what I see in cians nowadays. The audience was the best cure for me to Westnahira, MasterD and an
think is the

He has released several songs
including ‘’Hamath Sathek
‘’,‘’Atlas’’, ‘’Phoneix ‘’ and
‘’Caligynephobia’’. Each of his
songs represents a serious
Q:
li”. society and the experiences has embraced this art form up overcome that unstable situa- upcoming rapper called Xyren.
that I have undergone in my to some extent. Majority of tion. I want my listeners to Internationally, I’m a huge fan
How did speciality in this life as the inspiration for my the audience is teenagers and feel me through my music and of Eminem because I wouldn’t
it all genre? lyrics. As a citizen in a third it is spreading rapidly to other help them to overcome their be here if it wasn’t for his
world country, I see how peo- age groups as well, which is a problems. music. Also NF, Token, J.Cole,
begin?

Q:
theme which can be seen in ple struggle to survive and good sign. Jay-Z are also my favourites.

the society and also some
message to the modern youth,
When I was in grade 7, one
Q: Q:
The speciality of this genre how corruption has taken over
is that it is an art form in the whole social-political sys- I would like
which anyone can express tem, which is insane. I’m just To which to know what Is there any
their feelings and thoughts in another reporter who speaks audiences do you mean message which
a bold-creative and a brutally of what’s going on in society,
honest way. With the lyrical but the difference is that I’m you cater your to express through you would like
rhyming schemes and the brutally honest and conscious songs mostly to? to give to the Sri Lankan
structure, there’s more free- about its true self. “Caligynephobia”?
audience and society in

Q:
dom to write and express
without boundaries, unlike There is no specific age According to modern West-
other music genres. What do you group or category, but I dedi- ern Medical Science, Caligy- general?
think of Sri

Q:
cate and cater my songs fully nephobia is the term for “fear
to listeners who listen whole- of beautiful women”. It is also There is a negative impres-
Most of your Lankan music heartedly and have a unique called “Venustraphobia”. Most sion in the society about rap
songs seem industry and also Rap and taste and awareness with their of the men have this fear up to culture in Sri Lanka, mostly
own reading about everything some extent. I came across because of their lack of knowl-
to be focused hip hop culture? that’s happening around us. I this term when I was in grade edge about rap music and its
on social topics such have a limited audience, but 6 and later on I thought of origin. Don’t be too quick to
First of all, there is no they have an urge to listen and doing a music track about this judge before you really listen
as politics, society, “music industry’’ in this coun- dissect the lyrics and meaning unspoken medical condition. to what these rappers mean.
try yet. It’s still developing. of my songs. It really intrigues So I contacted Costa, one of You’ll never know what you
motivation etc. Do The rap/hip hop artists in this me to create more controver- the most popular rap artists in have been missing until you
you include your own generation have contributed a sial new contents. the Sinhala rap scene and we try it.

Don’t take social

media too seriously
J A
ennifer Lopez tries
not to take social
media seriously so
it doesn’t affect her on an
emotional level.
The music superstar
can be relied upon to
upload content to her Ins-
tagram and Twitter pages
on a regular basis, and
while she engages with
social media frequently,
she makes sure she
doesn’t take it so serious-
ly that the negativity and
trolling affects her.
“I’m lucky because I
know enough of the old
world before social media,
and so I’m not a kid who’s
growing up on it where
it’s the be-all and end-all
and it could really destroy
me emotionally,” she told
Adweek magazine. “I
know that it’s great for
what it is, but I also don’t
take it so seriously that it
could somehow hurt me
on an emotional or per-
sonal level.”
The 52-year-old loves
being able to use her plat-
forms to promote her pro-
jects and brand partner-
ships and to set the record
straight on any rumours,
but she also sets bounda-
ries and only posts what
she feels comfortable
with.
“I also recognize the
responsibility and the
need to set boundaries.
It’s also on my terms
without the traditional
media creating a narra-
tive that I can’t dispel,”
she explained. “Now I can
go, ‘No, that’s not who I
am.’ And people can see
me for who I really am.
There’s a direct line, and I
think that’s incredibly
important.
“If somebody wants to
be outspoken on social
media, that is their right
and their privilege, and I
applaud them for it - for
not being afraid of what
other people are going to
think when speaking
their minds. I speak my
mind when I need to, and
I wouldn’t want anybody
judging me for that.
That’s something that is
really a personal choice.”
Her social media strat-
egy seems to be working
as she has 177 million
Instagram followers and
45 million on Twitter.
Music News
Romance is in the air
nne-Marie takes
inspiration from
her past relation-
ships.
The ‘Ciao Adios’ hitmaker
has written tracks like ‘Tell
Your Girlfriend’ and ‘Better
Not Together’ for hew new
album ‘Therapy’, and she
explained her decision to
keep writing about previ-
ous romances.
She told the Metro news-
paper’s Guilty Pleasures
column: “Talking about
past relationships brings
up the emotion again.
“It’s about what I felt in
the past and what I am
starting to feel now about
past relationships.
“It can be the same situ-
ation as on my first album
[‘Speak Your Mind’], but
because of where I am at
now, it’s a completely dif-
ferent point of view.”
Thankfully for Anne-
Marie, none of her for-
mer flames have got in
touch over her tunes.
She added: “I haven’t
had to deal with exes,
which is great. It is quite
nice being able to sing
about it.
“Before I had a thera-
pist, my therapy was
telling everyone about
what I’ve been through.”
And while the prolific
songwriter has penned a
number of big hits, she
was worried during lock-
down that she’d run out
of good ideas.
She explained: “In
lockdown I did go
through a block where I
had no inspiration at all.
“It was quite scary at
the start because every-
one was like, ‘This is
your time to know your-
self truly and be
inspired’. I was like, ‘I lit-
erally have nothing in
my brain’.
“That was tough.
Throughout lockdown
the more I was learning
about myself, talking to
my therapist was giving
me inspiration.”
Anne-Marie recently
revealed she had sought
therapy for paranoia last
year but felt like an
“a*******” asking for help
because she thought her
glamorous lifestyle and a
successful career should
make her happy.
Pop Sugar
 DN page 14 GLOBAL T U E S D AY, S E P T E M B E R 2 8 , 2 0 2 1

“Vaccine apartheid”: Africans Google turns 23

tell UN they need vaccines
UN: As wealthy countries begin to con-
sider whether to offer their populations a
third COVID-19 shot, African nations still
waiting for their first have given this as a
stark reminder to world leaders at the UN
General Assembly: “No one is safe unless
we are all safe.” That message was repeat-
ed throughout the day as the inequity of
vaccine distribution came into sharp
focus September 23.
As of mid-September, fewer than 4% of
Africans have been fully immunised and
most of the 5.7 billion vaccine doses
administered around the world have been
given in just 10 rich countries.
Chad’s President Mahamat Idriss Déby
Itno warned of the dangers of leaving
countries behind.
“The virus doesn’t know continents,
borders, even less nationalities or social
statuses,” Mr. Itno told the General
Assembly.
“The countries and regions that aren’t
vaccinated will be a source of propagating
and developing new variants of the virus.
In this regard, we welcome the repeated
appeals of the United Nations secretary
general and the director general of the
(World Health Organization) in favor of
access to the vaccine for all. The salvation
of humanity depends on it.” The struggle
to contain the coronavirus pandemic has
featured prominently in leaders’ speeches
over the past few days — many of them
delivered remotely exactly because of the
virus. Country after country acknowl-
edged the wide disparity in accessing the
vaccine, painting a picture so bleak that a
solution has at times seemed impossibly
out of reach.
South Africa’s president Cyril
Ramaphosa pointed to vaccines as “the
greatest defense that humanity has
against the ravages of this pandemic.” “It
is therefore a great concern that the
global community has not sustained the
principles of solidarity and cooperation in
securing equitable access to COVID-19
vaccines,” he said. “It is an indictment on
humanity that more than 82% of the
world’s vaccine doses have been acquired
by wealthy countries, while less than 1%
has gone to low-income countries.” He
and others urged UN member states to
support a proposal to temporarily waive
certain intellectual property rights estab-
lished by the World Trade Organization
to allow more countries, particularly low-
and middle-income countries, to produce
COVID-19 vaccines.
Earlier this year, U.S. President Joe
Biden broke with European allies to
embrace the waivers, but there has been
no movement toward the necessary glob-
al consensus on the issue required under
WTO rules.
While some nongovernmental organi-
sations have called the waivers vital to
boosting global production of the shots,
U.S. officials concede it is not the most
constricting factor in the inequitable vac-
cine distribution — and some privately
doubt the waivers for the highly complex
shots would lead to enhanced production.
Angola President João Lourenço said it
was “shocking to see the disparity
between some nations and others with
respect to availability of vaccines.” “These
disparities allow for third doses to be
given, in some cases, while, in other
cases, as in Africa, the vast majority of
the population has not even received the
first dose,” Mr. Lourenço said.
The U.S., Britain, France, Germany
and Israel are among the countries that
have begun administering boosters or
announced plans to do so.
Namibia President Hage Geingob
called it “vaccine apartheid,” a notable
reference given the country’s own experi-
ence with apartheid when neighbouring
South Africa’s white minority govern-
ment controlled South West Africa, the
name for Namibia before its independ-
ence in 1990.
The grim consequences of COVID-19
hit Tanzania especially hard when the
East African country’s then-president
John Magufuli, who had insisted the coro-
navirus could be defeated with prayer,
died in March. The presidency went to
his deputy, Samia Suluhu Hassan, who
has since changed Tanzania’s course on
the pandemic but still sees great chal-
lenges ahead.
“We tend to forget that no one is safe
until everyone is safe,” she said during
her speech September 23, stressing the
importance of countries with surplus
COVID-19 vaccine doses sharing them
with other countries.
Benido Impouma, a program director
with the WHO’s Africa program, noted
during a weekly video news conference
that the surge in new COVID-19 cases is
starting to ease in Africa “but with
1,08,000 new cases, more than 3,000 lives
lost in the past week and 16 countries still
in resurgence, this fight is far from over.”
“Fresh increases in cases should be
expected in the coming months,” Mr.
Impouma said. “Without widespread
vaccination and other public and social
measures, the continent’s fourth wave is
likely to be the worst, the most brutal
yet.” Lack of access to vaccines is not
just Africa’s concern. Leaders of develop-
ing nations in different regions echoed
the frustration. President Luis Arce of
Bolivia, one of Latin America’s poorest
nations, told assembled diplomats that
biopharmaceutical companies should
make their patents available and share
knowledge and technology for vaccine
production.
“Access to the vaccine should be con-
sidered a human right. We cannot be
indifferent, much less profit from health
in pandemic times,” Mr. Arce said.
- THE HINDU
US: Google completes 23 years and in true Google fash-
ion, it has a special Doodle with a birthday cake.
While celebrations are in order, Sundar Pichai, the CEO
of Google’s $1.9 trillion parent Alphabet, and his team will
do well to remember one of founder Eric Schmidt’s famous
quote: “ego creates blind spots.” At 23, Google is as ubiq-
uitous as the air we breathe, a tech giant that tracks every-
thing from what we eat to where we go and who we like.
Google’s dominance in the smartphone market with the
Android operating system, as well as the online advertising
market and internet search, is no secret to anyone. It’s
synonymous with the internet and most people can’t imag-
ine the internet without it. And so, the responsibility of
behaving fairly is just as big.
Countries around the world are taking a critical look at
the technology that has embedded itself in our society and
asking companies like Google to earn their trust.
It is important to note that in at least three cases, the
verdicts are pending but the company has been found
guilty of similar charges in the past at least thrice. - YAHOO
NEWS

WHO recommends monoclonal antibodies

for ‘high risk’ COVID patients
SWITZERLAND: The World
Health Organization (WHO) has
recommended treatment with the
combination of two monoclonal
antibodies (Casirivimab and
imdevimab) for two groups of
high-risk patients with Covid-19 in
its latest living guidelines, sources
said here.
These high-risk patients include
those with non-severe Covid-19 at
high risk of hospitalization and
also seronegative patients with
severe or critical Covid-19.
Experts have also cautioned that
new variants may diminish the
effect of casirivimab and
imdevimab.
The combination of casirivimab
+ imdevimab has been shown to
reduce the odds of hospitalization
and symptom duration in older
persons, those who are unvacci-
nated or immunosuppressed,
according to Dr Veena Aggarwal,
Consultant Womens’ Health, trus-
tee, Dr K K’s Heart Care Founda-
tion of India.
Reduction in mortality and need
for mechanical ventilation in
seronegative patients was observed
in the recovery trial with this com-
bination, the sources added.
These new recommendations
have been made by the WHO
Guideline Development Group
(GDG), a panel of international
experts and patients and are in
addition to its earlier recommen-
dations of interleukin (IL)-6 recep-
tor blockers (tocilizumab or sari-
lumab) and systemic corticoster-
oids in patients with severe and
critical covid-19.
Meanwhile, the WHO strongly
recommends against the use of
ivermectin, hydroxychloroquine,
lopinavir-ritonavir in patients with
covid-19, regardless of disease
severity.
It makes a conditional recom-
mendation against systemic corti-
costeroids in patients with non-
severe disease and the use of rem-
desivir in hospitalised patients
with COVID-19. - THE STATESMAN
T U E S D AY, S E P T E M B E R 2 8 , 2 0 2 1 SPORT page 15 DN

Harshal third RCB bowler

to take a hat-trick in IPL
Yuvraj Singh

DHAMMIKA RATNAWEERA
Amit Mishra
The Indian Premier League (IPL) has wit-
nessed a considerable amount of hat-tricks.
The toughest league in the cricket world has
witnessed a total of 20 hat-tricks by 17 players
in its 13 successful seasons so far.
The first hat-trick in IPL was taken by Lak-
shmipathy Balaji for the Chennai Super Kings
(CSK)in 2008 against Kings XI Punjab. The
latest addition to IPL hat trick list is Royal
Kolkata Bangalore’s(RCK) paceman Harshal
Patel who took a hat trick against defending
champion Mumbai Indians in Dubai on Sun-
day.
This is the first hat-trick of the season.
Harshal also became the third RCB bowler to
take a hat-trick in IPL, with Praveen Kumar
and Samuel Badree being the first two to do
so.
The moment occurred in the 17th over of
MI innings, who started off well in the 166-
run chase, but then kept losing wickets at
regular intervals.RCB captain Virat Kholi
handed the ball to Harshal in the 17th over,
and in the first ball itself, he dismissed Hardik
Pandya. The MI allrounder flung his bat on a
slow one, but mistimed his shot, and Kohli
Harshal Patel took an easy catch.
In the next ball, Harshal tricked Kieron
Pollard with another slow delivery and the
West Indian had to return to the hut. Har-
shal completed his hat-trick by dismissing
Rahul Chahar LBW in the next ball for a
golden duck.
However,So far only eight fast bowlers have
managed to get a hat-trick in the IPL.. Rest of
the 12 hat-tricks in the competition have been
taken by spinners, with highest three of them
belonging to Right arm leg spinner Amith
Mishra .
The inaugural edition of the IPL in 2008
saw three players bag hat-tricks. Lakshmipa-
thy Balaji etched his name in the history
books when he became the first player to get
a hat-trick in the cash-rich league against Pun-
jab Kings (PBKS).
After Delhi Capitals’ Mishra got the first of
his three IPL hat-tricks against Deccan Charg-
ers, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) fast bowler
Makhaya Ntini also picked up a hat-trick
against the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR).
The undisputed king of IPL hat-tricks,
Mishra got his second in 2011 against PBKS.
Then with the Chargers, Mishra’s magic with
the ball helped the side thump Punjab by 82
runs.
In the colours of Sunrisers Hyderabad
(SRH) in 2013, Mishra made headlines yet
again for being the only player with three hat-
tricks in the IPL.
Meanwhile PBKS’ Yuvraj bagged two hat-
tricks on two separate occasions in the 2009
tournament. The first one came against Royal
Challengers Bangalore (RCB) albeit in a losing
cause. His second hat-trick against the Charg-
ers, however, helped his side across the line.
List of Players who took Hat-tricks in IPL:-
(1). Amit Mishra 3 (2). Yuvraj Singh 2
(3). Makhaya Ntini 1 (4). Ajit Chandila 1
(5). Samuel Badree 1 (6). Sam Curran 1
(7). Rohit Sharma 1 (8). Andrew Tye 1 (9).
Pravin Tambe 1 (10). Shreyas Gopal 1
(11). Lakshmipathy Balaji 1 (12). Jaydev
Unadkat 1 (13). Axar Patel 1 (14). Shane
Watson 1 (15). Praveen Kumar 1 (16).
Sunil Narine 1 (17).Harshal Patel 1

Isira Udayana an outstanding Jehan Seelagama has foxed

spiker from Nattandiya many opponents with
his dazzling runs
INDIKA WELAGEDARA

Jehan Seelagama is a promising

Dhammissara National School Nattandiya under 19 Volleyball Team posed for a photograph prior to the All Island DSI
under 19 tournament with the school officials. (Picture by – Dilwin Mendis, Moratuwa Sports Special Correspondent)
DILWIN MENDIS
Moratuwa Sports Special Correspondent
Eighteen year old volleyball player
Wijesuriya Mudiyanselage Isira
Udayana has brought honour and
fame to his two schools National Col-
lege Dambulla and Dhammissara
National School Nattandiya with his
deeds on the volleyball court He was
born on 15th October 2021 and ini-
tially admitted to Weeraman Jay-
amaha Vidyalaya and he studied up
to Grade Five over there.
From there his parents Sisira
Kumara and Ramani Jayasundara
noticing his talents in volleyball and
to give him a sound education Isira
was admitted to Grade Six of his
new school National College Dam-
bulla. Immediately he came under
their volleyball coach Madushanka
Ratnayake.
They participated for the Divi-
sional and, Zonal tournaments and
came first and in the provincial
tournament they were the runners
up and participating in all island
under 15 DSI Tournament they
could not come up to expectations
In the All Island National School
Tournament they lost and in the fol-
lowing year in the lower level tour-
naments once again they lost the
under 17 DSI tournament match to
Rajasinghe Maha Vidyalaya Ruwan-
wella and in the under 17 All Island
Volleyball National Tournament too
they could not come up to expecta-
tions.
Then in the All Island National
Schools too they lost and to enhance
the skills of the game he joined
Dhammissara National School
Nattandiya in 2018 and no sooner he
came under their coach Channa
Jayasekera and winning the all lower
Isira Udayana
level tournaments they were the run-
ners up of the DSI All Island under
19 tournament. With the outbreak of
Covid 19 his volleyball came to a
standstill.
centre three quarter who represents
St.Anthony’s College Kandy first fif-
teen rugby team.
His sensational style of play has
earned him a spot to represent the
Sri Lanka national Under 19 rugby
team as well as the Sri Lankan
national sevens and fifteen a side
rugby team with distinction.
At present Jehan represents the Air
Force Sports Club in the “A” Division
inter club rugby season. Speaking to
Daily News Jehan said “My journey
into the world of sports began when I
was very young. I was always inspired
by my parents. My mother was an
athlete and my father has played rugby
for Kingswood College. I think that is
where my passion for the sport
began”.
“A lot of people have supported me
from day one. My mother, father, fam-
ily members, school coaches . Suranga
Kodituwakku, Milroy Mendis, Priyan-
tha Gunaratne, Nalaka Weerakkody
and Viper Gunarathne, club coaches
Ronny Ibrahim (who actually got me
into Sri Lanka Air Force rugby team ),
Fijian Fereti Verebula, Suranga Aruna-
shatha, my teammates and the whole
list goes on’.
“Also I enjoy watching international
rugby matches, doing fitness activities
and listening to good music”. “Natu-
rally I was influenced by my father,
who was also a ruggerite. And I
thought rugby would increase my self-
confidence, build discipline and fit-
ness”.
“Throughout my entire life my pri-
orities are Self-improvement, healthy
relationships and my life mission”.
“One of the most unforgettable
memories was being selected to the
under 18 Sri Lanka national 7’s Squad
and unfortunately missing the tour
due to an injury. And another one was
being able to score a try against my
home town club the Kandy Sports
Club in the first year of the club
career. Hence all these incidents will
always be in my memory right
throughout my life as one of the most
unforgettable incidents to date”.
“During my leisure time I like play-
ing video games, listening to good
music and surfing on the internet. My
favourite singer is Kasun Kalhara and
my favourite song is ‘Off my face’ by
Justin Bieber”.
“My favourite rugby player is Rieko
Ioane from the All blacks and my
favourite holiday destination is
Nuwara Eliya for sure and ”. “Being
able to wear the first XV jersey and
representing my bellowed school Jehan Seelaga- thankful for
St.Anthony’s College Kandy is my ma making a everything I’ve
biggest accomplishment so far. Hon- thundering run achieved so far at
estly speaking to date, I really cherish such a young
that moment”. age. There are
“If I were forcing myself to believe achievements which make me want to
in anything, I’d be full of stress. There- jump and dance and shout and then
fore, whatever I have faith in and put there are the achievements which
my effort on I believe”.. “Honestly bring just a smile on my face. But at
speaking I always do not compare the end there’s always some happi-
myself to anyone. Life is about improv- ness”. “On a concluding note Jehan
ing.and getting better and getting said that he likes to describe himself
ahead”. as a friendly and ambitious person in
“As a young man I’m so grateful and life”.

Harshana a talented chess player

UPANANDA JAYASUNDERA
Kandy Sports Special Correspondent
18 year old, Harshana Thilakaratne,
a product of Maliyadewa College,
Kurunegala is a talented Chess player
who started training in the game under
Romesh Weerawardena, first Interna-
tional Chess master in Sri Lanka who
has a seventeen year experience as a
trainer.
Harshana started his training from
the year 2013 to 2019 and at first as a
promising Junior Chess player he
started from 1700 elo range and
reached 2400 elo range and was rated
as the No.One rated strongest chess
Player in Sri Lanka.
Harshana Thilakaratne playing a game of Chess He was placed as the National Cham-
pion of Sri lanka in the Year 2019 and
Harshana represented the Country for
Chess Olympiad and many
other top World Youth Tournaments.
He won both domestic and Interna-
tional victories and medals in youth
tournaments especially the Common-
wealth Under 16 Youth Chess Champi-
onship.
Harshana got a significant progress
after training on opening repertoire
and he built-up a strong mentality and
motivation to reach National Top level,
as his trainer was also a national top
level player in Sri lanka.
As the School authorities of our
Country consider studies first it is dif-
ficult to focus much on games like
Chess as they are time consuming and
the Chess players have less time to
spend on the game and it is difficult to
make a Standard Plan. Since this is the
situation, the trainer says that he has
to focus on strategic implementations
of lesser time consumption other than
spend time on more standard sessions.
Harshana is really interested in the
Game of Chess and he will go on
engaging in Chess tournaments in
National and International level and
his intention is to become a versatile
Chess player of Sri Lanka.
Harshana is currently focusing on
his G.C.E.(A/L) examination and his
ambition is to be a Professional Chess Harshana Thilakaratne with his trainer Romesh Weerawardena.
player in future. (Pics. By Upananda Jayasundera-Kandy Sports Special Corrs.)

Ashey Cader was a top class ruggerite and a referee

HAFIZ
MARIKAR
Former top class ruggerite
coach and referee Ashey
Cader should be remembered,
for his good work on and off
the field of rugby, He was a
person who controlled the
game and made sure the rules
were followed by the players.
He died at the age of 85 in
Australia in the mid 1980’s.
In 1948 Ashey Cader led
Royal College with 14 freshers
to knock the daylights out of
Trinity College to win the
Bradby Shield for the first
time after the shield was
introduced in 1945.
He was a top class number
eight forward. He was a rug-
gerite who learned and pol-
ished the game at Royal Col-
lege, he played under the lead-
ership of N.W. Karunaratne in
the previous year In 1948 the
first leg was played on 3rd of
July at Police Park, where
Royal was able to score 6
points against -3. by Trinity
Royal also won the second leg
with the final score reading
8-6.
That year Royal College
team was made out of players
like Trevor Anghie, Desmond
Van twest, A. Goonewardena,
L. Panditharatne, Daya
Perera,Dennis Hapugalle,
Bala Sivaratnam, T. Aru-
mugam, A.E. Bartholomeusz,
Eustace Fonseka, Tony Ang-
hie, G.T. Perimpanayagam,
Daya Samarasinghe, and
Geoff Weinman.
Ashey as he was popularly
known joined CR & FC and
gave his best and led the club
in 1958 and 1959 to win the
Clifford Cup Championship.
He also played for the national
side and his team mates were
Malcolm Wright, John Aren-
hold, Brute Mahendran, Eard-
ley McHeyzer, H. Numan,
Gamini Weerasinghe,Brian
Van Twest, R. Kinnard, David
Currie, EV Farquar, AG
Sharpe-Paul, Kavan Rambu-
wella, to name a few .
During his playing days he
was admired for his leader-
ship as the Captain of the
national Team, his prowess
finesse and style as a No. 8
forward, and for his debonair
and dashing looks. He led his
school Royal College, his
favourite club CR & FC and
the national side. He was a
ruggerite who was 6 ft 2 inch-
es tall—who put his build to
optimal use.
Those were days when as a
line out forward there was no
’lifting’; and one had to out-
jump your opponent to win
the ball
He was also a top class ref-
eree and gave his best with
the whistle, In late 1970’s
when Kandy SC played –
Police he handled the whistle
at Nittawela, Due to a fight
between this writer and a
Police forward both were sent
off the field by him, and soon
after the match as he came to
the pavilion, he called both
the players who were thrown
out and said shake hands and
forget about what happened in
the field and enjoy a drink it
was all in the game.
 T U E S D AY, S E P T E M B E R 2 8 , 2 0 2 1 page
16

Sports Editor : 011 242 9223 Fax : +941122343694 e mail : sports.dailynews@lakehouse.lk

Royal Challengers Bangalore

Chamari to ease to victory over
Mumbai Indians
play for Perth Glenn Maxwell

Scorchers
DHAMMIKA RATNAWEERA
Sri Lanka’s women’s cricket captain
Chamari Atapattu left the island to play
for Perth Scorchers in the Women’s Big
Bash League (WBBL). This will be the
first time in 11 months that Atapattu will
play competitive cricket after playing for
Supernovas in the Women’s T20 Chal-
lenge organized by BCCI last year.She
was the most successful batter in the
Women’s T20 challenge (women’s IPL)
having scored back to back half centuries
as an opener.
The Sri Lankan skipper Atapptu has
signed with the Perth Scorchers for the
upcoming Australian Women’s Big Bash
League (WBBL) 2021 and is expected to
do well with her previous experience on
Australian wickets. She has to undergo 14
day quarantine period in Adelaide before
the WBBL and later expected to take part
in practice sessions with her team.
The 31-year-old left-hander said that
this is the first time that she is contracted
with the Perth Scorchers, having earlier
represented the Melbourne Renegades
for two years. Australian wickets are
always familiar for me In fact, two of the
left-hander’s six international centuries
have come on Australian soil; she smacked
113 from 66 balls in a T20 International
at North Sydney Oval in 2019, following
up with 103 in an ODI at Allan Border
Field one week later.
She also showed a liking for the WACA
grounds in Perth during last T20 world
cup scoring a quick 38 ball half century
against Australia.
Actually last year I received an invita-
tion to play in the WBBL,but instead I
decided to play in the women's IPL in
Sharjah. This time I am very happy to
play for Perth Scorchers. All the leading
women’s cricketers are involved in this
WBBL which is the number one women’s
franchise cricket tournament. Before this
Australian tour Atapttu was with the
National team under Bio Bubble for the
National team practices under head coach
Hashan Tillekaratne.
“Perth is like my second home; I have
(family and friends) who live in Perth. I
have good memories in Australia. I love
the conditions and playing against Aus-
tralian bowlers; there's good pace and
bounce,” she said.
The competition features eight city-
based franchises, branded identically to
the franchises in the Men’s Big Bash
League. I think this is a good opportunity
for me to gain more experience,” she
added. Especially before the world cup
qualifying tournament this will be good
opportunity to come back into my usual
form.
T-20 world cup is scheduled to be
played in New Zealand next year and
playing on Australian wickets is always
good to adjust to the conditions which is
similar to New Zealand conditions.
That’s good for me before the ICC
World Cup Qualifying Tournament in
December. The WBBL is the biggest
franchise-based T20 competition in the
Women’s game,” Atapattu emphasised.
The first game of Perth Scorches team
will be held on October 17 against Bris-
bane Heat and before this Atapattu has a
good chance to prepare for this tourna-
ment with good practice sessions . Perth
Scorches head coach Shelly Nitschke said
Atapttu is an undeniable match winner
and has the ability to take the game away
from the opposition quickly.
Atapattu is Sri Lanka’s first Woman
cricketer to play franchise league cricket,
having turned out for the Yorkshire Dia-
monds and Loughborough Lightning in
the second edition of the Kia Super
League in England in 2017. I like to see
our youngsters to play franchise cricket
like WBBL and its good opportunity to
build up their talents .We have good
young players with our National pool and
they have to get more exposure to build Virat Kohli and Glenn Maxwell set Royal Challengers
up their skills added Atapattu. Bangalore on the way to a 54-run win over Mumbai Indi-
ans in the Indian Premier League match in Dubai on
Sunday .
Skipper Kohli made 51 from 42 balls and Glenn Max-

Sri Lanka spikers for Central Asia Tournament

The Sri Lanka Volleyball
Association ( SLVB) have
decided to field a Men’s
and a Women’s team for
the Central Asia Zone
Tournament in December
in Bangladesh.
Sri Lanka could not
participate in any interna-
tional tournament last
year due to the COVID-19
pandemic and also pulled
out from the 21st Asian
Men’s and Women’s Tour-
nament at the last minute
as most of the National
pool spikers were positive
for Covid 19 and Dengue
fever.
Earlier Sri Lankan men’s
team defeated Uzbekistan
team at the qualifying
game held in Colombo but
due to the absence of Sri
Lankan team Uzbekistan
team got a are chance to
compete at the Asian tour-
nament.
In addition Sri Lankan
domestic tournaments
for 2021 including
National championship,
President’s Gold Cup,
Super league and Mer-
cantile services tourna-
ments also not yet decid-
ed to be conducted due
to this Global pandemic
situation.
Meanwhile (SLVB) also
have planned to restart the
national volleyball pool
targeting the 2022 Com-
monwealth Games in Eng-
land and the 2022 Asian
Games in China.
The Sports Ministry
and the National Olympic
Committee of Sri Lanka
(NOCSL) have already
directed the SLVB to field
a Men’s and Women’s
beach volleyball team for
the Commonwealth
Games and the Asian
Games All training activ-
ities of the Men’s and
Women’s national pool as
well as the beach volley-
ball pool training were
cancelled due to the
COVID-19 pandemic in
August last year. An offi-
cial of the SLVB said the
Open Selection Trial will
be held in October to
select the players for the
indoor and beach volley-
ball pools. (D.R)
well 56 from 37 to lift Bangalore to 165-6 while Mumbai
Indians were able to get 111all out in 18.1 overs with
Rohit Sharma and Quinton de Kock adding 57 for the first
wicket in the Mumbai chase, but Maxwell's 2-23 checked
the progress of the defending champions.
Pace bowler Harshal Patel then claimed the first hat-
trick of this IPL to dismiss Mumbai for 111.
Harshal, the leading wicket-taker in the tournament,
had Hardik Pandya caught at extra cover, bowled Kieron
Pollard with a clever slower ball then pinned Rahul Cha-
har lbw.
Bangalore stay third, on course for the play-offs, with
Mumbai sixth and in danger of missing out.
With the top four going through to the knockout stage,
Mumbai are one of four teams level on eight points, tus-
sling for the final spot. They have won the past two edi-
tions of the IPL, but have now suffered three consecutive
defeats since this tournament was restarted in the United
Arab Emirates.
This was also a victory for Kohli, who is to step down
as India Twenty20 captain after the World Cup, over
Rohit, his likely successor. Kohli, also in his last season as
Bangalore skipper, became only the fifth batsman to pass
10,000 Twenty20 runs after Chris Gayle, Mumbai's Pol-
lard, Shoaib Malik and David Warner.
He added 68 for the second wicket with Srikar Bharat,
who made 32, then 51 with the third with Maxwell. Max-
well's off-spin dovetailed with the leg-spin of Yuzvendra
Chahal to account for the first four Mumbai wickets to

Online National Chess All rounder Moeen Ali

Tourney from October 2
DHAMMIKA RATNAWEERA
The Chess Federation of Sri
Lanka (CFSL) is expected to com-
mence Sri Lanka Online National
(Major Division) from October 2
with four separate tournaments for
Western 11 for open, Wayamba
open, Western 1 for women and
Southern Women.
According to the President of
CFSL Luxman Wijesuriya this
National Chess Championship is
the selection event for the Interna-
tional Online Rapid Chess champi-
onships in future. The Event will
help all Chess players to stay at
home at this difficult time sup-
porting to grow their Chess
Strength. The event is be held on
the Chess.com flat form with all
the fair play regulations approved
by FIDE
The Major Division events will
be held in three week ends on Octo-
ber 2 and 3 - Western II (Open),
Central with Kegalle (Open), West-
ern I (Women) and Northern
(Women), October 9 and 10 –
Western I (Open), North Western
and Uva with Kegalle (Open), West-
ern II (Women) and Southern
(Women),
Meanwhile the - Northern
(Open), Southern Open, Central
with Kegalle (Women), and North
Western & Uva with Ratnapura
(Women) will be conducted on
October 16 and 17.
The event is scheduled in six
stages and there are SL National
Online Majors Division Chess
Championships, Western 1, West-
ern 2, .Central including Kegalle .
North Western with Ratnapura
Southern and Northern
The chess players who have Rat-
ing greater than 1199 and less than
1899 and selected players from rel-
evant Novices Chess Championship
for the Open Section. Rating Great-
er than 1099 and less than 1599 for
Women’s event and qualified play-
ers from Women Novices in the
respective region.
Trophies and Medals will be
awarded to the winners in all events
and the Championship title for the
winner in age group. A total of Rs.
180,000 will be given as cash
awards to National Finals stage II
and the tournament arbiters.
fall. The game was as good as won when Harshal's bril-
liance gave him the first IPL hat-trick since 2019, and he
took the final wicket to finish with 4-17.
Chief scores
retires from Test Cricket Royal Challengers Bangalore 165-6 (20 overs):
Glenn Maxwell 56 , Virat Kohli 51,Srikar Bharat 32,Jas-
prit Bumrah3-36
Mumbai Indians 111 (18.1 overs): Rohit 43, Harshal Patel
4-17,Yuzvendra Chahal 3-11,Glenn Maxwell 2-23. (BBC)
England spin-bowling all-rounder Moeen Ali
has announced his retirement from the game’s
longest format, bringing an end to a 64-Test
career. Making his Test debut in 2014, the affable
all-rounder scored 2914 runs at 28.29 and took
195 wickets at 36.66 with his off-spin.
Roger Federer not rushing
“I’m 34 now and I want to play for as long as
I can and I just want to enjoy my cricket,” Ali
said. “Test cricket is amazing, when you’re hav-
return but ‘feeling good’
ing a good day it’s better than any other format by Roger Federer says he is tennis court. But it's going
far, it’s more rewarding and you feel like you’ve not rushing his return to to take me a few more
really earnt it. the court but is “feeling months and then we'll see
“I will miss just walking out there with the lads, good” after knee surgery. how things are at some
playing against best in the world with that feeling The 40-year-old Swiss had point next year. I've got to
of nerves but also from a bowling point of view, two knee operations in take my time. I don't want
knowing with my best ball I could get anyone out. 2020 and then further sur- to rush into anything at
“I’ve enjoyed Test Cricket but that intensity can gery after this year's Wim- this point.
be too much sometimes and I feel like I’ve done bledon. “This is also for my life. I
enough of it and I’m happy and content with how Federer, a winner of 20 want to make sure I can do
I’ve done.” Grand Slams, spoke about everything I want to do
Only James Anderson and Stuart Broad took his recovery at the Laver later on. There's no rush
more Test wickets for England in Ali’s time in the Cup in Boston on Saturday with anything, so I'm actu-
side, with the spinner the 12th greatest wicket- and received huge applause ally in a really good place. I
taker globally in that period. The all-rounder thanked his coaches and fam- from the crowd. think the worst is behind
As a spinner, his finest period came between ily alike for their support throughout the jour- “I've got to first walk me. I'm really happy.”
2017 and 2019. In 2017, he took 26 wickets at ney. again properly, run proper- Federer said in August that
15.64 against South Africa, claiming a famous “I have to thank Peter Moores and Chris Sil- ly and then do the sidesteps his latest knee surgery
hat-trick at the Oval. The following summer he verwood for being my coaches and Peter for and all the agility work,” he would give him “a glimmer
collected 32 wickets across six Tests on tour giving me my debut. Cookie and Rooty as the said. “And then eventually of hope” to return to action
against West Indies and Sri Lanka. captains who I’ve enjoyed playing under and I I've got to be back on the in 2022. (Agencies)
Playing every position from No.1 to No.9, it hope they are happy with how I played. “My
was with the bat that Ali first earned national parents are my number one, I feel without their
support there is no way I would have made it, Roger Federer
selection and in 2016 he showed just why so
many astute judges rated him highly, making every game I played was for them and I know
1078 runs at 46.86 for the calendar year. Four of they are really proud of me. “My brothers and
his five career centuries came that year as he my sister, on my bad days they’ve been the first
climbed to a career-high third on the MRF Tyres to pick me up and my wife and kids, my wife’s
ICC Men’s Test all-rounder rankings. sacrifices and the patience she has, I am really
While he has called it a day on his Test career, grateful for that.
expect to see plenty more of Ali in England col- “They have all been amazing on my journey,
ours with the 34-year-old a part of England’s everything I did I did for them.” Ali presently
squad for next month’s ICC Men’s T20 World involve with IPL playing for Chennai Super Kings
Cup. team. (ICC)

Printed and Published by The Associated Newspapers of Ceylon Ltd., at No. 35, D.R.Wijewardene Mawatha, Colombo 10, on Tuesday, September 28, 2021
T U E S D AY, S E P T E M B E R 2 8 , 2 0 2 1 17

MERCHANDISE SECTOR DURING 8 MONTHS ENDING AUGUST 2021

Export earnings improve

to average USD 985 mn
Whether exporters comply with 100% repatriation
of export proceeds under question

Sri Lanka’s merchandise export
sector has shown a notable
improvement in 2021 compared to
the pandemic-affected 2020 as
export earnings have averaged
USD 985 million during the eight
months ending August 2021 as
against USD 837 million in 2020.
In addition the average earnings
have amounted to USD 1,064 mil-
lion during June-August 2021.
“This is an appreciable develop-
ment as the merchandise export
sector (comprising diverse prod-
ucts) is the largest foreign
exchange earner in most countries,
including Sri Lanka,” the Central
Bank said.
Sri Lanka has had a trade deficit
each year since 1977, and the gap
between merchandise imports and
exports is typically financed by
other inflows to the external cur-
rent account (tourism, workers’
remittances and other services
inflows), and financial inflows.
“In this background, some recent
developments in the foreign
exchange market have raised several
concerns, particularly as some of
these typical avenues of foreign
exchange inflows have been affected
due to pandemic-related pressures.”
Compared to the monthly aver-
age exports of USD 985 million
during the eight months ending
August 2021, the monthly average
repatriation of export proceeds
during July/August 2021 has been
USD 640 million as reported by
banks (financial flow). “According-
ly, there has been a significant gap
of USD 345 million between these
two figures. This observation there-
fore, raises the serious question as
to whether exporters comply with
the regulation on 100% repatriation
of export proceeds. Due to an
undue speculation on exchange
rate movements, there has been a
reluctance to convert export earn-
ings during the period from Janu-
ary 2020 to July 2021, thereby lim-
iting inflows to the domestic for-
eign exchange market, which situa-
tion has then resulted in a buildup
of foreign currency deposit balanc-
es with the banking sector by a sig-
nificant USD 1.9 billion.”
“In addition, with low rupee
interest rates, some exporters have
found it more lucrative to borrow
and import to meet their input
requirements, leading to further
tension in the domestic market.”
As per the data available, it
would also be noted that if there
had been a 100% repatriation and
100% conversion of export pro-
ceeds, the monthly export foreign
exchange flow into the domestic
market would have been USD 985
million, and with the average
expenditure on imports of USD
1,670 million, that would have
resulted in a monthly average gap
of US dollars 685 million. This
could have been easily financed
using other foreign exchange
inflows into the country. Based on
these past statistics in general, and
the experience during July/August
2021 in particular, CBSL says the
monthly average gap between the
conversions of export proceeds with
an incomplete repatriation and
Management Tips for Pandemic Times
expenditure on imports has been
quite alarming. BE EFFICIENT
“It would also be fair to state
that there is a necessity for a coun- Being efficient is not
try to ensure that the foreign enough. We can efficiently
exchange generated through export climb a ladder placed against a
activities are duly repatriated into wrong wall. Effectiveness is results related. It deals with
the country and converted into its the outputs and the outcomes. That’s where we need to
currency.” being with the end in mind. The mistake we do some-
times is trying to be super-duper efficient, losing track
of the larger goal. Let us be effective from today.

Whopping USD 1.65 bn spent on food imports in 2020

SHIRAJIV SIRIMANE
Sri Lanka imported over USD
1,650 million worth of food items
last year, said Secretary, Colombo
Business Association (CBA) Cha-
minda Vidanagamage.
He said that it was sad to note
that some items in the imported
basket included onions, potatoes,
chills ect. which are grown in Sri
Lanka. “Even Jaffna grape farmers
have ‘upped’ their product but sadly
none of the supermarkets have made
any effort to sell them.”
Vidanagamage said that each GS
division has several agricultural
State Minister of Paddy and Cereals, Organic Foods, Vegetables, Fruits, graduates working as officers and
Chili, Onions and Potatoes Seed Production and High-tech Agriculture, they should be encouraged to visit
Shasheendra Rajapaksa observing the progress of the ‘Onemart Digital local farmers and help to increase
Online Platform’ at the Narahenpita Special Economic Centre local production where there can be
import substitution for products
such as onions, potatoes, chills and
grapes.
He said that the Colombo Busi-
ness Association also has taken an
initiative to promote rural agricul-
ture by launching Onemart Digital
Online Platform on August 15,
2021, which will also make it possi-
ble for the farmers to sell their pro-
duce directly to the customer elimi-
nating the middleman.
He said that this online platform
has made rapid progress and since
it’s launch has delivered over 7,500
online orders for customers in
Colombo and Gampaha district
areas. The items included fruit and
vegetables, rice, milk powder and
other essential items. In addition,
over 2,900 kilos of fish were distrib-
uted under the ‘Onemart Digital
Online Platform’ from the Narahen-
pita Special Economic Centre.
This scheme has linked several
new SME entrepreneurs and cus-
tomers together and created over 50
new employment during the lock-
down period. “As a precautionary
measure for the customer staff
engaged in this program, antigen
tests are being carried out every six
days.
Meanwhile, Agriculture Minister
Mahindananda Aluthgamage said
that the import of dried chilies will
be stopped by 2024. “We will grow
another 3,000 acres of land with
chilies fulfilling the total demand for
chillies.”
The country is importing
chilies from foreign countries at a
cost of Rs. 8,900 million a year.
The Minister said that about
50,000 metric tons of dried
chilies will be produced this year
and about 300,000 metric tonnes
of raw chilies is needed to meet
the target. About 160 new chilli
nurseries have been set up in the
Kandy District to obtain seed
chillies.
In addition 100 acre organic chilli
cultivation project is being success-
fully implemented utilizing unculti-
vated lands of Galabada Estate,
Nawalapitiya of the state owned
Janatha Estate Development Board.
“We will increase this cultivation by
another 100 acres next year.”

Insurance Industry GWP achieves E M L Consultants lists on CSE

10.67% growth in 1H 2021
The insurance industry was able to
achieve a growth of 10.67% in terms of
overall Gross Written Premium (GWP),
during the first half of 2021, recording an
increase of Rs. 10,152 million when com-
pared to the same period in the year 2020.
The GWP for Long Term Insurance and
General Insurance Businesses was Rs.
105,310 million compared to the first half
of 2020 amounting to Rs. 95,158 million.
The GWP of Long-Term Insurance Busi-
ness amounted to Rs. 56,159 million
(1H20: Rs. 43,270 million) recording a
growth of 29.79%. The GWP of General
Insurance Business amounted to Rs.
49,154 million (1H20: Rs. 51,889 million)
recording a decline of 5.27%
The value of total assets of insurance
companies has increased to Rs. 814,589
million as at end of first half of 2021,
when compared to Rs. 755,229 million
recorded as at end of 1st half of 2020,
reflecting a growth of 7.86%. The assets
of the Long-Term Insurance Business
amounted to Rs. 600,751 million depict-
ing a growth rate of 11.22%.
Investments in Government Debt Secu-
rities amounted to Rs. 241,254 million
representing 45.33% of the total invest-
ments of Long Term Insurance Business
and increased by 7.62%, while such
investment of the total investment of
General Insurance Business amounted to
Rs. 50,631 million representing 37.14%
and decreased by 11.62%. Accordingly,
the total investment in Government Secu-
rities in the two businesses amounted to
Rs. 291,885 million showing an overall
increase of 3.70% respectively.
The assets of the General Insurance
Business amounted to Rs. 213,838 million
indicating a slight decline of 0.59%. Invest-
ments in Government Debt Securities
amounted to Rs. 241,254 million. The
claims incurred by insurance companies in
both Long Term Insurance Business and
General Insurance Business were Rs.
41,030 million showing an increase in total
claims amount by 12.03% year-on-year. The
Long-Term Insurance claims, including
maturity and death benefits, amounted to
Rs. 20,755 million. The claims incurred in
General Insurance Business, including
Motor, Fire, Marine and other categories,
amounted to Rs. 20,275 million.
The profit (before tax) of insurance
companies at the end of first half of 2021
in both Long Term Insurance Business
and General Insurance Business amounted
to Rs. 14,458 million showing a signifi-
cant decrease in total profit amount by
20.38%. The profit (before tax) of Long-
Term Insurance Business amounted to Rs.
7,862 million, while the profit (before tax)
of General Insurance Business amounted
to Rs. 6,596 million.
Thus, profit (before tax) of Long-Term
Insurance Business has increased by
18.28% and General Insurance Business
has decreased by 42.70%. Total Assets of
insurance broking companies have
increased to Rs. 7,189 million during the
period.
E M L Consultants Limited
(EML-N-0000) commenced
trading on the Empower
Board of the Colombo Stock
Exchange (CSE) yesterday.
The company listed
90,900,000 Ordinary Voting
Shares and has been classi-
fied under the Industry
Group “2020 - Commercial
and Professional Services”.
Commenting on the listing,
the CEO of CSE, Rajeeva
Bandaranaike congratulated
and welcomed the company
to the Empower Board.
“2021 has been a significant
year for the primary market
of CSE, in terms of the capi-
tal that has been raised, as
the exchange has facilitated
over 30 new listings amount-
ing to nearly Rs. 100 Bn, sur-
passing the Rs. 66 Bn of capi-
tal that was raised last year.”
Managing Director/Exec-
utive Director of E M L
Consultants Limited, Avan-
thi Jayatilake said, “As an
entity representing SMEs in
Sri Lanka, I appreciate the
work that SEC and CSE have
done by creating a dedicated
listing platform for SMEs in
the country. We chose the
path to an introductory listing
as opposed to an IPO, because
Market gains, surpasses 9,250 levels amid positive sentiments
Colombo bourse gained
amidst positive sentiments
with the news of the country
reopening on October 1
whilst the turnover stood
above Rs. 6 billion mark.
Thus, the All Share Price
Index moved upwards by
329.5 points (+3.7%)
recording the biggest index
change after January to
close at 9,269.7 whilst S&P
we are more interested in
earning the status of a listed
company, which will enhance
our corporate image and repu-
tation, and that will improve
our chances of securing pro-
jects internationally, with
international donors. And cer-
tainly, at a later stage, we may
look for further issuances of
shares to raise capital when
we are ready to move to inter-
national competition.”
In conclusion, let me give
an insight into the future
business plans of the compa-
ny. We certainly will be mov-
ing into the international
business area, in the region
first and then we can really
look into the Pacific as well
as South East Asia. We would
also like to compete in all
types of infrastructure pro-
jects, where we can collabo-
rate with the investors and
the development partners.”
Representing Atarah Capi-
tal Partners (PVT) Ltd,
Manager to the Introduc-
tion and Sponsor of the
listing, Managing Director,
Rohan Senewiratne noted
“There are few unique attrib-
utes on this listing. Firstly,
there are no companies listed
on the CSE, who are operat-
SL20 Index also increased
by 68.3 points (+2.0%) to
close the day at 3,427.4.
Commercial Leasing &
Finance, Expolanka Hold-
ings, LOLC Holdings,
LOLC Development &
Finance and LOLC Finance
remained as the top positive
contributors to the ASPI
during the day.
Further, broader market’s
ing in the consultancy space.
E M L Consultants Limited
is an SME sector company.
“One would agree that an
SME, in its growth stage of
business, would want to have
an IPO and raise capital. How-
ever, EML instead decided to
list by way of an introduction.
The reason being, their long
years of operating history,
required that they earn the sta-
tus of being a listed entity, so
that they would be in a better
position, when they bid for
local and international con-
tracts in the consultancy space
of SEC. I’m hopeful that other
companies will follow suit.”
total turnover stood at
Rs.6,774.9 million against the
12-month average daily turno-
ver of Rs.3,970.7 million,
whilst the volume traded for
the day was 202,757.0k
against the 12-month average
daily volume of 215,417.1k.
Transportation, Food &
Beverage and Banking sec-
tors mostly contributed to
yesterday’s turnover.
 18
Market Statistics on 27.09.2021
Security Volume **V.W.A. Open High Low **V.W.A. Change
Previous Yesterday’s (Rs.)
Close Close
Main Board
A.SPEN.HOT.HOLD. 42,659 42.00 42.00 43.00 39.10 40.60 (1.40)
ABANS 6 153.75 158.00 158.00 158.00 153.75 0.00
ACCESS ENG SL 263,662 23.20 23.00 23.50 22.90 23.20 0.00
ACL 449,968 42.20 43.00 44.30 41.60 43.60 1.40
ACL PLASTICS 1,979 232.75 239.75 239.75 234.00 234.00 1.25
ACME 20,398 12.80 13.00 13.00 12.40 12.50 (0.30)
AGALAWATTE 1,350 28.00 27.30 27.30 27.10 27.20 (0.80)
AHOT PROPERTIES 5,610 42.10 40.10 42.10 40.10 41.00 (1.10)
AITKEN SPENCE 93,691 77.70 78.00 78.90 76.50 77.00 (0.70)
ALLIANCE 1,522 63.40 63.30 64.90 63.10 63.20 (0.20)
AMANA BANK 100,413 3.20 3.20 3.20 3.10 3.10 (0.10)
ASIA ASSET 40,876 7.60 7.80 7.80 7.40 7.70 0.10
ASIA CAPITAL 35,099 7.00 7.10 7.10 6.80 6.80 (0.20)
ASIRI 33,659 31.70 31.50 31.60 31.50 31.50 (0.20)
ASIRI SURG 1,480 15.10 15.20 15.20 15.10 15.10 0.00
AUTODROME 7,447 85.10 85.00 92.00 82.10 86.90 1.80
BAIRAHA FARMS 55,480 145.00 145.00 147.00 144.00 145.25 0.25
BALANGODA 42,067 23.00 23.50 24.00 22.00 22.70 (0.30)
BUKIT DARAH 201 301.50 307.00 310.00 305.00 309.75 8.25
C M HOLDINGS 1,400 86.40 86.90 86.90 86.90 86.90 0.50
C T HOLDINGS 8,867 183.00 183.50 183.50 183.50 183.50 0.50
CARGILLS 67 236.00 236.50 237.00 235.00 236.00 0.00
CARGO BOAT 4,847 63.90 63.50 63.50 62.00 63.50 (0.40)
CARSONS XD 354 278.75 278.75 284.00 278.25 279.50 0.75
CDB 5,277 150.00 150.00 150.00 150.00 150.00 0.00
CDB [CDB.X0000] 558 84.70 84.90 84.90 83.60 84.90 0.20
CENTRAL FINANCE 14,207 80.10 82.60 82.60 80.10 81.70 1.60
CENTRAL IND. 28,028 99.80 99.50 102.00 99.40 100.25 0.45
CEYLINCO INS. [CINS.X0000] 255 940.25 970.00 970.00 950.25 970.00 29.75
CEYLON GUARDIAN 188 93.70 97.40 98.00 97.40 98.00 4.30
CEYLON INV. 7,549 52.20 52.00 52.00 51.30 51.50 (0.70)
CEYLON TOBACCO 6,736 905.00 901.00 905.00 900.00 901.00 (4.00)
CHEMANEX 3,392 70.00 70.10 70.10 70.00 70.10 0.10
CHEVRON 38,255 104.25 105.00 105.00 104.00 104.25 0.00
CIC 144,296 44.00 44.00 45.00 43.50 44.20 0.20
CIC [CIC.X0000] 391,394 36.00 36.50 37.00 35.90 36.30 0.30
COLD STORES 22 593.00 600.00 600.00 595.00 593.00 0.00
COLOMBO CITY 102 900.50 910.50 910.50 900.00 900.25 (0.25)
COLOMBO LAND 51,383 36.20 37.30 37.30 36.20 37.00 0.80
COMMERCIAL BANK 9,987 84.00 83.60 85.00 83.60 83.90 (0.10)
COMMERCIAL BANK [COMB.X0000] 59,692 77.30 77.00 77.70 76.70 77.50 0.20
CONVENIENCE FOOD 51 1,010.75 1,020.00 1,045.00 1,019.00 1,010.75 0.00
DANKOTUWA PORCEL 298,279 14.00 14.00 14.20 13.80 13.90 (0.10)
DFCC BANK PLC 12,997 60.00 60.40 60.80 59.90 60.00 0.00
DIALOG 278,179 10.70 10.90 10.90 10.70 10.80 0.10
DIPPED PRODUCTS 1,587,962 57.30 57.60 59.00 57.60 58.50 1.20
DOCKYARD 19,592 72.50 74.50 75.90 71.00 74.70 2.20
DOLPHIN HOTELS 551,800 29.00 28.50 28.50 28.00 28.00 (1.00)
DURDANS 2,088 120.25 121.50 122.00 121.50 121.75 1.50
E B CREASY 1,131 22.60 23.00 23.70 23.00 23.50 0.90
EAST WEST 19,914 9.40 9.80 9.80 9.50 9.50 0.10
EASTERN MERCHANT 280,783 7.10 7.30 7.50 7.10 7.30 0.20
EXPOLANKA 13,535,598 175.50 180.00 191.50 179.00 189.25 13.75
FORT LAND 107,823 13.80 13.80 13.90 13.50 13.50 (0.30)
GESTETNER 137 82.40 83.10 85.40 83.10 83.50 1.10
GRAIN ELEVATORS 71,187 119.50 123.00 123.00 118.75 119.25 (0.25)
HAYCARB 64,326 81.20 82.50 83.30 81.50 82.90 1.70
HAYLEYS 1,395,548 101.50 103.25 107.00 102.25 106.50 5.00
HAYLEYS FABRIC 1,201,509 34.30 34.20 34.40 33.40 33.60 (0.70)
HAYLEYS FIBRE 8,911 71.00 73.50 73.50 72.90 73.00 2.00
HAYLEYS LEISURE 24,849 21.90 22.30 22.30 21.90 22.00 0.10
HDFC 20,229 33.00 32.50 33.80 32.40 32.50 (0.50)
HEMAS HOLDINGS 305,631 71.20 72.00 72.00 70.00 70.30 (0.90)
HNB 11,623 141.25 140.50 141.25 140.25 141.00 (0.25)
HNB ASSURANCE 10,043 44.20 44.00 44.30 44.00 44.10 (0.10)
HNB [HNB.X0000] 27,833 129.75 130.00 130.75 130.00 130.00 0.25
HORANA 100 21.70 21.60 21.60 21.60 21.60 (0.10)
HOTEL SIGIRIYA 100 91.40 93.30 93.30 93.30 93.30 1.90
HOTELS CORP. 111,627 13.40 13.50 14.30 13.50 14.30 0.90
HUNTERS 1 684.50 684.75 684.75 684.75 684.50 0.00
INDUSTRIAL ASPH. 1,155,837 0.40 0.40 0.50 0.40 0.40 0.00
JAT HOLDINGS 69,040 21.50 21.50 22.00 21.50 21.50 0.00
JKH 7,010,880 135.00 135.50 137.50 134.75 136.00 1.00
KANDY HOTELS 128,343 8.60 8.80 8.80 8.10 8.50 (0.10)
KEGALLE 30,789 103.50 103.75 105.25 101.25 104.50 1.00
KELANI CABLES 20,031 130.00 129.25 133.00 129.00 131.00 1.00
KELANI TYRES 18,234 85.90 85.70 86.50 85.50 86.40 0.50
KELANI VALLEY 87,628 43.00 43.00 44.00 43.00 43.90 0.90
KINGSBURY 122,906 8.30 8.40 8.40 8.00 8.10 (0.20)
KOTAGALA 4,660,278 5.90 5.90 6.00 5.60 5.70 (0.20)
L O L C HOLDINGS 730,592 521.00 535.00 564.00 535.00 561.75 40.75
LAKE HOUSE PRIN. 105 146.00 146.00 146.00 146.00 146.00 0.00
LANKA ALUMINIUM 148,384 20.70 21.00 21.10 20.10 20.80 0.10
LANKA ASHOK XD 2 675.25 718.75 719.00 718.75 675.25 0.00
LANKA HOSPITALS 75,975 56.00 56.00 56.20 54.80 55.00 (1.00)
LANKA IOC 82,397 20.20 20.40 20.50 20.20 20.40 0.20
LANKA TILES 501,296 67.90 69.60 69.80 68.40 69.50 1.60
LANKA VENTURES 510 55.50 55.00 55.00 54.60 55.00 (0.50)
LANKA WALLTILE 538,542 71.40 71.80 74.00 71.60 73.20 1.80
LAUGFS GAS 196,245 19.50 20.20 22.90 20.10 21.80 2.30
LAUGFS GAS [LGL.X0000] 525,772 12.70 13.30 14.30 13.20 13.90 1.20
LAXAPANA 22,001 14.20 14.20 14.20 14.10 14.10 (0.10)
LB FINANCE 56,536 61.90 61.90 62.50 61.60 61.90 0.00
LEE HEDGES 80 65.20 68.40 68.40 68.00 65.20 0.00
LION BREWERY 412 542.50 558.50 558.50 558.00 558.00 15.50
LMF 597,110 175.75 176.00 188.50 175.50 182.25 6.50
LVL ENERGY 1,280,376 11.00 10.90 11.00 10.70 11.00 0.00
MALWATTE [MAL.X0000] 40,743 10.50 10.40 10.40 9.60 10.00 (0.50)
MELSTACORP 1,483,157 55.00 55.20 57.70 55.20 57.00 2.00
MERC. SHIPPING 216 98.70 96.10 96.10 95.10 96.00 (2.70)
MERCHANT BANK 18,793 6.30 6.20 6.50 6.20 6.30 0.00
MULLERS 54,480 1.10 1.10 1.20 1.10 1.10 0.00
NAMUNUKULA 4,699 150.50 152.25 162.00 152.00 160.50 10.00
NAT. DEV. BANK 46,395 76.30 76.20 76.50 75.90 76.20 (0.10)
NATIONS TRUST 4,165 54.90 55.00 55.00 54.70 54.80 (0.10)
NAWALOKA 602,866 8.60 8.50 8.90 8.40 8.50 (0.10)
NESTLE 24,758 1,279.25 1,297.00 1,299.75 1,250.00 1,276.25 (3.00)
OVERSEAS REALTY 258,929 16.20 16.20 16.30 16.00 16.20 0.00
PAN ASIA 149,357 15.40 15.50 15.50 15.20 15.20 (0.20)
PANASIAN POWER 248,298 4.20 4.20 4.30 4.20 4.20 0.00
PEOPLE’S INS 21,786 31.60 31.60 31.60 31.30 31.40 (0.20)
PEOPLES LEASING 799,708 10.70 10.70 10.80 10.60 10.60 (0.10)
PGP GLASS 225,623 13.70 13.80 13.80 13.40 13.60 (0.10)
PRINTCARE PLC 3,001 40.00 40.70 40.70 40.10 40.20 0.20
R I L PROPERTY 806,873 8.30 8.30 8.50 8.30 8.40 0.10
RADIANT GEMS 9,799 25.00 25.00 26.10 25.00 25.30 0.30
REGNIS 1,824 70.60 69.00 70.00 69.00 69.30 (1.30)
RENUKA AGRI 100,701 3.70 3.70 3.80 3.60 3.70 0.00
RENUKA CITY HOT. 192 240.00 245.00 245.00 240.00 245.00 5.00
RENUKA FOODS 25,210 12.90 12.70 12.90 12.50 12.70 (0.20)
RENUKA FOODS [COCO.X0000] 388 10.80 10.60 10.90 10.60 10.70 (0.10)
RENUKA HOLDINGS 4,810 15.10 15.30 15.30 15.20 15.20 0.10
RENUKA HOLDINGS [RHL.X0000] 1 10.80 11.20 11.20 11.20 10.80 0.00
RESUS ENERGY 1,514 27.00 26.10 27.00 26.10 26.90 (0.10)
RICHARD PIERIS 156,913 16.50 16.80 16.90 16.50 16.90 0.40
ROYAL CERAMIC 3,433,535 42.70 43.50 44.90 43.00 44.30 1.60
S M B LEASING 7,802,451 0.70 0.70 0.80 0.70 0.70 0.00
S M B LEASING [SEMB.X0000] 755,113 0.30 0.30 0.30 0.20 0.30 0.00
SAMPATH 3,856,948 52.00 52.20 52.30 51.80 51.90 (0.10)
SAMSON INTERNAT. 22 189.50 189.00 189.00 185.00 189.50 0.00
SANASA DEV. BANK 15,283 50.20 50.90 51.50 50.10 50.70 0.50
SEYLAN BANK 40,866 46.80 47.20 47.20 45.50 45.50 (1.30)
SEYLAN BANK [SEYB.X0000] 56,423 37.40 36.90 37.90 35.50 36.00 (1.40)
SEYLAN DEVTS 5,212 16.00 16.00 16.50 16.00 16.10 0.10
SIERRA CABL 500,953 9.20 9.20 9.40 9.00 9.20 0.00
SIGIRIYA VILLAGE 20 44.00 44.80 44.80 44.80 44.00 0.00
SINGER FINANCE 32,276 14.90 15.10 15.20 15.00 15.10 0.20
SLT 7,659 37.80 37.90 37.90 36.50 36.80 (1.00)
SUNSHINE HOLDING 88,739 25.00 25.00 25.20 24.80 25.00 0.00
SWISSTEK 963,172 26.50 27.00 27.30 26.90 27.00 0.50
TALAWAKELLE 108,010 46.00 45.50 45.80 44.90 45.00 (1.00)
TANGERINE 22 52.80 50.00 50.00 50.00 52.80 0.00
TEA SMALLHOLDER 6,268 32.90 33.40 33.90 31.20 33.30 0.40
TEEJAY LANKA 205,749 43.00 42.50 43.00 42.50 43.00 0.00
THREE ACRE FARMS 9,526 203.00 204.00 205.00 200.00 203.00 0.00
TOKYO CEMENT 239,949 52.80 51.00 53.00 51.00 52.00 (0.80)
TOKYO CEMENT [TKYO.X0000] 1,020,093 44.80 45.40 45.70 43.40 43.60 (1.20)
UNION BANK 204,191 11.00 11.20 11.20 10.90 11.00 0.00
UNISYST 20,805 8.80 8.80 9.00 8.70 8.70 (0.10)
UNITED MOTORS 7,905 75.10 75.50 75.90 75.50 75.70 0.60
VALLIBEL 806,725 8.20 8.20 8.30 8.10 8.10 (0.10)
VALLIBEL FINANCE 36,805 39.00 38.50 39.30 38.10 38.70 (0.30)
VIDULLANKA 111,251 6.00 6.00 6.10 6.00 6.00 0.00
VIDULLANKA [VLL-X-0000] 1 4.90 4.90 4.90 4.90 4.90 0.00
WATAWALA 163,768 54.70 56.00 57.50 55.10 57.10 2.40
WINDFORCE 36,793 18.50 18.50 18.80 18.50 18.50 0.00
YORK ARCADE 14,506 253.75 250.00 250.00 230.00 230.75 (23.00)
SECOND BOARD ments of actions and pledges from key stakehold-
AMBEON CAPITAL 131,765 17.10 17.40 17.80 17.00 17.60 0.50
BROWNS BEACH 403,591 11.10 11.10 11.10 9.90 10.60 (0.50)
CITRUS LEISURE 945,113 9.20 9.40 9.40 8.90 9.00 (0.20)
COMM LEASE & FIN 7,550,830 20.30 25.00 30.40 23.00 29.10 8.80
DIALOG FINANCE 31 80.30 83.00 83.00 83.00 80.30 0.00
DISTILLERIES 196,652 18.00 18.00 18.20 18.00 18.20 0.20
BUSINESS T U E S D AY, S E P T E M B E R 2 8 , 2 0 2 1
MARKET/NEWS
Coconut Products – Prices on 27.09.2021
Security Volume **V.W.A. Open High Low **V.W.A. Change 1. FRESH COCONUT
Previous Yesterday’s (Rs.) Market Price 06th August 12thh August 2021 (Source-HARTI) Whole-
Close Close sale Retail
(a)Large Size Rs/Nut 68-75 80-90
EDEN HOTEL LANKA 850,763 28.00 28.50 29.00 28.00 28.50 0.50 Small Size Rs/Nut 62-65 65-75
FIRST CAPITAL 10,200 43.30 43.40 44.50 43.10 44.10 0.80
JANASHAKTHI INS. 48,424 24.50 24.70 25.80 24.70 25.50 1.00 (b)Coconut Development Authority – Colombo Auction 09/09/2021 (For
KOTMALE HOLDINGS 22 389.25 409.75 410.00 409.75 389.25 0.00 History Use)
LANKA REALTY 2,360 29.90 30.20 30.20 30.00 30.00 0.10 Average Price 50,897.44 T
Offers 1,076,793
LOLC DEV FINANCE 18,822 440.50 460.00 530.00 460.00 509.75 69.25 Nuts Trated 622,614
LOLC FINANCE 43,703,065 8.30 9.00 10.00 8.90 9.70 1.40
MADULSIMA 27,431 9.10 9.20 9.20 8.80 8.90 (0.20) (c)Coconut Development Authority – Kuliyapitiya Auction 19.07.2021)
ODEL PLC 805 17.70 17.80 18.00 17.70 17.80 0.10 (For Industry Use)
ON’ALLY 2 32.80 31.80 31.80 31.80 32.80 0.00 Average
Nuts Offered
ORIENT FINANCE 14,954 13.20 13.80 14.20 13.80 13.90 0.70 Nuts Traded
PEOPLE’S MERCH 6,449 6.30 6.30 6.30 6.30 6.30 0.00
SELINSING 117 654.50 724.75 725.00 700.00 723.25 68.75 (d)Locally Traded (Farm-gate price)
SINGER SRI LANKA 181,016 16.30 16.30 16.50 16.00 16.00 (0.30) Rs. 1000 Nuts Rs/Mt (Husked Ex-Mill)
TRANS ASIA 111 55.90 57.70 57.70 57.20 57.30 1.40 Kurunegala Dist. 52,000-55,000 85,000-87,000
Puttalam Dist. 55,000-55,000 85,000-87,000
EMPOWER BOARD Gampaha Dist. 50,000-52,000 85,000-87,000
CHRISSWORLD 652,679 23.80 24.50 27.30 24.00 24.20 0.40 Hambantota Dist. 55,000-58,000 82,000-83,000
DIRI SAVI BOARD
AGSTAR PLC 195,499 7.80 7.90 7.90 7.00 7.70 (0.10) 2. COPRA – (Locally Traded) (27.09.2021)
ALUMEX PLC 221,871 11.90 11.90 12.00 11.70 11.80 (0.10) Copra Edible (Rs. /250 Kg) -
M.S. No.1 Copra (Rs. /250 Kg) 80,000
AMANA LIFE 5,095 14.00 15.10 15.20 15.10 15.10 1.10 M.S. No.2 Copra (Rs. /250 Kg) 70,000
AMANA TAKAFUL 13,016 9.40 9.50 9.50 9.10 9.10 (0.30) MO – (Milling Ordinary) Copra (Rs. /250 Kg)
AMBEON HOLDINGS 199,010 44.60 44.90 45.80 44.50 45.60 1.00
AMF CO LTD 14,406 180.50 182.00 184.75 179.75 180.00 (0.50) Copra (At Colombo Auction)
ARPICO INSURANCE 917 22.50 22.60 23.00 22.60 22.80 0.30 Quality of Copra Offered (Kg)
Quality of Copra Sold (Kg)
ASIA SIYAKA 8,749 3.10 3.10 3.20 3.10 3.20 0.10 M.S. No.1 Copra (Top Price) (Rs.250Kg)
BANSEI RESORTS 4,505 10.20 10.20 10.50 9.70 10.40 0.20 M.S. No 1 Copra (Single Average Price) (Rs.250Kg)
DIRI SAVI BOARD M.S. No.1 Copra (Mart Price) (Rs.250kg)
BERUWALA RESORTS 21,958 1.10 1.10 1.10 1.00 1.10 0.00 M.S. No.2 and 3 Copra(Single Average Price) (Rs.250kg)
BOGALA GRAPHITE 173,665 61.20 62.00 68.00 61.00 65.50 4.30 M.S. No.2 and 3 Copra (Market Price) (Rs.250kg)
BOGAWANTALAWA 1,202 12.10 12.10 12.10 11.50 11.80 (0.30) 3. DESICCATED COCONUT
BPPL HOLDINGS 446,989 23.70 23.80 25.90 23.50 25.20 1.50 Fine Sri Lanka (Domestic) (Rs/Kg) 490-500 T
BROWNS 60,654 195.25 198.00 203.50 195.75 199.00 3.75 Medium (Rs/Kg) 510-530 T
BROWNS INVSTMNTS 67,639,165 9.50 9.60 9.80 9.50 9.70 0.20
C T LAND 268 28.00 29.40 29.40 29.30 29.30 1.30 4. COCONUT OIL
Local Wholesale Price (Rs/Mt) 560,000-630.000 N
C.W.MACKIE 7,252 52.40 53.50 53.50 52.50 52.60 0.20 Philippines (CIF-Rott)
CEYLON TEA BRKRS 272,741 4.10 4.10 4.10 4.00 4.00 (0.10) (Oil World) (10/06/2021) (Rs/Mt) 295,438
CFI 22 73.90 73.00 76.00 73.00 73.90 0.00
CITRUS HIKKADUWA 139,872 6.30 6.30 6.40 6.00 6.00 (0.30) 5. POONAC (Rs/Mt) 52,000 - 58,000 T
CITRUS WASKADUWA 136,981 3.80 3.80 3.90 3.70 3.80 0.00
6. MATTRESS FIBRE (Rs/50kg) 1250-1,600 T
COM.CREDIT 56,187 26.00 26.00 26.40 23.90 25.10 (0.90)
COMMERCIAL DEV. 612 135.75 134.75 135.00 128.25 133.75 (2.00) 7. OMAT FIBRE (FAQ) (Rs. /50 Kg) 3,000-4,000 T
DILMAH CEYLON 89 701.50 702.00 710.00 702.00 701.50 0.00
E - CHANNELLING 88,667 8.90 8.90 9.00 8.50 8.70 (0.20) 8. MIX FIBRE (Rs. /50 Kg) 1,650-2,250 T
ELPITIYA 11,318 66.20 65.60 66.80 65.60 66.20 0.00
9. BRISTLE FIBRE 1 TIE (Rs. /50 Kg) 5,500-6,000 T
EQUITY TWO PLC 330 48.00 49.40 49.50 49.40 49.50 1.50
FORTRESS RESORTS 26,244 11.10 11.50 11.50 10.90 11.00 (0.10) 10. BRISTLE FIBRE 2 TIE (Rs. /50 Kg) 8000-9,500 T
GALADARI 84,911 10.50 10.40 10.80 10.40 10.50 0.00
GUARDIAN CAPITAL 409 30.10 30.50 30.50 30.30 30.50 0.40 11. COCONUT HUSKS (29.06.2021)
HAPUGASTENNE 994 16.10 16.00 16.00 16.00 16.00 (0.10) District Rs/per 1,000 husks
Puttalam 5,500-6,000
HATTON 13,390 10.30 9.90 10.10 9.60 9.70 (0.60) Gampaha 5,500-6,000
HNB FINANCE 90,878 9.00 9.00 9.10 8.90 9.00 0.00 Matara 5,500-6,000
HNB FINANCE [HNBF-X-0000] 3,477 7.80 8.20 8.20 7.70 7.70 (0.10) Kurunegala 5,500-6,500
HVA FOODS 137,244 8.00 8.00 8.30 7.80 7.90 (0.10)
JETWING SYMPHONY 700 10.20 10.20 10.50 10.20 10.50 0.30 Coir Fibre (Moisture is more than 50%) Rs/Kg 8.00
Coir Fibre (Moisture is 40%-50% Rs/Kg 8.50
JOHN KEELLS 10,736 65.50 65.60 66.00 65.00 65.80 0.30 Coir Fibre (Moisture is 30%-40% Rs/Kg 9.50
KAHAWATTE 71 27.00 27.20 27.20 26.00 27.00 0.00 Coir Fibre (Moisture is 20%-30% Rs/Kg 10.50
KEELLS FOOD 6 162.25 162.25 162.50 162.25 162.25 0.00 Coir Fibre (Moisture is 10%-20% Rs/Kg 11.50
KEELLS HOTELS 674,809 14.30 14.50 14.50 14.00 14.00 (0.30) Coir Fibre (Moisture is less than 10% Rs/Kg 14.50
LANKA CERAMIC 1 150.50 155.50 155.50 155.50 150.50 0.00
12. COCONUT SHELL (Rs./MT) 30,000-31,000 T
LANKEM CEYLON 12,350 24.00 23.30 24.40 23.00 23.50 (0.50)
LAUGFS POWER 76,138 9.00 8.90 9.50 8.90 9.30 0.30 13. COCONUT SHELL CHARCOAL (Rs/MT) 115,000.00 T
LAUGFS POWER [LPL-X-0000] 222,835 7.80 8.00 8.50 8.00 8.30 0.50
LIGHTHOUSE HOTEL 813 36.80 34.30 36.80 34.30 36.80 0.00 14. COCONUT EKELS (Rs/MT) 50,000-55,000 T
LOTUS HYDRO 9,153 10.00 10.30 10.30 10.20 10.20 0.20
T – Traded
MACKWOODS ENERGY 213,315 2.90 3.00 3.00 2.80 2.90 0.00 N - Nominal
MAHAWELI COCONUT 10,500 38.50 39.00 39.90 39.00 39.00 0.50 Courtesy: Coconut Development Authority
MAHAWELI REACH 1,565 14.00 14.00 14.00 14.00 14.00 0.00
MARAWILA RESORTS 246,173 2.20 2.10 2.20 2.00 2.00 (0.20)
MASKELIYA 9,806 12.30 12.60 12.60 11.50 11.80 (0.50)
MILLENNIUM HOUSE 117,454 5.60 5.80 5.80 5.60 5.60 0.00
NUWARA ELIYA 51 1,175.00 1,215.00 1,215.00 1,214.00 1,175.00 0.00
PALM GARDEN HOTL 324 66.20 66.70 66.70 63.80 64.20 (2.00) 27.09.2021
PEGASUS HOTELS 50 32.90 31.50 31.50 31.50 32.90 0.00
PRIME FINANCE 5,825 14.40 13.80 14.60 13.80 14.60 0.20 (1) The average rates of the following currencies quoted
PRIMERESIDENCIES 405,316 9.80 9.80 9.80 9.50 9.60 (0.20) by commercial banks in Colombo for Telegraphic Trans-
RAIGAM SALTERNS 484,529 7.30 7.50 7.70 7.30 7.40 0.10 fers (TT) at 9.30 a.m. are as follows.
RAMBODA FALLS 52 19.40 21.50 21.50 20.90 19.40 0.00
CURRENCY BUYING RATE SELLING RATE
DIRI SAVI BOARD
RENUKA CAPITAL 740,161 7.40 7.20 7.60 7.20 7.40 0.00 Australian Dollar 142.9647 149.2491
RICH PIERIS EXP 2,505 500.00 506.00 524.75 490.25 511.25 11.25 Canadian Dollar 156.0261 162.1944
ROYAL PALMS 3,626 19.80 21.00 21.00 20.00 20.50 0.70 Euro 231.8062 240.3582
SATHOSA MOTORS 1,303 227.00 221.50 238.00 221.50 235.25 8.25 Japanese Yen 1.7822 1.8522
SERENDIB HOTELS 9,091 17.90 16.60 18.40 16.10 18.00 0.10 Sterling Pound 270.0623 278.8239
SERENDIB HOTELS [SHOT.X0000] 10,634 11.20 11.30 11.80 11.00 11.10 (0.10) US Dollar 198.5008 202.9992
SERENDIB LAND 1 2,211.00 2,100.00 2,100.00 2,100.00 2,211.00 0.00
(2) The approximate exchange rates of GULF Currencies
SINGER IND. 261 49.50 49.00 49.00 48.50 49.00 (0.50)
based on previous day’s market weighted average rate
SINGHE HOSPITALS 1,232,970 3.00 3.00 3.00 2.80 2.90 (0.10) for the US$ are as follows.
SOFTLOGIC 52,257 12.00 12.00 12.00 11.40 11.50 (0.50)
SOFTLOGIC CAP 123,291 3.80 3.80 3.90 3.70 3.90 0.10 COUNTRY CURRENCY I NDICATIVE RATE
SOFTLOGIC FIN 100 8.80 8.80 8.80 8.80 8.80 0.00
Softlogic Life 4,197 30.60 30.50 30.50 29.90 29.90 (0.70) Bahrain Bahrain Dinar 530.6025
TAL LANKA 3,559 15.80 16.20 16.20 15.50 15.70 (0.10) Kuwait Kuwait Dinar 664.3415
TESS AGRO 843,155 0.60 0.60 0.70 0.60 0.60 0.00 Oman Oman Rial 519.4873
TESS AGRO [TESS.X0000] 234,075 0.50 0.60 0.60 0.50 0.50 0.00 Qatar Qatar Riyal 54.9202
Saudi Arabia Saudi Arabian Riyal 53.3205
UDAPUSSELLAWA 231 25.50 26.80 26.80 24.50 25.00 (0.50) UAE UAE Dirham 54.4492
UNION ASSURANCE 276 269.00 268.00 274.00 265.00 273.50 4.50
VALLIBEL ONE 838,782 61.60 62.00 63.70 62.00 63.10 1.50 (3) The Average Weighted Prime Lending Rate (AWPR)
WATCH LIST and the Lowest Prime Rate (LPR) during the week
ANILANA HOTELS 53,746 1.20 1.20 1.20 1.10 1.20 0.00 ended 24-Sep-2021, by all commercial banks was 6.46
BIMPUTH FINANCE 15,064 7.80 7.70 7.70 7.60 7.70 (0.10) percent and 5.50 percent respectively.
BLUE DIAMONDS 407,092 0.90 0.90 0.90 0.80 0.80 (0.10) (4) The Average Weighted Deposit Rate (AWDR) of com-
BLUE DIAMONDS [BLUE.X0000] 258,495 0.40 0.40 0.40 0.30 0.40 0.00 mercial banks for the month of September - 2021 was
4.75 percent.
LANKEM DEV. 410,471 5.00 5.00 5.20 4.80 5.00 0.00
NATION LANKA 537,113 1.00 1.10 1.20 1.00 1.10 0.10
SERENDIB ENG.GRP 502 6.60 6.70 6.70 6.50 6.50 (0.10)
SINHAPUTHRA FIN 46,794 11.80 11.80 11.80 11.10 11.80 0.00
SINHAPUTHRA FIN [SFL.P0000] 30,589 5.50 5.90 5.90 5.00 5.30 (0.20)
EQUITY DETAILS TODAY PRV.DAY 27.09.2021
VALUE OF TURNOVER(RS.) 6,774,922,220.95 2,906,484,408.50 GIVEN BELOW ARE INDICATIVE RATES
VOLUME OF TURNOVER(NO.) 202,757,040 135,159,190
TRADES(NO.) 38,435 22,050 BID ASK BID ASK
GBP/USD 1.3673 1.3683 USD/JPY 110.57 110.67
MARKET CAPITALIZATION(RS.) 4,130,834,254,586.83 3,983,802,957,126.23 USD/CHF 0.9252 0.9262 USD/SGD 1.3519 1.3529
USD/HKD 7.7833 7.7843 AUD/USD 0.7285 0.7295
GOVT. SECURITIES TODAY PRV.DAY EUR/USD 1.1723 1.1733
VALUE OF TURNOVER(RS.) - - INTEREST RATES
VOLUME OF TURNOVER(NO.) - - 1 MONTH 3 MONTH 6 MONTH 12 MONTH
US DOLLARS 0.08513 0.13225 0.15538 0.22963
TRADES(NO.) - - STERLING 0.04913 0.08638 0.14538 0.33913
MARKET CAPITALIZATION(RS.) - EUR -0.57443 -0.55843 -0.53757 -0.49386
SWISS FRANCS -0.7846 -0.7516 -0.715 -0.5814
CORPORATE DEBT TODAY PRV.DAY GOLD FIXING
21-Jan-04 (USD PER OUNCE )
BUYING 1759.05
VALUE OF TURNOVER(RS.) - 1,267,962.10 SELLING 1760.72
VOLUME OF TURNOVER(NO.) - 1,200,000
TRADES(NO.) - 3
EQUITY INDICES TODAY PRV.DAY
PRICE INDICES
CSE ALL SHARE INDEX 9,269.65 8,940.11
S&P SL 20 INDEX 3,416.12 3,347.81
TOTAL RETURN INDICES
TRI ON ALL SHARES (ASTRI) 12,438.71 11,996.51
TRI ON S&P SL 20 INDEX (S&P SL20 (TR)) 5,805.13 5,689.04
the richness of the sector with real stories from
SANASA International hosts PEOPLE’S ECONOMIC FORUM on Sept. 29
Sri Lanka and abroad. It will raise awareness of
the scale, the scope, the role, and the influence
A virtual conference, titled PEOPLE’S ECO- SANASA International plans to organize the of the cooperative sector in achieving the sus-
NOMIC FORUM 2021, will be organized by forum as an annual event, and the first forum is tainable development goals of the nation.
SANASA International (Pvt) Ltd, on September being sponsored by Global Affairs Canada, under The forum will examine the governance and
29, 2021. the EFFEC project implemented by the Develop- regulatory frameworks to facilitate an enabling
The goal of the Forum is to contribute to refo- ment International Desjardins (DID). environment for the growth of cooperative enter-
cusing the national development planning dis- The event will bring together key actors who prises and explore opportunities for transbound-
course of Sri Lanka to the potential of the coop- have been involved in developing, sponsoring, ary cooperation needed to position the coopera-
erative sector. and regulating cooperative enterprises at nation- tive sector as a means to support a more people-
This highly interactive event will provide al and international levels. The conference will centered economy.
information and working sessions on the achieve- be attended by over 150 delegates, comprising of Professor W.D. Lakshman, who served as the
ments of cooperative enterprises in Sri Lanka cooperative leaders, policymakers, service pro- 15th Governor of the Central Bank of Sri Lanka
along with an opportunity to refine commit- viders, researchers, and national authorities to (CBSL) and is the Previous Chairman of the
deliberate on best practices, innovative approach- Monetary Board of the CBSL, will be the Chief
ers in the sector. It will be an important mile- es, and policy issues to develop the cooperative Guest of the conference.
stone towards establishing a roadmap for the sector in Sri Lanka. To register for the conference and view the full
development of cooperative enterprises, for The forum will improve the awareness of the agenda and speaker line-up participants should
more inclusive development in the country. cooperative enterprise model and will illustrate visit www.sefec.lk/pef-guest-registration/
T U E S D AY, S E P T E M B E R 2 8 , 2 0 2 1 BUSINESS 19
AGRICULTURE
Ahead Maha Season

CIC Agri steps up Organic Fertilizer production

CIC Agri Businesses, the islands leading Private Sector
Fertilizer Company has taken several key initiatives in line
with the governments Organic Fertilizer Policy to develop
and expand its Organic Fertilizer Production and tie –up with
reputed Companies worldwide ahead of the forthcoming
Maha Season.
The Company recently acquired a startup company, Bio
Technologies Ltd (BTL) specialized in manufacturing value
added organic fertilizers. Bio Technologies has invented a
specialty granulated organic fertilizer product with the brand
name Bio Carbon which has several distinct advantages over
the conventional compost.
This compacted product is easy to handle and capable of
providing a higher nutrient content with a relatively lesser
volume.
The product has a long stay in the soil compared to con-
ventional compost. Bio Carbon is now gaining popularity
among farmers and CIC Agri Business intends to increase its
current production capacity to over 1,000 tons per month
within the next
Bio Carbon-granulated Organic Fertilizer –CIC’s lat-
est Product now sought after by Farmers.
New Organic Products
Supporting the Government’s new policy initiative of pro-
moting organic fertilizer use in the country, CIC has taken
steps to develop a range of other new value-added organic
products.
Some of these new products are now being tested at the
research stations in the Company Farms and will be released
to the market shortly.Organo-Coconut, a product specific to
Coconut, ACM–
Coconut, a high potassium formulation for Coconut,
ACM–Banana, CIC Rasacol a specialty for vegetables are
some of the specialty products expected to be released to the
market shortly.
Promoting Bio-Fertilizers and Bio Pesticides
Bio fertilizers are specialty products that are used to pro-
vide plant nutrients with the help of micro-organisms. These
products are successfully used in many countries to reduce
the use of chemical fertilizers.
CIC Agribusinesses recently signed a MOU with Sri Bio-
tech, a subsidiary of Hatton Plantations, to produce and dis-
tribute two bio fertilizer products for the tea and vegetable
sectors.
These new products will be added to the current organic
product portfolio of the company and will be introduced to
the market shortly.
In addition, negotiations are continuing with Green farm
Bio and Green Vision-India to commence efficacy trials of
several Bio-Pesticides under the supervision of the Registrar
of Pesticides before introducing them to the market.
Organically extracted fertilizers
A significant short supply situation of nitrogen, which is
the major plant nutrient used in agriculture, is expected in
the coming maha season due to the government policy deci-
sion to ban the use of Urea. As a remedial measure the Gov-
ernment has issued a gazette notification allowing to import
organically extracted nitrogen fertilizers.
CIC has already negotiated with two organic fertilizer pro-
ducing companies in Italy and Belgium to seek the possibili-
ty of importing a couple of specialty organic nitrogen sup-
plying fertilizers for paddy and tea sectors. As soon as the
Government develops the necessary protocols for imports,
the Company will arrange to bring down samples for field
testing of a few of these new products
Promoting ‘CIC Saru’
In addition to supplying primary compost, CIC has been
distributing a value-added organic soil conditioner “Saru” for
vegetable farmers in the country over the years. ‘Saru’, is
very popular among potato farmers in N’Eliya and vegetable
farmers in Kalpitiya.
At present the bulk of organic fertilizer sold by CIC is
produced in the company’s own farms while a smaller
quantity is purchased from farmers on a buy back agree-
ment. Initiatives have already been done to enhance the in –
house Saru Production and also expand the outgrower pur-
chases.
A boost for tea plantations
It is a well-known fact that the organic matter content in
most tea soils is low resulting in reduced fertilizer use effi-
ciency. Over the years CIC has been advocating growers to
improve organic content in tea soils by conducting many
field trials.
As an innovative approach to add organic matter, the com-
pany provides free saplings of shade trees to tea small holder
farmers to promote the cultivation of shade trees in their
plantations.
It is estimated that approximately 2-3 tons of organic mat-
ter is automatically added annually to soil by these shade
trees.
This program which was conducted as a CSR activity of
the company was slowed down due to the Covid-19 threat
and will be re-vamped once the situation comes back to nor-
mal.
CSR Program to improve organic content is tea soils
CIC Agribusinesses is the major plant nutrient provider to
the country’s agriculture sector. It supplies a wide range of
high quality conventional and new generation of chemical
fertilizers and organic fertilizers to famers.
The company has been constantly advocating farmers to
use both chemical and organic fertilizers in their cultivations
to realize higher crop productivity in farming. Over the years
the company has conducted thousands of field experiments
covering key agricultural crops to demonstrate the comple-
mentary effects of chemical and organic fertilizers.
As the government focusses its attention on going green
with the island’s agriculture, CIC has mobilized all its avail-
able resources in its agriculture and livestock farms to pro-
duce a maximum quantity of organic fertilizer and also
expanded its out-grower compost producing network in a bid
to enhance volumes.

For continued success in tea production and exports

Tea experts optimistic that
fertilizer issue will be sorted out
RAVI LADDUWAHETTY
Tea industry experts are optimistic,
that the fertilizer issue will be
addressed satisfactorily sooner than
later, for the continued maintenance of
an export industry, that is renowned for
quality of product, that brings in sub-
stantial and significant foreign revenue
to the country and to achieve about 85
million kgs to 90 million kgs for the
balance four months of the year 2021.
This year (2021) there is concern of
whether these quantities could be
achieved, primarily due to the availa-
bility of suitable fertilizer required by
the tea plants and at the time it is
required for application. The non-avail-
ability of correct fertilizer at the
required time will not only affect crop
but could also affect quality of the har-
vested leaf.
Taking into consideration and based
on the data published by Sri Lanka
Customs, January to August, Sri Lan-
ka’s Tea Exports are on a recovery
mode from the first pandemic year of
2020, they pointed out.
In 2019 for the same period, an
export volume of approximately 196
million kgs was recorded, whilst in
2020 it was approximately 174 million
kgs, a drop of approximately 11%. For
the same period in 2021 a quantity of
approximately 188 million kg was
exported, a gain of about 8% in 2020.
“With most consuming countries
recovering from the pandemic, it is an
encouraging note for our export, they
pointed out.”
In value terms, Sri Lankan tea
exports earned about USD 916 mn in
2019, but dropped by about 12% in
the same period 2020 to about USD
806 mn. January to August 2021 the
recorded value of tea exports is
around USD 882 million, a gain of
about 9%.
Tea Production, as published by the
Sri Lanka Tea Board, for January to
August 2021 is about 212 Mnkg, as
against 179 million kg in the year 2020
and 211 million kgs in 2019.
September to December 2020 tea
production was about 100 million kgs
and in 2019 this figure was about 89
Million kgs.
Elpitiya Plantations launches locally
harvested ‘BerryMuch’ fresh berries
Fresh berries lovingly nurtured in
Sri Lanka under the brand name, ‘Ber-
ryMuch’ will be launched in Sri
Lanka. Harvested in the salubrious
environs of Elpitiya Plantations PLC,
the leading plantations company
brings the fresh goodness of ‘Berry-
Much’ to all Sri Lankans. Initially,
‘Berrymuch’ will offer strawberries,
with plans to introduce more varieties
of fresh in the very near future, mak-
ing it the first-time ever that these ber-
ries will be grown in Sri Lanka.
Commenting on this initiative,
Bhathiya Bulumulla - Director/ CEO,
Elpitiya Plantations PLC said, “We
are excited to bring fresh, real produce
to the people of Sri Lanka through
‘BerryMuch’, by delivering products
that are locally harvested and ethically BerryMuch Strawberry Packaging
grown. At a time when the demand
for health foods is on the rise globally, into value-added processing and This innovation drive is a result of
fresh plantation grown berries fulfil branding with the recent introduction Elpitiya Plantations transformation
the requirements for health, taste and of ‘Harrow Ceylon Choice’ Herbal from a traditional plantation company
wholesome goodness. As the company tea, Bees honey, Kithul treacle and to a modern innovative and entrepre-
behind ‘BerryMuch’, Elpitiya Planta- Cinnamon products such as sticks and neurial plantation company as part of
tions is proud of evolving to meet powder; and ‘Tropifrut’ products such its Growth and Transformation Strate-
changing market demands while as Soursop pulp and passion fruit gy, named Design 2020 to create eco-
ensuring sustainability through pulp. Going ahead, the ‘BerryMuch’ nomic value through value-addition.
healthy products like fresh berries.” brand will also offer value additions Elpitiya Plantations PLC is a public
The launch of ‘BerryMuch’ is pre- including jams, purees and pulps to be liability company managed by the Ait-
ceded by Elpitiya Plantation’s move delivered on a B2B basis. ken Spence Group since 1997.

“Unico” Water Pumps by Solex FAO urges G20 countries to increase

Group celebrates 15 years
Over the last 40 years,
Solex the name entrusted
with Water Pumps and
covers a full array of
Water Systems including
domestic, agricultural
and industrial sectors has
won the hearts and
minds of many Sri Lan-
kans and it has become
the highest selling Water
Pump manufactured in
Sri Lanka.
Expanding its brand
portfolio with the inten-
tion of introducing Water
Pumps which offer great
value for money
amongst other Water
Pump importers in the
market, Solex group of
companies announced its
new member named
“Unico Water Pumps” to
the Sri Lankan Market in
2005. With the introduc-
tion of Unico Water
Pumps, the company
was able to expand its
brand portfolio into the mass
segments of Sri Lankan con-
sumers and has proved to be an
immense success.
From the inception, the
objective of presenting a new
brand under Solex Family was
to offer consumers a superior
and a quality product at a com-
petitive price to conquer
amongst the importers in the
same market. The concept of
Unico was introduced by Upali
Wijayasiri (Chairman) and his
wife Manjula Wijayasiri (dep.
Chairman/ Director Operations)
to cater to common consumer
requirements and strengthen
the overall grip of the company
in the Water Pump industry.
Marking the 15th anniversa-
ry of introducing Unico Pumps,
dep. Chairman/ Director Oper-
ations Manjula Wijayasiri stat-
ed “Unico has gradually
strengthened its grip in the Sri
Lankan market over the past
decade and the brand has wid-
ened its range of products to a
greater extent. Currently, the
Unico domestic line-up
of Water Pumps range
from 0.5Hp- 2HP and in
addition, there is a range
of Submersible and Tube
Well Pumps also on offer
to its consumers. I con-
gratulate the Solex team
for making Unico jour-
ney quite successful and
worthwhile.”
Over the last 15 years,
Unico has gone from
strength to strength
offering the local con-
sumers with its high
quality domestic, sub-
mersible and tube well
Pumps.
The brand has also
won the trust of local
hardwares and dealers
who have a special liking
to promote Unico due to
its excellent product
quality and dedicated
after-sales service.
A vital part of manu-
facturing Unico Pumps is
done at the esteemed factory
complex located in Ganemulla
where a dedicated staff led by a
team of engineers ensure the
assembly of Unico Pumps are
done in accordance with high-
est international quality stand-
ards. Unico Pumps are now
available at all leading Hard-
wares Island wide.
support for rural farmers
Among Afghanistan’s many
challenges, it is urgent that the
international community tackle
the dramatic hunger risk condi-
tions faced by a third of the popu-
lation and the livelihood risks in
rural region areas where 70 per-
cent of the population live, QU
Dongyu, Director-General of the
Food and Agriculture Organiza-
tion of the United Nations (FAO),
told G20 Foreign Ministers late
Wednesday.
“Supporting local agri-food pro-
duction and safeguarding rural
livelihoods must be a priority,” the
Director-General said at the Meet-
ing of the Ministers for Foreign
Affairs of the G20 Countries,
including Spain as permanent
guest, the Netherlands and Singa-
pore as guests, and Qatar.
The virtual meeting was held in ty and livelihoods and source of the root causes of repeated human-
view of an extraordinary G20 more than half of the average daily itarian crises.”
summit on Afghanistan announced calorie intake in the country. He pointed to FAO’s long histo-
by Mario Draghi, Prime Minister “Failure to step up and speed up ry of working in Afghanistan’s
of Italy holder of the G20 presi- efforts immediately to support and rural communities and called for
dency. United Nations Secretary- salvage rural agricultural liveli- the G20 to rapidly release resourc-
General, António Guterres, and the hoods will lead to enormous es to prevent a worsening humani-
head of the UN’s Office for the increases in hunger and malnutri- tarian crisis, advocate for safe and
Coordination of Human Affairs tion, massive displacement and sustained access to the most vul-
(OCHA), Martin Griffiths, also vast increases in acute humanitari- nerable, and contribute to rebuild-
spoke at the event, alongside rep- an situations going into the winter ing an economically prosperous
resentatives of other multilateral season,” he said. agri-food system.
institutions. “Agriculture provides liveli- “The window of opportunity to
Qu emphasized the need to hoods, either directly or indirectly, assist Afghan farmers before win-
urgently support Afghanistan’s to nearly 80 percent of the Afghan ter is very narrow,” QU said.
farmers to have access to agricul- population,” the Director-General “FAO stands with the farmers of
tural inputs for the winter wheat said. “Agriculture can and must Afghanistan. We count on the G20
season, a mainstay for food securi- play a central role in addressing to stand with FAO.”
 20 BUSINESS T U E S D AY, S E P T E M B E R 2 8 , 2 0 2 1

NEWS/ADVERTORIAL

SLT-MOBITEL, eChannelling power National Pharmacy

Helpline to reinforce healthcare facilities
In commemoration of the National
Pharmacist Day observed on September
24, SLT-MOBITEL and eChannelling
together with the Ministry of Health and
Society of Government Pharmacists
(SGP), launched the nation’s first Nation-
al Pharmacy Helpline, reinforcing its
commitment to improving healthcare
facilities in the country during these
unprecedented times.
With over 120 dedicated government
pharmacists trained by SLT-MOBITEL to
facilitate calls and to provide medical
advice, the joint endeavour will enable
Sri Lankans to obtain optimal health care
services, from the safety of their homes.
SGP’s vision is to offer the best phar-
macy service to the nation, delivering
patient centered care. SLT-MOBITEL
and eChannelling are supporting SGP in
this timely initiative to enhance connec-
tivity towards an optimal healthcare
experience to the public islandwide. As
the first step, the project will be launched
targeting Colombo (1-15) and will fur-
ther expand throughout the country in the
coming months.
Patients can contact the dedicated NPH
as the first point of contact and receive
prescription advice and information,
online from a pharmacist. Through the
helpline, dedicated trained pharmacists
will provide assistance to the callers.
Then, an SMS link will be provided to
the caller to upload their prescription, to
ensure home delivery of Osu Sala medi-
cine. The service is available trilingually
for the convenience of the public.
Helping SGP in its digital transforma-
tion, SLT-MOBITEL and eChannelling-
has powered the dedicated National Phar-
macy Helpline (NPH) along with the
addition of the government hospital phar-
macy service, to facilitate any further
assistance required by patients. Enabling
patients with the facility to upload pre-
scription information, SLT-MOBITEL
will ensure that the public can simply
upload an image of the prescription
online via the eChannelling Prescription
Upload page, https://www.echannelling.
com/echannelling-prescription-view/
which undertakes to ensure Osu Sala Dr. Asela Gunawardana, Director General of Health Services, Dr.
medicine delivery to the patients’ door- S.H. Munasinghe, Secretary Ministry, Minister of Health Keheliya
step through government registered phar- Rambukwella, Ajith Thilakarathna, Society of Government Phar-
macies. macists, Rohan Fernando, Group Chairman of SLT-MOBITEL

AIA partners Fortude to adopt Microsoft analytics
AIA a leading Life Insurers in Sri Lanka, is
expanding the use ofanalytics to meet its
increasing business needs and demands.
To provide deeper insights and higher-qual-
ity insurance solutions, Fortude-a global tech-
nology solutions provider, developed an ana-
lytics platform for AIAto enhance their visi-
bility of performance metrics, improve time-
to-insight and securely democratize analytics
company-wide.
“One of ourgoals was to reimagine how we
deliver customer service, andthe need for a
strong data analytics technology stack was
key to achieving this,”said Umeshi de Fonse-
ka, Chief Technology Officer, AIA Sri Lanka.
The analytics platform provides AIA with
pipelines that automatically and continuously
extract large volumes of data from an assort-
ment of software systems to a cloud data lake.
Interactive analytical reports and dash-
boards that plug into the analytics platform
deliver enterprise business intelligence to the
C-level and middle management daily to
make informed decisions. The platform also
allows AIA employees to easily create their
own analytics dashboards while data scientists
can conduct their data analysis in a fraction of
time and without any security gaps.
“We have a dedicated, certified data analyt-
ics team that focuses on delivering on Micro-
soft’s data and AI technologies,” said Gaurika
Wijeratne, Vice President for Data & AI, For-
tude. “The skills we bring in coupled with our
customer-focusedapproach make a difference
across our implementations.”
AIA selected Microsoft technologiesto
Umeshi de Fonseka, Gavin D’Rosairo and Gaurika Wijeratne
deliver on their objectives of enhancing secu-
rity, scalability, and ease-of-use. The analytics
platform was conceptualized, designed and
developed using Microsoft’s Azure Data Ser-
vices — which includes Azure Data Lake,
Databricks, Data Factory, SQL Database, and
Analysis Services. The enterprise business
intelligence subsystem was designed and
developed using Microsoft Power BI.
“Using the Azure cloud, we designed an
architecture that evolves with AIA’s growing
needs,” said Gogula Aryalingam, Lead Archi-
tect for Data and AI, Fortude.
“The Power BI dashboards facilitate fact-
based decision making. It helps our teams to
focus more on analyzing and understanding
Management Information, rather than prepar-
ing it,” said Gavin D’Rosairo, Chief Financial
Officer, AIA Sri Lanka. “Our teams now have
access to visualized and analyzed data for
over 55 KPIs based on their unique require-
ments. This approach helpeddeliver a single
figure for each KPI and eliminated issues
involvingreconciling differences in informa-
tion generated from multiple sources.”
AIA Sri Lanka will continue to look
towards further enhancements, to chart the
future for life insurance.
The next iteration of the company’s analyt-
ics platform will be toupgrade to Azure Syn-
apse Analytics, use machine learning for pre-
dictive analysis, and utilize artificial intelli-
gence to provide insights to employees in the
field.
“Onboarding Azure data services and
Power BI was an important milestone in
enhancing our cloud technologies, making us
the first subsidiary in AIA Group to roll it out.
Fortude has been a valuable partner, bringing
industry best practices and technology exper-
tise throughout the entire project,” added
Umeshi.
DFCC Bank partners Quickmed.lk to facilitate
financial benefits for credit cardholders
DFCC Bank, the pioneer in
commercial banking, has
announced its partnership with
Quickmed.lk to ensure greater
accessibility and affordability,
with regard tothe services
offered by the health and well-
ness pharmacy, for all DFCC
Credit Cardholders.
DFCC Bank will now pro-
vide a 0%, 12-month Easy
Payment Plan for all healthcare
transactions through the online
pharmacy that are initiated by Denver Lewis Sujeewa Samaraweera
September 30.
DFCC Cardholders will also ence. DFCC Bank cardholders impactful financial solutions.”
benefit from an exclusive 15% can avail themselves of these Adding his thoughts,
discount on their total bill, with benefits by visiting the online Quickmed.lk CEO, Sujeewa
a 1% CashBack on all products Quickmedi.lk store, to pur- Samaraweera, commented,
purchased at Quickmed.lk chase their products of choice. “Our new partnership with
allowing them to save with Commenting on the new part- DFCC Bank allows us to more
every swipe. nership, Vice President and effectively deliver the best pos-
The Bank has decided to Head of Card Centre of DFCC sible healthcare solutions to all
support this initiative by waiv- Bank, Denver Lewis, stated, of society.
ing both the credit card joining “We are happy to announce our The partnership enables us to
fee and the first year annual fee new partnership with achieve our goal of ensuring all
for new cards obtained until Quickmed.lk, which brings a customers have access to more
September 30 and a DFCC multitude of benefits for all affordable health and wellness
Credit Card can be applied for DFCC Bank credit cardholders. products of their choice, all
online through the Banks web- This enables cardholders to from the safety of their homes.
site. Quickmed.lk, one of the secure their health and safety With the current economic
leading health and wellness through the purchase of premi- conditions due to the ongoing
online pharmacies in Sri um wellness products, at pandemic, the affordability and
Lanka, delivers all healthcare reduced costs, and eases their financial inclusivity brought
needs safely and soundly to financial burden when doing about by the partnership,
stands to benefit all parts of

LB Finance holds ‘How to Continue Your

customer’s doorsteps.
The pharmacy is one of the
few that supports island-wide
delivery and is optimized to
allow customers to convenient-
ly satisfy their health and well-
so. Promoting affordability is a
key value that drives our activ-
ities as a premier commercial
bank.
The easy payment and cash
back schemes introduced
society during these testing
times.”
DFCC Bank once again
strives to build partnerships
that ensure constant value-

Business on Digital Media’ webinar

ness needs from the safety of through this partnership are yet additions for all stakeholders
their homes, reducing risk of another indication of our com- with this partnership marking
exposure while ensuring cus- mitment to continuously add the next step of its long-term
tomer satisfaction and conveni- value through innovative and value creation journey.

LB Finance held its ‘How to Continue Your

Ceylinco Life green mandate with

Business on Digital Media’ on September 22
at 4.00 p.m., a two-session free webinar con-
ducted live via Zoom.
Around 1,000 participants registered to

foundation stone for new Matale branch

watch illustrious panellists Udara Dharmase-
na, VP Client Success, Facebook ASP at Roar
Global, and Travel With Wife, Most Popular
Influencer of the Year 2019, advise aspiring
and current entrepreneurs on how to launch
their business on digital media and leverage
the online community to build brand aware-
ness.
“The ‘How to Continue Your Business on
Digital Media’ webinar was a Digital CSR
initiative by LB Finance to commemorate
World Tourism Day 2021” and it has been
enormously successful said Sumith Adihetty
the Managing Director of LB Finance.
Many participants belonged to renowned
tourisminstitutions such as the Sri Lanka
Association of Inbound Tour Operators
(SLAITO), the Association of Small and
Medium Enterprises in Tourism Sri Lanka
(ASMET) and The Hotels Association of Sri
Lanka (THASL).In addition, existing clients
and social media followers of LB Finance
also joined. “The session shall be made avail-
able for free viewing on the LB Finance Face-
book and YouTube social media channels,”
added Adihetty. “We are proud to help all
entrepreneurial Sri Lankans who can benefit
greatly from such valuable knowledge.”
LB Finance is licensed by the Central Bank
of Sri Lanka under the Finance Business Act
No. 42 of 2011 and listed in the Main Board
of the Colombo Stock Exchange. The compa-
ny offers a variety of financial services
including leasing, vehicle loans, micro
finance, mortgage loans, housing loans, edu-
cation loans, personal loans, gold loans, fixed
deposits, savings accounts, currency
exchange and Western Union Money Transfer
services through an island-wide branch net-
work, offering unparalleled convenience to
all customers.
Ceylinco Life has laid the
foundation for a new eco-
friendly branch building in
Matale that will be constructed
to the planet-friendly specifica-
tions adopted for all new
branches on company-owned
land, taking another step in the
expansion of green practices in
its operations.
With an investment of Rs
88.6 million, a four-storey
building will rise in the next 15
months at Trincomalee Road,
Matale.
This will be the first Ceylin-
co Life branch to be built on
company-owned land in the
Matale district.
Designed to further reduce
the carbon footprint of Ceylin-
co Life, the new branch will be

Amãna Bank continues to reward new borns

Amãna Bank is once again joining in
celebrating this joyous occasion by pro-
viding the foundation for parents to
encourage saving for their children by
gifting a Children’s Savings Account
with a pre-loaded balance.
Commenting on this reward scheme
the Bank’s Head of Deposit Mobilisa-
tions Arshad Jamaldeen said, “Having
commenced this promotion in 2018, the
Bank has received admiration from
many parents for giving them a head
start to save for their children from a
very young age.”
“We are very delighted to once again
offer this reward to new born parents so
that they can set a sound financial foun-
dation for their children to achieve their
dreams and to assist that we have
increased the pre-loaded balance for
parents taking the extra step to establish
a standing order.” To benefit from this
promotion, parents or guardians with
children less than the age of 2 years can
walk into any Amãna Bank branch with
a copy of the child’s birth certificate and
obtain the gift of a new children’s sav-
ings account. Parents who also establish
a monthly standing order to their child’s
account will also receive a bonus
amount equivalent to standing order at
the end of the year as a gift from the
Bank. Amãna Bank is the country’s first
and only Licensed Commercial Bank to
operate in complete harmony with the
globally growing non-interest based
people friendly banking model.
Amãna Bank PLC is a stand-alone
institution licensed by the Central Bank
of Sri Lanka and listed on the Colombo
Stock Exchange with Jeddah based
IsDB Group being the principal share-
holder having a 29.97% shareholding of
the Bank.
powered entirely by a 20kW
solar power system that will
result in zero consumption of
electricity from the national
grid.
It will feature a rainwater
harvesting facility, a wastewa-
ter recycling system, and will
only minimally consume pipe-
borne water, the Company
said.
The building is also designed
for optimal use of natural light
and will be equipped with the
latest energy-efficient lighting
and air conditioning systems.
The construction will mini-
mize the use of timber and the
property, upon completion, will
include new trees. Construction
commenced with the senior
management of Ceylinco Life
laying the foundation stone for
the building.
Ceylinco Life is in the pro-
cess of constructing another
Green building for its branch
Representatives of Ceylinco Life’s management and branch
staff at the foundation stone laying ceremony and an art-
ist’s impression of the new building to be constructed
in Ja-Ela. The Company cur- those at Horana, Panadura,
rently owns the buildings Wennappuwa, Bandarawela,
housing its offices in Anurad- Chilaw, Kadawatha, Jaffna,
hapura, Trincomalee, Jaffna, Malabe, Divulapitiya, Negom-
Batticaloa, Kandy, Kalutara, bo, and Piliyandala.
Kurunegala, Gampaha, Galle, Ceylinco Life has close to a
Matara, Tissamaharama, million lives covered by active
Negombo, Ratnapura, Kotahe- policies and is acknowledged
na, Mount Lavinia, and Wella- as a benchmark in the local
watte, many of which have insurance sector for innovation,
already been converted to solar product research and develop-
energy. ment, customer service, profes-
New branch buildings pur- sional development, sustaina-
pose-built to the company’s bility, and corporate social
sustainable energy model are responsibility.
T U E S D AY, S E P T E M B E R 2 8 , 2 0 2 1 BUSINESS 21
NEWS
To expand business and develop network

NCE invites SL exporters to connect with right people

The World EXPO 2020,
one of the largest interna-
tional exhibitions in the
world will be held in Dubai
from October 1, 2021 to
March 31, 2022, creating a
platform to showcase the
greatest innovations that
have shaped the world we
live in today.
Joining hands with this
extraordinary and important
experience, The National
Chamber of Exporters of Sri
Lanka, the exclusive Cham-
ber representing Sri Lankan
Exporters is spearheading a
trade exhibition concurrent-
ly, under the banner “Sri
Lanka Export Brands” to
showcase Sri Lankan Export
Products and Services. This
exhibition will be held from
17th to 20th February 2022.
(Thursday, Friday, Saturday
and Sunday) forming the
ideal platform for Sri Lanka
to create awareness for prod-
ucts and services and
explore the immense oppor-
tunities of the Middle East-
ern Region.
The NCE has secured
premises within the Dubai
Exhibition Center (DEC)
located within the Expo
2020 Dubai site. The DEC is
a state-of-the-art multipur-
pose venue, spread across
45,000 sq.m. Through
world-class hospitality ser-
vices and a transformative
atmosphere. DEC will host
the “Sri Lanka Export
Brands” exhibition.
Updating the media, Shi-
ham Marikar, SG-CEO of
the Chamber stated that the
NCE will be offering stand-
ard Exhibition Booths for
potential Exhibitors. Adding
more value, for the conveni-
ence of the Exhibitor, other
value-added services such as
discounted rates for hotel
accommodation in Dubai,
airfare and assistance to
obtain Visas will also be
provided by the NCE.
The Chamber is currently
coordinating with a leading
local bank to partner with
the event to extend financial
assistance to potential exhib-
itors. We are negotiating
with a local bank to provide
a loan to cover the event-
related expenses at a conces-
sionary interest rate with
minimum collateral, he fur-
ther stated.
The NCE has already
commenced a powerful pro-
motional campaign in coor-
dination with the Sri Lankan
Missions and Trade Cham-
bers in the Gulf Region to
create awareness for the
event and they will invite
potential buyers in those
respective countries as well
to visit the “Sri Lanka
Export Brands” exhibition.
Marikar highlighted the
support already extended by
the Sri Lankan Embassy in
the UAE and the Consul
General based in Dubai in
promoting this event. The
NCE and its member export-
ers place a high note of
appreciation for the role
played by the Sri Lankan
Mission in the UAE in terms
of assisting the NCE in this
process.
“The Ambassador of Sri
Lanka to the UAE Malraj
De Silva, and Nalinda
Wijerathna, Consul General
of Sri Lanka, Dubai &
Northern Emirates are play-
ing a vital role from the ini-
tial stage of planning the
event which is praisewor-
thy”, he stated.
Further emphasizing the
respective roles played by
various stakeholders towards
making this event a success,
Marikar also commended
the role played by the Sri
Shiham Marikar,
SG-CEO of the Chamber
Lanka Tourism Promotional
Bureau, who coordinates
with the EXPO organizers in
securing the venue, event
dates and other logistical
aspects.
The Sri Lankan Business
Council in Dubai & North-
ern Emirates, an organiza-
tion consisting of Sri Lankan
Entrepreneurs and Senior
Professionals in the UAE
with a mission to maintain,
support, promote and
encourage trade, investment,
technical and economic co-
operation, employment and
tourism between Sri Lanka
and the UAE has partnered
with the NCE to promote the
event and connect business-
es with the Exhibiting Com-
panies.
Through these efforts and
strategic event dates coincid-
ing with Gulf Food Expo
2020, we expect a higher
number of regional and
international visitors and
UAE nationals to visit the kan exporters to reach the Staying true to its greater
exhibition, Mr Marikar right people, expand the mission of supporting the
added. business and develop the country’s export sector, the
Due to the adverse effects global network whilst Chamber is encouraging
caused by the Coronavirus exploring the immense exporters to join this interna-
pandemic, Sri Lankan opportunities of the MENA- tional event to reach new
exporters are experiencing SA region. markets, meet new people
numerous challenges in sus- The Chamber is confident and cultures.
taining export revenue and that this initiative will open Sri Lankan Companies
growth. However, remaining up fresh avenues for the interested in participating
optimistic and upbeat, the country’s exports to reach are requested to email to
World Expo provides a greater heights by expanding nce@nce.lk to receive
greater platform for Sri Lan- the global market share. updates on the event.

Sri Lanka Tourism commemorates
World Tourism Day
As Sri Lanka begins
to open its borders to
the world, Sri Lanka
Tourism continues its
strategic efforts to pro-
mote the island to cap-
ture the attention of a
global audience seeking
an outlet to experience
travel once again.
In its latest initiative,
special programmes and
events have been organ-
ized to celebrate World
Tourism Day 2021 in
Haputale, under the
guidance of the Minis-
try of Tourism, Sri
Kimarli Fernando
“Sri Lanka Tourism
is taking strategic meas-
ures to improve the per-
formance of the domes-
tic tourism sector by
upgrading community-
Kelburne Mountain View in Haputale based tourism products,
ogy-driven, and sustain- ing further excitement
increasing registration
of SMEs, uplifting
able tourism sector to commemorate World industry standards,
Nestlé’s Bandula Egodage re-appointed IASL Chairman
The Industrial Association of Sri Lanka
(IASL), an approved trade association
under the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce
and the apex body for representing indus-
tries and manufacturing companies in Sri
Lanka, held its 30th Annual General
Meeting recently on a virtual platform
and Bandula Egodage representing Nestlé
Lanka PLC was unanimously re-elected
as the Chairman.
Sanjev Perera of Vision Fund Lanka
was re-elected as the Senior Vice Chair-
man and Brahaman Balaratnarajah of
Haycarb PLC as Vice Chairman for the
year 2021/22.
The following members were elected to
serve on the Executive Committee for
‘Catering to the Post-Pandemic Consumer’
2021/22: Safraz Careem,
Alpha Industries (Pvt) Ltd;
Lasantha Wijeweera, Associ-
ated Motorways (Pvt) Ltd;
Daham Gamage, Ceylon Bis-
cuits Ltd; Sudesh Peter, Cey-
lon Tobacco PLC; Pushpika
Janadheera, Dipped Products
PLC; Mohamed Riyaz,
Expack Corrugated Cartons;
Wasantha Ariyathilake, Hetti-
goda Industries (Pvt) Ltd; Upul
Gunasekera, Litro Gas Lanka; Nishantha
Deetiratne, Polypak Secco (Pvt) Ltd; Pali-
tha Piyanandana, PGP Glass Ceylon PLC;
Kamantha Cooray, Richard Pieris & Co
PLC; Kelum Kospelawatte, Singer Indus-
tries Ceylon PLC; Chulodhara
Samarasinghe, The Swadeshi
Industrial Works PLC; Shiran
Jansz, The Lion Brewery Cey-
lon PLC; and Harini Rajadasa,
Unilever Sri Lanka.
The Ceylon Chamber of
Commerce acts as the Secre-
tariat to the Association, rep-
resented by Rohan Casie-
Chetty.
The Industrial Association of Sri Lanka
(IASL) was formed on 13 March 1991 to
enhance industrial production in Sri
Lanka. Those interested in seeking mem-
bership can contact the Secretariat on
rohan@chamber.lk.

Sri Lanka Retail Forum 2021 on Oct. 13

Lanka Tourism Devel-
opment Authority, Min-
istry of Tourism - Uva
Provincial Council and
the Uva Wellassa Uni-
versity. The United
Nations World Tourism
Organization
(UNWTO) promotes
sustainable, responsible
and universally accessi-
ble tourism on World
Tourism Day, com-
memorated worldwide
on the 27th of Septem-
ber every year.
This year’s World
Tourism Day will be
celebrated under the
theme ‘Tourism for
Inclusive Growth’,
focusing on fostering a
people-centric, technol-
from the grassroots Tourism Day, The Min- enhancing strategic
level, to achieve overall istry of Tourism - Uva marketing and improv-
sustainable economic Provincial Council and ing efficiency of public
development. Uva Wellassa Universi- services and infrastruc-
The official ceremo- ty will be organizing ture,’ said Kimarli Fer-
ny will take place at the seven competitions nando , Chairperson ,
Kelburne Mountain under the following cat- Sri Lanka Tourism. ‘Catering to the Post-Pan-
View in Haputale under egories: Inter Universi- Such initiatives are demic Consumer’, the first
the patronage of Minis- ty Category (Best Trav- expected to create session at the upcoming Sri
ter of Tourism Prasanna el YouTube Channel opportunities particular- Lanka Retailers Forum 2021
Ranatunga, with the Competition, Best Trav- ly to tourism and hospi- will focus on customer value
presence of other offi- el Facebook Page Com- tality-based SMEs as as online / digital platforms
cials from Sri Lanka petition and Best Travel well as the rural com- become a core part of the
Tourism. A ceremonial E-Poster Competition); munity. It serves as a business while exploring the
event will also be held Open Category (Best catalyst for job creation role played by digital shifts
at the Uva Wellassa Travel Photography for youth, women, in the customer journey.
University. Competition, Best Trav- minorities, indigenous This year’s Sri Lanka The panelists for the event
Apart from the offi- el Videography Compe- people and other mar- Retail Forum themed, behaviour patterns, and pro- Ltd and Rakhil Fernando – body for this sector, repre-
cial celebration, a series tition and Best Innova- ginalized groups, and as ‘Recharging Retail: Resil- vide insights if the current Managing Director – Daraz senting 47 leading and
of other events have tive Tour Package a stimulant of infra- ience to Results’ is scheduled short term trends would per- in the panel discussion. The national level retail firms,
been planned, including Competition and Best structure and public for the October 13, 2021. sist for a longer time. session will be moderated by with countrywide reach
seven webinars on Social Media Page/Blog service development in The discussion will dive The expert presenters lined Dr. Rohantha Athukorala – across various product seg-
diverse topics. Generat- Competition). rural areas. into some of the emerging up to reveal these insights President/ Country Head ments.
trends and needs of the con- during session one are Dym- Clootrack – Maldives and This forum is ideal for
sumer regionally and those fke Kuijpers Senior Partner Pakistan. those keen on learning new
taking place locally. The McKinsey & Co and The Sri Lanka Retailers trends and innovations in the

INSEE steps up COVID-19

expert panel will discuss on Himalee Madurasinghe, Association (Guarantee) Ltd retail industry, and it will
the local retail industry’s CEO – Kantar Sri Lanka. (SLRA), will host the cover a wide range of new
readiness to cater for such a They will be joined by pan- island’s premier retail sector insights. More details can be
shift. This session will elists Mohammed Rizvi – forum for the fourth year. obtained from email

response programme
explore the new buyer CEO – Softlogic Retail (Pvt) SLRA is the sole industry events@chamber.lk.

The market leader for cement in

Sri Lanka, INSEE Cement, has
boosted its COVID response pro-
gramme over the past couple of
months to help the Nation to cope
with the severe ongoing wave of
the COVID-19 pandemic.
Through its CSR and sustaina-
bility team, the Company has been
engaged in five separate initiatives
to provide relief to COVID
patients and the frontline medical
teams working around the clock to
save lives. These projects include
the donation of medical equip-
ment, helping to make new beds
available, providing cement for
the building and expansion of var-
ious hospitals and the donation of
a sizeable consignment of masks
and hand-sanitizer to both provin-
cial authorities and the national
government.
Gustavo Navarro, Chief Execu-
tive Officer at INSEE Cement
said, “Having monitored the
ground situation closely, we real-
ized early on that the country
would face considerable challeng-
es, particularly with the emer-
gence of the delta variant. Our
position as the market leader and
only integrated manufacturer of
cement in Sri Lanka meant that
we had a moral obligation and
sincere desire to provide relief
and support when and where it
was possible for us to do so. “
“One way we could substantial-
ly contribute was through the
donation of cement for the build-
ing of new facilities and the
expansion of existing ones, which
we have done. In fact, we contrib-
uted many truckloads of cement
bags, and supported with exper-
tise towards building new COVID
wards in multiple hospitals which
is a feat we are very proud of. We
have achieved all of this during
2021, on top of the initiatives we
undertook in 2020 and we intend
to continue to support the national
fight against COVID to the best
of our ability.”
Efforts by INSEE Cement, as
part of its COVID response initia-
tive, include the donation of mul-
tiple oxygen infusion pumps,
which are crucial in the manage-
ment of patients suffering from
COVID.
In addition to this, the INSEE
Cement has provided 50 medical
beds to the Puttalam Base Hospi-
tal Covid Ward, as part of its
ongoing and long running com-
munity development plan focused
on the Puttalam region, where one
of INSEE’s plants is located. Fur-
thermore, premium SANSTHA
Cement was donated to the
National Hospital of Kandy to
support their effort to build a 150-
bed ward, within just 10 days,
specifically for patients recover-
ing. Additionally, SANSTHA
Cement was donated to the
National Hospital for Respiratory
Diseases in Welisara, Ragama; to
the Colombo South Hospital; to
the Divulapitiya Base Hospital.
Jan Kunigk, Executive Vice
President -Sales, Marketing and
Innovations at INSEE Cement
also commented “As a responsi-
ble corporate citizen, driven by a
core ethos of “Build for Life”,
INSEE’s many ongoing social
and environmental development,
conservation and restoration pro-
grammes are contributing to
uplifting the lives of Sri Lankans
and protecting the nation’s natural
resources.”
The PwC academy announces
strategic partnership with IMAA
PwC Sri Lanka’s Academy
recently announced their stra-
tegic partnership with the
Institute for Mergers, Acqui-
sitions and Alliances (IMAA).
Made with the purpose of
improving the level of knowl-
edge and insights with
regards to Strategic Alliances
as well as mergers and acqui-
sitions (M&A) among the
country’s business profession-
als, this initiative will enable
those in the industry to derive
critical insights and knowl-
edge with regards to the sub-
ject.
The certifications on offer
are designed and aligned with
the intention of sculpting and
educating International Merg-
ers & Acquisitions Experts,
Mergers and Acquisitions
Professionals, Certified Post
Merger Integration Special-
ists, Legal Mergers and
Acquisitions Experts, and
Human Resources Mergers
and Acquisitions Specialist.
As such, the announcement
of this strategic partnership
was also supplemented by a
new IMAA Valuation training
program, that will be con-
ducted by the internationally
acclaimed valuation guru,
Prof. Aswath Damodaran.
Well known through his blog,
Musings on Markets and his
YouTube channel that has
seen a meteoric rise in its
activity, Aswath is a lecturer
at the Stern School of Busi-
ness at New York University
(NYU) and is true a titan in
his field.
The IMAA Valuation train-
ing program offers a curricu-
lum where participants will
be educated on how to suc-
cessfully face any challenges
in every known situation per-
taining to M&As; from strate-
gy, to due diligence, to valua-
tion, and post-merger integra-
tion.
Due to the disruptive
results brought about by the
Covid-19 pandemic, investors
have shown a preference to
adopt different strategies for
their strategic acquisitions.
This has created a demand for
trained professionals in merg-
ers and acquisitions with the
capability to structure them
Haresh Perera, and Prof. Dr. Christopher Kummer
pertaining to highly sought-
after deals for technology and
other innovative capabilities.
Haresh Perera, the Acade-
my Leader at PwC Sri Lanka
remarking on the significance
of this initiative said, “we can
see a significant number of
activities around Mergers &
Acquisitions in Sri Lanka and
we felt it’s the right time to
partner with IMAA and bring
world class programs and cer-
tifications on Mergers &
Acquisitions to educate the
companies and entrepreneurs
of Sri Lanka through this
program.”
The President of IMAA,
Prof. Dr. Christopher Kum-
mer, elaborated on the
effects mergers, acquisitions
and alliances have had and
will continue to have on the
local and the global econo-
my. He noted the transfor-
mations of a number of
organizations and how they
were synergised when cor-
porate alliances were
formed.
The PwC Sri Lanka Acad-
emy is one of 35 PwC Acad-
emies around the globe, with
the number set to grow.
PwC now looks to channel
that ability into the PwC
Academy programs, with a
view to elevate the profes-
sionals of our nation.
 DN page 22 GLOBAL T U E S D AY, S E P T E M B E R 2 8 , 2 0 2 1

Ecstatic Indian-Americans
welcome PM Modi in Washington
Meets US President and world leaders
Prime Minister Narendra
Modi, who was in Washington
for a three-day visit, received a
warm welcome from the mem-
bers of the Indian community at
Joint Base Andrews in Washing-
ton DC.
This was Prime Minister
Modi’s first visit abroad beyond
the neighborhood since the out-
break of coronavirus in January
2020. Upon his arrival at the air-
port, he was received by US
Department of State officials
including T. H. Brian McKeon,
US Deputy Secretary of State for
Management and Resources at
Joint Base Andrews in Washing-
ton DC and India’s Ambassador
to the US Taranjit Singh Sandhu.
Prime Minister Narendra
Modi, before leaving for the US,
called on US, Japan and Austral-
ia leaders. The Prime Minister
also addressed the United
Nations General Assembly.
He also met with Joe Biden for
the first time since his election
as US President.
Prime Minister Narendra
Modi on September 26 urged
Indians to continue following
COVID-19 related protocol and
ensure high levels of vaccination
against the disease ahead of the
festival season. In his monthly
radio broadcast, ‘Mann ki Baat’
Modi said that while record lev-
els of vaccination were taking
place in India, effort should not
flag and that no one should be
left out of the ‘circle of safety’ of
vaccination. The broadcast had
been recorded before the Prime
Minister’s trip to the United
States, a fact shared by him.
“Team India is creating several
records daily on this front. Sever-
al records have been created in
the vaccination drive which are
being discussed globally,” he
said, adding, “we not only have
to get the vaccine administered
when it’s our turn, but we also
have to ensure that no one is left
out of this circle of safety.”
Even after getting vaccinated,
the necessary protocol had to be
followed, Modi said, adding that
he hoped once again that Team
India would keep the flag flying
high in this fight against the
COVID-19 pandemic. He made
special reference to the festival
of Dusshera, and the festival sea-
son as well. “The whole country
is also going to celebrate the fes-
tival of victory over untruth by
Maryada Purushottam Shri Ram.
But during this festival we have
to remember about one more
fight — that is the fight against
Corona. Every Indian has an
important role in this fight,” he
said. A large part of Modi’s
address was reserved for World
Rivers Day, and called for collec-
tive efforts to keep rivers pollu-
tion-free. Apart from India’s tra-
ditional reverence for rivers he
mentioned the Namami Gangey
project for the cleaning of the
Ganga and the e-auction of gifts
given to him, the proceeds of
which will accrue to the Namami
Gangey project.
He also called for making
record business of Khadi prod-
ucts on Mahatma Gandhi’s birth
anniversary on October 2, as also
the continuation of the Swachch
Bharat Mission, for cleanliness in
public spaces.
“Quad will establish
peace, prosperity in the
world”
Prime Minister Narendra
Modi along with his counter-
parts from Australia and Japan
attended the first in-person sum-
mit of Quad leaders hosted by
US President Joe Biden and said
that he firmly believed that the
grouping of four democracies
would act as a “force for global
good” and ensure peace and
prosperity in the Indo-Pacific as
well as the entire world.
Earlier in the day, the US Pres-
ident Joe Biden said that the
relationship between India and
the US, the world’s two largest
democracies, is destined to be
“stronger, closer and tighter, as
he hosted Prime Minister Naren-
dra Modi at the White House for
the first bilateral meeting and
discussed a wide range of priori-
ty issues, including combating
Covid-19, climate change, trade
and the Indo-Pacific.
Prime Minister Modi
described the bilateral summit
with Biden as “important” as
they’re meeting at the start of
the third decade of this century.
PM Modi also met US Vice-
President Kamala Harris and
Australian PM Morrison. He also
held one-on-one meetings with
the chief executives of Qual-
comm, Adobe, First Solar, Gener-
al Atomics and Blackstone and
discussed a number of issues
ranging from drones to 5G, semi-
conductor, and solar power.
PM Modi encouraged them to
Vignettes of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s three-day visit to US
step up their investments by
highlighting the vast opportuni-
ties in India.
PM Modi meets Japanese,
Australian counterparts
Prime Minister Narendra
Modi and his Japanese counter-
part Yoshihide Suga met and dis-
cussed ways to further cement
the bilateral strategic ties ahead
of the first in-person Quad meet-
ing to be hosted by US President
Joe Biden.
Modi and Suga spoke in April
this year and the two leaders
underscored the importance of
working together to create resil-
ient, diversified and trustworthy
supply chains, ensuring reliable
supply of critical materials and
technologies, and developing
new partnerships in manufactur-
ing and skill development to deal
with the crisis.
“As relates to the Indo-Pacific,
the US stresses on maintaining a
free and open Indo-Pacific,” Har-
ris said, amidst China’s aggres-
sive moves in the strategically
vital region. India, the US and
several other world powers have
been talking about the need to
ensure a free, open and thriving
Indo-Pacific in the backdrop of
China’s rising military manoeu-
vring in the region
China claims nearly all of the
disputed South China Sea,
though Taiwan, the Philippines,
Brunei, Malaysia and Vietnam all
claim parts of it. Beijing has built
artificial islands and military
installations in the South China
Sea.
MeanwhilePrime Minister
Narendra Modi also met Austral-
ian PM Scott Morrison and dis-
cussed regional and global devel-
opments as well as ongoing bilat-
eral cooperation in areas related
to Covid-19, trade, defence, clean
energy and more, informed the
Ministry of External Affairs.
India important partner to
US - VP Kamala Harris
US Vice-President Kamala
Harris said that India was a very
important partner to the US and
that both the nations working
together can have a profound
impact on the world.
Kamala Harris noted that the
United States was proud to sup-
port India during the second
wave of coronavirus.
“We had Covid-19, the kind of
crisis and importance of our
shared belief in a free and open
Indo-Pacific region. On Covid-19,
our nations have worked togeth-
er,” she said. Kamala Harris also
welcomed India’s decision to
resume the Covid-19 vaccine
export. “I welcome India’s
announcement that it will soon
be able to resume vaccine
exports. It is of particular note
and admiration that India is cur-
rently vaccinating approximately
10 million people a day as of
today,” she said. Prime Minister
Narendra Modi complimented
Kamala Harris on being the first
Indian-American, woman and
person of colour to take the
office of US vice president.
“Your election as Vice Presi-
dent of the USA has been an
important and historic event.
You are a source of inspiration
for many across the world. I am
confident that under Pres Biden
& your leadership our bilateral
relations will touch new heights.”
PM Modi meets Global
CEOs in Washington
Prime Minister Narendra Modi
also met a group of five top
American corporate leaders on a
one-on-one basis from a range of
diverse sectors ranging from
drones to 5G, semiconductor,
and solar and encouraged them
to step up their investments by
highlighting the vast opportuni-
ties in India. He held separate
meetings with CEOs of Qual-
comm, Adobe, First Solar, Gener-
al Atomics and Blackstone.
Harris praises India’s role
during C-19 pandemic
Harris, lauding India’s role in
helping nations combat COVID-
19 said, “When India experi-
enced the surge of COVID in the
country, the United States was
proud to support India in its
need and its responsibility to
vaccinate its people... Early in
the pandemic, India was a vital
source of vaccines for other
countries.”
She also noted India’s excep-
tional pace of vaccination given
its vast population. She said, “I
welcome India’s announcement
that it will soon be able to
resume vaccine exports. It is of
particular note and admiration
that India, I’m told, is currently
vaccinating approximately 10
million people a day as of
today.”
Modi also thanked the US for
sending help during COVID-19
second wave. “I express my
gratitude to the US for extend-
ing a helping hand to India
when India was hit by the sec-
ond wave of COVID19,” Prime
Minister Narendra Modi said in
Washington DC in a joint state-
ment with US vice president
Kamala Harris.
It was also noteworthy to
note that Prime Minister Naren-
dra Modi’s plane en route to the
United States flew over the
Pakistan airspace after the
neighbouring country gave per-
mission for the aircraft, accord-
ing to sources.

“Advancing RTI for the Public Good”

UN International Day for Universal Access to Information
STATE MINISTRY OF RURAL HOUSING & CONSTRUCTION AND (IDUAI) and Marking Completion of the Five Year Term of the
BUILDING MATERIALS INDUSTRIES PROMOTION First RTI Commission of Sri Lanka (2016-2021)
DEPARTMENT OF BUILDINGS The International Day for Universal Access to Information (IDUAI) proclaimed by the 74th
UN General Assembly falls on 28th September, 2021. The theme of IDUAI - 2021 highlights
INVITATION FOR BIDS the role of laws relating to access to information and their implementation. Member
countries are called upon to build strong institutions for the public good, to achieve the
Construction of Water Supply Network and Sewerage Treatment System goals of sustainable development and strengthen the Right to Information (RTI) for the
at Tertiary and Vocational Literacy Training Centre, Senapura benefit of the citizenry.
[Contract No: 04-03-13-2021/CT56] Sri Lanka’s Contribution to the Theme of IDUAI 2021
1. The Chairman, Department Procurement Committee, on behalf of the Department of Buildings now invites Sri Lanka’s Right to Information Act, No. 12 of 2016 (‘RTI Act’), unanimously enacted by
sealed bids from eligible and qualified bidders for “Construction of Water Supply Network and Sewerage Treatment the Parliament on 4th August 2016, has enriched public life and enabled citizens to combat
System at Tertiary and Vocational Literacy Training Centre, Senapura” as described below and estimated to cost Rs.41.4
million.
corruption and promote accountability in state and non-state institutions.
The construction period is 182 Days. Further, a citizen’s right to access of information was introduced as a Fundamental Right
2. Bidding will be conducted through National Competitive Bidding Procedure(NCB). Since the estimated cost of this by the 19th Amendment to the Constitution in 2015, and continued in the 20th Amendment
procurement is below Rs. 50 Mn, regional preference and CIDA grade preference shall apply as stipulated in Public to the Constitution in 2020. Article 14A of the Constitution states that, “every citizen shall
Finance Circular No. 04/2016(iii) & 03/2020. have the right of access to any information as provided for by law, being information that is
3. To be eligible for contract award, the successful bidder shall not have been blacklisted and shall be registered in the field of required for the exercise or protection of a citizen’s right held by state authorities”.
Water Supply & Sewerage for Grade C5 or C4 with the Construction Industry Development Authority (CIDA), valid until
the date of closing of the bids. Further the registration should be valid at the date of award. Since the enactment of the RTI Act, we have been inspired by the vigour with which
“The bidders shall also register themselves with Registrar of Public Contracts, Sri Lanka, in terms of the Public
the Act has been used, from information release on infrastructure, better health facilities
Contracts Act No. 03 of 1987. The original certificate of registration (PCA 03) shall be submitted with the bid. The and environment protection to matters of state accountability at the highest levels of the
procurement shall not be awarded to any bidder unless such bidder had submitted the PCA 03 certificate”. Government. We are confident that the culture of refusal of information that has long been
4. Interested bidders may obtain further information from the Chief Engineer (Zone 04), Department of Buildings, prevalent in Sri Lanka is gradually changing for the better.
Divisional Secretariat, Manmunai North, Batticaloa and inspect the Bidding Documents at the same address on
any working day from 9:00hrs to 16:00 hrs. As an independent Commission in which confidence is reposed by both citizens and Public
Authorities, the Commission has fulfilled its primary adjudicatory role in the public interest,
Contact numbers are: Phone: 065-2229801, Facsimile: 065-2229808
having regard to the need to foster a culture of transparency and accountability in Public
5. A complete set of Bidding Documents in English language may be purchased by interested bidders on submission of a
Authorities. In furtherance of its mandate, the Commission has respectively, during 2017-
written’ application to the Chief Engineer (Zone 04), Department of Buildings, Divisional Secretariat, Manmunai North,
Batticaloa from 28-09-2021 until 14-10-2021 from 9:00hrs to 15:00 hrs upon payment of a non refundable fee of 2019 and in 2020 ordered information disclosure (fully and/or partially) in 84% and in
Rupees twelve thousand (Rs.12,000/-). 78.7% of appeals filed by citizens before the Commission.
6. Bids shall be delivered or sent by registered post to the Chairman, Department Procurement Committee, As we advance in our Right to Information journey, it is of the highest importance that
Department of Buildings, 2nd Floor, “Sethsiripaya”, Battaramulla to reach at or before 10:00 hrs on
15-10-2021. Bids will be opened soon after closing at the Contract Branch, Department of Buildings, 2nd Floor, the information empowerment of the citizenry through the RTI regime, consisting of the
“Sethsiripaya”, Battaramulla in the presence of the bidders’ representatives who choose to attend. constitutional Right to Information (Article 14A), the RTI Act and an independent RTI
7. Bids shall be valid for a period of 77 Days from the last date fixed for receiving of Bids or any extended period. Commission as guaranteed by law, continue for the betterment of the country.
8. All Bids shall be accompanied by a Bid Security which shall be;
• in the form included in Section 09 of the bidding document
• in favour of Director General of Buildings
• for an amount of Rs.550,000.00
• valid up to 28th January, 2022
• issued by one of the agencies indicated in the clause 16.2 of the Bidding Data
9. Bidders are advised to enter “Sethsiripaya” Premises at least 1 hour before the scheduled time for Bid closing, due to
security checking. Right to Information Commission of Sri Lanka
Room No. 203-204, Block 2,
Eng. M.H.M. Ismail BMICH, Bauddhaloka Mawatha.
Director General of Buildings Colombo 07.
Department of Buildings
2nd Floor, “Sethsiripaya”, Battaramulla.
Tel - +94 011 269 1625/ +94 011 269 1007
www.buildings.gov.lk Web - www.rticommission.lk
T U E S D AY, S E P T E M B E R 2 8 , 2 0 2 1 ADVERTISEMENTS page 23 DN

TENDER AND OTHER ADVERTISEMENTS

COLOMBO MUNICIPAL
COUNCIL
PROCUREMENT NOTICE
EXTENSION OF BID OPENING DATE
This refers to the advertisement published in the Daily News, Dinamina and Thinakaran
Newspapers, dated 13.09.2021, for the Procurement of Item mentioned below.
The date of issuing of bidding documents, has been extended up to 3.00 p.m. on 07.10.2021,
and the opening of bidding documents has been extended up to 10.00 a.m. on 08.10.2021, due
to the Quarantine Curfew, prevailing in the island.

Previously Specified
Reference No. Details Date for the
Opening of Bids
Purchase of 60/70
01 CPD/23/Bitumen/2021 Bitumen Bulk (De-Canned / 28.09.2021
Converted) 140,000 kg

Those suppliers who purchased bidding documents earlier, need not re-obtain bidding
documents as these documents are still remain valid, for the purpose and all other conditions
therein, will remain unchanged.

Roshanie Dissanayake (Attorney-at-Law)

Municipal Commissioner

INVITATION FOR BIDS

GOVERNMENT OF THE DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF SRI LANKA

DIVISIONAL SECRETARIAT KORALAIPATTU SOUTH, KIRAN

(BATTICALOA DISTRICT)
NATIONAL COMPETITIVE BIDDING
01. The Chairman Regional Procurement Committee (RPC) on behalf of the State Ministry of Samurdhi
Household Economy, Micro-Finance, Self-Employment and Business Development invites sealed bids from
eligible and qualified Bidders for the supply of described items in the list below.
The Country’s
Allocated Non- Breaking largest
Bid boundaries
For
No. of Amount refundable recruitment jobseekers
Project No. Description of the Goods Security database
Beneficiary (Mn.) Tender Fees
Validity
(Rs.) (Rs.)
www.observerjobs.lk
ACC/CRMP/ Water Pumps 4.219 42,000.00 1,000.00
17/09/2021 1. Water Pumps Electric 2” (2 HP) 23
2. Water Pumps Electric Submersible 01
2” Sludge type (2 HP)
3. Water Pump Kerosene 2” (3HP) 47
4. Water Pump Kerosene 3” (3HP) 09
5. Water Pump Diesel 2” (3HP) 01
6. Water Pump Diesel 3” (3HP) 06
ACC/CRMP/ Cow 3.638 36,000.00 1,000.00
17/09/2021 1. Local cow/Good breed cow Male
2. Local cow/Good breed cow female 72
3. Buffalo (Local breed) 02
4. Jersey cow 01
ACC/CRMP/ Goat 1.892 19,000.00 1,000.00
17/09/2021 1. Local goat / Good breed goat male 39
2. Local goat / Good breed goat female

2. Bidding will be conducted through National Competitive Bidding procedure.

3. To be eligible for contract award, the successful Bidders shall not have been blacklisted and the Supplier
should be registered their Business for including Goods which to be supplied (BR Should be annexed along
with the Bid).
4. Interested Bidders may obtain further information from the Procurement Entity (PE) namely “Divisional
Secretariat, Koralaipattu South, Kiran.” and inspect the Bidding Documents from 9.00 a.m. to 3.00 p.m
(Office days).
5. As per Public Finance Circular No. 04/2020, Public Enterprises will be obtained 15 percent (15%) of special
preference on bid prices over rest of the bidders, when substantially responsive in technical aspect as well
as constitute sizeable value addition by way of domestic inputs such as local raw materials, Labour and
overheads. Technical aspects are provided in the bidding Documents.
6. Interested Bidders may purchase a complete set of Bidding Documents in English Language from “PE” by
submitting written request letter to ‘Divisional Secretary, Divisional Secretariat, Koralaipattu South, Kiran.’
from 27th of September 2021 until to 17th of October 2021 (Office days) from 9.00 a.m. to 3.00
p.m. upon payment of non- refundable fee specified in the list. Fees shall be paid directly by cash or deposit
to the Official Bank Account No. 227100179026891 of People’s Bank, Chenkalady.
7. Considering the Current Covid-19 Circumstances Interested bidders shall get the soft copy of Bidding
Document through email by sending the request letter as per Clause No. 06 along with the scanned copy of
Bank Slips for Non-Refundable fee Deposited to PE’s email address of acctdskps@gmail.com
8. Bids shall be submitted as originally to the address below at or before 2.00 p.m. on 18th August 2021 by
Registered Mail or Directly into Bid Box. Bidder should be write “Name and description of Goods” on the top
left-hand corner of sealed envelope. Late Bids will be rejected. Bids will be opened soon after closing in the
presence of the Bidders’ or their representatives who choose to attend.
9. Bids shall be valid for 77 days from the date of submission of Bid.
10. All Bids shall be accompanied by a Bid Security of the amount mentioned in the list.
11. Bidders shall be allowed to apply for the whole number of items or selected items, Bid security amount
would be differ according to the selected item or items with the minimum 1 percentage (1%).
Mr. S. Rajbabu
Chairman - RPC
Divisional Secretariat,
Koralaipattu South,
Kiran.
Tel: 065-2059170 / Fax: 065-2059173
Email: acctdskps@gmail.com
DN page 24 ADVERTISEMENTS T U E S D AY, S E P T E M B E R 2 8 , 2 0 2 1

AMENDMENT TO THE INVITATION FOR BIDS

Online Transfer
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE

Acc. No. 000000377

Green Light for

Lake House Branch

DEMOCRATIC SOCIALIST REPUBLIC OF SRI LANKA

MINISTRY OF IRRIGATION
IRRIGATION DEPARTMENT
Integrated Watershed and Water Resources Management Project (IWWRMP)
Project No: P166865
Rehabilitation of D1, D2, D4 canals in Bathalagoda Scheme
Rehabilitation of D5, D7, RB canals in Bathalagoda Scheme
I N V I T AT I O N FO R B I DS ( I FB )
EXTENSION OF THE TIME PERIOD OF THE PROCUREMENT NOTICE
PUBLISHED IN THE DINAMINA, DAILY NEWS AND THINAKARAN
Breaking
boundaries NEWSPAPERS PUBLISHED ON 23RD AUGUST 2021
Loan No: 66210 We regretfully wish to inform that the time period mentioned in the Newspaper
advertisement that was published in the abovementioned newspapers of
23rd August 2021 calling for the procurement of construction of Upper Floor
of the Laboratory of the Organic Division of the Agricultural Research and
The Country’s

Inquiries :- Ramani - 077 7 278 948/ 011 2 429 347 | Piyumi - 011 2 429 383 | Gayani - 011 2 429 342/ 343
Rehabilitation of Arawatta tank bund in Nagadeepa Scheme Development Centre, Makandura of the Department of Agriculture has been
largest extended owing to the travelling restriction imposed to control the spread
recruitment
Please be informed that the following amendments were made to the Invitation for Bids for database of Covid-19 pandemic situation. Sealed bids are invited by the Chairman,
above works, published on 31-08-2021 in Daily News Newspaper. Regional Procurement Committee of the Fruit Research and Development
Institute situated in Kananwila, Horana of the Department of Agriculture.
Bidding documents shall be issued till - 2021-10-11 at 3.00 p.m
Bid Closing Date & Time - 2021-10-12 at 10.00 a.m
Accordingly, issuance of bid documents will be closed at 11.30 a.m. on 08th
For October 2021.
Bid opening Bids - Immediately after the closing of jobseekers
Duly perfected bids may either be sent by registered post addressed to
Bid validity Period - till 2022-02-08
“Chairman, Regional Procurement Committee, Fruit Research and Development

Classified
Bid Security Validity Period - till 2022-03-08

* Trusted Marketplace of Classified Advertisers...

Institute, Kananwila, Horana” or deposited in the bid box kept in this institute to

E-mail - classified@lakehouse.lk
receive at or before 11.30 a.m. on 08th October 2021.
Eng. K.D.N. Siriwardana Date: 27.09.2021
Director General of Irrigation, Late bids will be rejected. Bids will be opened immediately after closing of bids
Irrigation Department, www. at the address given above in the presence of the bidders or their authorized
No. 230, Bauddaloka Mawatha, observerjobs. representatives.
Colombo 07. lk
Chairman
Regional Procurement Committee

Uva Provincial Department of Ayurveda – Diyatalawa

Fruit Research and Development Institute
Kananwila, Horana.

PROCUREMENT NOTICE
Open quotations are invited for the purchase of undermentioned machines and equipment required by our
department.

Ser. Ser.
Item Qty Item Qty
No. No.
1 Machines Required for the Miriswatta Drug Manufactory

077 7 270 067

1.1 Pills Machine – 7mm -9mm 01 1.5 Powder Mixing Machine -50kg -250kg 01
1.2 Powder Packeting Machine -30g -500g 01 1.6 Tablet Machine – Oval and Round 01
1.3 Bottle Washing Machine – Semi Auto – 01 1.7 Drying Machine (Cabing 01) 01
750ml
1.4 Juice Extractor Machine – 25kg – 100kg / hr 01 1.8 Drying Machine (Cabing 02) 01
DEHIWALA - MOUNT LAVINIA MUNICIPAL COUNCIL
2
2.1
Media Equipment
Laptop Computer 02 2.18 Camera Lenses Kit 01 PROCUREMENT NOTICE
2.2
2.3
Projector
Color Printer
01
01
2.19
2.20
Tripods
Lighting Kit
02
01
PROVISION OF CLEANING SERVICES
Sealed competitive open bids are hereby invited for the Provision of Cleaning Services for Office
2.4 Sound Recorder 03 2.21 Portable Router 01 premises at the Municipal Council Building Complex (at the commencement of the Anagarika
2.5 Buffels (Speaker System) 02 2.22 Headphone 01 Dharmapala Mawatha), in Galle Road, Dehiwala, and for the other office premises of the
2.6 Powered Buffels with Stand 02 2.23 Pen Drive 02 Council, from reputed establishments, engaged in the similar services.
2.7 Amplifier 01 2.24 Computer 03 Eligibility of the Tenderers:
2.8 Audio Mixer 01 2.25 Speed Light Set 01 (a) Having engaged in the field of supplying cleaning services for minimum of 04 years period,
2.9 Microphone 06 2.26 Background Screen 01 as at 01.01.2021.
2.10 Microphone Stands 02 2.27 Connectors (b) Should have not less than 100 Nos. of Employees, as per the salary register.
2.11 Camera (DSLR) 01 2.28 Cables and Connectors (c) Should be able to submit written documents of certificate to prove that employees are paid
their salaries, in accordance with the Wages Board Ordinance and that contributions are
2.12 Video Camera 01 2.29 Tab Computers 02 being made for the Employees Provident Fund (EPF) and Employees Trust Fund (ETF), for
2.13 Clip on Mike 01 2.30 Portable Hard Disc 01 their behalf.
2.14 Smart TV 01 2.31 Telephoto Lense 01 (d) The Employees deployed for the works of cleaning services, should be of minimum Nos.
2.15 LED Video Lamp 01 2.32 Webcam 01 as indicated below.

2.16 Wireless Mike (For Camera) 01 2.33 Video Switching Unit 01 For cleaning of Municipal Council Building Office and the premises.
2.17 Power Supply Board 02 Male Employees - 02
3 Medical Equipment and Laboratory Equipment Female Employees - 06
3.1 Stethoscope 29 3.26 Proctoscope 04 For cleaning of the surrounding building premises of the Municipal Council
Male Employees - 01
3.2 Thermometer 07 3.27 Artery Forceps 05
For cleaning of the Jayasinghe Memorial Theatre, and the Municipal Garage Head Office.
3.3 Oil Bed 03 3.28 Knee Hammer 04
Male Employees - 02
3.4 Consulting Bed 05 3.29 Plastic Beaker (30ml) 80
Female Employees - 02
3.5 Lithotomic Bed 01 3.30 Plastic Beaker (100ml) 62
Cleaning Services for Attidiya District Engineer's Office and Veterinary Surgeon's Office.
3.6 Shirodara Bed 06 3.31 Plastic Beaker (200ml) 62 Male Employees - 01
3.7 Sweda Kuti (Steam Box) 04 3.32 Anima Tube 60 Female Employees - 03
3.8 Metal Screen 02 3.33 Rexine (3M) 09 Cleaning Services for Dehiwala Public Library
3.9 Wheel Chair 05 3.34 Oxygen Cylinder 04 Male Employees - 02
3.10 Food Trolley 01 3.35 Oxygen Cylinder Stand 04 Female Employees - 01
3.11 Drugs Trolley 04 3.36 Nebulizer Mask (Adult) 90 Fire Fighting Services Department - Attidiya
Male Employees - 01
3.12 E.N.T. Set 03 3.37 Nebulizer Mask (Paediatric) 10
3.13 X-Ray Illuminator 02 3.38 Spot Lamp 03 Municipal Electrical Division
Male Employees - 01
3.14 Sterilizer 08 3.39 Dressing Drum 02
Free Ayurvedic Dispensary - Dehiwala
3.15 Bed Head Ticket Frame 40 3.40 Adjustable Bed 04 Female Employees - 01
3.16 Adult Weighing Scale 02 3.41 Gallipot 01
Free Ayurvedic Dispensary - Kawdana
3.17 Anul Speculum 01 3.42 IR Lamp 03 Female Employees - 01
3.18 Vaginal Speculum 01 3.43 Bedside Locker 36 Free Ayurvedic Dispensary - Attidiya
3.19 Scalpal Handle 02 3.44 Biochemistry Analyzer (Semi Automated) 01 Female Employees - 01
3.20 Kidney Tray 16 3.45 Electrolyte Analyzer (Na, K, Ca+) 01 Free Ayurvedic Dispensary - Ratmalana
3.21 Surgical Scissor (Small) 16 3.46 Refrigerator (240L) with Invertors 01 Female Employees - 01
General Supervisor - 01
3.22 Surgical Scissor (Large) 16 3.47 Micro Pipettes (10ML) FIXED 01
Ratmalana Day Fair Public Toilet

}
3.23 Sponge Holding Forceps 02 3.48 Micro Pipettes (50ML) FIXED 01
Male Employees - 01
3.24 Sinus Probe 06 3.49 Micro Pipettes (1000ML) FIXED 01 Visiting Supervisor - 01
Mount Lavinia Cemetery Public Toilet
3.25 Patient Trolley 03 3.50 Micro Pipettes (100-1000ML) Variable 01 Male Employees - 01
01. Bids will be conducted through National Competitive Bidding procedure. (e) Employees to be engaged in the Cleaning Services, should be of sound Physique and not
02. Quotations may be submitted even for few of the above items. more than 65 years of age.
03. Further details regarding this may be obtained during office hours on working days of the week from Tender forms could be obtained from the Department of Public Health and Solid Waste
Accountant (057-2229199) or Subject Officer Mr. Bandara by calling him. Management, of the Dehiwala - Mount Lavinia Municipal Council, on submission of a written
04. Required bid documents may be obtained from 29.09.2021 until 21.10.2021 upon payment of the non- request on a Business letterhead, from 9.00 a.m. to 3.00 p.m. on public working days, upon
refundable bid document fee of Rs. 2,000.00 for each bid to the Accounts Division between 9.00 a.m. 3.00 payment of a non refundable tender form fee of Rs. 500/= and refundable Tender Deposit of
p.m. on working days. Rs. 2,500/= (It is hereby informed to submit quotations after inspecting the sites for details and
05. Refundable bid security should be 1% of the bid value if paid in cash or 2% if submitted by a bank guarantee. inquiries, Please Contact : Telephone No. 011-2735438 of the Solid Waste Division). Copies of
all the documents, pertaining to the qualifications, required, should be annexed to the tenders,
06. It is anticipated to obtain a Performance Bond of 10% of the Bid Value covering the guarantee period from the
selected suppliers. Machinery required for the Drug Manufactory should be delivered and installed and submitted.
training should be provided to an officer of this institution. Sealed tenders, should be sent by registered post, addressed to the Municipal Commissioner,
07. It is mandatory that a letter of request for documents along with a copy of the Business Registration Certificate Dehiwala, Mount Lavinia Municipal Council Dehiwala, on deposited in the tender box, kept
for each equipment category should be submitted. at the Office of the Municipal Commissioner, and tenders should be submitted in duplicate,
enclosed in two separate covers, marked 'Original' and the duplicate, (two copies), and the
08. Perfected bids may either be sent by registered post addressed to “Chairman, Procurement Committee, Uva
caption to the effect "Provision of Cleaning Services - 2022" should be clearly indicated on the
Provincial Department of Ayurveda, Diyatalawa" or deposited in the Tender Box to receive before 2.00 p.m.
top left hand corner of the relevant envelopes.
on 22.10.2021. Late bids will be rejected. Bids will be opened immediately after closing of bids and the bidder
or his authorized representative may be present at the time of opening of bids. Tender forms will be issued up to 3.00 p.m. on 25.10.2021 and tenders will be closed at 2.00 p.m.
09. Procurement Committee of the Uva Provincial Department of Ayurveda reserves the right to take the final on 27.10.2021. Tender received will be opened immediately after closing in the presence of the
decision. tenderer or his accredited agent who choose to attend, on this occasion.
Uva Provincial Commissioner of Ayurveda and Dehiwala - Mount Lavinia Municipal Council, reserves the right to reject any tender or all the
Chairman, Procurement Board tenders, without assigning any reason, whatsoever.
Office of the Commissioner of Ayurveda M.M.C.K.K. Mannapperuma,
Uva Provincial Department of Ayurveda Municipal Commissioner,
Diyatalawa
at Office of the Dehiwala - Mount Lavinia Municipal Council.
Tel. No. 057-2229173 On 17.09.2021

Printed and Published by The Associated Newspapers of Ceylon Ltd., at No. 35, D.R.Wijewardene Mawatha, Colombo 10, on Tuesday, September 28, 2021