http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100929_01
Sri Lanka's post- conflict future
Road to reconciliation :
Firstly, we have done much more in the last five years in terms of basic infrastructure. While infrastructure alone is not enough, without it there could be no development, in particular in areas deprived of basic connectivity for so long. Secondly, we have begun to attract the kind of investment the country deserves and are able to direct it towards regions that suffered from neglect previously. I mean not only areas previously under terrorist sway, but also those areas full of promise in the south and the northwest that successive governments neglected, because their leadership was immovably urban.
Thirdly, we have at last begun to implement the provisions about language that were introduced into our Constitution in 1987. We have much further to go, but at last Government has had the courage to promote bilingualism by regulation. 300,000 public servants should be bilingual by 2013 in terms of the current training program, while 500 of the 5000 new Tamil police officers envisaged have already been recruited.
Human resources development
Text of the speech by Prof Rajiva Wijesinha at the Royal Commonwealth Society, London on September 17, 2010
Fourthly, we are ready now to ensure equitable human resources development through the provision of choice. Though the statist system we had bore rich dividends in terms of basic education, it did not encourage excellence. Also, the system of positive discrimination that had been introduced initially to help rural students hit the better education minorities hardest. Unlike their equally discriminated against brethren in Colombo, they had no viable alternatives. Ensuring that our talented youngsters all over the country have programs to develop their skills is vital, and this is amongst the most important reforms being advanced currently by government.
Fifthly, we have, more quickly than had been anticipated and certainly more quickly than in any comparable situation in the world, we have brought things closer to normalcy for the principle victims of Tiger control, the nearly 300,000 displaced and the almost 12,000 fighting cadres, most of whom had been conscripted against their will.
To put down very simply the current position:
* Fewer than 15,000 still remain in the Vavuniya Welfare Centres, out of the over 280,000 who were there initially, and these enjoy full freedom of movement. Another 12,000 are still not resettled, but are out of the camp, though 9,000 of these return as required. Interestingly enough, when freedom of movement was permitted towards the end of last year, after security checks were complete, comparatively few people took advantage of this, preferring the full support package they were provided within the camps, including all education and health facilities.
* This means that 250,000 have settled down again, most of them back in the areas in the North from which they had been displaced.
* Eight hundred and ninety seven square kilometres have been cleared of mines, out of the 1,744 initially estimated as contaminated. Seventy five percent of the clearing was by the Sri Lankan forces, though we are also grateful to agencies such as HALO and MAG and a number of Indian groups which assisted in the work.
* Of 11,696 former combatants, 3588 have been sent home including all former child soldiers. Vocational training for the others is proceeding apace and another 400 will be released by the end of this month and a further 1000 next month. It is assumed that about 700 may have to face legal process, but government believes that the rest were most probably innocent victims rather than perpetrators of LTTE terror. The International Organization for Migration assists with the rehabilitation program, as does the Hindu Congress.
* Emergency regulations have been relaxed, and further liberalization is planned over the next few months.
Finally, and perhaps most importantly, we have at last begun to move beyond the polarization that was imposed upon us for so long, so that problems that might have been solved with reason and sympathy turned into bitter conflict.
Language policy
I should expand on what I mean by this, which may necessitate going into the background in some detail. Let me start by noting that we certainly created a number of problems for ourselves in the first quarter century after independence, springing largely I believe from a restrictive language policy that had repercussions also with regard to education and public service employment. In a context in which we were also victims of statism such restrictions caused enormous damage.
Resettled children at school, December 2009
Soldiers helping to clean up a Kovil in Kilinochchi for Thai Pongal, January 2010
But what should have been a political problem, demanding a political solution, turned into violent conflict with repeated attacks on Tamils from 1977.
These were not attacks by Sinhalese in general, but they seem to have been encouraged, if not initiated, by some members of the government of the time. Sadly, given that government also claimed to be closely allied to the West, and also that Human Rights was not as important then as winning the Cold War, there was no criticism in the West then of the monstrosities that took place.
Those attacks obviously contributed to the polarization that took place, not helped at all by the government both postponing elections and instituting a constitutional amendment that in effect drove out the major Tamil party from Parliament.
This was grist to the mill of the various terrorist movements that had sprung up, and it also contributed to more active involvement by India.
This culminated in the Indo-Lankan Accord of 1987 and a program of devolution, which was accepted by almost all terrorist groups, which then entered the democratic process.
The exception was the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam, which took on those other groups then as well as the Indian army. They were aided over the years by Sri Lankan political parties which blamed their rivals for the failure to reach a political solution, while suggesting that the Tigers were little lambs whose desire for peaceful compromise was being thwarted.
Tamil leaders
This foolish or cynical practice did untold damage to the body politic, in particular because it encouraged in the Tigers the belief that they were irresistible and, worse, it made Tamils abroad concentrate their favours and their finances on extreme terrorists.
Meanwhile the Tigers were picking off moderate Tamil leaders, from Amirthalingam to Tiruchelvam, so that by 2001 the TULF began to subscribe to the Tiger claim that they were the sole representatives of the Tamils. Their leader who resisted this, Anandasangaree, was sidelined, a new party called the TNA was started that subscribed to the view that the Tigers alone spoke for the Tamils and, with a little help from the government elected in 2001, the Western world adopted this viewpoint too - even though the 2004 election showed that, even in the East, the monolith had begun to crack.
Drunk with power then, the Tigers refused to compromise, and walked out of talks with the UNP government in 2003 and the subsequent UPFA government in 2006, after they had deigned to attend a couple of rounds in that year, after their three year absence.
They were by now engaging in forced conscription of at least one member of each family, though sadly the UN, which was supposed to protect the people of the area, did not draw attention to this, and we were finally only informed of the situation by the Norwegian ambassador. Given all this indulgence, assuming that military victory would be easy, the Tigers launched two massive attacks in August 2006, to attempt to over-run government forces in the Jaffna and Trincomalee Districts.
They failed. Government, using unusual strategies that the West might well study if it wishes to minimize civilian casualties as well as its own in theatres of conflict such as Afghanistan, managed systematically to drive the Tigers into smaller and smaller territory.
The ploy of dragging civilians along with them as they retreated, aided and abetted by international commentators who suggested this was happening through free will, meant government had to move more slowly than it would have liked, and suffer more casualties. But the strategy paid off, in that in time even the Tiger cadres, or rather the less hard-bitten amongst them, started disobeying orders, and a breach in defences led to nearly 150,000 civilians making their way to safety in April 2009. Nearly 100,000 more were rescued in May, when the Tiger leadership was finally destroyed, making a total of 280,000, including those who had got away earlier, in welfare centres.
There were also around 10,000 former combatants who had surrendered themselves, with around another 1,000 being added from the Welfare Centres after investigation.
To be continued
Courtesy: Daily News
Thursday, September 30, 2010
President Returns
http://www.news.lk/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=16375&Itemid=44
President Returns
Wednesday, 29 September 2010
President Mahinda Rajapaksa returned to the Island in the early morning at 4.00 am Wednesday Presidential sources said. President during his visit to attend the 65th Summit of the UN General Assembly also addressed the UN special summit on Millennium Development Goal (MDG). President also held special talks with UN Secretary General Ban ki Moon and exchanged views on matters of mutual interests.
The President, on the sidelines of the summit met several heads of state of friendly countries and held bilateral talks with them.
President Returns
Wednesday, 29 September 2010
President Mahinda Rajapaksa returned to the Island in the early morning at 4.00 am Wednesday Presidential sources said. President during his visit to attend the 65th Summit of the UN General Assembly also addressed the UN special summit on Millennium Development Goal (MDG). President also held special talks with UN Secretary General Ban ki Moon and exchanged views on matters of mutual interests.
The President, on the sidelines of the summit met several heads of state of friendly countries and held bilateral talks with them.
Army, Health Ministry to hold dengue programme
http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100929_03
Army, Health Ministry to hold dengue programme
The Health Ministry, in collaboration with the Sri Lanka Army, is to hold a dengue control programme from October 7 to 13, for the second time this year, targeting schools, religious places, bus depots and commercial establishments.
Coordinator of the National Dengue Control Programme, Dr. Nimalka Pannilahetti, said yesterday (28), that the week was being held to prevent yet another outbreak of dengue this year, following the onset of the North Western monsoons.
Giving a breakdown of the programme scheduled to commence next Thursday (07), she said they would inspect tyre and motor spare parts shops and bus depots on the first day of the dengue control week. House to house inspections, government and private sector institutions, schools and Pre-school premises, marshy and bare lands, would be inspected during the rest of the week, Dr. Pannilahetti said.
Briefing the press on the current epidemiological aspect of dengue in the country, Epidemiologist, Dr. Hasitha Thissera said the total number of patients from January till the last week of September had reached over 30,000, while the number of dengue deaths was 221. Last year there were over 34,000 patients within the same period with over 300 deaths.
However, there has been a drastic reduction in the number of cases being reported within the last few months - The Epidemiology Unit said an average of four hundred patients have been reported during the last few weeks.
He said that what was most important was the diagnosis of the fever before it reached a hemorrhagic state. Patients suffering from fever lasting over two days, should seek medical attention as early as possible from a government doctor. "Once more, we also have a responsibility of creating an awareness regarding dengue and changing our behavioural patterns to prevent dengue from spreading during the monsoon rains," he said.
The Military spokesman, Maj. General Ubhaya Medawala, pledged the Army's fullest support to the dengue control week and the programme itself. The military was bound to assist people even during the time when there was no war in the country. "However, the Army faced several drawbacks in its effort to control dengue during the clearing campaigns carried out in the Western Province due to the lack of support from people. The public failed to continue with clearing programmes initiated by the Army on several occasions, leaving room for it to have to repeat its efforts on many occasions," he said.
The dengue control week co-incides with the Army Day. Maj. Gen. Medawala said they would carry out several dengue control programmes to commemorate the day by building a dengue awareness.
Courtesy: The Island
Army, Health Ministry to hold dengue programme
The Health Ministry, in collaboration with the Sri Lanka Army, is to hold a dengue control programme from October 7 to 13, for the second time this year, targeting schools, religious places, bus depots and commercial establishments.
Coordinator of the National Dengue Control Programme, Dr. Nimalka Pannilahetti, said yesterday (28), that the week was being held to prevent yet another outbreak of dengue this year, following the onset of the North Western monsoons.
Giving a breakdown of the programme scheduled to commence next Thursday (07), she said they would inspect tyre and motor spare parts shops and bus depots on the first day of the dengue control week. House to house inspections, government and private sector institutions, schools and Pre-school premises, marshy and bare lands, would be inspected during the rest of the week, Dr. Pannilahetti said.
Briefing the press on the current epidemiological aspect of dengue in the country, Epidemiologist, Dr. Hasitha Thissera said the total number of patients from January till the last week of September had reached over 30,000, while the number of dengue deaths was 221. Last year there were over 34,000 patients within the same period with over 300 deaths.
However, there has been a drastic reduction in the number of cases being reported within the last few months - The Epidemiology Unit said an average of four hundred patients have been reported during the last few weeks.
He said that what was most important was the diagnosis of the fever before it reached a hemorrhagic state. Patients suffering from fever lasting over two days, should seek medical attention as early as possible from a government doctor. "Once more, we also have a responsibility of creating an awareness regarding dengue and changing our behavioural patterns to prevent dengue from spreading during the monsoon rains," he said.
The Military spokesman, Maj. General Ubhaya Medawala, pledged the Army's fullest support to the dengue control week and the programme itself. The military was bound to assist people even during the time when there was no war in the country. "However, the Army faced several drawbacks in its effort to control dengue during the clearing campaigns carried out in the Western Province due to the lack of support from people. The public failed to continue with clearing programmes initiated by the Army on several occasions, leaving room for it to have to repeat its efforts on many occasions," he said.
The dengue control week co-incides with the Army Day. Maj. Gen. Medawala said they would carry out several dengue control programmes to commemorate the day by building a dengue awareness.
Courtesy: The Island
New beginning for resettled - Part I:
http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100929_02
New beginning for resettled - Part I:
Rebuilding the North
Only 27,400 IDPs remain to be resettled and out of which 19,000 are from the Pudukudiiruppu and Pudumathalan areas. They are unable to be resettled yet since the area is heavily congested with landmines. First part of this article was published yesterday
Some students leave the welfare centres daily to study in places like Vavuniya, Mannar and return in the evenings. Some have even established sales outlets in the welfare centre area itself to sell groceries and other items and there are Laksathosa outlets also in the camp premises.
Resettlement of IDP families
When the media team visited the 56th Division Headquarters of the Army, Brigadier Napagoda told the media team that demining work in the Vavuniya District has been carried out successfully and 3,425 IDP families consisting 11,000 persons have been already resettled in the district. He said that in the district only one more village remains to be demined. He said that construction of the Northern Railway track has also been carried out successfully upto the Tandikulam railway station and from that point onwards the construction of the railway track is to be undertaken by the Indian construction company.
New houses for IDPs
The 56th Division soldiers have also reclaimed abandoned paddy fields and which will be ready for harvesting in the next Maha season. Among other activities being carried out by his Division in the district includes construction of houses, clearing habitats for settlement and building irrigation facilities and erecting wells. Many Sinhala and Tamil families who had left the Vavuniya district and were living in other areas have returned to their original settlements.
To facilitate these facilities the Engineering Unit of the 56th Division has started a program of constructing 10 housing units each month. Returning families are also provided with roofing sheets and cement for construction of houses. They are also being provided dry rations and financial assistance for self-employment.
The Brigadier pointed out that several volunteer organizations have come forward to construct housing units for re-setters, particularly a Sri Lankan expatriate philanthropist named Ryan Perera has come forward to construct a number of housing units.
Under the program named 'Sisaranasara' he has provided Rs 35 million for construction of 35 houses and another Rs 4 million for reconstruction of 20 houses in the Sinhala village Kokeliya housing units are also being constructed in several other villages. These activities are being carried out in about 30 villages in the district, which include, Kairayankulam, Nedunkulam, Pirappamadu and Veemangal.
Lands cleared for cultivation
There had been seven Tamil families in the village of Veemangal who had left the village in 1978 with children and grandchildren. Twenty five of these families have returned to live in the village. The Army has cleared the jungle lands for them and provided roofing sheets, cement and other requirements including financial assistance. The Army is also constructing houses for some of them under their '10 houses a month' program. Students have been allowed to sit for examinations, while those who were forced in to terrorism are being rehabilitated.
What the government, the President, the Defense Secretary, Minister Basil Rajapaksa, other Ministers and the Security Forces are now doing is to give back the life they aspired for. Our soldiers are even building houses for the children of LTTE fighters, despite the fact their parents were determined to kill them and have even killed their colleagues.
Visits North during weekends
Paddy lands that remained as fallow lands for over 20 years are being cleared and lands are now being prepared for cultivation during the next harvesting season.
People from the South, East and other parts of the country now freely travel to the North and now 30,000 to 40,000 people from other areas visit North daily and this number increases to over 100,000 during the long weekends.
The Major General emphasized that the country has been liberated with great sacrifice and each and every inch of land that has been liberated is soaked with the sweat, blood, determination and sacrifice of our soldiers and no one could be permitted to spoil these great sacrifices.
It is the duty and responsibility of everyone to look after it, consider it as their own in a similar manner to looking after their own children and protecting it in whatever way it is possible. Refuting the allegations made by some TNA politicians that IDPs are not being settled in their former habitats, the Major General said that instead of making such baseless allegations they should praise the Security Forces for the excellent work they are doing in resettling the IDPs and providing them with all their requirements.
He said that the Security Forces are resettling the IDPs based on the lists prepared by the Grama Niladharis and Divisional Development Secretariats about their original places of habitat and no one is being resettled outside these areas and there is no forced resettlement.
They should appreciate that the Security Forces achieved a record feat in resettling over 265,000 IDPs from the original number of 295,000 within a period of few months which no other country could achieve. He said that the Security Forces could not resettle IDPs without ensuring their security and the remaining 20 odd thousand IDPs from Pudukudiiruppu and Pudumathalan which are heavily mined areas as demining in these areas are being carried out.
Once it is over and the areas are declared as mine free by the UN Organization, immediate action will be taken to settle the remaining IDPs in those areas and provide them all the facilities.
No sleep for several days
Explaining about the last leg of the war he said that everyone in the frontline including the Division Commanders carried out the assault on the enemy forces without a wink of sleep for several days and the terrorists made every effort to make a break in from the West of the front line as they were hard pressed from the North and South by the 53rd and 57th Divisions. If that happened the hardcore terrorists would have entered the Mullaitivu jungles and we would be still fighting the war.
He said that in the last two days of the battle all the terrorist leaders, including Charles Anthony, Pottu Amman, Soosai and others were killed and they were identified by the Army Intelligence Units. The terrorists leader had been in the lagoon for several days and was killed on the last day of the war on May 19. Photographs revealed how his feet and hands had turned whitish as a result of long expose to water.
The writer is the Media Centre for National Development Director, Mass Media and Information Ministry.
Courtesy : Daily News
New beginning for resettled - Part I:
Rebuilding the North
Only 27,400 IDPs remain to be resettled and out of which 19,000 are from the Pudukudiiruppu and Pudumathalan areas. They are unable to be resettled yet since the area is heavily congested with landmines. First part of this article was published yesterday
Some students leave the welfare centres daily to study in places like Vavuniya, Mannar and return in the evenings. Some have even established sales outlets in the welfare centre area itself to sell groceries and other items and there are Laksathosa outlets also in the camp premises.
Resettlement of IDP families
When the media team visited the 56th Division Headquarters of the Army, Brigadier Napagoda told the media team that demining work in the Vavuniya District has been carried out successfully and 3,425 IDP families consisting 11,000 persons have been already resettled in the district. He said that in the district only one more village remains to be demined. He said that construction of the Northern Railway track has also been carried out successfully upto the Tandikulam railway station and from that point onwards the construction of the railway track is to be undertaken by the Indian construction company.
New houses for IDPs
The 56th Division soldiers have also reclaimed abandoned paddy fields and which will be ready for harvesting in the next Maha season. Among other activities being carried out by his Division in the district includes construction of houses, clearing habitats for settlement and building irrigation facilities and erecting wells. Many Sinhala and Tamil families who had left the Vavuniya district and were living in other areas have returned to their original settlements.
To facilitate these facilities the Engineering Unit of the 56th Division has started a program of constructing 10 housing units each month. Returning families are also provided with roofing sheets and cement for construction of houses. They are also being provided dry rations and financial assistance for self-employment.
The Brigadier pointed out that several volunteer organizations have come forward to construct housing units for re-setters, particularly a Sri Lankan expatriate philanthropist named Ryan Perera has come forward to construct a number of housing units.
Under the program named 'Sisaranasara' he has provided Rs 35 million for construction of 35 houses and another Rs 4 million for reconstruction of 20 houses in the Sinhala village Kokeliya housing units are also being constructed in several other villages. These activities are being carried out in about 30 villages in the district, which include, Kairayankulam, Nedunkulam, Pirappamadu and Veemangal.
Lands cleared for cultivation
There had been seven Tamil families in the village of Veemangal who had left the village in 1978 with children and grandchildren. Twenty five of these families have returned to live in the village. The Army has cleared the jungle lands for them and provided roofing sheets, cement and other requirements including financial assistance. The Army is also constructing houses for some of them under their '10 houses a month' program. Students have been allowed to sit for examinations, while those who were forced in to terrorism are being rehabilitated.
What the government, the President, the Defense Secretary, Minister Basil Rajapaksa, other Ministers and the Security Forces are now doing is to give back the life they aspired for. Our soldiers are even building houses for the children of LTTE fighters, despite the fact their parents were determined to kill them and have even killed their colleagues.
Visits North during weekends
Paddy lands that remained as fallow lands for over 20 years are being cleared and lands are now being prepared for cultivation during the next harvesting season.
People from the South, East and other parts of the country now freely travel to the North and now 30,000 to 40,000 people from other areas visit North daily and this number increases to over 100,000 during the long weekends.
The Major General emphasized that the country has been liberated with great sacrifice and each and every inch of land that has been liberated is soaked with the sweat, blood, determination and sacrifice of our soldiers and no one could be permitted to spoil these great sacrifices.
It is the duty and responsibility of everyone to look after it, consider it as their own in a similar manner to looking after their own children and protecting it in whatever way it is possible. Refuting the allegations made by some TNA politicians that IDPs are not being settled in their former habitats, the Major General said that instead of making such baseless allegations they should praise the Security Forces for the excellent work they are doing in resettling the IDPs and providing them with all their requirements.
He said that the Security Forces are resettling the IDPs based on the lists prepared by the Grama Niladharis and Divisional Development Secretariats about their original places of habitat and no one is being resettled outside these areas and there is no forced resettlement.
They should appreciate that the Security Forces achieved a record feat in resettling over 265,000 IDPs from the original number of 295,000 within a period of few months which no other country could achieve. He said that the Security Forces could not resettle IDPs without ensuring their security and the remaining 20 odd thousand IDPs from Pudukudiiruppu and Pudumathalan which are heavily mined areas as demining in these areas are being carried out.
Once it is over and the areas are declared as mine free by the UN Organization, immediate action will be taken to settle the remaining IDPs in those areas and provide them all the facilities.
No sleep for several days
Explaining about the last leg of the war he said that everyone in the frontline including the Division Commanders carried out the assault on the enemy forces without a wink of sleep for several days and the terrorists made every effort to make a break in from the West of the front line as they were hard pressed from the North and South by the 53rd and 57th Divisions. If that happened the hardcore terrorists would have entered the Mullaitivu jungles and we would be still fighting the war.
He said that in the last two days of the battle all the terrorist leaders, including Charles Anthony, Pottu Amman, Soosai and others were killed and they were identified by the Army Intelligence Units. The terrorists leader had been in the lagoon for several days and was killed on the last day of the war on May 19. Photographs revealed how his feet and hands had turned whitish as a result of long expose to water.
The writer is the Media Centre for National Development Director, Mass Media and Information Ministry.
Courtesy : Daily News
The triumph over terrorism teaches us valuable lessons for the future - Defence Secretary
http://www.nationalsecurity.lk/fullnews.php?id=27007
The triumph over terrorism teaches us valuable lessons for the future - Defence Secretary
30 Sep 2010 - 17:06
"Economic Management - Lessons from the War"
Defence Sectary Mr. Gotabaya Rajapaksa emphasized the importance of understanding of how we achieved the success over the world's ruthless terrorist organization, as it can teach us valuable lessons for the future.
The Secretary made these comments speaking at the 60th Anniversary celebrations of the Central bank of Sri Lanka, yesterday (29 Sep).
The Secretary Defence commended the Central Bank for its astute management of the Sri Lankan economy in the past, particularly over the past several years. "During this period, Sri Lanka not only fought and defeated one of the world's worst terrorist groups, but also successfully combated inflation and maintained its growth rate in the face of a severe global financial crisis." The secretary added.
Further the Secretary explained that, the country is now in a position to reap the benefits of these twin successes, mainly due to the growth-centric vision of His Excellency the President, and the able execution of the policies needed for its achievement by the Central Bank.
Moreover, he went on to say that at this juncture we have an unparalleled opportunity in time to guide this nation to its rightful place in the world.
"We must all work hard and work together to make sure that this unique opportunity is not wasted." He added.
The triumph over terrorism teaches us valuable lessons for the future - Defence Secretary
30 Sep 2010 - 17:06
"Economic Management - Lessons from the War"
Defence Sectary Mr. Gotabaya Rajapaksa emphasized the importance of understanding of how we achieved the success over the world's ruthless terrorist organization, as it can teach us valuable lessons for the future.
The Secretary made these comments speaking at the 60th Anniversary celebrations of the Central bank of Sri Lanka, yesterday (29 Sep).
The Secretary Defence commended the Central Bank for its astute management of the Sri Lankan economy in the past, particularly over the past several years. "During this period, Sri Lanka not only fought and defeated one of the world's worst terrorist groups, but also successfully combated inflation and maintained its growth rate in the face of a severe global financial crisis." The secretary added.
Further the Secretary explained that, the country is now in a position to reap the benefits of these twin successes, mainly due to the growth-centric vision of His Excellency the President, and the able execution of the policies needed for its achievement by the Central Bank.
Moreover, he went on to say that at this juncture we have an unparalleled opportunity in time to guide this nation to its rightful place in the world.
"We must all work hard and work together to make sure that this unique opportunity is not wasted." He added.
Press Release
http://www.nationalsecurity.lk/fullnews.php?id=26998
Press Release
30 Sep 2010 - 16:10
Confirming Authority confirms Sentence on G.S.C Fonseka The convening Officer of the Court Martial II Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces His Excellency the President Mahinda Rajapaksa as the Confirming Authority on 29 September 2010 confirmed the accused G.S.C Fonseka be sentenced for 30 months rigorous Imprisonment imposed by the Court Martial that probed the accused’s involvement in purchasing of military equipment deviating from the tender procedure on four separate counts, whiles on active service. The accused was charged in accordance with provisions in the Army Act under section 109(e) on disgraceful conduct.
Press Release
30 Sep 2010 - 16:10
Confirming Authority confirms Sentence on G.S.C Fonseka The convening Officer of the Court Martial II Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces His Excellency the President Mahinda Rajapaksa as the Confirming Authority on 29 September 2010 confirmed the accused G.S.C Fonseka be sentenced for 30 months rigorous Imprisonment imposed by the Court Martial that probed the accused’s involvement in purchasing of military equipment deviating from the tender procedure on four separate counts, whiles on active service. The accused was charged in accordance with provisions in the Army Act under section 109(e) on disgraceful conduct.
Army marches on with its professional maturity as it celebrates its 61st Army Day
http://www.nationalsecurity.lk/fullnews.php?id=26997
Army marches on with its professional maturity as it celebrates its 61st Army Day
30 Sep 2010 - 10:16
A series of religious events, the precursor to the forthcoming Sri Lanka Army 61st Anniversary and Army Day (10th October) is to commence early October with the customary Flag Blessing ceremony at Anuradhapura Jaya Sri Maha Bodhiya and subsequent Hindu, Islamic and Christian observances at respective places of worship in Colombo.
All commemorative arrangements as regards the Army Day and its 61st anniversary have been organized on the instructions of the Commander of the Army, Lieutenant General Jagath Jayasuriya.
The highlights of the ceremonies include a military parade representing all regiments and colours, etc on 9th October at the Army grounds followed by Commander’s Army Day address to the troops and tea with all ranks. Thereafter the Commander of the Army and Mrs Manjulika Jayasuriya, President, Seva Vanitha Army Branch with senior officers will visit Military Hospital to see recuperating War Heroes where the Commander is expected to give away gift parcels to them as tokens of appreciation and goodwill.
An all night Pirith chanting ceremony on 10th October at Panagoda Sri Bodhirajaramaya (Army Temple), followed by an alms giving to Maha Sangha, the following day, culminates this year’s Army Day commemorative arrangements.
Members of the Maha Sangha, headed by Most Ven. Pallegama Sri Nivasabhidana Nayaka Thero, Atamastanadhipathi (chief incumbent for eight sacred places) are to invoke blessings on all Army flags on 2nd October at Anuradhapura Jaya Sri Maha Bodhiya after offerings are made by Commander and other Senior Officers.
Hindu religious observances on 4th October at Sri Bala Selvanayagam Moorthi Kovil, Maradana (Captain Garden’s Kovil), Islamic religious blessings at Davatagaha Jumma Mosque (5th October) and the Christian service at Cathedral Church, Galle Face on 7th October complete the first phase of the 61st anniversary programme before the Army Day celebratory events get underway. Provincial Army anniversary arrangements at all field formation level will also take place simultaneously to coincide with the main ceremony on 10th October 2010 at Army Headquarters. The modern Sri Lanka Army counts its birth after its founding in 1949 as a commonwealth force of the post-independent Ceylon and this maturity of the Army came about as a result of its dedication, professionalism and commitment to the cause as amply proved in the recent humanitarian operation for elimination of terrorism. The Army has received recognition and commendation as a troop-contributing country to the UN and other member states and its extensive roles in de-mining, humanitarian services, national emergencies, construction and development work, etc.Courtesy: Army.lk
Army marches on with its professional maturity as it celebrates its 61st Army Day
30 Sep 2010 - 10:16
A series of religious events, the precursor to the forthcoming Sri Lanka Army 61st Anniversary and Army Day (10th October) is to commence early October with the customary Flag Blessing ceremony at Anuradhapura Jaya Sri Maha Bodhiya and subsequent Hindu, Islamic and Christian observances at respective places of worship in Colombo.
All commemorative arrangements as regards the Army Day and its 61st anniversary have been organized on the instructions of the Commander of the Army, Lieutenant General Jagath Jayasuriya.
The highlights of the ceremonies include a military parade representing all regiments and colours, etc on 9th October at the Army grounds followed by Commander’s Army Day address to the troops and tea with all ranks. Thereafter the Commander of the Army and Mrs Manjulika Jayasuriya, President, Seva Vanitha Army Branch with senior officers will visit Military Hospital to see recuperating War Heroes where the Commander is expected to give away gift parcels to them as tokens of appreciation and goodwill.
An all night Pirith chanting ceremony on 10th October at Panagoda Sri Bodhirajaramaya (Army Temple), followed by an alms giving to Maha Sangha, the following day, culminates this year’s Army Day commemorative arrangements.
Members of the Maha Sangha, headed by Most Ven. Pallegama Sri Nivasabhidana Nayaka Thero, Atamastanadhipathi (chief incumbent for eight sacred places) are to invoke blessings on all Army flags on 2nd October at Anuradhapura Jaya Sri Maha Bodhiya after offerings are made by Commander and other Senior Officers.
Hindu religious observances on 4th October at Sri Bala Selvanayagam Moorthi Kovil, Maradana (Captain Garden’s Kovil), Islamic religious blessings at Davatagaha Jumma Mosque (5th October) and the Christian service at Cathedral Church, Galle Face on 7th October complete the first phase of the 61st anniversary programme before the Army Day celebratory events get underway. Provincial Army anniversary arrangements at all field formation level will also take place simultaneously to coincide with the main ceremony on 10th October 2010 at Army Headquarters. The modern Sri Lanka Army counts its birth after its founding in 1949 as a commonwealth force of the post-independent Ceylon and this maturity of the Army came about as a result of its dedication, professionalism and commitment to the cause as amply proved in the recent humanitarian operation for elimination of terrorism. The Army has received recognition and commendation as a troop-contributing country to the UN and other member states and its extensive roles in de-mining, humanitarian services, national emergencies, construction and development work, etc.Courtesy: Army.lk
Sri Lanka emphasises that terrorists suspects cannot be treated as ordinary criminals.
http://www.nationalsecurity.lk/fullnews.php?id=26993
Sri Lanka emphasises that terrorists suspects cannot be treated as ordinary criminals.
30 Sep 2010 - 09:24
Defending Sri Lanka’s position against the allegations by the International Commission of Jurists that Sri Lanka has failed to adhere to international law in detaining suspected Tamil Tigers and the detention of nearly 8,000 terrorist suspects for months without a trial is perhaps “the largest mass detention in the world”, the Deputy Minister of Economic Development, Mr. Lakshman Yapa Abeywardhana has told the BBC that suspected Tamil Tiger detainees cannot be treated under the same law as everyone else. He has said that it is “difficult to gather evidence” against the suspected Tamil Tigers from the Northern and Eastern areas.Mr. Yapa has told the BBC, that any country in the world would agree that they could not be treated like ordinary criminals, and has emphasised that the authorities need to keep them for longer to extract more information about their terrorist activities and people involved, and has reiterated that Sri Lanka is an independent nation, and would not bow down to foreign powers in order to get aid.The BBC also reported that the deputy leader of the United National party Mr. Karu Jayasuriya also said that international organisations should not try impose conditions on a Sovereign nation.Courtesy: news.lk
Over 300 acres given back to farmers after de-mining in Ariyalai - Jaffna
http://www.nationalsecurity.lk/fullnews.php?id=26990
Over 300 acres given back to farmers after de-mining in Ariyalai - Jaffna
30 Sep 2010 - 08:50
Due to speedy demining process underway in war torn areas in the Northern Province, over 300 acres of paddy fields in Ariyalai East were given back to their original owners on Tuesday (29 Sep).
The event was organized in parallel to the grand "Vap Magula" ceremony in "Maha" season.
Ariyalai East in the Nallur Divisional Secretariat remained a restricted area for civilians until Army Engineers cleared the area of mines laid by the LTTE.
Governor Northern Province Major General (Retd) G.A. Chandrasiri made a special note of thanks to Commander Security Forces - Jaffna Major General Mahinda Hathurusinghe and all Army personnel who took a tireless effort for the farmers to resume their livelihood.
The event was coincided with distributing of Agriculture equipment among the farmers from the allocations of the Governor's fund. Thirteen hand tractors and paddy seed were issued free, while seventeen more hand tractors, water pumps and a stock of fertilizer were given at concessionary rates. The Ministry of Agriculture and Agrarian Department of Jaffna organized the "Vap Magula" ceremony with assistance of the Army.
This first ploughing or "Vap Magula" in Jaffna took place on Tuesday with participation of Chief Guest Hon. Minister of Traditional Industries and Small Enterprises Mr. Douglas Devananda, Governor Northern Province Maj. Gen. (Retd) G.A. Chandrasiri and District Secretary Jaffna Mrs. Emelda Sukumar.
A large crowd including religious leaders in the area, a number of officers of the Agriculture and administrative sector, senior Army officers and thousands of farmers were present.
Over 300 acres given back to farmers after de-mining in Ariyalai - Jaffna
30 Sep 2010 - 08:50
Due to speedy demining process underway in war torn areas in the Northern Province, over 300 acres of paddy fields in Ariyalai East were given back to their original owners on Tuesday (29 Sep).
The event was organized in parallel to the grand "Vap Magula" ceremony in "Maha" season.
Ariyalai East in the Nallur Divisional Secretariat remained a restricted area for civilians until Army Engineers cleared the area of mines laid by the LTTE.
Governor Northern Province Major General (Retd) G.A. Chandrasiri made a special note of thanks to Commander Security Forces - Jaffna Major General Mahinda Hathurusinghe and all Army personnel who took a tireless effort for the farmers to resume their livelihood.
The event was coincided with distributing of Agriculture equipment among the farmers from the allocations of the Governor's fund. Thirteen hand tractors and paddy seed were issued free, while seventeen more hand tractors, water pumps and a stock of fertilizer were given at concessionary rates. The Ministry of Agriculture and Agrarian Department of Jaffna organized the "Vap Magula" ceremony with assistance of the Army.
This first ploughing or "Vap Magula" in Jaffna took place on Tuesday with participation of Chief Guest Hon. Minister of Traditional Industries and Small Enterprises Mr. Douglas Devananda, Governor Northern Province Maj. Gen. (Retd) G.A. Chandrasiri and District Secretary Jaffna Mrs. Emelda Sukumar.
A large crowd including religious leaders in the area, a number of officers of the Agriculture and administrative sector, senior Army officers and thousands of farmers were present.
"Job Fair" to find career opportunities for ex-LTTE combatants - Vavuniya
http://www.nationalsecurity.lk/fullnews.php?id=26989
"Job Fair" to find career opportunities for ex-LTTE combatants - Vavuniya
29 Sep 2010 - 19:50
The Bureau of Rehabilitation Commissioner General under the directives of the Ministry of Rehabilitation organized a "Job Fair" for the rehabilitated ex-LTTE combatants to find career opportunities in their new horizons, at Pompemadu rehabilitation center in Vavuniya, today, (29 Sep).
The government has launched comprehensive rehabilitation programs for ex-LTTE combatants who had been surrendered to the security forces, since the government had clear objective to groom them into the country's development drive. Accordingly, they were given vocational training in various fields and computer courses while being rehabilitated.
The "Job Fair" was a showcase for the young ex-combatants who attended seeking employment opportunities in many leading companies in Sri Lanka. The companies encouraged job seekers promoting the benefits entitled to employees in their respective titles. Tri-Star Apparels, Smart-Shirts Pvt Ltd, Lalan Rubber, Aqua Dynamics and many other companies were presented at the "Job Fair".
"We are extremely grateful to the government and security forces for organizing such an event. This is a good opportunity for the ex-combatants to make their contribution for the country's productivity. They can earn over Rs. 15,000 per month once completing their initial training period at the company", Administration Manager of Smart-Shirts Mr. Sumudu Edirisinghe said speaking to defence.lk.
Defence.lk special reporter who was at the event said that job seekers were so enthusiastic about finding more and more facts in their interested fields, keeping company representatives busy all the time.
The Sri Lankan government who had defeated the world's most ruthless terrorist organization successfully rescued nearly 300,000 Tamil civilians from the clutches of LTTE; now at the edge of completing rehabilitation of over 12,000 ex-LTTE combatants, paving the way for a brighter future.
"Job Fair" to find career opportunities for ex-LTTE combatants - Vavuniya
29 Sep 2010 - 19:50
The Bureau of Rehabilitation Commissioner General under the directives of the Ministry of Rehabilitation organized a "Job Fair" for the rehabilitated ex-LTTE combatants to find career opportunities in their new horizons, at Pompemadu rehabilitation center in Vavuniya, today, (29 Sep).
The government has launched comprehensive rehabilitation programs for ex-LTTE combatants who had been surrendered to the security forces, since the government had clear objective to groom them into the country's development drive. Accordingly, they were given vocational training in various fields and computer courses while being rehabilitated.
The "Job Fair" was a showcase for the young ex-combatants who attended seeking employment opportunities in many leading companies in Sri Lanka. The companies encouraged job seekers promoting the benefits entitled to employees in their respective titles. Tri-Star Apparels, Smart-Shirts Pvt Ltd, Lalan Rubber, Aqua Dynamics and many other companies were presented at the "Job Fair".
"We are extremely grateful to the government and security forces for organizing such an event. This is a good opportunity for the ex-combatants to make their contribution for the country's productivity. They can earn over Rs. 15,000 per month once completing their initial training period at the company", Administration Manager of Smart-Shirts Mr. Sumudu Edirisinghe said speaking to defence.lk.
Defence.lk special reporter who was at the event said that job seekers were so enthusiastic about finding more and more facts in their interested fields, keeping company representatives busy all the time.
The Sri Lankan government who had defeated the world's most ruthless terrorist organization successfully rescued nearly 300,000 Tamil civilians from the clutches of LTTE; now at the edge of completing rehabilitation of over 12,000 ex-LTTE combatants, paving the way for a brighter future.
Government to release over 400 rehabilitated ex-combatants tomorrow
http://www.nationalsecurity.lk/fullnews.php?id=26991
Government to release over 400 rehabilitated ex-combatants tomorrow
29 Sep 2010 - 08:58
Over 400 ex-LTTE combatants who have successfully completed their rehabilitation programme will be integrated into the society tomorrow, (30 Sep) sources from the Bureau of Commissioner General of Rehabilitation said.
All set for the release of these ex-combatants in a function held under the patronage of minister of rehabilitation and prison reforms Mr D.W Gunasekara at the Cultural Center Vavuniya.
These ex-combatants were retrained in various fields in keeping with their skills and tallents, while being rehabilitated at the rehabilitation centers in Vavuniya. In addition, they were given industrial training too, in their respective fields.
"Sri Lanka's security forces rescued them from the LTTE's brutality and paved them the way towards a brighter future. We have to grab them into the country's development", an official from the Bureau of Commissioner General of Rehabilitation said speaking to defence.lk.
Deputy Minister of Rehabilitation and Prison Reforms Wijith Wijayamuni Zoysa, Commissioner General of Rehabilitation Brigadier Sudantha Ranasinghe, government officials will also be participated at the event. Courtesy: MoD
Government to release over 400 rehabilitated ex-combatants tomorrow
29 Sep 2010 - 08:58
Over 400 ex-LTTE combatants who have successfully completed their rehabilitation programme will be integrated into the society tomorrow, (30 Sep) sources from the Bureau of Commissioner General of Rehabilitation said.
All set for the release of these ex-combatants in a function held under the patronage of minister of rehabilitation and prison reforms Mr D.W Gunasekara at the Cultural Center Vavuniya.
These ex-combatants were retrained in various fields in keeping with their skills and tallents, while being rehabilitated at the rehabilitation centers in Vavuniya. In addition, they were given industrial training too, in their respective fields.
"Sri Lanka's security forces rescued them from the LTTE's brutality and paved them the way towards a brighter future. We have to grab them into the country's development", an official from the Bureau of Commissioner General of Rehabilitation said speaking to defence.lk.
Deputy Minister of Rehabilitation and Prison Reforms Wijith Wijayamuni Zoysa, Commissioner General of Rehabilitation Brigadier Sudantha Ranasinghe, government officials will also be participated at the event. Courtesy: MoD
No terrorist act has taken place since 19th May 2009.
http://www.nationalsecurity.lk/fullnews.php?id=26977
No terrorist act has taken place since 19th May 2009.
29 Sep 2010 - 07:55
Major General Kamal Gunaratne, the Commander of the Wanni Region said that since 19th May 2009 until now, no terrorist act has taken place in Sri Lanka and no one has died due to terrorism. He said that not only the people of Wanni suffered, and were oppressed by the terrorist LTTE, and were living in fear and anxiety but people in the other parts of the country too had the same panic and the phobia.
The Major General explained family members refrained from travelling together, and father used to go to work in a bus, mother by a train and children by school vans to avoid the menace of becoming victimized by bus bombs, sudden bomb blasts, bombs in train carriages and other forms of terrorism. The peaceful environment has not only dawn peace of mind and confidence to the people of Wanni but for the country as a whole.
The Major General emphasized that the country has been liberated with great sacrifice and each and every inch of the land that has been liberated is soaked with the sweat, blood, determination, and sacrifice of our soldiers and no one could be permitted to spoil these great sacrifices, and it is the duty and responsibility of everyone to look after it, consider it as their own similar to they look after their own children, and protect it in whatever way it is possible.
Explaining about the last leg of the war he said that everyone in the frontline including the Division Commanders carried out the assault on the enemy forces without a wink of sleep for several days and the terrorists made every effort to make a break in from the west of the front line as they were hard pressed from North and South by the 53rd and 57th Divisions.Courtesy: News.
No terrorist act has taken place since 19th May 2009.
29 Sep 2010 - 07:55
Major General Kamal Gunaratne, the Commander of the Wanni Region said that since 19th May 2009 until now, no terrorist act has taken place in Sri Lanka and no one has died due to terrorism. He said that not only the people of Wanni suffered, and were oppressed by the terrorist LTTE, and were living in fear and anxiety but people in the other parts of the country too had the same panic and the phobia.
The Major General explained family members refrained from travelling together, and father used to go to work in a bus, mother by a train and children by school vans to avoid the menace of becoming victimized by bus bombs, sudden bomb blasts, bombs in train carriages and other forms of terrorism. The peaceful environment has not only dawn peace of mind and confidence to the people of Wanni but for the country as a whole.
The Major General emphasized that the country has been liberated with great sacrifice and each and every inch of the land that has been liberated is soaked with the sweat, blood, determination, and sacrifice of our soldiers and no one could be permitted to spoil these great sacrifices, and it is the duty and responsibility of everyone to look after it, consider it as their own similar to they look after their own children, and protect it in whatever way it is possible.
Explaining about the last leg of the war he said that everyone in the frontline including the Division Commanders carried out the assault on the enemy forces without a wink of sleep for several days and the terrorists made every effort to make a break in from the west of the front line as they were hard pressed from North and South by the 53rd and 57th Divisions.Courtesy: News.
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
Maldivian Vice-President commends President Rajapaksa on 'crisis-resolution'
http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100928_06
Maldivian Vice-President commends President Rajapaksa on 'crisis-resolution'
"I would like to thank the international community for their engagement and assistance to find a peaceful solution to the political conflict in the Maldives, especially President Mahinda Rajapaksa of Sri Lanka for his constructive contribution," said Dr. Mohammed Waheed Hassan - Maldivian Vice President.
He expressed these views Monday (27) speaking at the 65th Session of the UN General Assembly in Washington DC. Dr. Mohammed while expressing solidarity with the island nation also urged the international community to assist Sri Lanka in rebuilding, reconstruction and reconciliation efforts following the 25 year period of conflict.
President Mahinda Rajapaksa visited Maldives- July this year and held talks with President Mohamed Nasheed and former Maldivian President Abdul Gayoom in the surge of the internal political crisis.
Maldivian Vice-President commends President Rajapaksa on 'crisis-resolution'
"I would like to thank the international community for their engagement and assistance to find a peaceful solution to the political conflict in the Maldives, especially President Mahinda Rajapaksa of Sri Lanka for his constructive contribution," said Dr. Mohammed Waheed Hassan - Maldivian Vice President.
He expressed these views Monday (27) speaking at the 65th Session of the UN General Assembly in Washington DC. Dr. Mohammed while expressing solidarity with the island nation also urged the international community to assist Sri Lanka in rebuilding, reconstruction and reconciliation efforts following the 25 year period of conflict.
President Mahinda Rajapaksa visited Maldives- July this year and held talks with President Mohamed Nasheed and former Maldivian President Abdul Gayoom in the surge of the internal political crisis.
522 Brigade coordinates more donations to Ramavil welfare centre
http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100928_02
522 Brigade coordinates more donations to Ramavil welfare centre
www.defence.lk">A team of Hindu priests from Malaysia, during one of their visits to Kodikamam Meditation Centre, donated dry ration and other essential items to inmates at the Ramavil Welfare Centre early this month.
The donation was arranged after a discussion they had with the Commander 522 Brigade Colonel Hemantha Bandara who has so far launched many welfare projects for the Internally Displaced Persons at the welfare Centre.
The donors handed over milk powder, soap and nutritious food to 250 pregnant mothers and also dry ration and Rs. 2500/= in cash to some families who were leaving the centre for their original homes under the accelerated resettlement programme.
In addition, with coordination of the 522 Brigade, Sai Baba Foundation in Jaffna handed over a stock of dry ration and Rs. 2500/= in cash to 360 families at the centre who were about to leave for their former villages in Vadamarachchi East for resettlement.
522 Brigade coordinates more donations to Ramavil welfare centre
www.defence.lk">A team of Hindu priests from Malaysia, during one of their visits to Kodikamam Meditation Centre, donated dry ration and other essential items to inmates at the Ramavil Welfare Centre early this month.
The donation was arranged after a discussion they had with the Commander 522 Brigade Colonel Hemantha Bandara who has so far launched many welfare projects for the Internally Displaced Persons at the welfare Centre.
The donors handed over milk powder, soap and nutritious food to 250 pregnant mothers and also dry ration and Rs. 2500/= in cash to some families who were leaving the centre for their original homes under the accelerated resettlement programme.
In addition, with coordination of the 522 Brigade, Sai Baba Foundation in Jaffna handed over a stock of dry ration and Rs. 2500/= in cash to 360 families at the centre who were about to leave for their former villages in Vadamarachchi East for resettlement.
Job-Fair for rehabilitated ex-combatants in Vavuniya
http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100928_04
Job-Fair for rehabilitated ex-combatants in Vavuniya
The Ministry for Rehabilitation and Prison Reforms has organized a job fair on Sept. 29th and 30th for ex-combatants who have successfully completed their rehabilitation program and vocational training.
Deputy Minister of Rehabilitation and Prison Reforms Vijithamuni Zoysa speaking with press Monday (27) said that over 25 private sector organizations from various fields and industries such as garments and construction would take part in the job fair.
Over 11,000 ex-combatants surrendered with security forces during the final phase of the war in May 2009 and underwent rehabilitation including vocational training at 12 rehabilitation centers under direct supervision of the government.
Job-Fair for rehabilitated ex-combatants in Vavuniya
The Ministry for Rehabilitation and Prison Reforms has organized a job fair on Sept. 29th and 30th for ex-combatants who have successfully completed their rehabilitation program and vocational training.
Deputy Minister of Rehabilitation and Prison Reforms Vijithamuni Zoysa speaking with press Monday (27) said that over 25 private sector organizations from various fields and industries such as garments and construction would take part in the job fair.
Over 11,000 ex-combatants surrendered with security forces during the final phase of the war in May 2009 and underwent rehabilitation including vocational training at 12 rehabilitation centers under direct supervision of the government.
Release for 418 ex-combatants - Vavuniya
http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100928_05
Release for 418 ex-combatants - Vavuniya
418 ex-combatants including 320 males and 98 females are to be released on Thursday (Sep 30) at the Pompemadu rehabilitation center in Vavuniya.
The ex-combatants have successfully undergone their rehabilitation program including vocational training in carpentry, electrician and beauty culture, said sources at the Ministry for Rehabilitation and Prison Reforms.
Deputy Minister for Rehabilitation and Prison Reforms Vijithamuni Zoysa, speaking with defence.lk said that over 2,000 rehabilitated ex-combatants are to be released in October draining the numbers under rehabilitation to a mere 5000.
Release for 418 ex-combatants - Vavuniya
418 ex-combatants including 320 males and 98 females are to be released on Thursday (Sep 30) at the Pompemadu rehabilitation center in Vavuniya.
The ex-combatants have successfully undergone their rehabilitation program including vocational training in carpentry, electrician and beauty culture, said sources at the Ministry for Rehabilitation and Prison Reforms.
Deputy Minister for Rehabilitation and Prison Reforms Vijithamuni Zoysa, speaking with defence.lk said that over 2,000 rehabilitated ex-combatants are to be released in October draining the numbers under rehabilitation to a mere 5000.
28,967 acres to be cultivated this Maha season in Jaffna District
http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100928_03
28,967 acres to be cultivated this Maha season in Jaffna District
28,967 acres of paddy fields are expected to be cultivated this Maha Season. This was revealed during a press conference on Monday (Sep 27), including Minister for Economic Development Basil Rajapaksa.
According to sources, 3,000 acres of land within the once 'High Security Zone (HSZ)' area are also to be cultivated under the project. The main ceremony, the 'Wap Magul' depicting the beginning of the Maha season will be held in Ariyalai area, which was once a HSZ.
Meanwhile, Jaffna farmers are also expected to cultivate cash crops such as onions, chillies and vegetables such as carrot, beetroot as well as local varieties in 6,500 acres of high land in the Jaffna district the sources said.
28,967 acres to be cultivated this Maha season in Jaffna District
28,967 acres of paddy fields are expected to be cultivated this Maha Season. This was revealed during a press conference on Monday (Sep 27), including Minister for Economic Development Basil Rajapaksa.
According to sources, 3,000 acres of land within the once 'High Security Zone (HSZ)' area are also to be cultivated under the project. The main ceremony, the 'Wap Magul' depicting the beginning of the Maha season will be held in Ariyalai area, which was once a HSZ.
Meanwhile, Jaffna farmers are also expected to cultivate cash crops such as onions, chillies and vegetables such as carrot, beetroot as well as local varieties in 6,500 acres of high land in the Jaffna district the sources said.
Monday, September 27, 2010
Sri Lanka organizes special job fair for ex-rebels
http://newsystocks.com/news/3711610
Sri Lanka organizes special job fair for ex-rebelsSunday, September 26, 2010 12:21 PM
COLOMBO, Sep. 26, 2010 (Xinhua News Agency) -- The Sri Lankan government has organized a special job fair in the northern town of Vavuniya for former Tamil Tiger rebels who have been rehabilitated and undergone vocational training, a senior government official said on Sunday.
Vijithamuni Zoysa, deputy minister of Rehabilitation and Prison Reforms said over 25 private sector organizations from various fields such as garments and construction would participate in the job fair held on Wednesday and Thursday in Vavuniya, about 260 km north from the capital Colombo.
Over 11,000 cadres of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam ( LTTE) surrendered to the security forces during the final phase of civil war between the government forces and the LTTE which had been fighting for a separate Tamil homeland in Sri Lanka's Northern and Eastern provinces for more than two decades.
They have been rehabilitated and undergone a vocational training at 12 rehabilitation centers run by the government from May 2009.
Zoysa said 418 rehabilitated cadres would be released at a ceremony organized parallel to the job fair in Pompemadu rehabilitation center in Vavuniya.
The government expects to release over 2,000 rehabilitated former rebels in October and the number of former rebels in rehabilitation centers would be reduced to 5,000 after the release.
Sri Lanka organizes special job fair for ex-rebelsSunday, September 26, 2010 12:21 PM
COLOMBO, Sep. 26, 2010 (Xinhua News Agency) -- The Sri Lankan government has organized a special job fair in the northern town of Vavuniya for former Tamil Tiger rebels who have been rehabilitated and undergone vocational training, a senior government official said on Sunday.
Vijithamuni Zoysa, deputy minister of Rehabilitation and Prison Reforms said over 25 private sector organizations from various fields such as garments and construction would participate in the job fair held on Wednesday and Thursday in Vavuniya, about 260 km north from the capital Colombo.
Over 11,000 cadres of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam ( LTTE) surrendered to the security forces during the final phase of civil war between the government forces and the LTTE which had been fighting for a separate Tamil homeland in Sri Lanka's Northern and Eastern provinces for more than two decades.
They have been rehabilitated and undergone a vocational training at 12 rehabilitation centers run by the government from May 2009.
Zoysa said 418 rehabilitated cadres would be released at a ceremony organized parallel to the job fair in Pompemadu rehabilitation center in Vavuniya.
The government expects to release over 2,000 rehabilitated former rebels in October and the number of former rebels in rehabilitation centers would be reduced to 5,000 after the release.
Last modified on: 9/27/2010 8:25:23 AM Lanka embarked on rapid development - External Affairs Minister
http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100927_01
Lanka embarked on rapid development - External Affairs Minister
An Asia Cooperation Dialogue (ACD) Ministerial Meeting took place in New York, on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly Sessions. At this meeting External Affairs Minister Prof G L Peiris handed over the Chair of the ACD to the Iranian Foreign Minister M Mottaki. Sri Lanka had assumed this responsibility at the 8th ACD Ministerial Meeting in Colombo in October 2009. Iran will now host the 9th Ministerial Meeting next November.
Minister G L Peiris in a cordial bilateral discussion with Indonesian Foreign Minister R M Marty M Natalegawa. The two Ministers agreed that Indonesia and Sri Lanka enjoy a warm and long-standing bi-lateral relationship.
Prof Peiris in his capacity as outgoing Chair noted that Asia has emerged as a critical stakeholder in the global economy. Sri Lanka for her part having overcome the long period of separatist terror, is now embarked on a path of rapid development. President Mahinda Rajapaksa's vision is to leverage Sri Lanka's strategic location on the international trade routes and thereby transform the nation into a dynamic hub, of global activity. The Government and people of Sri Lanka are confident of realizing in full this vision.
The Minister said while Asia had been by and large able to withstand the recent global economic down turn, the conclusion to be drawn is the need to strengthen regional cooperation to face future challenges. Prof Peiris expressed his confidence in this regard that the ACD would with Iran in the Chair, aspire to even greater heights of achievement.
Later that morning, Minister Peiris had a cordial bilateral discussion with the Indonesian Foreign Minister R M Marty M Natalegawa. The two Ministers agreed that Indonesia and Sri Lanka enjoy a warm and long-standing bilateral relationship. Minister Peiris expressed the appreciation of Sri Lanka for the supportive position adopted by Indonesia, during the testing time of the final phase of the humanitarian operation against the LTTE terror.
Minister Natalegawa and Minister Peiris noted that there is great scope to intensity the economic and cultural collaboration between the two nations. Both countries in addition to their friendship, also share the common situation of reaping the post-conflict scenario dividends. It was agreed that the two Governments would shortly convene a Joint Commission have in place the supportive infrastructure for the expansion of the relationship.
The two Ministers spoke of the shared interest in the Indian Ocean security and the prevention of the maritime domain abuse for illegal activities. They accordingly decided to ensure continued collaboration on ocean related matters.
On the afternoon of September 22nd, Prof Peiris had another bilateral meeting, with Foreign Minister Michael Spindelegger of Australia.
Minister Peiris briefed his Austrian counterpart on the potential for expanding bilateral ties, especially in the spheres of trade and investment, due to the promising new chapter that has now dawned in Sri Lanka.
It was agreed that they and their officials would work closely together, to progress appropriately those areas off mutual interest in the bilateral relationship.
Courtesy : Daily News
Lanka embarked on rapid development - External Affairs Minister
An Asia Cooperation Dialogue (ACD) Ministerial Meeting took place in New York, on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly Sessions. At this meeting External Affairs Minister Prof G L Peiris handed over the Chair of the ACD to the Iranian Foreign Minister M Mottaki. Sri Lanka had assumed this responsibility at the 8th ACD Ministerial Meeting in Colombo in October 2009. Iran will now host the 9th Ministerial Meeting next November.
Minister G L Peiris in a cordial bilateral discussion with Indonesian Foreign Minister R M Marty M Natalegawa. The two Ministers agreed that Indonesia and Sri Lanka enjoy a warm and long-standing bi-lateral relationship.
Prof Peiris in his capacity as outgoing Chair noted that Asia has emerged as a critical stakeholder in the global economy. Sri Lanka for her part having overcome the long period of separatist terror, is now embarked on a path of rapid development. President Mahinda Rajapaksa's vision is to leverage Sri Lanka's strategic location on the international trade routes and thereby transform the nation into a dynamic hub, of global activity. The Government and people of Sri Lanka are confident of realizing in full this vision.
The Minister said while Asia had been by and large able to withstand the recent global economic down turn, the conclusion to be drawn is the need to strengthen regional cooperation to face future challenges. Prof Peiris expressed his confidence in this regard that the ACD would with Iran in the Chair, aspire to even greater heights of achievement.
Later that morning, Minister Peiris had a cordial bilateral discussion with the Indonesian Foreign Minister R M Marty M Natalegawa. The two Ministers agreed that Indonesia and Sri Lanka enjoy a warm and long-standing bilateral relationship. Minister Peiris expressed the appreciation of Sri Lanka for the supportive position adopted by Indonesia, during the testing time of the final phase of the humanitarian operation against the LTTE terror.
Minister Natalegawa and Minister Peiris noted that there is great scope to intensity the economic and cultural collaboration between the two nations. Both countries in addition to their friendship, also share the common situation of reaping the post-conflict scenario dividends. It was agreed that the two Governments would shortly convene a Joint Commission have in place the supportive infrastructure for the expansion of the relationship.
The two Ministers spoke of the shared interest in the Indian Ocean security and the prevention of the maritime domain abuse for illegal activities. They accordingly decided to ensure continued collaboration on ocean related matters.
On the afternoon of September 22nd, Prof Peiris had another bilateral meeting, with Foreign Minister Michael Spindelegger of Australia.
Minister Peiris briefed his Austrian counterpart on the potential for expanding bilateral ties, especially in the spheres of trade and investment, due to the promising new chapter that has now dawned in Sri Lanka.
It was agreed that they and their officials would work closely together, to progress appropriately those areas off mutual interest in the bilateral relationship.
Courtesy : Daily News
Sunday, September 26, 2010
Mahinda Chintana, a big push for Lankan economy:
http://www.dailynews.lk/2010/09/25/fea03.asp
Mahinda Chintana, a big push for Lankan economy:
Asia’s miracle - the way forward
W A D S Gunasinghe
Computer and language skills of the new generation will make Sri Lanka an attractive place for service oriented ventures. The demand for the rural products will be increased with necessary infrastructure development. First part of this article was published yesterday
Therefore, this process has to be facilitated by creating adequate gainful jobs in the urban sector where the main potential supplier of jobs is the service sector. In addition, the naval and aviation hubs in particular will increase the demand of certain agricultural products for processing and exporting. This subsequently will contribute to the increase of the quality and the productivity of the sector.
The current educational and vocational training models, skills and attitudes of the new generation also fit into this set-up where the service sector is in the driving seat. Computer and language skills of the new generation make Sri Lanka an attractive place for many service oriented ventures. Therefore, the possibility of harnessing the full potential from the active labour force provides additional justification for this strategy.
Urban and rural economies
The rationale of the development of the service sector as the engine of growth should be considered against this background. Compared with Singapore or Hong Kong which are city states, Sri Lanka has an advantage of having a substantially large hinterland of the urban centres. While developing the proposed five hubs through the provision of necessary infrastructure, the role of the hinterland will be to provide labour, agricultural and other products necessary for day-today life and for processing, raw material for construction, recreation facilities etc. to the hub centres. This will activate the rural economy in several ways. The demand for rural products will increase. This will boost the SME sector and new employment opportunities will be generated. New frontiers in the tourism sector such as eco, agro and cultural tourism will have a wider market in this scenario. In this way it will also be possible to retain the harmony between the two sectors - village and town - which is in line with the traditions in the country.
Development path
Development economic theories provide a sound basis for current strategies. The Big Push theory by Rosenstein Rodan emphasizes the necessity of a large comprehensive investment program to achieve rapid economic growth which will breach the obstacles faced by a developing economy on its way towards progress. This theory states that a piecemeal approach will not take an economy to a rapid development path.
A minimum high investment is needed in order to reap the benefits of external economies. Only bulky investment will result in social benefits greater than social costs. Investment on infrastructure is given high emphasis under this thinking.
Power sector
Coordinated public investment has to play a vital role in this process. Infrastructure projects such as power, transport, communication etc., need sizable investment and due to indivisibility excess capacity can be maintained for some time. A long gestation period is common to this kind of investment. All these factors prompt the Government to make careful decisions in selecting sectors to be promoted based on the ongoing massive infrastructure development drive. This is why the five hub concept fits well into the current development agenda of the country which aims at doubling per capita income in six years.
Large-scale infrastructure projects to boost economy. File photo
The Government has already embarked on laying foundations for the proposed hubs. The first phase of the Hambantota International Port is to be completed soon. The Colombo South harbour project is progressing under PPP arrangements. Galle will be developed as a tourist harbour. The development of supportive infrastructure for these projects such as power transmission, water supply and connecting roads is under way.
The second International Airport in Mattala will open the South to the world. In the meantime, further improvements to the Bandaranaike Airport in Katunayake will commence soon. In the power sector, the second phase of Norochcholai coal power plant with a capacity of 600 mw has commenced. The Trincomalee coal power plant will add 1,000 mw to the national capacity. Oil exploration in the Mannar Bay has been initiated and it is expected that petroleum deposits will be uncovered in the near future.
Several steps have been taken to promote the trade sector. The excise duty of many items has been reduced. The tax system of the country is being reviewed to make necessary improvements. The welfare policies adopted by the consecutive Governments after independence has created a sound human resource base in the country. Capitalizing on that base, steps are being taken to make the country a knowledge centre where educational, research, training experts will be gathered. New legislations will be introduced to attract world-class educational and training institutions here.
Service sector
Naval, aviation, knowledge and trade hubs mainly promote manufacturing related service sector activities. This will include activities such as trade, transshipment, storage, logistics, accounting, repairing of ships and aircraft, telecommunications, advertising, research facilities, management and financial services and recreational facilities. Apart from these, services such as education, print and broadcast media, health such as clinical trials, medical lab testing will also be developed. The service sector thereby will be the engine of growth.
The development of the service sector will be followed by the start of the high value added export oriented manufacturing such as grading and processing, breaking of bulk, grinding and packing of materials such as fertilizer or wheat, assembling, chemicals, paints, fibre-based products such as accessories and so on. This is, however, not by any means to discourage embarking on possible heavy industries such as oil extraction, in the coming years.
As the country goes ahead, the spillover effects of the development of the service sector and then the manufacturing will create the necessary background for the development of heavy industries and thereby facilitate the penetration into the international markets of these products. Heavy industries such as shipbuilding, machinery and equipment may be some of the possibilities.
The way forward
All this will not happen automatically. Appropriate strategies to promote this process have to be formulated and implemented by the Government.
A supportive institutional set-up is a must. A mechanism should be in place to upgrade the capabilities across the value chain of the identified industries.
It is well worth considering whether the existing institutional framework is capable of facilitating these developments. The challenge is threefold:
(a) Identifying appropriate industries and providing incentives for investors
(b) expediting the project approval and clearance process
(c) providing quality, economic, social and legal infrastructure
At present, above functions are under the purview of several institutions. As a lot of activities in the proposed development, involve networking, partnerships, outsourcing, sub-contracting among partners, an innovative institutional framework to provide hands-on support is needed. Apart from making reforms to the existing Government institutions to be flexible enough to make radical decisions, it is advisable to form a Secretariat which will take care of all aspects pertaining to the development of proposed hubs.
This institution should use pragmatic approaches to overcome identified obstacles in promoting proposed hubs in collaboration with the existing institutions responsible for above mentioned three functions.
A consultative group which will guide the Secretariat on policy directions though strategic planning can be established including sectoral experts as members.
The main thing is that everybody should be clear about where are we heading. It is also necessary to consider the views of the local industrialists, entrepreneurs and associations such as chambers in decision-making, so that the initiatives will have an indigenous touch too. Every step has to be taken to reduce the time lag between commitments by the investor and actual operations. Apart from expediting the process of obtaining clearances, making available a sound physical, social and legal infrastructure, providing ready-to-build sites, factory spaces, warehouse facilities, industrial estates, theme parks etc. is imperative.
The FDI and private sector involvement will pay a vital role in this process. BOI should play a proactive role in analyzing and identifying the potential sectors ad attracting investment for them from potential investors. In order to improve competitiveness, Government should support appropriate skills development programs for the labour force, research and development and create a conducive climate for innovations. Government also can pioneer some of the ventures through PPPs. To attract reputed foreign universities and educational institutions the regulatory framework has to be amended and necessary legislation has to be introduced.
There are several obstacles we need to be careful about. Restricting real estate speculation is one of them.
Therefore, appropriate measures have to be adopted to control speculative transactions which will lead to a construction and real estate bubble in the country. In order to arrest haphazard development in urban centres strict regulations which will not hinder investment but further facilitate it have to be imposed.
The construction industry of the country is rapidly growing in terms of capacity, quality and skilled workforce.
There will also be an increased demand for industry in coming years.
The demand for building materials, accessories, fittings etc. will increase substantially. A large part of these products are produced locally. The quality of these products which are produced locally has to be improved to meet international standards, so that the industry will maintain the high level of backward linkages.
International market
The population of the country will expect to be highly mobile in the years to come. To facilitate this, sound transport networks, rental and lease housing facilities, apartments as well as modern urban facilities have to be provided.
In a situation where a highly competitive international market exists for manufacturing products, the best option for a country like Sri Lanka is to enter into the exportable service sector market.
The service sector therefore will be the engine of the economic growth. Once a sound service sector hub is established, the country can move into manufacturing the products associated with the services provided. This will be the second engine of the economy.
Mahinda Chintana envisages a clear vision for this strategy by introducing the five-hub concept.
The implementation of this strategy will result in activating the rural economy while sustaining its traditional values and original functions. Therefore, becoming Asia's miracle for the country is no more a mirage but a reality in our hands.
Concluded
The writer is a National Planning Department Director under the Finance and Planning Ministry
The views and opinions expressed herein are those of author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the institution he is attached.
Mahinda Chintana, a big push for Lankan economy:
Asia’s miracle - the way forward
W A D S Gunasinghe
Computer and language skills of the new generation will make Sri Lanka an attractive place for service oriented ventures. The demand for the rural products will be increased with necessary infrastructure development. First part of this article was published yesterday
Therefore, this process has to be facilitated by creating adequate gainful jobs in the urban sector where the main potential supplier of jobs is the service sector. In addition, the naval and aviation hubs in particular will increase the demand of certain agricultural products for processing and exporting. This subsequently will contribute to the increase of the quality and the productivity of the sector.
The current educational and vocational training models, skills and attitudes of the new generation also fit into this set-up where the service sector is in the driving seat. Computer and language skills of the new generation make Sri Lanka an attractive place for many service oriented ventures. Therefore, the possibility of harnessing the full potential from the active labour force provides additional justification for this strategy.
Urban and rural economies
The rationale of the development of the service sector as the engine of growth should be considered against this background. Compared with Singapore or Hong Kong which are city states, Sri Lanka has an advantage of having a substantially large hinterland of the urban centres. While developing the proposed five hubs through the provision of necessary infrastructure, the role of the hinterland will be to provide labour, agricultural and other products necessary for day-today life and for processing, raw material for construction, recreation facilities etc. to the hub centres. This will activate the rural economy in several ways. The demand for rural products will increase. This will boost the SME sector and new employment opportunities will be generated. New frontiers in the tourism sector such as eco, agro and cultural tourism will have a wider market in this scenario. In this way it will also be possible to retain the harmony between the two sectors - village and town - which is in line with the traditions in the country.
Development path
Development economic theories provide a sound basis for current strategies. The Big Push theory by Rosenstein Rodan emphasizes the necessity of a large comprehensive investment program to achieve rapid economic growth which will breach the obstacles faced by a developing economy on its way towards progress. This theory states that a piecemeal approach will not take an economy to a rapid development path.
A minimum high investment is needed in order to reap the benefits of external economies. Only bulky investment will result in social benefits greater than social costs. Investment on infrastructure is given high emphasis under this thinking.
Power sector
Coordinated public investment has to play a vital role in this process. Infrastructure projects such as power, transport, communication etc., need sizable investment and due to indivisibility excess capacity can be maintained for some time. A long gestation period is common to this kind of investment. All these factors prompt the Government to make careful decisions in selecting sectors to be promoted based on the ongoing massive infrastructure development drive. This is why the five hub concept fits well into the current development agenda of the country which aims at doubling per capita income in six years.
Large-scale infrastructure projects to boost economy. File photo
The Government has already embarked on laying foundations for the proposed hubs. The first phase of the Hambantota International Port is to be completed soon. The Colombo South harbour project is progressing under PPP arrangements. Galle will be developed as a tourist harbour. The development of supportive infrastructure for these projects such as power transmission, water supply and connecting roads is under way.
The second International Airport in Mattala will open the South to the world. In the meantime, further improvements to the Bandaranaike Airport in Katunayake will commence soon. In the power sector, the second phase of Norochcholai coal power plant with a capacity of 600 mw has commenced. The Trincomalee coal power plant will add 1,000 mw to the national capacity. Oil exploration in the Mannar Bay has been initiated and it is expected that petroleum deposits will be uncovered in the near future.
Several steps have been taken to promote the trade sector. The excise duty of many items has been reduced. The tax system of the country is being reviewed to make necessary improvements. The welfare policies adopted by the consecutive Governments after independence has created a sound human resource base in the country. Capitalizing on that base, steps are being taken to make the country a knowledge centre where educational, research, training experts will be gathered. New legislations will be introduced to attract world-class educational and training institutions here.
Service sector
Naval, aviation, knowledge and trade hubs mainly promote manufacturing related service sector activities. This will include activities such as trade, transshipment, storage, logistics, accounting, repairing of ships and aircraft, telecommunications, advertising, research facilities, management and financial services and recreational facilities. Apart from these, services such as education, print and broadcast media, health such as clinical trials, medical lab testing will also be developed. The service sector thereby will be the engine of growth.
The development of the service sector will be followed by the start of the high value added export oriented manufacturing such as grading and processing, breaking of bulk, grinding and packing of materials such as fertilizer or wheat, assembling, chemicals, paints, fibre-based products such as accessories and so on. This is, however, not by any means to discourage embarking on possible heavy industries such as oil extraction, in the coming years.
As the country goes ahead, the spillover effects of the development of the service sector and then the manufacturing will create the necessary background for the development of heavy industries and thereby facilitate the penetration into the international markets of these products. Heavy industries such as shipbuilding, machinery and equipment may be some of the possibilities.
The way forward
All this will not happen automatically. Appropriate strategies to promote this process have to be formulated and implemented by the Government.
A supportive institutional set-up is a must. A mechanism should be in place to upgrade the capabilities across the value chain of the identified industries.
It is well worth considering whether the existing institutional framework is capable of facilitating these developments. The challenge is threefold:
(a) Identifying appropriate industries and providing incentives for investors
(b) expediting the project approval and clearance process
(c) providing quality, economic, social and legal infrastructure
At present, above functions are under the purview of several institutions. As a lot of activities in the proposed development, involve networking, partnerships, outsourcing, sub-contracting among partners, an innovative institutional framework to provide hands-on support is needed. Apart from making reforms to the existing Government institutions to be flexible enough to make radical decisions, it is advisable to form a Secretariat which will take care of all aspects pertaining to the development of proposed hubs.
This institution should use pragmatic approaches to overcome identified obstacles in promoting proposed hubs in collaboration with the existing institutions responsible for above mentioned three functions.
A consultative group which will guide the Secretariat on policy directions though strategic planning can be established including sectoral experts as members.
The main thing is that everybody should be clear about where are we heading. It is also necessary to consider the views of the local industrialists, entrepreneurs and associations such as chambers in decision-making, so that the initiatives will have an indigenous touch too. Every step has to be taken to reduce the time lag between commitments by the investor and actual operations. Apart from expediting the process of obtaining clearances, making available a sound physical, social and legal infrastructure, providing ready-to-build sites, factory spaces, warehouse facilities, industrial estates, theme parks etc. is imperative.
The FDI and private sector involvement will pay a vital role in this process. BOI should play a proactive role in analyzing and identifying the potential sectors ad attracting investment for them from potential investors. In order to improve competitiveness, Government should support appropriate skills development programs for the labour force, research and development and create a conducive climate for innovations. Government also can pioneer some of the ventures through PPPs. To attract reputed foreign universities and educational institutions the regulatory framework has to be amended and necessary legislation has to be introduced.
There are several obstacles we need to be careful about. Restricting real estate speculation is one of them.
Therefore, appropriate measures have to be adopted to control speculative transactions which will lead to a construction and real estate bubble in the country. In order to arrest haphazard development in urban centres strict regulations which will not hinder investment but further facilitate it have to be imposed.
The construction industry of the country is rapidly growing in terms of capacity, quality and skilled workforce.
There will also be an increased demand for industry in coming years.
The demand for building materials, accessories, fittings etc. will increase substantially. A large part of these products are produced locally. The quality of these products which are produced locally has to be improved to meet international standards, so that the industry will maintain the high level of backward linkages.
International market
The population of the country will expect to be highly mobile in the years to come. To facilitate this, sound transport networks, rental and lease housing facilities, apartments as well as modern urban facilities have to be provided.
In a situation where a highly competitive international market exists for manufacturing products, the best option for a country like Sri Lanka is to enter into the exportable service sector market.
The service sector therefore will be the engine of the economic growth. Once a sound service sector hub is established, the country can move into manufacturing the products associated with the services provided. This will be the second engine of the economy.
Mahinda Chintana envisages a clear vision for this strategy by introducing the five-hub concept.
The implementation of this strategy will result in activating the rural economy while sustaining its traditional values and original functions. Therefore, becoming Asia's miracle for the country is no more a mirage but a reality in our hands.
Concluded
The writer is a National Planning Department Director under the Finance and Planning Ministry
The views and opinions expressed herein are those of author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the institution he is attached.
42 of 47 Northern welfare centres shut down
http://www.news.lk/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=16351&Itemid=44
42 of 47 Northern welfare centres shut down
Saturday, 25 September 2010
Major General Kamal Gunaratne the Competent Authority on resettlement in the North said that 42 of the 47 welfare centres established in the north have now been closed. The government in the height of war with LTTE in 2009 set up these welfare centres to accommodate over 280,000 civilians who fled the LTTE.
Gen said that 265,000 civilians have now been resettled in their villages with necessary infrastructures. The government gave all families resettled with a resettlement payment of Rs 25,000 and dry rations for a period of six months. Government has planned to complete the resettlement of all remaining civilians before the end of year. According to Maj General Gunaratne as at present there are around 27,000 civilians to be resettled but actually only 10,000 live in welfare centres. All other remaining civilians, yet to be resettled are living out of these welfare centres with the permission of authorities. Most of the inmates go out in the morning and return in the evening as they find their livelihood elsewhere by engaging in agricultural and other day to day activities including construction and trivial work
42 of 47 Northern welfare centres shut down
Saturday, 25 September 2010
Major General Kamal Gunaratne the Competent Authority on resettlement in the North said that 42 of the 47 welfare centres established in the north have now been closed. The government in the height of war with LTTE in 2009 set up these welfare centres to accommodate over 280,000 civilians who fled the LTTE.
Gen said that 265,000 civilians have now been resettled in their villages with necessary infrastructures. The government gave all families resettled with a resettlement payment of Rs 25,000 and dry rations for a period of six months. Government has planned to complete the resettlement of all remaining civilians before the end of year. According to Maj General Gunaratne as at present there are around 27,000 civilians to be resettled but actually only 10,000 live in welfare centres. All other remaining civilians, yet to be resettled are living out of these welfare centres with the permission of authorities. Most of the inmates go out in the morning and return in the evening as they find their livelihood elsewhere by engaging in agricultural and other day to day activities including construction and trivial work
Nation-wide agenda of renewal
http://www.dailynews.lk/2010/09/25/fea01.asp
Nation-wide agenda of renewal
International law should reflect reality of non-state actors in conflicts :
Text of the speech by President Mahinda Rajapaksa at the 65th United Nations General Assembly in New York on September 23
I have great pleasure in congratulating Your Excellency Joseph Deiss, on your assumption of the Chair of the 65th Session of the General Assembly. I also take this opportunity to extend our appreciation to the President of the 64th Session, Dr Ali Abdussalam Treki, for his effective stewardship of the General Assembly.
That the United Nations is now in its 65th year serves to underline the durability of this organization. It is an important mechanism in ensuring co-operation between States and a forum for discussion between sovereign nations.
President Mahinda Rajapaksa addressing at the 65th United Nations General Assembly in New York on September 23. Picture by Suadth Silva
We must never under-estimate the importance of this organization based, as it is, on the principle of equal treatment of countries big and small.
It is in this spirit that I address you at a crucial juncture in the history of my own country. In two months, I will be assuming office for my second term.
My mandate will be very different from my last. For my second term as President, my promise to my people is to deliver sustainable peace and prosperity to all and ensure that terrorism will not be able to raise its ugly head again.
In 2005, I was elected by my people on a promise to rid my country of the menace of terrorism. I say that Sri Lanka is now at peace - peace that was only a dream a few years ago.
Terrorist organization
Over the past year, much has been reported and much has been said regarding my country’s liberation from terrorism. However, far less has been said of the suffering we had to undergo and the true nature of the enemy we have overcome.
The rapidly forgotten truth is that we had to face one of the most brutal, highly organized, well-funded and effective terrorist organizations that could even spread its tentacles to other countries.
Many of the atrocities of terrorism that the West has come to experience in recent times, the people of Sri Lanka were themselves the victims of, for nearly 30 years, losing almost 100,000 lives, among them being a President of Sri Lanka, a visionary leader of India and scores of intellectuals and politicians.
The LTTE was an organization so brutal, that even those it claimed to represent, the Tamil community of Sri Lanka, were as much victims of its terror as the rest of the population of our country.
Those who observing from afar, suggested that the Sri Lankan Government should have conceded to the demands of the terrorists, need to be reminded that terror is terror, whatever mask it wears and however it is packaged. To all those, I say this. My responsibility is to the entire nation. My responsibility is to the lives of millions of men, women and children, and those yet to be born. My responsibility is to the peace and prosperity of the nation and the right to a peaceful life for all who live there.
In this context, it is worth examining the capacity of current international humanitarian law to meet contemporary needs. It must be remembered that such law evolved essentially in response to conflicts waged by the forces of legally constituted States, and not terrorist groups. The asymmetrical nature of conflicts initiated by non-state actors gives rise to serious problems which need to be considered in earnest by the international community.
Constructive dialogue
As we close a sad chapter in our country’s history, I would like to remind you that we, along with many others, made repeated attempts to engage the LTTE in constructive dialogue. I still believe dialogue is the best method to resolve any conflict but it is much to be regretted that all these attempts were rejected with reckless arrogance and contempt. It is in these circumstances that we were compelled to mount a humanitarian operation with the blessings of many international friends, to neutralize acts of terrorism and restore peace and security.
The entire focus of our nation is now on building a lasting peace; healing wounds, ensuring economic prosperity and guaranteeing the rights of the whole nation to live in harmony. We are mindful that in order to fulfil these aspirations, economic development and political reconciliation must go hand in hand. Towards this end, constitutional changes which appropriately reflect aspirations of our people will be evolved with the full participation of all stakeholders.
We are pursuing a nation-wide agenda of renewal. Sri Lanka has already returned over 90 percent of the internally displaced persons to their original villages that were previously riddled with landmines and provided the essential infrastructure necessary to resume normal life. We have helped bring back the vitality of youth to former child soldiers.
We have rebuilt the Eastern Province and begun the same task in the North. Sri Lanka’s Armed Forces now have the role of delivering essential services, rebuilding habitats, clearing mines and restoring vital infrastructure to whole tracts of formerly decimated land.
Despite the lingering dangers that have remained, Sri Lanka has nevertheless repealed a substantial part of the Emergency Regulations so necessary during our conflict situation and plans to repeal a good part of the remainder in the coming months.
A great deal has been said by those beyond our borders about our Tamil community. Let me be clear, no nation on earth can wish Sri Lanka’s Tamil community more good fortune than Sri Lanka itself.
To the misguided few, I say, do not allow yourselves to become an instrument of division, hate and violence, to be used as an enabler for hatred to be reborn in another form. Rather come, let us join hands and break the bonds of mistrust to rise to new horizons.
Independent Commission
Sri Lanka recognizes the challenges we face, among the greatest of which is healing the wounds of the recent past. To this end, earlier this year, a Lessons Learnt and Reconciliation Commission has been established, giving full expression to the principles of accountability.
This independent Commission, comprising eight Sri Lankans of eminence and stature, has already begun its work. Recently, the Commission handed over to me an interim communication recommending certain administrative steps that may need to be taken in the reconciliation process.
We believe that for the rebuilding and healing of our nation to succeed, the process must evolve from within. If history has taught us onething, it is that imposed external solutions breed resentment and ultimately fail. Ours, by contrast, is a homegrown process, which reflects the culture and traditions of our people.
We certainly welcome the support of the international community as we rebuild our lands and our economy. We sincerely hope that they will be prepared to take a practical approach to developing partnerships with Sri Lanka through international trade, investment and capacity building.
Our economy is well on the way to realizing the dividend of peace. We are experiencing steady and sustained growth including during the last quarter of over eight percent, moderate inflation and low interest rates. During the last five years, we saw our per capita income double. It is our ambition to take this further; to double yet again the present per capita income by 2016 and also become one of the top 30 countries for doing business by 2014.
‘Mahinda Chinthana - Vision for the Future’, my election manifesto articulates my vision of having sound infrastructure at the national, provincial and rural levels, which is vital for the inclusive growth, that will make development meaningful to the entirety of society.
I can also proudly claim that my country through the economic strategy is comfortably realizing the millennium development goals, well in advance of the target set by the United Nations.
Private sector
We are at present strongly focussing on putting in place the necessary public infrastructure and strengthening the enabling policy environment for the private sector to invest even more in my country.
In order to achieve the full realization of our potential, we desire a supportive external environment. Towards this end, we will always look for constructive engagement and partnerships. We will from our side, continue to contribute as we have always done, to the cause of multi-lateralism and a principled global order.
In this regard, I am happy to note that 2010 marks the 50th anniversary since we first contributed to a UN Peacekeeping Mission. Our Armed Forces and the Police are today combat tested, with a capacity to carry out their duties in the most challenging of conditions. I wish therefore to use this forum to reaffirm our willingness to further enhance our support to the UN Peace-Keeping Operations.
The world unlike in the past has become severely vulnerable to natural disasters. Almost everyday we see millions of people becoming victims of severe floods, landslides, volcanoes, cyclones, earthquakes and the like. It has become increasingly difficult for affected countries to manage unassisted, the post disaster recovery programs. The recent natural calamities in our region underline the crucial need for effective action, in which there is collective participation, to reduce human suffering. Without doubt, climate change and global warming are today issues which demand the urgent attention of all nations.
Political issues
Among the political issues that have continued to fester for too long, is the continued denial of the right of the Palestinian people to a State of their own within recognized and secure borders. It is the fervent hope of the people of Sri Lanka that this most tragic of situations would be resolved without delay in a sustainable manner. We hope that Palestine will be a full member of this Assembly next year.
Our guiding principle must always be that of mutual respect in international discourse, even as we disapprove and condemn measures such as unilateral embargoes.
Experience in the recent past amply demonstrates that these embargoes impact not on governments but on the most vulnerable sections of the community. In the same spirit, I would call for the empathy of the international community, towards the aspirations of the Cuban people.
I also wish to urge with all the emphasis at my command the need for greater concern and involvement on the part of the international community to assist the people of Africa in their efforts to elevate the quality of life on their continent.
Leaders who have been chosen by their people often face difficult decisions. They must be entitled to the goodwill and confidence of the international community with regard to the heavy burdens they are required to shoulder. The results of their decisions must be evaluated objectively and must be allowed to speak for themselves.
That is not to say countries should operate in isolation. In this globally inter-dependent world, we must work together where we can and constructively counsel each other where appropriate. The United Nations forms the bedrock of this interaction and in this role it will always receive the support of Sri Lanka.
May the Noble Triple Gem Bless you!
Nation-wide agenda of renewal
International law should reflect reality of non-state actors in conflicts :
Text of the speech by President Mahinda Rajapaksa at the 65th United Nations General Assembly in New York on September 23
I have great pleasure in congratulating Your Excellency Joseph Deiss, on your assumption of the Chair of the 65th Session of the General Assembly. I also take this opportunity to extend our appreciation to the President of the 64th Session, Dr Ali Abdussalam Treki, for his effective stewardship of the General Assembly.
That the United Nations is now in its 65th year serves to underline the durability of this organization. It is an important mechanism in ensuring co-operation between States and a forum for discussion between sovereign nations.
President Mahinda Rajapaksa addressing at the 65th United Nations General Assembly in New York on September 23. Picture by Suadth Silva
We must never under-estimate the importance of this organization based, as it is, on the principle of equal treatment of countries big and small.
It is in this spirit that I address you at a crucial juncture in the history of my own country. In two months, I will be assuming office for my second term.
My mandate will be very different from my last. For my second term as President, my promise to my people is to deliver sustainable peace and prosperity to all and ensure that terrorism will not be able to raise its ugly head again.
In 2005, I was elected by my people on a promise to rid my country of the menace of terrorism. I say that Sri Lanka is now at peace - peace that was only a dream a few years ago.
Terrorist organization
Over the past year, much has been reported and much has been said regarding my country’s liberation from terrorism. However, far less has been said of the suffering we had to undergo and the true nature of the enemy we have overcome.
The rapidly forgotten truth is that we had to face one of the most brutal, highly organized, well-funded and effective terrorist organizations that could even spread its tentacles to other countries.
Many of the atrocities of terrorism that the West has come to experience in recent times, the people of Sri Lanka were themselves the victims of, for nearly 30 years, losing almost 100,000 lives, among them being a President of Sri Lanka, a visionary leader of India and scores of intellectuals and politicians.
The LTTE was an organization so brutal, that even those it claimed to represent, the Tamil community of Sri Lanka, were as much victims of its terror as the rest of the population of our country.
Those who observing from afar, suggested that the Sri Lankan Government should have conceded to the demands of the terrorists, need to be reminded that terror is terror, whatever mask it wears and however it is packaged. To all those, I say this. My responsibility is to the entire nation. My responsibility is to the lives of millions of men, women and children, and those yet to be born. My responsibility is to the peace and prosperity of the nation and the right to a peaceful life for all who live there.
In this context, it is worth examining the capacity of current international humanitarian law to meet contemporary needs. It must be remembered that such law evolved essentially in response to conflicts waged by the forces of legally constituted States, and not terrorist groups. The asymmetrical nature of conflicts initiated by non-state actors gives rise to serious problems which need to be considered in earnest by the international community.
Constructive dialogue
As we close a sad chapter in our country’s history, I would like to remind you that we, along with many others, made repeated attempts to engage the LTTE in constructive dialogue. I still believe dialogue is the best method to resolve any conflict but it is much to be regretted that all these attempts were rejected with reckless arrogance and contempt. It is in these circumstances that we were compelled to mount a humanitarian operation with the blessings of many international friends, to neutralize acts of terrorism and restore peace and security.
The entire focus of our nation is now on building a lasting peace; healing wounds, ensuring economic prosperity and guaranteeing the rights of the whole nation to live in harmony. We are mindful that in order to fulfil these aspirations, economic development and political reconciliation must go hand in hand. Towards this end, constitutional changes which appropriately reflect aspirations of our people will be evolved with the full participation of all stakeholders.
We are pursuing a nation-wide agenda of renewal. Sri Lanka has already returned over 90 percent of the internally displaced persons to their original villages that were previously riddled with landmines and provided the essential infrastructure necessary to resume normal life. We have helped bring back the vitality of youth to former child soldiers.
We have rebuilt the Eastern Province and begun the same task in the North. Sri Lanka’s Armed Forces now have the role of delivering essential services, rebuilding habitats, clearing mines and restoring vital infrastructure to whole tracts of formerly decimated land.
Despite the lingering dangers that have remained, Sri Lanka has nevertheless repealed a substantial part of the Emergency Regulations so necessary during our conflict situation and plans to repeal a good part of the remainder in the coming months.
A great deal has been said by those beyond our borders about our Tamil community. Let me be clear, no nation on earth can wish Sri Lanka’s Tamil community more good fortune than Sri Lanka itself.
To the misguided few, I say, do not allow yourselves to become an instrument of division, hate and violence, to be used as an enabler for hatred to be reborn in another form. Rather come, let us join hands and break the bonds of mistrust to rise to new horizons.
Independent Commission
Sri Lanka recognizes the challenges we face, among the greatest of which is healing the wounds of the recent past. To this end, earlier this year, a Lessons Learnt and Reconciliation Commission has been established, giving full expression to the principles of accountability.
This independent Commission, comprising eight Sri Lankans of eminence and stature, has already begun its work. Recently, the Commission handed over to me an interim communication recommending certain administrative steps that may need to be taken in the reconciliation process.
We believe that for the rebuilding and healing of our nation to succeed, the process must evolve from within. If history has taught us onething, it is that imposed external solutions breed resentment and ultimately fail. Ours, by contrast, is a homegrown process, which reflects the culture and traditions of our people.
We certainly welcome the support of the international community as we rebuild our lands and our economy. We sincerely hope that they will be prepared to take a practical approach to developing partnerships with Sri Lanka through international trade, investment and capacity building.
Our economy is well on the way to realizing the dividend of peace. We are experiencing steady and sustained growth including during the last quarter of over eight percent, moderate inflation and low interest rates. During the last five years, we saw our per capita income double. It is our ambition to take this further; to double yet again the present per capita income by 2016 and also become one of the top 30 countries for doing business by 2014.
‘Mahinda Chinthana - Vision for the Future’, my election manifesto articulates my vision of having sound infrastructure at the national, provincial and rural levels, which is vital for the inclusive growth, that will make development meaningful to the entirety of society.
I can also proudly claim that my country through the economic strategy is comfortably realizing the millennium development goals, well in advance of the target set by the United Nations.
Private sector
We are at present strongly focussing on putting in place the necessary public infrastructure and strengthening the enabling policy environment for the private sector to invest even more in my country.
In order to achieve the full realization of our potential, we desire a supportive external environment. Towards this end, we will always look for constructive engagement and partnerships. We will from our side, continue to contribute as we have always done, to the cause of multi-lateralism and a principled global order.
In this regard, I am happy to note that 2010 marks the 50th anniversary since we first contributed to a UN Peacekeeping Mission. Our Armed Forces and the Police are today combat tested, with a capacity to carry out their duties in the most challenging of conditions. I wish therefore to use this forum to reaffirm our willingness to further enhance our support to the UN Peace-Keeping Operations.
The world unlike in the past has become severely vulnerable to natural disasters. Almost everyday we see millions of people becoming victims of severe floods, landslides, volcanoes, cyclones, earthquakes and the like. It has become increasingly difficult for affected countries to manage unassisted, the post disaster recovery programs. The recent natural calamities in our region underline the crucial need for effective action, in which there is collective participation, to reduce human suffering. Without doubt, climate change and global warming are today issues which demand the urgent attention of all nations.
Political issues
Among the political issues that have continued to fester for too long, is the continued denial of the right of the Palestinian people to a State of their own within recognized and secure borders. It is the fervent hope of the people of Sri Lanka that this most tragic of situations would be resolved without delay in a sustainable manner. We hope that Palestine will be a full member of this Assembly next year.
Our guiding principle must always be that of mutual respect in international discourse, even as we disapprove and condemn measures such as unilateral embargoes.
Experience in the recent past amply demonstrates that these embargoes impact not on governments but on the most vulnerable sections of the community. In the same spirit, I would call for the empathy of the international community, towards the aspirations of the Cuban people.
I also wish to urge with all the emphasis at my command the need for greater concern and involvement on the part of the international community to assist the people of Africa in their efforts to elevate the quality of life on their continent.
Leaders who have been chosen by their people often face difficult decisions. They must be entitled to the goodwill and confidence of the international community with regard to the heavy burdens they are required to shoulder. The results of their decisions must be evaluated objectively and must be allowed to speak for themselves.
That is not to say countries should operate in isolation. In this globally inter-dependent world, we must work together where we can and constructively counsel each other where appropriate. The United Nations forms the bedrock of this interaction and in this role it will always receive the support of Sri Lanka.
May the Noble Triple Gem Bless you!
'Ethics vital for social stability'
http://www.dailynews.lk/2010/09/25/news33.asp
'Ethics vital for social stability'
Priyanka KURUGALA
The inauguration ceremony of seminar on Rituals, Ethics and Societal Stability of South Asian Association For Regional Cooperation (SAARC) commenced under the patronage of National Heritage and Cultural Affairs Minister Pavithra Wanniarachchi at the Ceylon Continental Hotel on Thursday.
The SAARC Cultural Centre of Sri Lanka organized this first event. It will be held until September 25.
Addressing the first meeting of the session, National Heritage and Cultural Affairs Minister Pavithra Wanniarachchi said, as members of the SAARC region we are the inheritors of most diverse region on earth.
"We practise various forms of rituals in various ways," she said.
"It is extremely important to recognize and promote the contribution of these rituals and ethics towards societal stability. This process is not only to protect our heritage but also to achieve sustainable, holistic socio -economic development in the region."
This is an opportunity to identify the components of rituals and ethics in member countries.
It is a good opportunity to promote the regional spirit among countries as well as globally, she said.
IMF APPROVES FOURTH TRANCH OF USD 2.6 BILLION LOAN
http://www.news.lk/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=16350&Itemid=44
IMF APPROVES FOURTH TRANCH OF USD 2.6 BILLION LOAN
Saturday, 25 September 2010
The International Monetary Fund has approved the fourth tranche of $2.6 billion loan to Sri Lanka on Friday The fourth IMF review of Sri Lanka was approved by the IMF board and Sri Lanka will receive about $210 million on Monday,according to Central Bank Governor Ajith Niward Cabral.
Tthe IMF board had earlier announced that it would disburse the balance in equal amounts in seven installments.
Top US Business Leaders meet President in NY
http://www.nationalsecurity.lk/fullnews.php?id=26946
Top US Business Leaders meet President in NY
26 Sep 2010 - 12:28
Express keen interest in investment opportunities in Sri Lanka While on his official visit to New York City for the United Nations General Assembly, President Mahinda Rajapaksa met with leading American business leaders at a luncheon to outline emerging opportunities for investment in Sri Lanka.
Business executives from a variety of industries, including the aerospace and defense community, the hospitality and tourism industry, and beverage industry attended the luncheon held at New York City's Helmsley Hotel. Executives from the Coca Cola Co., the Boeing Co., Google, Hilton Hotels & Resorts and Starwood Hotels & Resorts were among the nearly 100 Business Leaders, Analysts, representatives of Chambers of Commerce and Industry present at the occasion.
Amidst his busy schedule President Rajapaksa mingled with the American Business leaders meeting and greeting each person individually and requesting them to focus new interest in Sri Lanka as an investment opportunity.
Members of the US business community shared the view of a key representative of the pharmaceutical industry giant Pfizer Inc., that "This forum has the potential to grow into a US-Sri Lanka business council to bring together companies and government." "Companies like Pfizer want to invest in emerging markets like Sri Lanka," the Pfizer representative said, noting that the business luncheon allowed corporate executives to meet government officials and Sri Lankan business leaders. "It is a great way to start a dialogue," he said.
The Keynote Speech by Prof. GL Peiris, Minister of External Affairs Sri Lanka, said Sri Lanka boasts an economy with strong fundamentals - a market poised for continued growth and international investment. Noting the nation's promising economic future, Prof. Peiris said "Sri Lanka is today, without any exaggeration, one of the world's best destinations for investment.... We are on the threshold of an economic renaissance in Sri Lanka.''
The Sri Lankan delegation's visit to the United States comes as the nation enjoys remarkable economic success during a global downturn. Sri Lanka's per capita income more than doubled during the past five years and the International Monetary Fund recently upgraded Sri Lanka to "middle income emerging market" status.
Ms. Esperanza Gomez Jelalian, executive director of the Asia Department at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, noted the Chamber's support for Sri Lanka. "We are firmly committed to a working relationship between our countries," Ms. Jelalian said
After video presentation that focused on the new opportunities for investment with peace, and a stable government, the participants were apprised that as the second-fastest growing Asian economy after China, Sri Lanka now looks for additional development of the nation's infrastructure, including its roads, ports, energy sector and water systems.
The booming tourism industry in Sri Lanka is expected to continue growing and the expansion of hotels and related development in Sri Lanka is needed to match growing demand. Those present were reminded that Sri Lankan tourism industry received a huge boost early this year when The New York Times named Sri Lanka the No. 1 one place to travel to in 2010, with similar accolades from the National Geographic and other leading travel publications.
Prof Peiris hailed what he saw as an "Economic Renaissance in Sri Lanka where opportunities abound for Foreign Investors"; he identified wide range of areas in tourism alone, such as Eco-Tourism, Health Tourism with the search for cures closer to nature as found in Ayurveda, and Spiritual Interest, manifest in the Buddhist traditions in the country. He also saw the possibilities that are available for value addition in the agricultural sector, bringing Sri Lankan agricultural products to the threshold of the western markets, and the vast untapped resources in the fisheries sector.
Emphasizing the remarkable success of the Sri Lankan economy after the undoubted defeat of terrorism, Secretary to the President Lalith Weeratunga said a clear example of the buoyant economy was the fact that although it had taken one year since the end of the conflict for the Colombo Stock Exchange, among the best performing bourses in the world, to reach the first trillion rupees in market capitalization, taking just nine months to exceed the second trillion, with foreign investors contributing much to the rise.
The US Business Leaders were also able to interact with the 15 member Sri Lankan Business Delegation that was also present in New York.
Courtesy : The Official Website of the Government of Sri Lanka
Top US Business Leaders meet President in NY
26 Sep 2010 - 12:28
Express keen interest in investment opportunities in Sri Lanka While on his official visit to New York City for the United Nations General Assembly, President Mahinda Rajapaksa met with leading American business leaders at a luncheon to outline emerging opportunities for investment in Sri Lanka.
Business executives from a variety of industries, including the aerospace and defense community, the hospitality and tourism industry, and beverage industry attended the luncheon held at New York City's Helmsley Hotel. Executives from the Coca Cola Co., the Boeing Co., Google, Hilton Hotels & Resorts and Starwood Hotels & Resorts were among the nearly 100 Business Leaders, Analysts, representatives of Chambers of Commerce and Industry present at the occasion.
Amidst his busy schedule President Rajapaksa mingled with the American Business leaders meeting and greeting each person individually and requesting them to focus new interest in Sri Lanka as an investment opportunity.
Members of the US business community shared the view of a key representative of the pharmaceutical industry giant Pfizer Inc., that "This forum has the potential to grow into a US-Sri Lanka business council to bring together companies and government." "Companies like Pfizer want to invest in emerging markets like Sri Lanka," the Pfizer representative said, noting that the business luncheon allowed corporate executives to meet government officials and Sri Lankan business leaders. "It is a great way to start a dialogue," he said.
The Keynote Speech by Prof. GL Peiris, Minister of External Affairs Sri Lanka, said Sri Lanka boasts an economy with strong fundamentals - a market poised for continued growth and international investment. Noting the nation's promising economic future, Prof. Peiris said "Sri Lanka is today, without any exaggeration, one of the world's best destinations for investment.... We are on the threshold of an economic renaissance in Sri Lanka.''
The Sri Lankan delegation's visit to the United States comes as the nation enjoys remarkable economic success during a global downturn. Sri Lanka's per capita income more than doubled during the past five years and the International Monetary Fund recently upgraded Sri Lanka to "middle income emerging market" status.
Ms. Esperanza Gomez Jelalian, executive director of the Asia Department at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, noted the Chamber's support for Sri Lanka. "We are firmly committed to a working relationship between our countries," Ms. Jelalian said
After video presentation that focused on the new opportunities for investment with peace, and a stable government, the participants were apprised that as the second-fastest growing Asian economy after China, Sri Lanka now looks for additional development of the nation's infrastructure, including its roads, ports, energy sector and water systems.
The booming tourism industry in Sri Lanka is expected to continue growing and the expansion of hotels and related development in Sri Lanka is needed to match growing demand. Those present were reminded that Sri Lankan tourism industry received a huge boost early this year when The New York Times named Sri Lanka the No. 1 one place to travel to in 2010, with similar accolades from the National Geographic and other leading travel publications.
Prof Peiris hailed what he saw as an "Economic Renaissance in Sri Lanka where opportunities abound for Foreign Investors"; he identified wide range of areas in tourism alone, such as Eco-Tourism, Health Tourism with the search for cures closer to nature as found in Ayurveda, and Spiritual Interest, manifest in the Buddhist traditions in the country. He also saw the possibilities that are available for value addition in the agricultural sector, bringing Sri Lankan agricultural products to the threshold of the western markets, and the vast untapped resources in the fisheries sector.
Emphasizing the remarkable success of the Sri Lankan economy after the undoubted defeat of terrorism, Secretary to the President Lalith Weeratunga said a clear example of the buoyant economy was the fact that although it had taken one year since the end of the conflict for the Colombo Stock Exchange, among the best performing bourses in the world, to reach the first trillion rupees in market capitalization, taking just nine months to exceed the second trillion, with foreign investors contributing much to the rise.
The US Business Leaders were also able to interact with the 15 member Sri Lankan Business Delegation that was also present in New York.
Courtesy : The Official Website of the Government of Sri Lanka
Grateful Donors’ “May You Be Well & Happy” Wish for Disable War Heroes Realized; Commander Inspects ‘Abimansala’ Project
http://www.nationalsecurity.lk/fullnews.php?id=26948
Grateful Donors’ “May You Be Well & Happy” Wish for Disable War Heroes Realized; Commander Inspects ‘Abimansala’ Project
26 Sep 2010 - 07:53
The Anuradhapura Wellness Resort, ‘Abimansala’, for dependent disable War Heroes, the Army’s project of sanctity, like that of constructing a sacred place, is fast nearing completion, thanks to untiring efforts of the Commander of the Army Lieutenant General Jagath Jayasuriya and marvelous gestures of goodwill, exhibited by all segments in society.
The pioneering architect of the project, ‘Brave Hearts’ Lieutenant General Jagath Jayasuriya on Saturday (25), along with Mrs Manjulika Jayasuriya, President Seva Vanitha Army Branch (SVAB) who has thrown her full weight behind the most wanted fund-raising work for the construction visited the venue at Anuradhapura by the serene Nuwarawewa and inquired into the speedy progress and other remaining requirements, if any.
Answering to a question raised by a journalist, who has come to report his visit to the ‘Abimansala’, the Commander said that donations and funds, made for this project are to be exempted from all taxes, as all arrangements are in progress to make this ‘Brave Hearts’ project a non profitable charity, registered in the government. This encouraging stimulus was in response to the Army’s request to the government. All legal and other necessary documents in this connection have already been referred to the relevant authorities. Lieutenant General Jagath Jayasuriya said that the natural environment of the site will be preserved during and after the construction and all measures have been taken to do so with waste management systems, etc.
The ‘Abimansala’, which is expected to house permanently dependent War Heroes for rest and recreation on rotational basis, has already been assured financial support for almost all the buildings, inclusive of a Gymnasium, medical and other units by many well-wishers and philanthropists, both here and abroad, amounting to the value of millions. In addition, material donations from abroad have been pledged.
The latest financial donation of Rs 3 million, the first segment, out of the total donation of Rs 15.2 million for the complete construction of the ‘Abimansala’ swimming pool came about on Friday (24) when the David Peiris Motor Company Ltd released its first installment to the Seva Vanitha Army Branch. In addition, disable War Heroes in the Army collected Rs 1 million for the project and delivered it to the Commander of the Army on Thursday (23) when the Commander participated in the Army Para Games – 2010 inauguration as Chief Guest at Army Headquarters.
Major General G. D. H. K. Gunarathne, Security Forces Headquarters Wanni and Colonel Athula Ariyaratne, Area Commander of Anuradhapura also were in attendance at the site.
The certificate Awarding Ceremony of the Tamil Language Course conducted for Officers and Other Rankers of Armed Forces and the Police was held at Nat
http://www.nationalsecurity.lk/fullnews.php?id=26938
The certificate Awarding Ceremony of the Tamil Language Course conducted for Officers and Other Rankers of Armed Forces and the Police was held at National Cadet Core HQ on 17 September 2010.
The certificates issued by Department of Languages were awarded by the Director NCC Major General Gamini Jayasundara RWP RSP. The courses were successfully held from 24. 04. 2010 to 07. 06. 2010 at Training Centre Rantembe under the guidance of Secretary of Defence Mr. Gotabaya Rajapaksa and the instructions given by the Director National Cadet Corps.
35 Officers and 46 Other Rankers of the Armed Forces and the Police were awarded certificates and they highly appreciated the course and thanked to the Secretary of Defence and the Director NCC.
Colonel GS Lt. Col YK Aberathna, Colonel AQ Lt. Col SI de Lanarolle of the NCC and the Staff Officers also took part the event.
The certificate Awarding Ceremony of the Tamil Language Course conducted for Officers and Other Rankers of Armed Forces and the Police was held at National Cadet Core HQ on 17 September 2010.
The certificates issued by Department of Languages were awarded by the Director NCC Major General Gamini Jayasundara RWP RSP. The courses were successfully held from 24. 04. 2010 to 07. 06. 2010 at Training Centre Rantembe under the guidance of Secretary of Defence Mr. Gotabaya Rajapaksa and the instructions given by the Director National Cadet Corps.
35 Officers and 46 Other Rankers of the Armed Forces and the Police were awarded certificates and they highly appreciated the course and thanked to the Secretary of Defence and the Director NCC.
Colonel GS Lt. Col YK Aberathna, Colonel AQ Lt. Col SI de Lanarolle of the NCC and the Staff Officers also took part the event.
President meets UN Chief and holds talks with other leaders too
http://www.nationalsecurity.lk/fullnews.php?id=26933
President meets UN Chief and holds talks with other leaders too
25 Sep 2010 - 09:21
President Mahinda Rajapaksa who is New York attending the UNGA summit called on UN Secretary General Ban Ki moon in New York and held one on one talks at UN office Presidential sources said. President during his address in UNGA had apprised the world leaders of the latest post conflict situation in Sri Lanka and said that as he mentioned in his address to UNGA Sri Lanka has accorded highest priority on building a lasting peace, healing wounds, ensuring economic prosperity and guaranteeing the rights of the whole nation to live in harmony.
President and Mr Ban also exchanged views on the UN SG Committee on Sri Lanka and President said that he has established Lesson Learnt Reconciliation Commission in expression of principles of Accountability and the Commission has already submitted to him some proposals to be implemented in the administrative process in the country.
Meanwhile President also held bilateral talks with host of other leaders of friendly nations. Portugal PM Mr Jose Socrates, President of Hungary and the Malaysian Prime Minister Dato Seri Mohd Najib Bin Tun Haji Abdul Razak were amonog the leaders whom he met for bilateral talks.
President meets UN Chief and holds talks with other leaders too
25 Sep 2010 - 09:21
President Mahinda Rajapaksa who is New York attending the UNGA summit called on UN Secretary General Ban Ki moon in New York and held one on one talks at UN office Presidential sources said. President during his address in UNGA had apprised the world leaders of the latest post conflict situation in Sri Lanka and said that as he mentioned in his address to UNGA Sri Lanka has accorded highest priority on building a lasting peace, healing wounds, ensuring economic prosperity and guaranteeing the rights of the whole nation to live in harmony.
President and Mr Ban also exchanged views on the UN SG Committee on Sri Lanka and President said that he has established Lesson Learnt Reconciliation Commission in expression of principles of Accountability and the Commission has already submitted to him some proposals to be implemented in the administrative process in the country.
Meanwhile President also held bilateral talks with host of other leaders of friendly nations. Portugal PM Mr Jose Socrates, President of Hungary and the Malaysian Prime Minister Dato Seri Mohd Najib Bin Tun Haji Abdul Razak were amonog the leaders whom he met for bilateral talks.
President's UN speech highly commended
http://www.nationalsecurity.lk/fullnews.php?id=26931
President's UN speech highly commended
25 Sep 2010 - 08:49
Thai know-how for inland fishing industry:
World leaders attending the 65th UNGA Sessions in New York have highly commended President Mahinda Rajapaksa for his speech delivered at the UN sessions on Thursday.
Heads of State of Malawi, Saudi Arabia, Serbia and several other countries in particular had sent special congratulatory messages to him regarding his speech, said a press release issued by the President's Media Division.
Meanwhile, Thailand has promised to transfer expert knowledge and technical know -how to help Sri Lanka develop its inland (fresh water) fishing industry. The assurance was given during bilateral talks President Mahinda Rajapaksa had with Thailand's Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiv at the UN Complex in New York on Wednesday, the release said.
The on-going massive development program in Sri Lanka figured prominently during the hour long talks and the 'Thai Prime Minister drew his attention to the grant strides Sri Lanka has made in the irrigation sector.
A program to control the spread parasitic acquatic plants in Sri Lanka's tanks and reservoirs with Thai assistance was also discussed by the two leaders, the release said.
President's UN speech highly commended
25 Sep 2010 - 08:49
Thai know-how for inland fishing industry:
World leaders attending the 65th UNGA Sessions in New York have highly commended President Mahinda Rajapaksa for his speech delivered at the UN sessions on Thursday.
Heads of State of Malawi, Saudi Arabia, Serbia and several other countries in particular had sent special congratulatory messages to him regarding his speech, said a press release issued by the President's Media Division.
Meanwhile, Thailand has promised to transfer expert knowledge and technical know -how to help Sri Lanka develop its inland (fresh water) fishing industry. The assurance was given during bilateral talks President Mahinda Rajapaksa had with Thailand's Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiv at the UN Complex in New York on Wednesday, the release said.
The on-going massive development program in Sri Lanka figured prominently during the hour long talks and the 'Thai Prime Minister drew his attention to the grant strides Sri Lanka has made in the irrigation sector.
A program to control the spread parasitic acquatic plants in Sri Lanka's tanks and reservoirs with Thai assistance was also discussed by the two leaders, the release said.
Friday, September 24, 2010
IDPs getting back on track:
http://www.sundayobserver.lk/2010/09/19/imp01.asp
IDPs getting back on track:
Rebuilding lives
By Dhaneshi YATAWARA
Wasanthamala was waiting for three of her daughters to return from school in the Kilinochchi town. Her other two girls had stayed home that day. Wasanthamala and her six children - five daughters and an infant boy - live in Kilinochchi in their half-built house on a small plot of land.
A village meeting in the Mundimuruppu GN Division Pix : Dhaneshi Yatawara
Wasanthamala's life story depicts the shocking reality of a victimised family of a lost terrorist. Her husband had been a member of the LTTE and had gone missing at Puthumathalan during the last phase of the conflict. The family left Kilinochchi in November 2008.
Wasanthamala, with the months-old infant followed her beloved husband with her girls from Kilinochchi to Murusomotai, then to Dharmapuram to Vishvamadu, Udayarkattu, Sugandirapuram, Tharavipuram, Iranapallai and in the last phase to Puthumathalan, where she got injured. During the last two to three days of the conflict, Wasanthamala, grieving after the loss of her husband, reached Vattuvakal in Mullaitivu seeking the safety of the Sri Lanka Army. Then having safely arrived at the Cheddikulam relief villages, she resettled in her home in Kilinochchi early this year.
Today, she encounters life with great difficulty, solely depending on the dry rations she receives every month. "Earlier, before displacement, I used to work as an accountant in an LTTE fund-raising organisation. After resettling I couldn't find any job," she said. She and her husband bought the land where they now live, which is about 40 perches. It has a well, a budding banana cultivation and a chillie plot. The area was dry and dusty, but the slightly darkened environment forecast a possible shower in the evening. Every dark cloud has a silver lining!
Loaded with the responsibility of raising girls in their early teens, toddlers and an infant boy, Wasanthamala finds it difficult to leave home for work. She is planning to start backyard poultry as a household industry. As a 24-year-old girl, Wasanthamala married against her parents' wishes. Therefore, she cannot seek her parents' help today. Her parents opposed their marriage as her husband was of an 'unsuitable' caste. "My husband's family has many girls and they are also not in a position to assist us," she said with great grief. Tears welled in her eyes.
Life is not a bed roses for Wasanthamala. However, with funds and a helping hand from the United Nations Human Settlements Program (UN-HABITAT) she repaired her house to some extent. A neighbour helped her build a hen-house for her backyard poultry business. Today, with the guns going silent and no bomb or mine explosions, this single mother raises her children in a peaceful environment. Her top priority now is to find a steady income generating method which she believes she can find in the near future.
Ajanthan
Wasanthamala is not the only victim of the conflict. Twenty-four-year-old Annathurai Ajanthan from Paranthan puts a great effort to rebuild his life, taking care of his mother and sister Gnaneswari who is still schooling. During the last phase of the conflict Ajanthan got injured in Puthumathalan. He was given just basic treatment. His left leg was amputated and he was suffering without proper medical care. Medical attention was given only to LTTE cadre. With great difficulty Ajanthan had got crutches from the hospital and on May 16, 2009 he reached Vadduvakal with his mother and sister, seeking the protection of the Army. "The Army made announcements for us to reach their areas and thousands of people escaped," Ajanthan said.
Karupaiah Palawan
"I got proper medical treatment at the Ananda Coomaraswamy relief village in Cheddikulam, Vavuniya," he said. Ajanthan was lucky. He had an aunt to take care of him, his mother and sister after the disaster. Before getting displaced he had owned a small boutique.
LTTE leader Theepan had bought the plot of land next to Ajanthan's house and built his camp there, in the latter part of 2008, terrorising the people in the vicinity. "It was the normal practice. They would forcibly take over someone else's property, set up their camp and the entire neighbourhood had lived in fear," Ajanthan said, recollecting memories of the gloomy past. With the sound of gunfire at a distance he, with his mother and sister, had run to the bunker few feet away. Such was life for Ajanthan and his family before their displacement.
Today he has started building his house with the support of fellow villagers and assistance from the UN-HABITAT. As scheduled in the project, he should build the house with one lockable room and completely tiled roof in another four months.
Sundaralingum and his wife Subashini lived in the Kandawalai DS Division, Paranthan with their daughters. This is the second time they had got displaced with increased LTTE hostilities. In 1996 too they were displaced and lived away from home for six years.
Their house was on the west side of the A9 highway, over 10 miles away. During the Eelam War IV, they left their meagre possessions and ran for safety on November 18, 2008. Amidst the firing and explosions, they lost their whereabouts. Somehow, they crossed the A9 road and reached Puliyanpokkanai. After three months, on January 15, 2009, they reached Mailvaganapuram from where they went to Pudukuduyirippu, Sugandhirapuram, Kombavil and then to Puthumathalan. To their greatest relief, they at last heard the Army announcing that they have cleared a path for the civilians to reach safety. Thus they reached Iranapalai on April 29, 2009. Then they settled down in the Ramanadan relief village. Sundaralingum earns his living as a labourer settling back in their original plot of land, life has become a hard task. They have started building their house after resettling on March 3.
Kanthimadi (68) of Mundimuruppu village, was more than happy to return home. She was eagerly listening to the details provided at the village meeting held in the kovil premises on funds they are entitled to receive to rebuild their houses.
Starting from Thunukkai, Kanthimadi moved to 21 places with her children and grandchildren until they reached Puthumathalan. "We hardly had time to figure out the directions. We ran to whichever the direction from which there was no firing," she said disclosing her unpleasant experience.
Subashini with her daughter
Ajanthan (on right)
Today she lives alone in her crooked house. Relatives still live around the place, to her comfort. "All my 11 children are married and live with their families. I can't ask them to leave their families to come and look after me. How can I ask them for help when they are also struggling", she questioned.
Karupaiah Palawan was also at the meeting. He spoke Sinhala fluently. "I'm from Ratnapura. As a 26-year-old man, I came to this village in 1976 with my uncles to cultivate paddy fields," said the old man with much happiness. "My mother is Sinhala," he said. "I lost my eldest son in 1999 - he was 19. He was wounded in an LTTE artillery attack and the LTTE refused to treat him though we took him to the nearest hospital. I was helpless at that point and I could not do anything. The LTTE did not even try to treat my son," Palawan said. Three days later his son's leg was amputated, but on the same day he died.
"When we were escaping the LTTE, we ran for miles and I carried one of my old aunts. We did not rest for one night until we were far away from the sounds of gunfire," he said. At Sungandirapuram, Palawan and his family along with other groups managed to escape the LTTE grip and reach Sri Lanka Army personnel. "The LTTE was blocking us from all sides. They questioned where we are heading at every point. Misleading them many times and risking our lives, we reached the safety of the Army," he said.
"Now I have started cultivating two acres of paddy land and I'm a tenant farmer as well," he said explaining his efforts to rebuild his life. "I never thought we will return home alive. The Army saved us from misery and thanks to them we live in peace today," Palawan said with great gratitude.
Families selected
The Mundimuruppu Grama Niladhari Division has six villages. According to Grama Niladhari Aiyathurai Thruwarudchelvan, 112 families have been selected from the GN division for UN-HABITAT assistance. During these meetings the villagers are educated on the process and documentation they need to produce. The project is fully funded by the Australian Government. The UN-HABITAT gives each selected family Rs. 325,000 to reconstruct or rebuild their houses. To lay the foundation Rs. 75,000 is given and with close monitoring Rs. 100,000 is given at the second stage to raise the walls. The next instalment would be Rs. 117,500 to build the roof. The last instalment would be Rs. 32,500.
Health concerns
The villagers are not supposed to use asbestos or tin sheets for the roof, taking the health impact into consideration. They should use roof tiles. The Divisional Secretary facilitates the villagers by permitting sand, cement and timber transportation without delay. Special consideration is given to these people as resettling them is a top priority for the Government. The villagers get-together and buy the items collectively from selected places at reasonable prices. With all this support, a family is generally capable of building the house with a completed roof and one lockable room. With time and as they start earning money, the family has to complete their house.
Using an owner-driven approach, the program helps families to actively take charge of their own recovery. They plan, implement and monitor their own progress. Their early involvement ensures that the end result is a home that reflects their own aspirations. The process also rekindles the local economy. Material and labour are procured locally. This ensures that funds remain within the communities, while the families earn or save by contributing their labour.
A house nearing completion
According to UN statistics, by August over 1,000 families have started rebuilding their homes in the DS divisions of Kandawalai, Karanchchi, Poonakary, Manthai East, Oddusudan, Thunukkai and Vavuniya North. Another 170 families have completed repairs and many others are nearing completion. The UN-HABITAT staff works closely with the Government line ministries, both in Colombo and at provincial level. The selection criteria solely depends on the approval of Government officials.
The war paid the price for peace. The past is history and the future is a mystery. This moment is the gift which can create wonders. With the International Day for Peace around the corner, to be specific on September 21, it is the correct time to give serious thought to sustaining peace. A permanent home is the most valuable asset for a family in a financial sense and is a sign of social dignity. It makes a person feel safe in his/her surroundings.
Housing alone would not do however. Effective coordination is essential to ensure that resources are not mis-allocated, creating oversupply in some areas and under supply in others. Equally important are the issues of quality standards and linkage between housing and other infrastructure agencies, including water and sanitation, electricity, roads and other social services. Stability of a community is the key to maintain peace in a country.
People should realise that everyone belongs to each other. Once Mother Teresa said, "If we have no peace, it is because we have forgotten that we belong to each other".
IDPs getting back on track:
Rebuilding lives
By Dhaneshi YATAWARA
Wasanthamala was waiting for three of her daughters to return from school in the Kilinochchi town. Her other two girls had stayed home that day. Wasanthamala and her six children - five daughters and an infant boy - live in Kilinochchi in their half-built house on a small plot of land.
A village meeting in the Mundimuruppu GN Division Pix : Dhaneshi Yatawara
Wasanthamala's life story depicts the shocking reality of a victimised family of a lost terrorist. Her husband had been a member of the LTTE and had gone missing at Puthumathalan during the last phase of the conflict. The family left Kilinochchi in November 2008.
Wasanthamala, with the months-old infant followed her beloved husband with her girls from Kilinochchi to Murusomotai, then to Dharmapuram to Vishvamadu, Udayarkattu, Sugandirapuram, Tharavipuram, Iranapallai and in the last phase to Puthumathalan, where she got injured. During the last two to three days of the conflict, Wasanthamala, grieving after the loss of her husband, reached Vattuvakal in Mullaitivu seeking the safety of the Sri Lanka Army. Then having safely arrived at the Cheddikulam relief villages, she resettled in her home in Kilinochchi early this year.
Today, she encounters life with great difficulty, solely depending on the dry rations she receives every month. "Earlier, before displacement, I used to work as an accountant in an LTTE fund-raising organisation. After resettling I couldn't find any job," she said. She and her husband bought the land where they now live, which is about 40 perches. It has a well, a budding banana cultivation and a chillie plot. The area was dry and dusty, but the slightly darkened environment forecast a possible shower in the evening. Every dark cloud has a silver lining!
Loaded with the responsibility of raising girls in their early teens, toddlers and an infant boy, Wasanthamala finds it difficult to leave home for work. She is planning to start backyard poultry as a household industry. As a 24-year-old girl, Wasanthamala married against her parents' wishes. Therefore, she cannot seek her parents' help today. Her parents opposed their marriage as her husband was of an 'unsuitable' caste. "My husband's family has many girls and they are also not in a position to assist us," she said with great grief. Tears welled in her eyes.
Life is not a bed roses for Wasanthamala. However, with funds and a helping hand from the United Nations Human Settlements Program (UN-HABITAT) she repaired her house to some extent. A neighbour helped her build a hen-house for her backyard poultry business. Today, with the guns going silent and no bomb or mine explosions, this single mother raises her children in a peaceful environment. Her top priority now is to find a steady income generating method which she believes she can find in the near future.
Ajanthan
Wasanthamala is not the only victim of the conflict. Twenty-four-year-old Annathurai Ajanthan from Paranthan puts a great effort to rebuild his life, taking care of his mother and sister Gnaneswari who is still schooling. During the last phase of the conflict Ajanthan got injured in Puthumathalan. He was given just basic treatment. His left leg was amputated and he was suffering without proper medical care. Medical attention was given only to LTTE cadre. With great difficulty Ajanthan had got crutches from the hospital and on May 16, 2009 he reached Vadduvakal with his mother and sister, seeking the protection of the Army. "The Army made announcements for us to reach their areas and thousands of people escaped," Ajanthan said.
Karupaiah Palawan
"I got proper medical treatment at the Ananda Coomaraswamy relief village in Cheddikulam, Vavuniya," he said. Ajanthan was lucky. He had an aunt to take care of him, his mother and sister after the disaster. Before getting displaced he had owned a small boutique.
LTTE leader Theepan had bought the plot of land next to Ajanthan's house and built his camp there, in the latter part of 2008, terrorising the people in the vicinity. "It was the normal practice. They would forcibly take over someone else's property, set up their camp and the entire neighbourhood had lived in fear," Ajanthan said, recollecting memories of the gloomy past. With the sound of gunfire at a distance he, with his mother and sister, had run to the bunker few feet away. Such was life for Ajanthan and his family before their displacement.
Today he has started building his house with the support of fellow villagers and assistance from the UN-HABITAT. As scheduled in the project, he should build the house with one lockable room and completely tiled roof in another four months.
Sundaralingum and his wife Subashini lived in the Kandawalai DS Division, Paranthan with their daughters. This is the second time they had got displaced with increased LTTE hostilities. In 1996 too they were displaced and lived away from home for six years.
Their house was on the west side of the A9 highway, over 10 miles away. During the Eelam War IV, they left their meagre possessions and ran for safety on November 18, 2008. Amidst the firing and explosions, they lost their whereabouts. Somehow, they crossed the A9 road and reached Puliyanpokkanai. After three months, on January 15, 2009, they reached Mailvaganapuram from where they went to Pudukuduyirippu, Sugandhirapuram, Kombavil and then to Puthumathalan. To their greatest relief, they at last heard the Army announcing that they have cleared a path for the civilians to reach safety. Thus they reached Iranapalai on April 29, 2009. Then they settled down in the Ramanadan relief village. Sundaralingum earns his living as a labourer settling back in their original plot of land, life has become a hard task. They have started building their house after resettling on March 3.
Kanthimadi (68) of Mundimuruppu village, was more than happy to return home. She was eagerly listening to the details provided at the village meeting held in the kovil premises on funds they are entitled to receive to rebuild their houses.
Starting from Thunukkai, Kanthimadi moved to 21 places with her children and grandchildren until they reached Puthumathalan. "We hardly had time to figure out the directions. We ran to whichever the direction from which there was no firing," she said disclosing her unpleasant experience.
Subashini with her daughter
Ajanthan (on right)
Today she lives alone in her crooked house. Relatives still live around the place, to her comfort. "All my 11 children are married and live with their families. I can't ask them to leave their families to come and look after me. How can I ask them for help when they are also struggling", she questioned.
Karupaiah Palawan was also at the meeting. He spoke Sinhala fluently. "I'm from Ratnapura. As a 26-year-old man, I came to this village in 1976 with my uncles to cultivate paddy fields," said the old man with much happiness. "My mother is Sinhala," he said. "I lost my eldest son in 1999 - he was 19. He was wounded in an LTTE artillery attack and the LTTE refused to treat him though we took him to the nearest hospital. I was helpless at that point and I could not do anything. The LTTE did not even try to treat my son," Palawan said. Three days later his son's leg was amputated, but on the same day he died.
"When we were escaping the LTTE, we ran for miles and I carried one of my old aunts. We did not rest for one night until we were far away from the sounds of gunfire," he said. At Sungandirapuram, Palawan and his family along with other groups managed to escape the LTTE grip and reach Sri Lanka Army personnel. "The LTTE was blocking us from all sides. They questioned where we are heading at every point. Misleading them many times and risking our lives, we reached the safety of the Army," he said.
"Now I have started cultivating two acres of paddy land and I'm a tenant farmer as well," he said explaining his efforts to rebuild his life. "I never thought we will return home alive. The Army saved us from misery and thanks to them we live in peace today," Palawan said with great gratitude.
Families selected
The Mundimuruppu Grama Niladhari Division has six villages. According to Grama Niladhari Aiyathurai Thruwarudchelvan, 112 families have been selected from the GN division for UN-HABITAT assistance. During these meetings the villagers are educated on the process and documentation they need to produce. The project is fully funded by the Australian Government. The UN-HABITAT gives each selected family Rs. 325,000 to reconstruct or rebuild their houses. To lay the foundation Rs. 75,000 is given and with close monitoring Rs. 100,000 is given at the second stage to raise the walls. The next instalment would be Rs. 117,500 to build the roof. The last instalment would be Rs. 32,500.
Health concerns
The villagers are not supposed to use asbestos or tin sheets for the roof, taking the health impact into consideration. They should use roof tiles. The Divisional Secretary facilitates the villagers by permitting sand, cement and timber transportation without delay. Special consideration is given to these people as resettling them is a top priority for the Government. The villagers get-together and buy the items collectively from selected places at reasonable prices. With all this support, a family is generally capable of building the house with a completed roof and one lockable room. With time and as they start earning money, the family has to complete their house.
Using an owner-driven approach, the program helps families to actively take charge of their own recovery. They plan, implement and monitor their own progress. Their early involvement ensures that the end result is a home that reflects their own aspirations. The process also rekindles the local economy. Material and labour are procured locally. This ensures that funds remain within the communities, while the families earn or save by contributing their labour.
A house nearing completion
According to UN statistics, by August over 1,000 families have started rebuilding their homes in the DS divisions of Kandawalai, Karanchchi, Poonakary, Manthai East, Oddusudan, Thunukkai and Vavuniya North. Another 170 families have completed repairs and many others are nearing completion. The UN-HABITAT staff works closely with the Government line ministries, both in Colombo and at provincial level. The selection criteria solely depends on the approval of Government officials.
The war paid the price for peace. The past is history and the future is a mystery. This moment is the gift which can create wonders. With the International Day for Peace around the corner, to be specific on September 21, it is the correct time to give serious thought to sustaining peace. A permanent home is the most valuable asset for a family in a financial sense and is a sign of social dignity. It makes a person feel safe in his/her surroundings.
Housing alone would not do however. Effective coordination is essential to ensure that resources are not mis-allocated, creating oversupply in some areas and under supply in others. Equally important are the issues of quality standards and linkage between housing and other infrastructure agencies, including water and sanitation, electricity, roads and other social services. Stability of a community is the key to maintain peace in a country.
People should realise that everyone belongs to each other. Once Mother Teresa said, "If we have no peace, it is because we have forgotten that we belong to each other".
Thursday, September 23, 2010
Colombo city to be upgraded
http://www.dailynews.lk/2010/09/23/news40.asp
Colombo city to be upgraded
Suraj.A.Bandara
Colombo city will be upgraded with all advanced city planning methods used in other developed countries without depriving any benefits enjoyed by the Colombo people, Constructions and Engineering Minister Wimal Weerawansa said.
He was addressing householders after an inspection tour of development projects that are being carried out in the Colombo district. These projects have been earmarked to revitalize the facilities provided to the Colombo residents in line with the ‘World Habitat Day’ held last week.
He said Sri Lanka will be revived with unprecedented development drives in accordance with President Mahinda Rajapaksa’s long-term vision of a developed country. Every inch of the country will be developed. The Colombo city will be developed in parallel with these development initiatives, he said.
He said an in-depth analysis is underway to study the ways and means to empower the living standards of poor low income social groups who live in flats, shanties and temporary shelters in Colombo. Colombo will be a well planned developed city in which all segments will be equally satisfied, he said.
The ‘Nagamu Purawara’ program is designed to augment the infrastructure facilities of the Colombo city with the participation of residents, he added.
“The Government will carry out 170 development projects in Colombo at a cost of Rs.50 million. Toilets, drainages, roads, community halls, irrigation projects, canals and houses will be developed through this project,” the Minister said.
He said the maintenance will have to be done by the residents themselves and only guidelines will be provided by the officers of the National Housing Development Authority.
All development projects should be done with the help of the public. Their views also should be taken into consideration, the Minister said.
National Housing Development Authority Vice Chairman A.W.Dayananda, General Manager Lakwijaya Kalansuriya and Deputy GM Srimath Weerasingha also participated.
Colombo city to be upgraded
Suraj.A.Bandara
Colombo city will be upgraded with all advanced city planning methods used in other developed countries without depriving any benefits enjoyed by the Colombo people, Constructions and Engineering Minister Wimal Weerawansa said.
He was addressing householders after an inspection tour of development projects that are being carried out in the Colombo district. These projects have been earmarked to revitalize the facilities provided to the Colombo residents in line with the ‘World Habitat Day’ held last week.
He said Sri Lanka will be revived with unprecedented development drives in accordance with President Mahinda Rajapaksa’s long-term vision of a developed country. Every inch of the country will be developed. The Colombo city will be developed in parallel with these development initiatives, he said.
He said an in-depth analysis is underway to study the ways and means to empower the living standards of poor low income social groups who live in flats, shanties and temporary shelters in Colombo. Colombo will be a well planned developed city in which all segments will be equally satisfied, he said.
The ‘Nagamu Purawara’ program is designed to augment the infrastructure facilities of the Colombo city with the participation of residents, he added.
“The Government will carry out 170 development projects in Colombo at a cost of Rs.50 million. Toilets, drainages, roads, community halls, irrigation projects, canals and houses will be developed through this project,” the Minister said.
He said the maintenance will have to be done by the residents themselves and only guidelines will be provided by the officers of the National Housing Development Authority.
All development projects should be done with the help of the public. Their views also should be taken into consideration, the Minister said.
National Housing Development Authority Vice Chairman A.W.Dayananda, General Manager Lakwijaya Kalansuriya and Deputy GM Srimath Weerasingha also participated.
Jamaican Premier commends Sri Lankan feat against terrorism
http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100923_01
Jamaican Premier commends Sri Lankan feat against terrorism
Expressing his admiration on Sri Lanka's success against a ruthless terrorist outfit- Jamaican Premier Bruce Gelding Wednesday (Sep 22), said that "Sri Lanka has exploded the myth-that terrorism could not be defeated".
"An example to the world on dealing with what has become a scourge to many countries", he further stated. He expressed these views during a bi-lateral discussion held with President Mahinda Rajapaksa in New York.
According to Foreign Ministry officials, the discussions also dealt with the possibility of cooperation in development possibilities in the tourism sector.
Jamaican Premier commends Sri Lankan feat against terrorism
Expressing his admiration on Sri Lanka's success against a ruthless terrorist outfit- Jamaican Premier Bruce Gelding Wednesday (Sep 22), said that "Sri Lanka has exploded the myth-that terrorism could not be defeated".
"An example to the world on dealing with what has become a scourge to many countries", he further stated. He expressed these views during a bi-lateral discussion held with President Mahinda Rajapaksa in New York.
According to Foreign Ministry officials, the discussions also dealt with the possibility of cooperation in development possibilities in the tourism sector.
http://www.nationalsecurity.lk/fullnews.php?id=26899
President Attends Sixth Annual Meeting Of Clinton Global Initiative
22 Sep 2010 - 18:50
President Mahinda Rajapaksa as a Leader of Sri Lankan Nation who defeated brutal terrorism from th country was among the World leaders, representatives of non-governmental organizations, philanthropists and Chief Executive officers of some of the world leading private companies attended the inaugural ceremony of the sixth Annual Meeting of the Clinton Global Initiatives (CGI) being held at Sheraton Hotel Tower in New York.The conference started at 8.00 pm Sri Lanka time on Tuesday and the proceeding were telecast live over its official website.
CGI will sit to discuss issues that are plaguing by many developing countries under the banner of Clinton Global Initiative. The foundation, that tries to interest the private sector to invest money on non-profit developmental programs, will address many key issues like women empowerment, unemployment, energy usage and consumption and many other issues. The three day long Clinton Global Initiative meeting will continue till Sep 23 in New York City.
The official website of the Clinton Global Initiative foundation mentions that this year the president of United States Barack Obama along with his wife Michelle Obama appear at the meeting.
President Attends Sixth Annual Meeting Of Clinton Global Initiative
22 Sep 2010 - 18:50
President Mahinda Rajapaksa as a Leader of Sri Lankan Nation who defeated brutal terrorism from th country was among the World leaders, representatives of non-governmental organizations, philanthropists and Chief Executive officers of some of the world leading private companies attended the inaugural ceremony of the sixth Annual Meeting of the Clinton Global Initiatives (CGI) being held at Sheraton Hotel Tower in New York.The conference started at 8.00 pm Sri Lanka time on Tuesday and the proceeding were telecast live over its official website.
CGI will sit to discuss issues that are plaguing by many developing countries under the banner of Clinton Global Initiative. The foundation, that tries to interest the private sector to invest money on non-profit developmental programs, will address many key issues like women empowerment, unemployment, energy usage and consumption and many other issues. The three day long Clinton Global Initiative meeting will continue till Sep 23 in New York City.
The official website of the Clinton Global Initiative foundation mentions that this year the president of United States Barack Obama along with his wife Michelle Obama appear at the meeting.
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