Dr. Bandumathie Kottahachchi passes away

COLOMBO (News 1st) – The Gross Domestic Product for Sri Lanka for the third quarter of year 2022 at current price reported as Rs. 6,417,031 million.The Gross Domestic Product for Sri Lanka for the third quarter of year 2022 at constant price (2015) reported as Rs.

COLOMBO (News 1st) – Sri Lanka's Minister of Power and Energy Kanchana Wijesekera held discussions with Russian Ambassador to Sri Lanka Levan Dzhagaryan on Thursday (15).The Minister said that the country's energy sector requirements were discussed at the meeting.In addition, Sri Lanka's fuel needs, refinery operations, and the challenges faced in the supply of coal were discussed between the Minister and the Russian Ambassador.The Minister tweeted that the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed for nuclear energy cooperation with Rosatom – a Russian state-owned corporation specializing in nuclear energy, nuclear non-energy goods and high-tech products –  were discussed.

COLOMBO (News 1st) – Businesswoman Thilini Priyamali who was arrested and remanded for alleged financial fraud was granted bail by Fort Magistrate Thilina Gamage on Friday (16).Thilini Priyamali was released on a cash bail of Rs. 15,000/- and two personal bails of Rs.

COLOMBO (News 1st) – Sri Lankan authorities seized over 200 kg of heroin and Crystal methamphetamine (ICE) on Wednesday (14) from a multi-day fishing vessel in the high seas off the southern coast of Sri Lanka.In addition, another Sri Lankan multi-day fishing vessel that was supplying fuel to the detained vessel was also seized by authorities.Sri Lanka Navy, Sri Lanka Navy Intelligence, State Intelligence Service, and the Police Narcotic Bureau conducted a special operation in the southern seas that led to the detection of the drugs, and the arrest of multiple Sri Lankans.The two fishing vessels and the suspects are currently being brought ashore for further investigations.

COLOMBO (News 1st) – Sri Lanka's Ministry of Power and Energy says that the Sapugaskanda Oil Refinery will re-open on Friday (15).The refinery was closed down on the 7th of October 2022 due to insufficient stocks of crude oil to produce fuel.The Ministry said that two Crude Oil shipments reached Sri Lanka recently, and another is anchored at the Colombo Port.It added that 1,500 MT of Diesel, 550 MP of Petrol, 950 MT of kerosene and Jet Fuel, and 1,500 Naphtha will be produced from the Sapugaskanda Oil Refinery daily from Friday (15).In addition, Lanka Coal Company (Private) Limited said that the entire stock of coal required for electricity generation can be imported to the country by the 30th of April 2023.During this period 32 shipments are expected to reach Sri Lanka, and five of them have already reached the country, while another is expected next week,.The remaining shipments will reach the country from January 2023, and five shipments will reach Sri Lanka weekly.Lanka Coal Company (Private) Limited said there need not be any unncessary panic over the claims made that the Norochcholai Coal Power Plant will not be able to function.

COLOMBO (News 1st) – Sri Lanka's Supreme Court has decided to consider two applications filed seeking an order on the Election Commission to call for Local Government Elections without delay.The applications will be considered on the 18th of January 2023.The applications were filed by Professor G. L.

Bruce Willis is seen smiling and cuddling a puppy in the first family pictures since announcing his retirement from acting due to health reasons earlier this year. The Hollywood actor, 67, was pictured “getting into the holiday spirit” with his children, in a selection of photos shared by his former partner Demi Moore. In March, Willis’ family announced he would be “stepping away” from his successful acting career after having been diagnosed with aphasia, a condition affecting his cognitive abilities.

Colombo (News 1st) – Well-known Colombo businessman Dinesh Schaffter, 52, died shortly before midnight on Thursday (15th) in the ICU of the National Hospital from wounds suffered during an assault last night, police said.Mr. Schaffter was a Director of the Janashakthi Group of Companies and a member of the Schaffter family famed for generations among Sri Lanka's business community, was found injured and tied up in the driving seat of his own car at the Borella Cemetery last night and rushed to hospital.He had been missing for several hours after leaving home to meet a person to whom he had reportedly lent a large sum of money.

NEW DELHI : The super rich, including corporate executives are travelling by private jets and taking flying lessons for both leisure and business, aviation insiders said, putting down the trend to a post-pandemic travel pivot.“Present demand is about 25-30% above pre-covid level," Rajesh Bali, Managing Director of Business Aircraft Operators Association said. “HNIs (high net-worth individuals) are looking at long-range and ultra-long-range business jets and others are looking at medium-range aircraft so there is renewed interest in this segment from people who may not be HNIs but who have business requirement to travel by air." There is also high interest among salaried employees in private helicopters for pilgrimage and related purposes where they are ready to pay up to ₹1.5 lakh each for a 2-3 day tour in a five-seater helicopter, Bali said. The fleet size of non-scheduled jets is estimated to be around 550 in India with the potential to grow at 10% per year.

COLOMBO (News 1st) –  Well known Colombo-based businessman Dinesh Schaffter was hospitalized on Thursday (15) evening following a suspected assault.The Schaffter family issuing a statement said that Dinesh Schaffter was found grievously injured at a location in Borella.The statement said that he was immediately rushed to the hospital, where he is being treated in the ICU.A police investigation is underway.

COLOMBO (News 1st) – Nearly 24 hours after the crime, Sri Lanka Police are yet to make any arrests over the brutal stabbing of social media activist Dilan Senanayake inside his own office on Pagoda Road in Nugegoda yesterday (14th), striking fear into the hearts of journalists and others active on social media.The attack comes at a time when the government is controversially mulling legislation to impose controls over all types of social media.Senanayake is currently at the Colombo South Teaching Hospital – Kalubowila for treatment.Police said two masked men had arrived in a three-wheeler at 9 pm and attacked Senanayake before making their getaway in a three-wheeler. Police are yet to trace the vehicle.There is no known motive for the attack except the possibility of it being linked to his activism over social media.

The Driving, Vehicle and Licencing Agency (DVLA) has added two new health conditions that motorists need to declare before they can continue driving.

Colombo (News 1st) – Rotary International's  President, Jennifer Jones, visited the head office of Capital Maharaja Group, the parent company of News 1st, on Thursday (15th), during her 4-day visit to Sri Lanka. She met with Mr. Sashi Rajamahendran, Chairman of Capital Maharaja Group, and Mr.

GEMMA Collins has revealed her secret family heartbreak as she admits be having a low-key Christmas this year. The reality star, 41, said it's a very "upsetting" time as she opened up about her uncle's health battle.Advertisement Gemma explained that the festive period will be a quiet one this year as she "prays" for her dad Alan's twin brother, who is currently in hospital.

Express.co.uk about the reasons behind his healthy choices and why he wants his fans to "live forever" and follow in his footsteps.Although Gino has opted for a healthier way of living, he made clear that he still eats what he wants in moderation.Speaking about why he decided to change his diet, Gino told Express.co.uk: "Well, I’m not getting any younger and I think it’s important nowadays that I have realised that."And second of all, we adjusted because things are slightly different when you’re nearly 50 like me."I wanted to feel better and I am definitely feeling better. I’m not really doing anything drastic."Gino then touched on one small addition to his breakfast he has made over the last year and how much better he has felt since.He continued: "The most important thing is I still eat the things I want to eat in moderation.

COLOMBO (News 1st) –  Egg producers in Sri Lanka informed the Court of Appeal on Thursday (15) that they cannot agree with the price amendments produced by the Consumer Affairs Authority.Counsel for the CAA told court that the Counsumer Affairs Council that convened on Wednesday (14) had decided to impose a Maximum Retail Price of Rs. 42/- for a white egg, and Rs.

Under the covid vaccination drive, more than 219.98 crore vaccine doses have been administered to the people across the country so far. New Delhi India’s active covid cases have come down to 3,767, health ministry data said. More than 4.46 crore covid cases have been reported so far, while India has recorded 530,668 covid deaths in the last nearly three years.

COLOMBO (News 1st) – Sri Lanka has decided to amend the age for the manadatory requirement of doctors.An extraordinary gazette citing the amendments was issued by Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena in his capacity as the Minister of Public Administration, Home Affairs, Provincial Councils and Local Government.The provisions of the extraordinary gazette are as follows:(a) Sending the Medical Officers on retirement, who have already completed the age of 63 years, before 31st December 2022.(b) Sending Medical Officers on retirement, who have already completed the age of 62 years, on completion of 63 years of age.(c) Sending Medical Officers on retirement, who have already completed the age of 61 years, on completion of 62 years of age.(d) Sending Medical Officers on retirement, who have already completed the age of 60 years, on completion of 61 years of age.(e) Sending Medical Officers on retirement, who have already completed the age of 59 years, on completion of 60 years of age.However, the Medical Consultants, Government Medical Officers, Dental Surgeons and the registered Medical Officers of the Government whose birthday falls within the period from 1st of January to 30th of June should be given the opportunity to serve up to 30th June of the relevant year and sent on retirement and the Medical Consultants, Government Medical Officers, Dental Surgeons and the registered Medical Officers of the Government whose birthday falls within the period from 1st of July to 31st of December should be given the opportunity to serve up to 31st December of the relevant year and sent on retirement, noted the extraordinary gazette. 

GEORGIA Harrison has revealed she was just 24 hours away from dying after the stress of a sex tape leak led to a health emergency. Almost two years ago to the day, the Love Island star was hospitalised with sepsis after a cyst on her ovary burst and became infected. The illness struck four months after vile Stephen Bear, 32, posted secretly filmed CCTV footage of the pair having sex on OnlyFans without Georgia's consent.

Freddie Flintoff's son says that his dad is "lucky to be alive" after a horror crash as health and safety teams start an investigation.

Twitter followers flocked to the post to comment.Mary-Jo Caira wrote: "So happy for you. Wishing him much health & progress in the next coming months."Lottie Moss gets new 'lover' face tattoo on drunken night"That is so good news.Sending love to you all," Veni Pishtalova typed.Kieran added: "Hopefully home safe and sound my friend."Sophie Grenham commented: "I have everything crossed for you, Victoria.Sending love to you all at this stressful time."The Pogues' frontman was rushed to hospital earlier this month after falling ill with viral encephalitis, a medical condition which causes inflammation in the brain.He also contracted shingles, which spread to his eye.Victoria previously said that doctors were “confident he will be OK” and thanked fans for their well wishes.Shane has dealt with multiple health issues over the years.He has been confined to a wheelchair since shattering his pelvis in 2016. Chloe Madeley's husband James Haskell shares fears about daughter [REVEALED]Wednesday star ‘needs own space’ from famous husband [INTERVIEW]Gemma Atkinson shares family 'heartbreak' over Strictly exit [REACTION]In 2020, he also damaged his knee after a fall at home.Since the incident years six years ago, Victoria has been his full time carer.The pair have been together for over 35 years and tied the knot in Copenhagen in 2018.Earlier this year, Shane said he was grateful to wake up in the morning following his health woes. He told Spectator: "I’m not a morning person, but I am glad to be alive, so I’m grateful to wake up."I have beautiful carers who come and get me out of the bed and into the lime green chair.

Blue's Clues original host Steve Burns recently revealed that his co-star Donovan Patton stepped up and took care of him while he was sick with COVID.The 49-year-old actor told PEOPLE that he and Patton - who took over as host of the children's show when Burns left in 2002 - 'have been friends for a long time now.'Burns continued: 'I know his family. He took care of me when I had COVID.

 

Colombo (News 1st) – President Ranil Wickremesinghe has said that new laws to ensure food security are expected to be introduced in the future.He made this statement while briefing representatives of the Joint Mechanism Committee on Food Security and Nutrition.Plans are being made to present the related bills to parliament soon, President Wickremesinghe said.He also highlighted the need to obtain accurate data in establishing food security and the nutritional status of the people.Speaking at the meeting, the President stressed that there have been disparities in the data available at the national level and at the regional level which should be rectified immediately, a PMD statement added.

 

Colombo (News 1st) – The 26-year-old driver of the car that crashed in Colpetty on Saturday morning killing one person, who fled overseas within hours of the accident, and arrested on arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport from Dubai this morning (12th) has been remanded until 16 December.Police on Monday said that they would seek Interpol assistance to have him extradited to Sri Lanka. Police said he had been driving the Mercedes-Benz that crashed into a parked three-wheeler on Galle Road around dawn on Saturday killing the 58-year-old driver of the 3-wheeler.

(Reuters) – The executive board of the International Monetary Fund is not expected to formally approve Sri Lanka's $2.9 billion bailout before year-end, a key step required for the embattled country to receive funding, two sources familiar with the matter said.Seeking a way out of its worst economic crisis in decades, Sri Lanka reached an IMF staff-level agreement in June with the deal subject to approval and contingent on Sri Lanka authorities following through with previously agreed measures.Sri Lanka said in September it expected the board to approve the deal by year-end. Progress has been slow in recent months, and Sri Lanka's finance minister acknowledged last month the request might extend into January.Sri Lanka has to secure prior financing assurances from creditors, put its heavy debt burden on a sustainable path and increase public revenue before the global lender will disburse the funds.

New Delhi: Welcoming the new year and saying goodbye to the old one is a celebratory affair indeed. But did India’s business world have a good year? Perhaps not. In the years leading into 2022, companies had used low interest rates and surplus liquidity as an opportunity to bring down their debts and increase current assets.

NEW DELHI : New Delhi Easing covid-19 restrictions in China may lead to an increase in demand and prices of metals, but the uptick maybe limited, said industry experts. As the largest consumer of commodities, a pick-up in demand in China can help lift global metals demand and prices amid recessionary concerns in developed economies such as the US and Europe. Rising demand and prices in China will also be key to prevent cheap imports to India and help improve domestic steel prices.

A West Lothian man is fronting a new campaign from a national mental health programme to help more veterans open up about their mental health.

Colombo (News 1st) – Veteran vocalist, lyricist and composer Nihal Nelson passed away on Tuesday (13). He was 76 years old at the time of his demise.Nihal Nelson was one of the most influential singers in Sri Lanka and considered ‘undefeated on the concert stage’.Nelson holds the record for the most albums recorded by a Sri Lankan artist with 113 albums. Nihal Nelson was born on 1946 in Moratuwa, and received his primary education from Innocent Maria Mixed School which is currently known as Rawathawaththa Methodist College.After passing grade 8, he entered Moratu Maha Vidyalaya where he completed A/L in 1960.Nelson married Malini Sriyalatha in 1974. He was among the first Sri Lankan vocalists to release a cassette in 1978 with Gune Ayyage Kamare.

Colombo (News 1st) – The ten students who were arrested on Tuesday (13) over the assault carried out on former Vice Chancellor of Peradeniya University Senior Professor Athula Senaratne and his son have been remanded until 22 December 2022.The suspects were produced before the Kandy Magistrate's Court on Tuesday (13).The arrests were carried out after they surrendered themselves to the Peradeniya Police Station.The suspects, aged between 23 and 25, are residents of Nittambuwa, Sandalangala, Giritale, Matale, Henegamuwa and Galagamwatta.Police said another two suspects have been identified, adding that investigations are underway to apprehend them.A group of students attacked the former Vice Chancellor of Peradeniya University, Senior Professor Athula Senaratne and his son, and caused damage to his house on Saturday (10) night.Chairman of the University Grants Commission Professor Sampath Amaratunga stated that 300 students were involved in the attack, and stern legal action will be taken against them.The 12 students involved in the attack have been expelled from the university.

Perth and Kinross health chiefs are anticipating a "more challenging" winter due to an increase in demand across all health and social care services.

Colombo (News 1st) – Inter University Student's Federation Convernor Wasantha Mudalige has been further remanded until the 17th of January.This was after he was produced before Colombo Additional Magistrate Tharanga Mahawatte today.The Magistrate ordered the Terrorist Investigation Division to complete the investigations expeditiously and report their findings to court.

Colombo (News 1st) – Ten students have been arrested on Tuesday (13) over the assault carried out on former Vice Chancellor of Peradeniya University Senior Professor Athula Senaratne and his son.The arrests were carried out after they surrendered themselves to the Peradeniya Police Station.The suspects, aged between 23 and 25, are residents of Nittambuwa, Sandalangala, Giritale, Matale, Henegamuwa and Galagamwatta.Police said another two suspects have been identified, adding that investigations are underway to apprehend them.A group of students attacked the former Vice Chancellor of Peradeniya University, Senior Professor Athula Senaratne and his son, and caused damage to his house on Saturday (10) night.Chairman of the University Grants Commission Professor Sampath Amaratunga stated that 300 students were involved in the attack, and stern legal action will be taken against them.The 12 students involved in the attack have been expelled from the university.

Captain Lee Rosbach announced he was leaving the 197ft yacht St. David due to persistent mobility issues on Monday's episode of Below Deck, calling it 'one of the most humbling experiences of my life.'The 73-year-old great grandfather - whose No. 1 fan is Christina Applegate - was forced to use crutches to get around the vessel due to nerve damage he suffered after undergoing back surgery ahead of season 10.'My injury, it's getting worse.

Colombo (News 1st) – The 26-year-old driver of the car that crashed in Colpetty on Saturday morning killing one person, who fled overseas within hours of the accident, was arrested on arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport from Dubai this morning (12th), police said.Police on Monday said that they would seek Interpol assistance to have him extradited to Sri Lanka. Police said he had been driving the Mercedes-Benz that crashed into a parked three-wheeler on Galle Road around dawn on Saturday killing the 58-year-old driver of the 3-wheeler.

George Lopez was forced to drop out of a gig announcing the nominations for the 80th annual Golden Globes on Monday morning after testing positive for COVID-19.The 61-year-old television personality was set to appear on NBC Monday morning live from Beverly Hills in order to present the nods for the highly-anticipated award show.Instead his daughter Mayan Lopez and actress Selenis Leyva - who both star with him on sitcom Lopez Vs. Lopez - took over the announcements.

Thank goodness!

Las Vegas is reacting to Céline Dion‘s recent diagnosis.

KATE Garraway today revealed her husband Derek Draper is facing a very lengthy wait for Long Covid care. The former political lobbyist is suffering from the life-changing impacts of his near-death battle with coronavirus.

Last month, health professionals from around Scotland gathered at O2 Academy in Edinburgh to celebrate the hard work done by those in the industry over the past year.

A doctor who shook a ‘difficult' patient, shouted at them and slapped them across the face before saying to colleagues “that felt good,” has been cleared of any wrongdoing.

COLOMBO (News 1st): Convenor of the Inter-University Students Federation Wasantha Mudalige has been further remanded until tomorrow (13).He was remanded until further advice is received by the Attorney General.He was produced before the Colombo Additional Magistrate's Court today by prison officials.He was arrested under the Prevention of Terrorism Act and held under detention orders for 89 days before he was produced in Court on the 17th of November.

Flights between the Jaffna International Airport and Chennai, India resumed on Monday (12).A flight arrived reached Palaly from Chennai at 10.50am while a flight departed from Palaly heading to Chennai at 11.50am. The Civil Aviation Authority says, weekly, four flights will operate from Chennai to Palaly.Flights between Palaly and Chennai were temporarily suspended due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

An £18million office complex run by Michelle Mone is linked to the same network of companies at the centre of a Covid PPE scandal. The bra baroness is now being urged to explain if the Neospace site in Aberdeen was funded by public money from UK Government Covid contracts.

Colombo (News 1st) – Rotary International's  President, Jennifer Jones, arrived in Sri Lanka on Sunday (11th) on a 4-day visit. She is the first woman President in the 115-year history of Rotary.Ms.