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18.02.2023 / 11:13

BASL charges: Concerted effort to prevent elections and endanger sovereignty of the people

Colombo (News1st) – The Bar Assocation of Sri Lanka has charged that there is a concerted effort to prevent elections, to undermine the franchise of the people, and endanger the sovereignty of the people of Sri Lanka.FULL STATEMENT:"The Bar Association of Sri Lanka (BASL) expresses its deep concern over recent attempts by state authorities to disrupt the Local Authorities Elections, which are mandated by law to be held prior to March 19th, 2023. The BASL emphasizes that all elections are a vital part of Sri Lanka's democratic process and must not be hindered.The BASL notes several decisions by the government in recent weeks, purportedly aimed at managing public funds, have had the effect of preventing the Elections Commission from conducting the elections.

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Philadelphia Zoo announces birth of 2 threatened sloth bear cubs

PHILADELPHIA - The Philadelphia Zoo has welcomed a new adorable duo. The zoo announced the birth of two threatened sloth bear cubs born on January 2.The cubs were born to 10-year-old bear mom Kayla and 10-year-old dad Bhalu, marking the second successful birth of the species at the zoo in the last four years. The zoo's animal team is monitoring their health and their interactions with Kayla. Zoo officials say the sex of the cubs has not yet been determined and names have not yet been chosen. According to the zoo, sloth bears are found in lowland forests in India, Nepal and Sri Lanka.

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US delegation led by Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary at Defence Ministry for talks

COLOMBO (News 1st); A US delegation that arrived in the country on Tuesday (14) night aboard two US Air Force planes had met with State Minister of Defence Premitha Bandara Tennakoon and Secretary of Defence General Kamal Gunaratne (Retd).Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Indo-Pacific Security Affairs Jedidiah P.

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Pakistan promotes Kinnows in Sri Lanka

COLOMBO (News 1st); The High Commission of Pakistan, in collaboration with Ministry of Commerce and Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP), organized a promotional event for Pakistani Kinnows or Mandarins, at the BMICH in Colombo today. Mohan Priyadarshana de Silva, State Minister for Agriculture and A. H.

Priyadarshana De-Silva Sri Lanka Pakistan state Indiana Government

Tariff revision was not proposed to cover CEB losses, says Kanchana

COLOMBO (News 1st) ; The Minister of Power and Energy Kanchana Wijesekara says that with the increase in the electricity tariff by 66%, power cuts will no longer be imposed from Thursday (16).Speaking to reporters in Colombo, the Minister said the electricity tariff increase was a difficult decision to make, but it was one that had to be taken.He further said that the Ceylon Electricity Board will start making direct purchases related to fuel and coal.The Minister said that the Bank of Ceylon will be providing an additional loan of Rs. 22 Billion for coal procurement, while a request was made for an additional Rs.

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PUCSL Chairman’s Office sealed by Police

COLOMBO (News 1st); The Colpetty Police sealed the office of the Chairman of the Public Utilities Commission as per an order issued by the Fort Magistrate's Court,This was confirmed by the Police Spokesperson SSP Nihal Thalduwa.He said that the court order was obtained after reporting facts to the court with regard to information that claimed that events that cause inconveniences to the government were taking place within the office.The Police Spokesperson said that the Chairman of the Public Utilities Commission of Sri Lanka Janaka Ratanayake is currently overseas, and the office will be re-opened in his presence when he returns to the island.

Nihal Thalduwa Sri Lanka information Government reports

Independent MPs want to summon P’ment immediately

COLOMBO (News 1st); The Freedom People's Congress in a letter to the Prime Minister have requested for Parliament to be summoned immediately, under Standing Order 16.The letter bearing the signature of the General Secretary of the Freedom Peoples' Congress notes that the decision to indefinitely delay the issuing of ballot papers for the Local Government Election is a threat to Sri Lanka's democracy.The letter further notes that the National Election Commission had observed that the reason for the decision to indefinitely delay the issuing of ballot papers for the Local Government Election was that the Treasury had failed to deliver funds for printing, and based on that the Government Printer had refused to go ahead with the printing process.It notes that Parliament should convene immediately as Public Representatives, as the legislators, are bound to control the undemocratic situation, and managed the situation as well.14 MPs had signed the letter that was addressed to the Prime Minister.

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Teenagers who beat a man to death with motorcycle helmets held in detention

COLOMBO (News 1st); The three teenage boys who were arrested for beating to death a man with motorcycle helmets were ordered by the Mathugama Magistrate's Court to be detained at the Child Remand Home in Makola until the 28th of February.The teenagers were identified as grade 11 students.The remains of the late Ranga Viraj Jayasinghe, a 34-year-old father of one, who was brutally beaten to death by teenagers using their helmets was moved to his residence in Welipenna on Thursday (17) morning.Relatives said the final rites will be performed on Friday (17).Ranga Viraj Jayasinghe was beaten to death with helmets for advising a group of teenagers to wear helmets when riding on motorcycles.Ranga who advised these teens for their own safety leaves behind a 11-month-old daughter.According to family and friend, Ranga was eagerly waiting to celebrate his daughters' first birthday.Sri Lanka Police said that Ranga had advised a group of teenage boys, who were riding two motorcycles at excessive speeds in Welipenna, to wear their helmets.However, an argument had broken out between the two sides and the teenage boys had beaten Ranga with their helmets, and Ranga later succumbed to his injuries.

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Independent MPs was to summon P’ment immediately

Sri Lanka Government

PMD reveals details of ‘Janaraja Perahara’ to be held in Kandy for the first time in 34 years

The historic Temple of the Tooth Relic in the city of Kandy will host a Janaraja Perahara on February 19th, after 34 years.The procession has been organized to coincide with the 75th Independence Celebration, and it will be inaugurated under the patronage of President Ranil Wickremesinghe.According to the Coordinating Officer and the Cultural Officer of the Temple of the Tooth Relic, the procession will begin from the Magul Maduwa premises at 6.30 pm on February 19th. It will parade along the Dalada Street, Yatinuvara Street, Kanda Street, Raja Street, and return to the temple, marking the end of the event.

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Ensure uninterrupted power supply after tariff revision is implemented, President tells Officials

COLOMBO (News 1st); Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe has directed Power & Energy Minister & relevant officials to ensure uninterrupted power supply is made available for electricity customers once the PUCSL tariff revision is implemented.The President's Media Division also said that the President gave directives to provide concessions for low-income families and provide solar rooftop systems for religious places & government educational institutions when the new tariff revision comes into effect.The Ministry of Power and Energy said that power outages will not be imposed from Thursday (16), as the Public Utilities Commission of Sri Lanka granted approval to the 66% electricity tariff hike.A source from the Ministry of Power and Energy speaking to News 1st said that a decision will be reached in the future with regard to those who are unable to settle their electricity bills.The Public Utilities Commission has approved a 66 percent hike in electricity tariffs with effect from Wednesday (15).It was with the agreement of the three members of the PUCSL except the Chairman of the Commission Janaka RatnayakeIn order to generate an additional income of Rs.

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Four men arrested for sexually abusing minor

COLOMBO (News 1st); Sri Lanka Police on Wednesday (15) arrested four suspects for sexually abusing a ten-year-old school girl in Weligama.Sri Lanka Police said that the victim of the abuse was heading to a tuition class on Friday (10), and was sexually abused by the suspects.In addition to abusing the victim, the suspects had also threatened her with death, said Sri Lanka Police.The victim had notified her mother over the injuries suffered to her genital area, and thereafter the mother had filed a complaint with the local police.The four suspects in their twenties were arrested on Wednesday (15) evening.The victim of the abuse was admitted to the Matara General Hospital for an examination, and Sri Lanka Police is conducting an investigation over the crime against a minor.

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Several students injured in Sabaragamuwa Uni clash

COLOMBO (News 1st); Nine students were injured following a clash between two student groups at the University of Sabaragamuwa on Wednesday (15) night.Sri Lanka Police said that the clash was between first year students from the Management Faculty, and students from the university hostel.The nine injured students were admitted to the Balangoda Hospital, and no arrests were made.

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NO power cuts from Thursday (16) as PUCSL approves 66% tariff hike

COLOMBO (News 1st); The Ministry of Power and Energy said that power outages will not be imposed from Thursday (16), as the Public Utilities Commission of Sri Lanka granted approval to the 66% electricity tariff hike.A source from the Ministry of Power and Energy speaking to News 1st said that a decision will be reached in the future with regard to those who are unable to settle their electricity bills.The Public Utilities Commission has approved a 66 percent hike in electricity tariffs with effect from Wednesday (15).It was with the agreement of the three members of the PUCSL except the Chairman of the Commission Janaka RatnayakeIn order to generate an additional income of Rs. 287 billion for the Ceylon Electricity Board, the proposal to increase the electricity tariff by 66 percent which was approved by the cabinet was forwarded to the Public Utilities Commission on January 2nd.The proposal was not approved by the Public Utilities Commission and several members of the commission resigned due to conflict of opinion on the proposal.Three new members were appointed for the vacant positions on two occasions and on Tuesday (14) the proposal was taken up again under the chairmanship of Janaka Ratnayake.A 36 percent increase in electricity tariff was proposed to generate an income of 142 billion rupees based on the suggestions of public consultation and all other parties, but only Chairman Janatha Ratnayake agreed to the proposal.The other members of the commission namely Attorney Chaturika Wijesinghe, Douglas Nanayakkara and SG Senaratne had rejected the proposal.According to the new electricity bill hike proposal:The electricity tariff of Rs 360 paid for 30 electricity units so far can be increased to Rs 1,300.

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Four cops sentenced to death together for the first time in Sri Lankan history; Convicted of murder dating back to 2005

COLOMBO (News 1st); The Hambantota High Court on Wednesday (15) sentenced four Police Officer to death over the murder of an individual back in 2005.The Crimes OIC of the Humangama Police, a Retired Police Constable, a Police Constable attached to the State Intelligence Service and currently at the Hambantota Harbor Police, and Former Police Constable attached to the Tissamaharama Police who was dishonorably discharged from service, were sentenced to deaht by the Hambantota High Court Judge Priyantha Liyanage.The accused had carried out a raid on the 29th of June 2005 to arrest a suspect responsible for three robberies in Matarawatte, Debarawewa in Tissamaharama.Initial police investigations revealed that the accused had surrounded the house of the suspect at midnight on that day, and following his arrest had instructed him to run off and then opened fire at him.The deceased was identified as Loku Hennadige Amila Mahesh, a resident of Matarawatte.This is incidentally the first time in Sri Lankan history that four police officers were sentenced to death at the same time.

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Government will not be pressured by protests – President

COLOMBO (News 1st) – Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe said that the government will not give into the demands of protestors.He noted that just, because certain groups strike demanding the removal of certain officials, the government will not remove anyone arbitrarily as there is a procedure that has to be followed and the government will follow the rules and act accordingly.He was addressing the launch of the Centre for Governance and Public Policy (C-GaPP) at the Sri Lanka Technological Campus (SLTC) Research University at the Trace City in Colombo on Wednesday (15).He said that the responsibility to address such issues rests to a large extent with the Universities. The President noted that even at the point of the new Centre for Governance and Public Policy (C-GaPP) being inaugurated at the Sri Lanka Technological Campus (SLTC) Research University, two strikes were in progress. One was staged at the Ruhuna University demanding the removal of the Vice Chancellor and another one demanded the removal of the General Manager of a state Corporation.President Wickremesinghe further stated that the removal of the General Manager is a matter of the government. “Just, because there is a strike we will not remove him.

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Arrival of US Air Force Cargo planes mounts concerns of Top Secret visit

COLOMBO (News 1st); Two special US Air Force planes landed at the Katunayake Airport late on Tuesday (14) evening and left on Wednesday (15) afternoon.News 1st contacted the US Embassy in Colombo for details on arrival of these planes, and those on board, and the mission said it has no comment regarding the inquiry. Sources at the Katunayake International Airport told News 1st that these two special US Air Force planes reached Sri Lankan from a US Military Base in Greece.One aircraft landed in Sri Lanka at 6:58 PM on Tuesday (14), and the other landed at 7:10 PM the same night.These aircraft were identified as C-17 Globe masters.The C-17 is capable of rapid strategic delivery of troops and all types of cargo to main operating bases or directly to forward bases in the deployment area.It was reported that 29 personnel, including a high-level delegation from the United States of America arrived aboard these planes.The Daily Mirror had reported that the delegation included US Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Indo-Pacific Security Affairs Jedidiah Royal.The two US Air Force planes left Sri Lanka on Wednesday (15) afternoon.

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Sri Lanka, India to sign power grid linking pact within two months – envoy

(Reuters) – Sri Lanka and India will sign a pact to link their power grids and start negotiations on an upgraded trade agreement within two months, a Sri Lankan diplomat said on Wednesday (15), as the island nation seeks a way out of its worst economic crisis in decades.India has provided some $4 billion in assistance to its southern neighbour since the crisis hit early last year, but Sri Lanka is now seeking to enhance trade and investments as it moves to close a $2.9 billion loan from the International Monetary Fund, the country's envoy to New Delhi told Reuters."We have to have growth, otherwise basically the economy will shrink," Milinda Moragoda, the Sri Lankan High Commissioner to India said."As far as growth is concerned, India offers that prospect. So we will have to move on that.

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Sri Lanka and India discuss economic recovery; HC Moragoda meets Piyush Goyal

Indian Minister of Commerce and Industry, Piyush Goyal on Tuesday (14) met Sri Lanka's High Commissioner Milinda Moragoda and discussed support for economic recovery through bilateral trade expansion.During the discussion between Minister Goyal and High Commissioner Moragoda, which was held in a very cordial manner, a wide range of issues pertaining to the areas of bilateral trade and commerce, particularly aiming at the economic recovery in Sri Lanka, was discussed, read High Commission of Sri Lanka press release.Mechanisms relating to the expansion of bilateral trade, the ways to establish and promote rupee trade between Sri Lanka and India as a means of economic recovery in Sri Lanka, and the possibility of further bilateral integration in the textiles and garment sector were among the key issues discussed between the Indian Commerce Minister and the Sri Lankan High Commissioner.Moragoda thanked India for the unprecedented support that it has extended to Sri Lanka to mitigate the negative impact of the economic crisis.Recalling India's timely issuance of financial assurances to the IMF, the first creditor to do so, High Commissioner Moragoda emphasized the key role that India could play in the recovery phase of the Sri Lankan economy, added the press release.India sent financing assurances to the International Monetary Fund (IMF), becoming the first of Sri Lanka's creditors to officially back the crisis-hit island nation's debt restructuring programme.This takes Sri Lanka one step closer to getting a crucial USD 2.9-billion package from the IMF, made contingent on "receiving financing assurances from Sri Lanka's official creditors and making a good faith effort to reach a collaborative agreement with private

Piyush Goyal India Sri Lanka economy Cooper Assurant

Postal Vote to go ahead as planned; Election Monitors to take action against Govt. Printer

COLOMBO (News 1st); Postal Voting for the upcoming Local Government Election will go ahead as planned on the 22nd, 23rd, and 24th of February 2023, confirmed the Chairman of the National Election Commission Attorney Nimal Punchihewa on Wednesday (15).He said that the distribution of the ballot papers for Postal Voting was delayed, though the distribution process was scheduled to commence on Tuesday (14).However, the Government Printer said that an issue arose regarding the provision of the ballot papers for the Postal Vote due to funding issues.In the meantime, the National Election Commission and the Government Printer had engaged in a series of talks and based on those discussions the Government Printers is expected to deliver the ballot papers for postal voting in the coming days.Moreover, Election Monitors have decided to take legal action against the conduct of the Government Printer for failing to deliver the ballot papers.Election Monitors said that the Government Printer has taken an unconstitutional decision to not deliver the ballot papers.Rohana Hettiarachchi, the Executive Director of the People's Action for Free & Fair Elections (PAFFREL) said the National Election Commission must also take legal action against the Government Printer.Secure packages containing the ballot papers for postal voting were to be handed over to Sri Lanka Post on Wednesday (15), however as the ballot papers were not delivered, the process was suspended indefinitely as per a decision reached by the National Election Commission on Tuesday (14).

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Three teenage boys arrested for beating a man to death with helmets

COLOMBO (News 1st); Three 16-year-old boys were arrested for beating a 34-year-old man to death with a helmet in Aluthgama.Sri Lanka Police said that the incident took place at the Kurundippita Junction in Galmatte, Aluthgama.The three teenagers had beaten to man to death with their helmets over a verbal dispute.Sri Lanka Police said that the victim succumbed to his injuries en route to the hospital, and he was identified as a resident of Walagedara, Kurundippita.a

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Moragoda meets Indian Finance Minister ahead of G20 Finance Ministers’ Meeting

High Commissioner of Sri Lanka to India, Milinda Moragoda met with the Finance and Corporate Affairs Minister of India Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman on Tuesday (14) at the Ministry of Finance in New Delhi, as the latest of a series of meetings he has had with her since November 2021.The meeting between the Finance Minister of India and the High Commissioner of Sri Lanka took place just ahead of the first meeting of the G20 Finance Ministers scheduled to be held on 24-25 February 2023 in Bengaluru, chaired by Minister Sitharaman.During the discussion, High Commissioner Moragoda once again thanked Minister Sitharaman for the unprecedented emergency assistance that India has extended to Sri Lanka and for the timely issuance of India’s financial assurances to the International Monetary Fund, concerning the country’s debt restructuring process.The High Commissioner also thanked India and Minister Sitharaman for the assistance being provided to Sri Lanka in the present economic recovery phase, in particular for the necessary regulations and approvals that are being set in place to facilitate rupee trade between the two countries. The discussion also focused on the ways and means to utilize the available resources in the 1 billion USD Indian line of credit to import urgently required essential pharmaceuticals, which are in short supply in Sri Lanka.

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Man gunned down in Elpitiya

COLOMBO (News 1st); A 43-year-old man was gunned down in Elpitiya on Tuesday (14) night.Sri Lanka Police said that a gunman had entered a store in Uragaha, Elpitiya and opened fire at the victim.A police investigation is underway.

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IMF agreement is integral to Sri Lanka, but we must have a pro-people approach – Sajith

COLOMBO (News 1st); Sri Lankan Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa said that any agreement inked by Sri Lanka must be transparent.Premadasa was speaking at the SJB Economic Summit 'The Blue Print' in Colombo on Tuesday (14), and said the International Monetary Fund agreement is integral to Sri Lanka to come out of bankruptcy."Where we will differ is the way we negotiate, the substance, and the issues. We will be taking a pro-people, pro-business approach, he said.Sajith Premadasa also went on to note that the present executive presidency, together with the Prime Minister has manipulated and connived to prevent the election from being held, because they lack a mandate.The Opposition Leader said that the SJB will work with everyone, and not do anything that is detrimental to the interest of any country."What we will do is, we will promote our national interests.

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Sri Lankan who died in earthquake buried in Turkiye

COLOMBO (News 1st); The Sri Lankan who died in the earthquakes in Turkiye on the 6th of February was buried in Hatay/Antakya in Turkiye, confirmed the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Tuesday (14).The Embassy of Sri Lanka in Ankara had been working to ascertain the welfare of the sixteen Sri Lankans who were living in the area affected by the earthquake and tremors, in coordination with the Türkiye authorities. It was confirmed that 15 of them, contacted by the Embassy are safe, while a Sri Lankan female who was living in Hatay/Antakya Province in Türkiye, was reported missing. The Embassy was able to confirm the fate of the Sri Lankan concerned and also noted the unfortunate death of the missing Sri Lankan.The identity of the deceased Sri Lankan is withheld at the request of the family. Burial of the human remains of the deceased already took place in Hatay/Antakya, in line with regulations imposed by the health authorities, said the Foreign Ministry.Death toll from earthquakes went past 37,000.

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Man arrested with elephant tusks; Cops say Crime Syndicate behind the racket

COLOMBO (News 1st); The Walana Anti-Vice Unit arrested a man for the possession of a pair of elephant tusks.Police said that the suspect was preparing to sell the elephant tusks for approximately Rs.

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Payment for coal shipments pending

COLOMBO (News 1st); Sri Lanka has not been able to make payments for two coal shipments that reached the Island.Shehan Sumanasekara, the Chairman /MD of Lanka Coal Company (Pvt) Ltd said that the two shipments reached the country on Friday (10), and Saturday (11), and it has not been able to settle the payments.The coal shipment that reached Sri Lanka before these two shipments were unloaded on Monday (13).The Chairman /MD of Lanka Coal Company (Pvt) Ltd said though the Ceylon Electricity Board made a certain amount of funds available on Monday (13), it was not sufficient for coal procurement.

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Sri Lanka to ban a series of plastic products

COLOMBO (News 1st); Sri Lanka's Cabinet of Ministers approved the proposal to ban the importation, domestic manufacture, sale and local use of a series of plastic products with effect from 1st of June 2023.The decision comes based on a recommendation made by the Committee of Experts that was appointed to inquire into Single Use Plastic/ Polythene Control Proposals regarding the import, domestic production, sale and local use of 7 Single Use Plastic/Polythene products.The following plastic products will be banned from June• Single-use plastic drinking straws and stirrers • Single-use plastic plates, cups (except yoghurt cups), spoons, forks and knives, including yoghurt spoons made of plastic • Plastic garlands • String Hopper moulds made of plastic

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Cabinet nod to import eggs from India

COLOMBO (News 1st); Sri Lanka's Cabinet of Ministers on Monday (13) granted approval to import eggs to Sri Lanka from India.A Senior Government Minister said that permission was granted on the recommendation that the imported eggs do not contain bird flu.Accordingly, permission was granted to import eggs for a period of two months.The Senior Government Minister said the imported eggs will not be released to the local market, instead would be directly sent to industries that use eggs on mass scale.

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Sri Lanka planning to set up new Elephant Corridors

COLOMBO (News 1st); Sri Lanka has decided to create several new Elephant Corridors in an attempt to solve the Human Elephant Conflict.The Ministry of Wildlife and Forest Resources Conservation said that the elephant corridors will be constructed by clearing certain sections of forest lands that have been designated to be used to solve the Human Elephant Conflict.Wildlife Secretary R. M.

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Japanese grant of USD 38 Mn for Sri Lanka’s Health Service

COLOMBO (News 1st); Japanese Government has decided to award a grant of USD 38 Million for an uninterrupted essential and emergency health service, said Cabinet Spokesperson Minister Bandula Gunawardena on Tuesday (14).Speaking to reporters during the weekly briefing to announce Cabinet Decision, the Minister said under Japan's Economic and Social Development Programme to Sri Lanka the funds will be made available for the purchase of fuel, especially diesel, which is of paramount importance to the country's health sector.

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Major vehicle recall in Sri Lanka over faulty airbags

COLOMBO (News 1st); Three leading local car dealers have decided to recall a large number of vehicles over faulty airbags and for upgrades.The Commissioner General of the Department of Motor Traffic Nishantha Anurudhdha Weerasinghe told News 1st that discussions are underway with all other dealers to rectify the faulty airbag issue.Millions of vehicles ranging from a variety of makes and models across the world are being recalled due to faulty airbags made by a Japanese auto parts maker.The Commissioner General of the Department of Motor Traffic Nishantha Anurudhdha Weerasinghe told News 1st that vehicles that fall under the recall category are currently in use in Sri Lanka.He said that a special meeting will take place on Tuesday (14) with local car dealers to address the issue.It has now been confirmed that vehicles with defective airbags that can increase the risk of injury, fail to protect occupants, or cause a driver to crash have been sold across the world, and these include Sedans and SUBs.Although vehicles belonging to the relevant make and models have been recalled overseas to rectify the issue, in Sri Lanka, those vehicles continue to operate in the streets.The Commissioner General of the Department of Motor Traffic Nishantha Anurudhdha Weerasinghe said that local vehicle importers have decided to recall 47 vehicle models with faulty airbags to rectify the issue.These include the following:Honda: 33 Models from 9 vehicle types Mitsubishi: 8 Models from 3 vehicle types Toyota: 6 ModelsHowever, across the world, over 100 vehicle models have been recalled to rectify the airbag issue, and they include the following:Mazda: 7 vehicle categories Benz: 10 vehicle categories Mitsubishi: 6 vehicle categories Subaru: 5

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Cabinet approves President’s relief measures

COLOMBO (News 1st); Sri Lanka's Cabinet of Ministers on Monday (13) approved a proposal submitted by President Ranil Wickremesinghe aimed at reducing the difficulties faced by the people and providing immediate relief in the face of the current economic situation.Accordingly, the Cabinet has approved a measure to provide 10 kg of rice to 02 million low-income families each in March and April. This will provide immediate relief to families in need and help improve their overall well-being.It has also been decided that the gratuity arrears owed to 18,000 retired government servants will be paid out in instalments using liquid cash.

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Certified Price for Paddy; Special meeting at Army HQ with President

COLOMBO (News 1st); Sri Lanka has announced a certified price for paddy purchasing during the Maha Cultivation Season.Agriculture Secretary Gunadasa Amarasekera speaking to News 1st said that the Finance Ministry has issued the relevant circular for this purpose.Accordingly, a kilogram of paddy with moisture will be purchased for Rs. 88/- and a kilogram of dry paddy will be purchased for Rs.

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CEB and PUCSL told to discuss tariff hike

COLOMBO (News 1st); The National Council informed officials of the Ceylon Electricity Board and the Public Utilities Commission of Sri Lanka hold discussions before the Public Utilities Commission takes the final decision on the 15th of February regarding the electricity tariff.Accordingly, the officials of both parties agreed to meet this afternoon (13) for the purpose of discussing this matter.The Chairman of the Electricity Board said that if the required percentage is not allowed to be increased in a background where the Electricity Board is demanding a 60% increase in electricity tariffs, it will have to face a serious crisis. Accordingly, he pointed out that due to the lack of money even to import coal in the future, there is a risk for longer power cuts.The officials of the Public Utilities Commission said that arrangements are being made to announce the final decision on the electricity increase on the 15th of February.

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IMF, India, WB to chair Sovereign Debt Roundtable

(Reuters) – Officials from China, India, Saudi Arabia and Group of Seven nations will participate in a first virtual meeting of a new sovereign debt roundtable on Friday, the International Monetary Fund said on Monday, confirming an earlier Reuters report.The roundtable will also include officials from countries that have requested debt treatments under the Group of 20 common framework – Ethiopia, Zambia and Ghana – as well as middle-income countries such as Sri Lanka, Suriname and Ecuador, which have faced their own debt crises, three sources had earlier said.The meeting will be co-chaired by the IMF, the World Bank and India, the current leader of the Group of 20, and comes a week before G20 finance officials are due to gather in Bengaluru, India, from Feb. 23-25.

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Sri Lanka’s Government Printer says ballot papers will NOT be printed without funds – NEC

Colombo (News1st) – The National Election Commission said on Monday (13) that the Government Printer has stated that if funds are not provided ballot papers will not be printed, posing a fresh hurdle to the upcoming Local Government Elections scheduled to be held on the 9th of March.There was no immediate comment from the Government Printer.Opposition parties have repeatedly accused the government of attempting to prevent the elections from being held, while government officials have continuously stated that there is a shortage of funds for the elections due to the country's economic situation.There is also a case currently before the Supreme Court with regard to the elections that has been scheduled to be taken up on the 23rd of February.

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Railway Drivers call off strike that was launched over disciplinary issue

COLOMBO (News 1st); The strike launched by a group of Railway workers was called off on Monday (13) afternoon.A group of Railway Drivers had launched a trade union action citing that an officer at Sri Lanka Railways had instituted disciplinary action against a group of fellow railway workers.The General Manager of Railways said that the strike was called off following a discussion.Indika Dodangoda – Convener of the Union Federation to Uplift Sri Lanka Railways – told News 1st that the strike was called off following a reasonable solution being provided to the issue. However, 23 train operations were cancelled on Monday (13) morning due to the strike.A large number of people who were hoping to return to work following the weekend were severely inconvenienced due to a strike action launched by a group of Train Drivers on Monday (13) morning.A large number of commuters put their lives on the line as they were seen clinging to the trains to get to work.A group of Train Drivers had decided to go on an unannounced strike on Monday (13) morning against the conduct of a Work Supervisor who was very strict concerning the time reporting to work, and time leaving work.

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US funded fortified rice shipments in Sri Lanka

An initial shipment of 600 metric tons of fortified rice funded by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) arrived in Sri Lanka last week to support the Government of Sri Lanka’s national school meal program.According to a Crop and Food Security Assessment Mission report by U.N.’s World Food Program (WFP) and the Food and Agriculture Organization, nearly thirty percent of the Sri Lankan population is currently facing food insecurity.

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Over two dozen people arrested with party drugs

COLOMBO (News 1st); Sri Lanka Police arrested 31 people from Biyagama for the possession of Party Drugs.They were arrested while partying at a hotel in Bandarawatte, Biyagama and the gathering was organized via Facebook.The suspects are residents of Mattakkuliya, Mutuwal, Wellampitiya, Maradana, Grandpass, Peliyagoda and Kelaniya.The suspects will be produced to the Mahara Magistrate's Court.

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Bringing back forests of old: the story of Analog Forests

COLOMBO (News1 st) – Can the old forests of Sri Lanka be restored to its former glory keeping in mind the economical benefits it provided to humans living among it? News 1st's Dhisal Kapuge files this report in hopes of finding answers to that question. WATCH FULL VIDEO:

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Attempt to smuggle 206 live Star Tortoises to Malaysia stopped by Sri Lanka Customs at BIA

COLOMBO (News 1st) – A Custom official said that 206 Live star tortoises were being smuggled out of Sri Lanka to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.The star tortoises were seized by Sri Lanka Custom's Biodiversity, Cultural and National Heritage Protection Division on Saturday(11) at the BIA based on intelligence.The tortoises were placed inside six boxes labeled "Dried Sea Foods" after being placed inside cloth sacks.

Sri Lanka Malaysia city Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia stars

Operation to rescue 14 beached pilot whales in Kalpitiya

COLOMBO (News 1st) – A massive rescue operation to save 14 beached pilot whales was underway in the coastal town of Kalpitiya, Sri Lanka.The pilot whales had washed up on the Kudawa beach in Kandakuliya early on Saturday (11).Three of the whales were confirmed dead by Sri Lanka Police.Efforts to rescue the remaining 11 were underway, led by Sri Lanka Navy, police, and wildlife officers.

Sri Lanka

68% of households adopting coping strategies – WFP

COLOMBO (News 1st); The World Food Program in a recent report has revealed that the vulnerable households in Sri Lanka are bearing the brunt of the food crisis.According to the December assessment results, 33% of households are food insecure. In 2019, food insecurity levels in the country stood at 9.1%.

Sri Lanka reports Strategy

Petition challenging LG Election postponed to 23rd February

COLOMBO (News 1st); The petition filed by Retired Sri Lanka Army Colonel W. M.

Saliya Pieris Sri Lanka president Government crisis Provident

Pakistan Joint Chiefs Chairman meets President

COLOMBO (News 1st); General Sahir Shamshad Mirza, NI (M), the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee of Pakistan called on President Ranil Wickremesinghe in Colombo on Friday (10).General Sahir Shamshad Mirza arrived in Sri Lanka for a three day visit.Recalling the long-standing close relationship between Sri Lanka and Pakistan as friendly countries, the President joined General Zaheer Shamshad Mirza and others in a cordial conversation.General Sahir Shamshad Mirza also presented a momento to President Wickremesinghe.

Ranil Wickremesinghe Sri Lanka Pakistan president

‘Go ahead with the Local Government Poll’ – Supreme Court tells Election Commission

COLOMBO (News 1st); Sri Lanka's Supreme Court has granted permission for the 2023 Local Government Election to go ahead as planned by the National Election Commission.The Supreme Court had noted that the National Election Commission is bound to protect the people's franchise.Further, the Supreme Court noted that orders were not necessary on the matter as the National Election Commission had already undertaken to hold the Local Government Election in terms of the Law.The matter was taken up in the presence of Supreme Court Justice S. Thurairaja, A. H.

Dayasiri Jayasekera M.Sumanthiran G.L.Peiris Sri Lanka Government Provident

Pakistan Joint Chiefs Chairman meets CDS Shavendra Silva

COLOMBO (News 1st); General Sahir Shamshad Mirza, NI (M), the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee of Pakistan arrived in Sri Lanka for a three day visit.The visiting General and his entourage arrived in the island at the cordial invitation extended by the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Shavendra Silva WWV RWP RSP VSV USP ndc psc MPhil. Commencing the official tour in Sri Lanka, General Sahir Shamshad Mirza, NI (M) visited the Office of the Chief of Defence Staff where the visiting General was formally received in a colourful Guard of Honour, accorded on his behalf by the troops of the Sri Lanka Army. Chief of Defence Staff General Shavendra Silva and General Sahir Shamshad Mirza dedicated time for the discussions highlighting the importance of continued close relations between the two friendly nations and recalled the past memories and assistance readily extended to Sri Lanka, particularly during the height of the combat against the LTTE terrorism and remembered the bonds of understanding and goodwill that prevails between two forces throughout the years. Further, CDS conveyed his gratefulness to the Pakistan Defence Forces for the support extended to the defence sector of Sri Lanka in numerous means such as training and modern military equipment to the Sri Lankan Armed Forces. At the same time, CDS thankfully emphasized the assistance extended during the disastrous situations and stated that he looked forward to continuing the strong ties in the same spirit in the future as well.As the cordial discussions drew to a close, General Shavendra Silva symbolized the existing sound working relations by presenting a special memento to the Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee, Pakistan while wishing him all

Shavendra Silva Sri Lanka Pakistan president Kandi

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