Vol. 44 No. 64 Thursday, 13th February 2025, 12 pages Rs.

70 Registered in Sri Lanka as a Newspaper

Group led by Karu seeks to Remembering Upali

Wijewardene, founder of
resurrect Yahapalana Upali Group of Companies

constitutional proposals
The Upali Group of
Companies, its
employees and sales
agents countrywide,
have made arrange-
ments to invoke bless-
ings on its founder,

FSP accuses JVP of

BY ShAmiNdRA FERdiNANdo Upali Wijewardene,
who disappeared in

C
hairman of the Public appointed the PRCCR on 22 his Lear jet 42 years

distruping seminar
Representations Dec., 2015. ago. Bodhi Pooja,
Committee on Attorney-at-law Wijenayake Pahan Pooja and an
Constitutional Reforms said that they recently dis- alms-giving will be
(PRCCR) Lal Wijenayake yester- cussed the constitutional pro- held, in his memory, Upali Wijewardene

on govt.’s failures
day (12) said that former posals that were available for on Feb. 13 (today). Sangarakkhitha
Speaker Karu Jayasuriya, in the NPP government’s consider- A special Bodhi Thera, the Chief
his current capacity as the ation. “Having met at Pooja will be held at Incumbent of the
Chairman of the National Jayasuriya’s residence, we the Kelaniya Raja
Farmer organisations affiliated to the exploitation of farmers by the big time Kelaniya Raja Maha
Movement for Social Justice reached consensus that the for- Maha Viharaya at 6
JVP-led NPP and their erstwhile col- millers. The government that came with Viharaya.
(NMSJ), intended to initiate a mer Speaker should write to p.m. today (February
leagues of the Frontline Socialist party thousands of promises, along with the Arrangements have
dialogue with the National President Anura Kumara 13), with the blessings
clashed yesterday at Angunakolapelessa pledge to save the farmers and promote been made to offer
People’s Power (NPP) govern- Dissanayake in this regard,” of Prof. Ven.
over an awareness seminar, organised by agriculture, is now serving the interests of alms to
ment to explore the possibility Wijenayake told The Island. Kollupitiye Mahinda
the latter to discuss the government’s fail- the millers. We organised a seminar to dis- of advancing the constitutional Noting that President
ure to find solutions for the problems of cuss the actions to be taken in the face of proposals unveiled Dissanayake serves as the
farmers and peasants, party sources said. this crisis. A group of JVP leaders in during the Yahapalana admin- leader of both the Janatha

Gen. Dias asks for

The seminar organised by the Farmers’ Hambantota came to the venue in several istration. Vimukthi Peremuna (JVP) and
Struggle Movement of the FSP, was sched- vans full of supporters and told us that The Cabinet, headed by the NPP,
uled to be held at 10 am at the Gemidiriya they would not allow anti-government President Maithripala Sirisena, Wijenayake

ITAK leader’s arrest

Banquet Hall at Uswewa in seminars there. They threatened and
Angunakolapelessa and representatives of chased away the organizers and partici-
farmer and peasant organisations in the pants and removed the banners that we
surrounding areas had been invited to had put up. We condemn this high handed
attend it. act and unleashing of violence against
FSP Education Secretary Pubudu helpless farmers.” Retired General Jagath Dias
Jagoda said that a group of JVP activists, Watthuhewa said that they would not said that ITAK leader S. Sritharan,
who arrived at the venue, engaged in an stop their seminar campaign and would MP, should be arrested for threat-
argument with the organisers of the event organise similar campaigns countrywide. ening to demolish the Tissa Raja
and chased them away. JVP Propaganda Secretary Minister Maha Viharaya.
Co-convener of the Farmers’ Struggle Vijitha Herath was not in the country to The Gajaba Regiment war veter-
Movement Wimal Watthuhewa said: “The comment as he was attending the 'World an said that the MP’s declaration
farmers are now facing a crisis following Governments Summit 2025,’ in Dubai. The had violated the Constitution. Dias
the introduction of certified prices for Party’s Media Unit Head, Upul Ranjan emphasised that the government
paddy. We are convinced that we no longer Abeynayake, was not available for com- couldn’t ignore those
can continue farming owing to the ment. espousing violence, and failure to
act promptly and decisively may
Retired General encourage other troublemakers.
Jagath Dias (SF)

Largest mass transfer of OICs in A mahout bathes his elephant in a public park before night duty for the
Adani Power may
Lankan history commences today Navam Perahera festival in Colombo on Tuesday.
(Photo by Ajith Perera/Xinhua)
restore full electricity
BY NoRmAN PAlihAwAdANE fle involves 105 Chief Inspectors of

A total of 139 Officers-in-Charge

Police (CIs) and 34 Inspectors of Police
(IPs), with the transfers scheduled to Dr. Archuna in another supply to Bangladesh
scrape in Jaffna
(OICs) of police stations across the coun- take place in two phases: 13 February BY S VENKAT NARAYAN,
try have been transferred as part of a and 18 February. Our Special cOrreSpOndent
major reshuffle, following approval by A significant portion of the transfers
NEW DELHI, February 12: India’s Adani Power may
the National Police Commission. will affect OICs of police stations in BY NoRmAN PAlihAwAdANE assaulted. restore full electricity supply to Bangladesh as the
The announcement, which came late Colombo and its suburbs, with many The incident occurred on country starts clearing dues, according to sources
Monday evening, marks the largest such being reassigned to general duties to Tuesday night (11) at a hotel in aware of the development. Bangladesh’s power dues
Two individuals have been
transfer in the history of Sri Lanka’s meet service requirements. Jaffna. have fallen from their peak of $1 billion in August 2024
admitted to the Jaffna General
police force. The reshuffling decision was approved Investigations have been to $700 million now, they said.
Hospital, claiming that they
According to sources at the Police by the Secretary of the National Police launched, based on complaints On October 31, 2024, Adani halved its power supply to
were assaulted by MP Dr
Headquarters, some of the OICs will lose Commission and authorized by Acting from both parties, and the Bangladesh due to payment delays, caused by the coun-
Archuna R. Ramanathan.
their current positions when they are Inspector General of try’s foreign exchange shortage. In December, however,
The MP has also been hospi- police have said they will initi-
reassigned to different roles. The reshuf- Police Priyantha the Bangladesh Power Development Board (BPDB) had
talised. He claims he was ate legal action. conveyed to Adani to halve power supply, citing low
demand owing to the onset of winter.
“The power dues are down as Bangladesh is making

No child will be discriminated against: Indian Supreme

payments of around $85 million per month to Adani
Power,” said an official aware of the development.
According to news agency Reuters, BPDB and Adani

Court on plea for Rohingyas’ access to public schools officials were due to meet virtually Tuesday following
another meeting recently to work out various issues
between them.
BY S VENKAT NARAYAN refugees living in Delhi, and around education. “As per our requirement today, they have planned to
Our Special cOrreSpOndent 40,000 across India, quite a few of Senior advocate Colin Gonsalves, synchronise the second unit, but due to the high vibra-
them in Jammu, Hyderabad and Nuh appearing for the NGO Rohingya tion, it didn’t happen,” BPDB Chairperson Md. Rezaul
(Haryana). Rohingyas are Bengali- Human Rights Initiative, said he has Karim told Reuters, referring to some technical prob-
NEW DELHI, February 12: No lems that stopped the unit from restarting on Monday.
child will be discriminated against in speaking Muslims who fled their filed an affidavit giving the details
“Right now, we are making a payment of $85 million
education, the Indian Supreme Court native Buddhist-majority Myanmar and pointed out that the Rohingya
per month. We are trying to pay more, and our inten-
declared on Wednesday (February 12) to escape persecution by the local refugees have UNHCR (United tion is to reduce the overdue. Now there is no big issue
while fixing for next week a plea population. Nations High Commissioner for with Adani,” he told Reuters.
The court just wants to know Refugees) cards.
= The JVP has been accused seeking a direction to the
where these Rohingya families are It will be easier for the NGO to
Adani Power supplies nearly 1600 MW of power to
Bangladesh from its coal- fired plant in Godda,
of disrupting an FSP semi- Governments of India and Delhi to
grant Rohingya refugees in the city living, in whose house and what are give the particulars if these Jharkhand. It has two units of nearly 800 MW each. It
nar on government’s fail- their particulars, a Bench of Justices Rohingya families have these cards, had signed a 25-year power purchase agreement (PPA)
ures. access to public schools and hospi-
Surya Kant and N. Kotiswar Singh Justice Surya Kant said. with BPDB in 2015 and meets a tenth of Bangladesh’s
tals.
said while making the point that Gonsalves then electricity needs.
= Signs of desperation. There are over a 1,000 Rohingya
there should be no discrimination in sought The PPA is backed by the sovereign
guarantee of the Government of
 2 Thursday 13th February, 2025 The Island News
Trump says Gaza residents Japan extends grant
aid to two humanitarian
won’t have right to return projects in North
IANS: US President Donald Trump has years before it could happen.” a pre-recorded interview to be aired dur-
Japanese Ambassador Akio Ward for Palai Divisional Hospital”,
said Palestinians will not have a right to Advertisement ing the Sunday Super Bowl championship
Isomata on Tuesday signed two grant which will improve healthcare servic-
return to Gaza which he plans for the Trump’s plan to resettle Gaza residents, match of the American Football League.
contracts under the “Grant Assistance es in the Kilinochchi District by con-
United States to “own” as it is redeveloped which he announced at a recent news The US President’s interview is a part of
for Grassroots Human Security structing a new inpatient ward at
and rebuilt. briefing with Japan’s Prime Minister, has the Super Bowl tradition. Trump spoke of
Projects (GGP)” with two NGOs, Palai Divisional Hospital. The hospi-
The American President has been dou- not been received well in the region, multiple issues, including his proposal to
Humanitarian Development tal, serving 14,927 resettled individu-
bling down on his plan to “take over” Gaza except for Israel, which has welcomed it. annex Canada as the 51st state, which he
Organization (HDO) and Nuffield als, currently suffers from severe over-
and build “beautiful communities” for the Both Egypt and Jordan have dismissed it said he means it; and defended billionaire
School for Deaf and Blind, during his crowding and inadequate hygiene
1.9 million residents of Gaza, who, accord- and Cairo has said it will host a Summit of Elon Musk’s moves to cut federal costs.
first trip to the Northern Province, a facilities.
ing to his plan will have to live elsewhere the Arab League following talks at the On his Gaza plans, the President said
press release issued by the Embassy The “Project for the Improvement
in the region, neighbouring countries in highest level in recent days “to discuss further, “We’ll build beautiful communi-
said. of Nuffield School for the Deaf and
the interim. new and dangerous developments for the ties for the 1.9 million people. We’ll build
The signing took place in the pres- Blind in the Northern Province” aims
“No, they wouldn’t,” Trump told an Palestinian cause”. beautiful communities, safe communities.
ence of Northern Province Governor, to create a safe and comfortable learn-
interviewer when asked if the Trump was dismissive of skepticism (They) could be five, six could be two. But
Nagalingam Vethanayahan, at the lat- ing environment for children. The
Palestinians will have the right to return. from the region. “I think I could make a we’ll build safe communities a little bit
ter’s office in Jaffna. Nuffield School is the only Tamil-lan-
“Because they’re going to have much bet- deal with Jordan, I think I could make a away from where they are, where all of
The Government of Japan has allo- guage institution providing free edu-
ter housing … I’m talking about building a deal with Egypt. You know, we give them this danger is. In the meantime, I would
cated USD 173,659 (approx. Rs. 50 mil- cation and residential facilities for
permanent place for them, because if they billions and billions of dollars a year,” he own this. Think of it as a real estate devel-
lion) for these projects to enhance deaf and blind children from all over
have to return now, it will be years before said in the interview. opment for the future. It would be a beauti-
medical and educational facilities in Sri Lanka. This project will also
you could ever – it’s not habitable. It will be The US President spoke to Fox News for ful piece of land”.
the Northern Province. Supporting enhance power supply safety, sanita-
development in conflict-affected areas tion, and hostel facilities in the school.
remains a priority in Japan’s official Ambassador Isomata reaffirmed
development assistance to Sri Lanka, Japan’s commitment to supporting
particularly in promoting mitigation vulnerable communities and sustain-
A Sri Lankan delegation, of vulnerabilities. able growth in Sri Lanka, particularly
led by Defence HDO is implementing the “Project in the Northern Province.
Secretary Air Vice for the Construction of a Medical
Marshal (Retd) Sampath
Thuyacontha, and an
Indian delegation, led
Indian Indian Defence
Secretary, Shri Rajesh
Milinda Moragoda to address Centre for
Kumar Singh, met on
Tuesday (11) during an
going Aero India 2025 air
National Security Studies in Bangalore
The Founder of Studies (CNSS).
show, which is being the Pathfinder The Centre for National Security
held in Karnataka, Foundation, Studies is a newly established private
Bengaluru, to discuss Milinda Moragoda, think-tank set up to engage in
key areas of mutual will deliver a talk, research and policy advocacy in the
interest, including meas- entitled field of national security. The main
ures to combat illegal “Navigating the areas of focus include critical tech-
fishing, the Ministry Terrain of Policy- nologies, maritime security and issues
of Defence said. Making in the Age related to the Indo-Pacific, including
of Disruption,” climate change and sustainability
this Friday (14) in challenges. The Centre falls under the
Milinda Bangalore at the aegis of the MS Ramaiah University of
Moragoda Centre for Applied Sciences, a top private univer-

Ferry service between India,

National Security sity in Bangalore.

No child... From Page 1

Lanka to restart on 16 Feb.

some time to furnish more details to The PIL has sought a direction to
the court. The top court posted the mat- authorities to grant admission to all
ter for further hearing after 10 days. Rohingya children free of cost irrespec-
On January 31, the top court asked tive of Aadhaar cards and allow them
the NGO to apprise the court where the to participate in all examinations,
Rohingya refugees have settled in the including Classes 10 and 12 and gradua-
city and the facilities accessible to tion, without government insistence on

C
limate change-induced gale-force excluding Additionally, the total baggage limit has
winds, erratic monsoons, and a tur- Tuesdays. A ticket increased to 70 kg, up from the previous them. It also asked Gonsalves to file an the ID proof.
bulent sea are now hindering the for a single person limit of 50 kg, with 23 kg permitted at no affidavit indicating their places of set- The PIL also sought extension of all
smooth operation of the India-Sri Lanka travelling to extra cost. tlement in Delhi. government benefits such as free health
ferry service, which was resumed with Jaffna will cost Onboard facilities have been improved. Gonsalves said the NGO sought services in government hospitals, sub-
much fanfare 17 months ago, said a report INR 4,500. The Ponnusamy informed that toilets and access to public schools and hospitals to sidised food grains as available under
published by the Hindustan Times yester- company has also other passenger amenities have been Rohingya refugees as they were denied Antyodya Anna Yojana scheme and
day. developed travel redesigned. “We have expanded our snack the access due to lack of Aadhaar cards. benefits under the Food Security Act to
Remained in suspended animation for packages for options and will now offer fresh milk, cof- Aadhaar cards are national identity Rohingya families as available to other
41 years, due to the civil war that ravaged Indian tourists, fee, tea, and cold beverages. Additionally, cards for Indian citizens. citizens, irrespective of citizenship.
Sri Lanka, the age-old sea route was reju- including visits to a duty-free shop will be introduced on the “They are refugees having UNHCR
venated under the joint auspices of
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi
Mannar,
Mullaitivu,
vessel, allowing passengers to purchase
goods at discounted prices,” he said.
cards and therefore they can’t have
Aadhaar cards. But for want of Remembering...
and then President Ranil Wickramsinghe. Trincomalee, and Researchers identify global warming Aadhaar they are not being granted From Page 1
Since its formal launch on October 14, Anuradhapura. as the primary cause of the current situa- access to public schools and hospitals,”
2023, adverse weather has halted its oper- Narendra Modi Any Indian cit- tion in the Gulf of Mannar, located in the he submitted. the Maha Sangha at Kelaniya Raja
Gonsalves said Rohingya refugees Maha Viharaya and scholarships to 10
ations at least four times, with long dura- izen with a pass- Indian Ocean between India and Sri
resided in Shaheen Bagh, Kalindi Kunj needy children from the Helena
tions of keeping the vessel ashore. The port and a return ticket can travel to Sri Lanka.
and Khajuri Khas areas of Delhi. Wijewardene Maha Vidyalaya, Kelaniya.
fifth relaunch scheduled for Thursday (13 Lanka using the ferry, as the visa is avail- ``The northeast monsoon arrived very
“In Shaheen Bagh and Kalindi Kunj Alms-giving to the inmates of the
Feb.) has also been postponed at the last able on arrival. Sundararaj Ponnusamy, late, and its effects are still ongoing. In
they are residing in slums and in Home for the Elders at Mulgampola,
minute, citing the continuing roughness Chairman and Managing Director of the coming days, there will likely be
Khajuri Khas they are residing in rent- Kandy, Bodhi Pooja Pinkama and Kavi
of the sea. Subham Group, stated that the company’s unprecedented and accelerated warming
ed accommodation,” he had submitted. Bana Pinkama, from 4.30 p.m. onwards, at
When contacted, a spokesperson for older vessel, Shivaganga, will be used ini- in the ocean, which may lead to rougher
The top court had said it asked the the Ceylon Chocolates factory premises.
the Thiruchirapally-based Subham Ferry tially. The vessel will depart from sea conditions. It is essential to have bet-
questions to understand if they lived Bodhi Pooja, Pahan Pooja and
Services, which operates the service on Nagapattinam port at 7 AM, with the ter vessels that can withstand the chal-
in camps, the nature of relief would be Kavibana deshana will be held at Vidya
behalf of the Shipping Corporation of return journey starting at 2 PM. The lenges posed by the sea,’’ said ocean
different than the one mentioned in the Niketha Piriven Viharaya, Sapugoda
India (SCI), stated that the relaunch is duration of each of the journeys is expert Dr. Mahesh Rangathanathan.
PIL. Kamburupitiya.
expected to occur on 16 Feb., provided expected to be around three hours. He The ferry service from Nagapattinam
Bodhi Pooja, Pahan Pooja and
that the weather conditions improve. emphasised that the fare is designed to be to Kakesanthurai is viewed as India’s
Online tickets from Nagapattinam, in
Tamil Nadu, to Kankesanthurai in Jaffna
affordable for middle-class travellers.
Another vessel will be added to the trip
strategic initiative to strengthen its pres-
ence in Sri Lankan waters. Additionally,
Adani... From Page 1
Kavibana deshana will be held at Maha
Saman Devalaya at Ratnapura.
The employees of Upali Consumer
will be available a day before the launch. by the end of March. this service aims to monitor smuggling Bangladesh. Its Godda power plant is
Products have arranged an alms-giving
The company expressed concern regard- The two-way fare has been lowered and infiltration activities in international dependent on imported coal and supplies
lunch at the ‘Children’s Home’ at Ja-Ela.
ing previous trip cancellations at the last from INR 9,700 to INR 8,500, making the waters. Intelligence sources suggest it power to Bangladesh with fuel cost pass-
Founder’s Day Programme on
minute, leading to refund complications. journey more affordable. Passengers can will also help maintain and enhance the through. The balance 7.1 GW capacity is
February 13, 2025.
According to the current plan, the carry up to 10 kg of baggage for free, but cultural relationship between India and located closer to mines of which 84% has
9.00 a.m. - Holy Mass at Mattakkuliya
ferry service will operate six days a week, any excess baggage will incur a charge. Sri Lanka. fuel supply agreement.
Church.
10.00 a.m. - Offering of Buddhapooja at
Group... From Page 1 the ‘Dhathumandiriya’.
10.30 a.m. - Scholarships to 10 needy
emphasized that Premier Dr. Harini a report that contained the entire set of flict the country couldn’t achieve true former parliamentarian said that the children from Helena Wijewardene Maha
Amarasuriya had been a member of the proposals to Yahapalana Premier Ranil national reconciliation for want of a government shouldn’t, under any cir- Vidyalaya, Kelaniya.
PRCCR. Therefore, the NPP government Wickremesinghe on 31 May, 2016. new Constitution that was acceptable to cumstances, promote a federal agenda in 11.30 a.m. - Alms-giving for the Maha
could comfortably handle the constitu- Karu Jayasuriya served as the the people. the guise of enacting a new Sangha at Kelaniya Raja Maha Viharaya.
tional proposals prepared following a Speaker of the Yahapalana government Former SLPP National List MP Constitution. 12 noon – Providing lunch for the
countrywide public consultations at the and was a key supporter of that consti- Gevindu Cumaratunga accused Wijenayake noted that at the time the Children’s Home, Ja-Ela, organised by the
onset of Yahapalana administration tutional process that received the back- Jayasuriya of promoting Yahapalana PRCCR formulated those constitutional employees of Upali Trading Co. Ltd.
(2015-2019), the civil society activist said. ing of the Geneva-based United Nations constitutional proposals that had been proposals those who now represented 6.00 p.m. - Bodhi Pooja and Pahan Pooja
Wijenayake explained the current sta- Human Rights Council. roundly rejected by the people at the the main Opposition SJB were members at Kelaniya Raja Maha Viharaya.
tus of their efforts in response to The Wijenayake said that in the wake of presidential and parliamentary polls in of the UNP. In the Yahapalana All these pinkamas (meritorious acts)
Island queries. According to the November 2019 presidential election, 2019 and 2020, respectively. Parliament the JVP had only six MPs are organized by Upali Group employees
him, the NMSJ Chief has called another President Gotabaya Rajapaksa appoint- Cumaratunga emphasized that the pro- though the Marxist party-led NPP con- and newspaper, Kandos/Delta and soap
meeting later this month to pursue the ed a nine-member committee, headed by posed new Constitution should reflect sisted of 159 MPs in the current agents.
matter. Pointing out that some felt that Romesh de Silva, PC, to formulate a new the actual situation on the ground or Parliament.
the government should entirely focus on draft Constitution. That effort was dis- post-2009 position. Asked to explain, the
post-Aragalaya economic recovery carded after Aragalaya forced Gotabaya DEATH
process, the new administration Rajapaksa out of office, Wijenayake Largest... From Page 1 YVONNE THEABOLD (nee Perera)
couldn’t afford to keep the constitutional said, urging all political parties repre-
Weerasuriya. The adjustments are He noted that some officers were trans- Beloved wife of the late Thotawatte Don
solution on the backburner, Wijenayake sented in Parliament to examine their
part of what is labelled as routine service ferred due to underperformance. Theobold (Theo), precious Mother to
said. proposals with an open mind. “Let us
modifications designed to improve opera- “This has been an ongoing process. Delanie, Marie, and Virasmi, dearest moth-
The Public Representations stop playing politics with the constitu-
tional efficiency within the police force. There had been no transfers for nearly er-in-law of Duleep Vethavanam, Giuseppe
Committee consisted of S. Winston tion making process. We should be gen-
Police Headquarters sources con- three years. There is no political influ- Monaco, Mahesh Premachandra and
Pathiraja (Secretary), Faisz Musthapha, uinely interested in formulating a
firmed that the officers involved have ence in this. Some officers have been Giovanni Goonetilleke, devoted and
Prof. A. M. Navaratna Bandara, Prof. M. Constitution that would meet the aspira-
been informed of their new postings. reassigned to general duties, while others adored grandmother to Manosh, Shehana,
L. A. Cader, N. Selvakkumaran, S. tions of all communities,” Wijenayake
Meanwhile Police stated that have received favourable postings. No one Dinesh, Dinushka, Givanke and Vinoli,
Thavarajah, Kushan D’Alwis, Dr. Harini said.
the recent decision to transfer Officers- can claim politics played a role. We will proud great-grandmother to Ashenka,
Amarasuriya, Dr. Kumudu Kusum Wijenayake, who is a member of the
in-Charge (OICs) was not politically moti- evaluate the performance of these trans- Ashane, Brandon, Kyle, Daavi, Daliana
Kumara, Sunil Jayaratne, Dr. Upul NPP’s Executive Committee, said that
vated. ferred officers for a year. OICs cannot and Elliott, expired. Remains lie at
Abeyratne, Themiya L. B. Hurulle, S. during the presidential and parliamen-
Police Media Spokesperson SSP remain idle—they must fulfil their Mahinda Funeral parlour, Mount Lavinia
Vijesandiran, M.Y.M. Faiz, Mrs. M. K. tary election campaigns references were
Buddhika Manatunga explained that the responsibilities. The National Police from 10 am on Thursday, 13th February.
Nadeeka Damayanthi, Ms. Kanthie made to the PRCCR’s proposals.
transfers were necessary as many Police Commission has inquired about these Cortege leaves parlour on Friday, 14th
Ranasinghe, S. C. C. Elankovan, and Responding to another query,
OICs had not been reassigned for a con- transfers multiple times, and they have February at 4.30 pm. Interment at Mount
Sirimasiri Hapuarachchi. Wijenayake emphasized that in spite
siderable period. been carried out with their approval,” Lavinia Cemetery RC Section at 5 p.m.
The Wijenayake-led PRC handed over of the successful conclusion of the con-
 The Island News Thursday 13th February, 2025
3
Lankan cultural melting pot
presented at London celebration
Independence Day
By Sujeeva NivuNhella the challenges Sri Lanka has faced,
reporting from London including the prolonged civil conflict
+ and the economic crisis of 2022. She
commended the resilience of the peo-

F
or the first time in London, the Sri
PM Amarasuriya together with key partners of the One Registry initiative - (L-R): Dr. Shalala Lankan High Commission hosted a
ple and expressed confidence in the
Ahmadova, Officer-In-Charge, WHO Sri Lanka; Lars Bredal, Charge d’Affaires of the EU Delegation special reception dedicated to com-
leadership of President Dissanayake,
to Sri Lanka and the Maldives; Lakshika Ganepola, Senior Deputy Registrar General; Azusa whose policies emphasize transparen-
munity engagement in celebration of
cy, accountability, and inclusive devel-
Kubota, Resident Representative, UNDP in Sri Lanka; Pradeep Saputhanthri, Secretary to the the nation’s 77th Independence
opment.
Prime Minister; Marc-Andre Franche, UN Resident Coordinator in Sri Lanka; SL Prime Minister; Anniversary. The event, held at the
She highlighted key governmental
Eranga Weeraratne, Deputy Minister of Digital Economy; Dr. Hans Wijayasuriya, Chief Advisor to Sarah Siddons Theatre at the City of
initiatives such as the Support to
Westminster College’s Paddington Green
the President on Digital Economy; Waruna Sri Dhanapala, Secretary- Acting, MODE; and Selected Anti-Corruption Initiatives
Campus, brought together over 350 mem-
W.R.A.N.S. Wijayasinghe, Registrar General bers of the Sri Lankan community,
Project and the ‘Clean Sri Lanka’ ini-
tiative, launched on 01 Jan., 2025.

Joint Programme on ‘Transforming Local

friends of Sri Lanka, and well-wishers.
Acting High “‘Clean Sri Lanka’ is not just a cam-
The reception featured a vibrant cul-
paign but a movement that embodies
tural segment, showcasing Sri Lanka’s Commissioner Manori

Administrative Data Collection Systems

the essence of a National
rich artistic traditions. It began with a Mallikarachchi Renaissance,” she said, urging the
traditional Kandyan dance performed speaking at the event community to support the initiative

for SDG Acceleration’ launched

by the Kandyan Dancers Company, fol-
and contribute to creating a cleaner,
lowed by a Bharathanatyam perform-
more ethical society.
ance by Branava Nartanalaya. The Rupavahini
This reception marked the first time the Sri
Muthuhara Children’s Society UK 2515 captivated
The Government and the United Nations in Sri Lanka The initiative focuses on three pillars: digitalized civil Lanka High Commission in London has hosted an
the audience with a series of songs, while a fusion
have launched the ‘Transforming Local Administrative registration processes, a functional interoperable reg- event solely focused on community engagement.
dance performance brought together elements of
Data Collection Systems for SDG Acceleration’ Joint istry linked with key government agencies and increased The event’s success was made possible through the
both Kandyan and Bharathanatyam styles, symbol-
Programme, marking a significant step towards strength- public awareness and digital literacy to maximize the generous sponsorship of Sri Lankan Tamil-owned
ising unity in diversity.
ening the country’s Civil Registration and Vital Statistics system’s benefits. These efforts will complement national enterprises such as Regent Group UK, Leaf Hotels
Interspersed between performances were speech-
(CRVS) system. digital initiatives, such as the e-NIC and Sri Lanka Group, Sky Wings, Bala Letting, and Home Care
es from prominent community leaders, including
This initiative, named ‘One Registry’, implemented by Unique Digital Identity (SLUDI) projects, advancing the Group, along with Bank of Ceylon, De La Rue, and
Dr. Mohan Siriwardena (Buddhist community),
the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) country’s vision of a unified and digitally inclusive socie- Capital Metals.
Kanagaratnam Rajamenon (Hindu community),
and the World Health Organization (WHO) in Sri Lanka, ty. “The collaboration between public and private
Shakeer Nawas (Islamic community), and Dr.
and supported via the UN Sri Lanka SDG Fund, aligns Reflecting the UN’s commitment to innovation and sectors is vital in strengthening community ties
Roshan Jayalath (Christian community). Each
with the Government’s broader digital transformation sustainability, Marc-André Franche, Resident and supporting initiatives that celebrate our shared
speaker reflected on the contributions of the Sri
agenda and strategy, aiming to ensure equitable access to Coordinator of the United Nations in Sri Lanka, com- heritage,” the Acting High Commissioner empha-
Lankan diaspora and the importance of fostering
quality public services for all citizens, particularly the mented, “The CRVS programme is a critical part of Sri sized.
unity and harmony within the community.
vulnerable populations, and paves the way for inclusive Lanka’s digital journey, providing legal identity for all As Sri Lanka moves forward, the government’s
In her keynote address, the Acting High
digital transformation and sustainable development. and generating high-quality data for data-driven policy- vision is centred on economic transformation,
Commissioner Manori Mallikarachchi emphasized
The project launch was held recently in Colombo, making. With the right policies and partnerships, digital inclusive innovation, and
this year’s Independence theme, ‘Towards a
with the participation of Prime Minister Dr Harini technology can drive sustainable development, fostering sustainable development. NOTICE
National Renaissance,’ highlighting the resilience
Amarasuriya; Minister of Public Administration, greater inclusivity and accountability in governance. “Empowering marginalized In terms of Section 9 of the
of the Sri Lankan people and the nation’s journey Companies Act No. 7 of 2007.
Minister of Public Administration, Provincial Councils The United Nations in Sri Lanka is proud to partner with communities and fostering
through historical struggles toward independence. We hereby give notice of the
and Local Government Dr. A.H.M.H. Abayarathna; the Government to build a people-centered system that technological advancements Change of Name of the under
She underscored the government’s commitment to
Deputy Minister, Ministry of Digital Economy Eranga leaves no one behind. are at the heart of our noted Company.
transparency, economic transformation, and sus- Former Name of the
Weeraratne; Registrar General W.R.A.N.S. Wijayasinghe; Commenting on the initiative, Lars Bredal, Chargé nation’s progress,” she stat-
tainable development, while also calling upon the Company: RACHEL’S GEM
Resident Coordinator, United Nations Sri Lanka Resident d’Affaires a.i of the Delegation of the European Union to ed, encouraging the diaspora
Sri Lankan diaspora to actively contribute to the & JEWELLERY (PRIVATE)
Representative Marc-Andre Franche; Officer-in-Charge Sri Lanka and the Maldives noted, “We are happy to part- to play an active role in Sri LIMITED
nation’s progress.
WHO Sri Lanka Azusa Kubota; Dr. Shalala Ahmadova; ner with the Government of Sri Lanka, UNDP, and WHO Lanka’s recovery and growth. No. of the Company:
“The story of Sri Lanka’s independence is one of P V 00219530
Chief Advisor to the President on Digital Economy Dr. through the UN Sri Lanka SDG Fund on the launch of In closing, the Acting High
resilience and hope. As we mark our 77th year, we Registered Address:
Hans Wijayasuriya, alongside UN partners, development the Joint programme to modernize the country’s civil Commissioner reiterated the
do so with a renewed sense of purpose,” she stated, No. 154A, Anderson Road,
agencies, private sector organizations, and CSOs. registration and vital statistics system, facilitating equi- significance of unity and Dehiwela.
acknowledging the role of key historical figures
Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya said that table access to quality public services. As a global con- resilience. “As we celebrate New Name of the Company:
such as Gongalegoda Banda, Veera Puran Appu, 10 G INTERNATIONAL
“Strengthening the CRVS system is a transformative step tributor to the Joint SDG Fund’s digitalization window, 77 years of Independence, let
Anagarika Dharmapala, Arumugar Navalar, and (PRIVATE) LIMITED
towards enhancing public administration and driving the EU Global Gateway funding will directly contribute us honour the sacrifices of
C.W.W. Kannangara in shaping the nation’s identity Professional Assignments
our digital agenda. This initiative will ensure every Sri to progress on interlinked SDGs through investment in the past and commit to build- and Secretarial Services
and independence movement.
Lankan has access to critical services and a recognized digitalization. The EU stands ready to share best practice ing a future that reflects the (Private) Limited
Reflecting on the nation’s post-independence Secretaries
legal identity, fostering transparency, inclusivity, and in digitalization and data protection.” ideals of a Thriving Nation,
journey, the Acting High Commissioner addressed 6th February 2025
progress.” Beautiful Life.”
 4 Thursday 13th February, 2025

The Island The Rohingya question and states’

international obligations
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T
he presence of Rohingya refugees in
011-2497568, 011-2497519, 011-2497580 Fax: 011-2334564 Sri Lanka has prompted sections in the
South of the country to raise some con-
Thursday 13th February, 2025 cerns in connection with it but The Human
Rights Commission of Sri Lanka’s (THRCSL)

Groping in the dark recent report on the issue, if received and

read in a spirit of reconciliation and humani-
ty, should put their minds at ease.

S
ri Lanka continues to be in the throes of mul- To be sure, there is considerable substance
tiple crises because their root causes usually in the objections and worries of the relevant
go unaddressed. If the past governments, es- Southern quarters but the majority of the
refugees in question need to be seen as vic-
pecially the Gotabaya Rajapaksa administration, tims of complex political circumstances in
had cared to tackle the issue of the country’s na- their countries of origin over which they do
tional debt becoming unmanageable by taking steps not have any control.
Those Rohingyas who are now literally
to shore up foreign currency reserves and increas-
adrift in the seas of South Asia and beyond,
ing state revenue substantially, the current eco- are strictly speaking stateless. Most of them
nomic crisis could have been averted. are escaping endemic political turmoil and
A mega crisis has been developing in the power runaway lawlessness in the Rakhine state of
Mynamar and the spillover of such tensions
sector for decades, but nobody seems to care. Suc- into the Myanmar-Bangladesh border and
cessive governments have only paid lip service to beyond. A boat load of Rohingyas rescued off MullaitIvu
the pressing need to address it. Sunday’s country- There has been playing out in the Rakhine
positive approaches to meeting Sri Lanka’s
region over the decades a Rohingya armed
wide power outage has left the government, the Op- struggle for autonomy but the majority of the
obligations as a UN member state. The pres-
position, the Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) and ent most unhappy existence of being a UN
Rohingyas are not in any way supportive of
member state and not implementing atten-
other stakeholders behaving like the proverbial vi- this armed struggle which is an expression of

orld
dant obligations needs to end if Sri Lanka is
sually-impaired men who tried to figure out the the Rohingyas’ awareness of their separate
not to be accused of ‘double speak’ and ‘dou-
identity as a community, although they pos-
shape of an elephant by touching different parts of ble think’.
sess a wider Muslim identity as well.

SCAN
Meanwhile, identity politics and connected
the animal’s anatomy, and came to absurd conclu- But there has been an influx of Rohingya
problems are bound to remain in South Asia
sions. No sooner had the power failure occurred refugees to several neighbouring countries
and bedevil all efforts by states of the region
from this conflict, including very significant-
than Minister in charge of the power sector, Ku- ly Bangladesh, and this has been triggering
to see eye-to-eye on issues such as the state-
mara Jayakody, declared that a monkey had done it! less. The yawning ‘democratic deficit’ in
concerns among the wider publics in those
BY LYNN OCKERSZ South Asia continues to be a formidable chal-
His claim had the whole world in stitches, with in- states which are compelled to manage the
lenge.
Rohingya refugee presence amid economic
ternational media giving it much prominence But all efforts should be made to reduce
pressures of their own.
owing to its high entertainment value. It also made The problems arising from the Rohingya this deficit through collaborative efforts
one wonder whether Sri Lanka’s national grid was refugee presence have been compounded by among the concerned states. This is so

so primitive that it lacked resilience to withstand the rise of Islamic militancy in South Asia However, this does not take because increasing democratization of states
remains the most effective means of making
and the tendency among some of these mili-
the shock from a monkey coming into contact with tant groups to exploit this presence for the away from the fact that the identity politics irrelevant and the latter is a
a transformer in a grid substation. Even ferocious propagation of their causes. majority of Rohingyas are primary cause for the break-up of states,
which process throws-up troubling conse-
Tigers could not shut down the national grid de- However, this does not take away from the
fact that the majority of Rohingyas are help- helpless victims of circum- quences, such as statelessness and refugees.
spite all their terror attacks on the country’s power
infrastructure.
less victims of circumstance. They are caught stance. They are caught up in Fresh initiatives need to be undertaken by
up in the metaphorical ‘exchange of fire’ the ‘South Asian Eight’ to end the continuing
Senior CEB engineers lost no time in attributing between mutually suspicious states that are the metaphorical ‘exchange ‘Cold War’-type situation between India and
Sunday’s power outage to an increase in solar compelled to contend with issues growing out of fire’ between mutually sus- Pakistan, since they hold the key to re-acti-
of the rise of Islamic militancy. But for the vating SAARC and making it workable once
power generation, which, they said, had rendered majority of Rohingyas such endemic conflicts picious states that are com- again. It ought to be plain to see that it is
the national grid unstable on account of a drop in among states translate into displacement, pelled to contend with issues only the SAARC spirit that could help in ush-
demand. That sounded a tall tale and betrayed the statelessness and growing powerlessness. ering a degree of solidarity in South Asia
engineers’ prejudice against power generation from For an enlightened understanding of what growing out of the rise of which could go some distance in resolving

renewable sources. The CEB Technological Engi-

states need to do in connection with the
refugee crisis and connected questions it
Islamic militancy. But for the issues growing out of nation-breaking.
Once again, South-South cooperation
neers Union has rubbished the engineers’ claim; it would be necessary to read the THRCSL majority of Rohingyas such should be seen as a compelling necessity. If
has said that according to a report prepared by a report above mentioned. States that are mem-
bers of the UN family are obliged to ratify
endemic conflicts among vital sections of the South come to this real-
ization and recognize the need for such intra-
committee consisting of 35 experts including some and implement a number of conventions states translate into displace- regional cooperation, the coming back to
of the serving CEB high-rankers, the national grid related to refugees and the THRCSL mentions
some of these. They are: The 1951 Convention
ment, statelessness and power of Donald Trump could be considered
is capable of accommodating 2,600 MW of power as having yielded some good, though in a
from renewable sources, and solar power produc- on Refugees; 1954 Convention Relating to the growing powerlessness. highly negative way. Because Trump has
Status of Stateless Persons; 1961 Convention made it all too plain that he would not be con-
tion amounts to only 1,400 MW at present. The CEB on the Reduction of the Stateless and the sidering it obligatory on the part of the US to
stands accused of short-changing the solar power Rights of Refugees and Stateless Persons
help ease the lot of the South any more.
producers in a bid to perpetuate the country’s within Sri Lanka.
The South would have no choice but to fall
If Sri Lanka and other countries facing a
overdependence on lucrative thermal power pro- refugee influx have not adopted these laws obligations towards the stateless and home-
back on strategies of self-reliance. No doubt,
this situation would accrue to the benefit of
duction. It will be interesting to see what the CEB they would need to do so without further less.
the world’s powerless. Self-reliance is the best
engineers have to say about the aforesaid expert delay if they are opting to remain within the It was encouraging to note a Southern
group in Sri Lanka mentioning that the option and the only key to unravelling exter-
UN fold. In this connection, the Universal
committee report. Declaration of Human Rights should be seen Lankan government should draw the atten- nal shackles that bind the South to the North.
There have been several previous instances tion of the UNHRC to the fact that the state is Meanwhile, those sections of Southern Sri
to be of fundamental importance. The
Lanka that are tending to cheer Trump on
where we experienced countrywide power outages Declaration is the fountainhead, so to speak, not a signatory to some of the mentioned
need to put the brakes on any such idle dis-
of international humanitarian law and UN refugee conventions. This is the way to go. A
that lasted for hours. During the past decade or so, dialogue process with the UNHRC, which tractions. The message that Trump has for
members states have no choice but to adhere
every regime change has been followed by a nation- to it. does not happen to be very popular in Sri the world is one of division and strife. By
wide power failure. The UNP-led UNF formed the Contentious issues are likely to grow out of Lanka, on such issues would perhaps throw rolling back almost all the progressive ven-
the implementation part of the mentioned up fresh insights on Sri Lanka’s obligations tures that have come out of Washington over
Yahapalana government in 2015 after ousting the the years, Trump is plunging the world into
conventions but it is best that signatory states on refugee issues that may then convince the
Mahinda Rajapaksa administration, and a country- take up these matters with the relevant key state to sign and ratify the conventions con- further ‘disorder’. The international commu-
wide blackout occurred in 2016. Grid defects were agencies of the UN rather than grouch over cerned. nity needs to brace for stepped-up nation-
blamed for the eight-hour power outage, but no ac- matters that surface from their inalienable There needs to be a flourishing of such breaking.
tion was taken to find out what had really caused it.
The SLPP toppled the Yahapalana administra-
tion, and formed a government by winning the 2019
presidential election and the 2020 parliamentary
polls; the country experienced a nationwide power
failure in 2021. The issue was relegated to the limbo
of forgotten things after the restoration of power
supply and some half-hearted attempts to identify
the causes thereof. Prolonged power cuts came
thereafter for want of fuel to generate electricity.
Another countrywide power failure was experi-
enced in 2023 about one year after the ouster of
President Rajapaksa and Ranil Wickremesinghe’s
fortuitous elevation to the presidency. The latest na-
tionwide power outage has come only a few months
after a regime change.
Sunday’s power failure must be thoroughly
probed and the causative factors identified as a na-
tional priority. It must also be ascertained whether
some vested interests deliberately undermined the
national grid to advance their own interests. Given
the existence of various powerful lobbies, popularly
known as Mafias, in Sri Lanka’s power sector, any-
thing is possible.
The government should give serious thought to
launching a clean-up of the power sector, which is
rotten to the core, under its Clean Sri Lanka initia-
tive.
 Opinion Features 5 The Island Thursday 13th February, 2025

The passing
Shortage of medicines: Sarjana Karunakaranof
Senaka Bibile Policy ‘Chirp ye squirrels and mourn

is the solution
ye birds,
for a spirit ye loved hath bidden
good bye’

P
assing is something that we
all have to reckon with,
come early or late. We feel
sadder when a person full of

T
he Senaka Bibile Medicinal Drug its struggle against British Imperialist rule.
Policy is the answer to the present He joined the LSSP while at University and smiles and life is taken from us
severe shortage of medicines in the made an excellent study of by chance. The beginning of 1990
government hospitals. As a result, most Marxism/Leninism. As a medical student I was a time, with the drum beats
patients have to purchase their medicines formed a Socialist Society and used to take a of the second round of war, that
from private pharmacies. The price of these group of interested students to his house in heralded three births in my fami-
medicines has soared to such an extent that Rajagiriya on bicycles. He gave us some good ly, besides Sarjana they were all
the poor are unable to afford them. This is talks on socialism and encouraged us to be three girls, with Thayamani and
particularly the case for those with chronic critical before accepting his ideas. In the Thabitha. Times were such that
conditions such as diabetes where they need LSSP he took to active politics and became the first time I saw Sarjana and
came to know her was during a Sarjana
to take medicines daily. This leads to a flar- the Treasurer of the Youth Congress. When
ing up of these severe illnesses resulting in racial attacks against the LSSP were at its visit to Jaffna in July 1996. The cousin Elilini, doing her research
premature death. Sri Lanka is going back worst during the anti-Tamil Language riots first impression we had of her at Cambridge, besides others who
towards the situation that existed before the he volunteered to contest a bye-election for can be described as a bubbly pres- appealed to her. Elilini has
1970s, when Senaka introduced his policy. the Kuppiawatte Ward in the Colombo ence, full of sunshine and laugh- acknowledged Sarjana’s contribu-
Then the Drug Companies controlled the Municipal Council. When we went canvass- ter. tion to her doctoral research,
global and local markets and the Health ing for him, we were abused as supporters of When we came to know her which on Sarjana’s sound advice
Department had to abide by their terms. The Tamil also being made an official language intimately was in 2010, as a neigh- and counsel went fruitfully into
majority of the patients suffered as a result. with Sinhala. But he did not give in and bour, our house, a benefaction of allied areas.
How did Senaka change that situation Prof. Bibile stood up for the correct policy of the LSSP, my maternal uncle Gnanar, Sarjana has left us without
through his Policy? He found that various knowing that he would lose. My admiration Sarjana’s grandfather. It is in him revealing the magnificent poten-
Panadol, Panadeine etc. that I trace the spirit that moved tial of her life, but gave other
the Drug Companies were purchasing from for Senaka soared. But the acceptance by
Senaka was keen on developing countries Sarjana. He was on holiday with youngsters inspiration in fun and
the few producers of the Generic drugs at a WHO of his Medicinal Drug Policy and
like Sri Lanka not having to depend on us when I was a boy in the same scholarship.
low price and making a huge profit by giving sending him to various poor countries to
imports from abroad and mooted the idea of house he later occupied. On a
them a brand name and capturing the mar- start the process gave him greatest satisfac-
manufacturing the medicines. For this he tour of the back garden, he told Rajan Hoole
ket. Let me give you an example. The widely tion. I remember the time when he was to
set up a State Pharmaceuticals us of the day he found a baby
used generic product Paracetamol is sold make what turned out to be his final visit
Manufacturing Corporation (SPMC). This squirrel fallen down out of its Response from Elilini Hoole
under various Brand names by the different abroad to the Caribbean countries and
was able to produce about 43 drugs due to nest and how he climbed the tree Without Chinna (Sarjana) I
Drug Companies at a huge profit. Senaka set South America. My wife Kamini and I went
the efforts of Dr. Gladys Jayawardena, who and restored the squirrel where it would not have been able to do my
up the State Pharmaceutical Corporation to his house for dinner with him and his
as DDGLS in the Health Ministry stepped in belonged. Sarjana’s window faced data collection! We also wrote and
(SPC) with the support of the Finance wife Leela. He gave his jovial laugh and said,
to carry his work forward. Senaka was also us, a symbol of joy and cheer. presented a paper together for a
Minister, Dr N.M Perera, and Minister T. B. “Tissa sees how the drug company lobby is
very keen as Professor of Pharmacology to In this short presentation, I Development Studies Conference
Subasinghe. The SPC used the List of trying to frighten me to give up my mission.
ensure that medical students would practice will draw attention to her chiefly in London last year, based on the
Essential Drugs, about 233 (at that time) I have got several calls warning me not to go
good medicine when they passed out as doc- as a scholar. Even in a war-torn data we collected. Everyone here
which had been prepared by Senaka, out of tomorrow as there is a plot to kill me.” I told
tors. So, he set up a Formulary Committee society such as ours, ability and (supervisor, colleagues, etc.) com-
about 1,000 or more available in the market. him that he should remember that they will
that produced an excellent Hospitals scholarship still abound and find mented on how she was able to
They obtained the Government health sector not be happy to lose their profits and he
Formulary as a proper guide in clinical their mark. I was more fortunate conduct so many interviews in
requirement from the Medical Supplies should be careful. He left the next day on his
pharmacology. Senaka was an excellent in my boyhood before the war; one month, patiently waiting for a
Department (MSD). In addition, Senaka mission. It was in Guiana that they killed
teacher and he never brought any notes into the point I make is that scholar- gap in the stringent COVID travel
made an estimate of the requirement of the him by giving him a chemical at a dinner
the class room but he was ensuring that the ship faces several handicaps in a restrictions to interview 50
Private Health Sector and this was added to which led to a very rapid heartbeat. With his
students got his message, by repetition or vacuum. Einstein built on his women. She also managed to do so
the State Sector requirement. Then the SPC previous history of ischemic heart disease
expanding his message. Senaka shifted to great predecessors, particularly with such diligence and empathy
called world-wide tenders for the total this could have a fatal outcome. There was
Peradeniya University when it was estab- Isaac Newton. When I did my doc- for the women that, despite the
requirement of essential generic drugs, like some delay in getting him to hospital, and
lishing the Medical Faculty and became the torate in Oxford, I was personally restrictions, she was able to give
paracetamol, for the coming year for Sri even there he was kept on the trolley for a
first Professor of Pharmacology. He was an fortunate to find inspiration from us rich, detailed insights into a
Lanka as a whole. Because this was a large long time without being seen by a doctor,
educationist and introduced many new the work of Ted Slaman from hugely neglected area of under-
amount Senaka was able to get at a very low despite all Leela’s appeals. Kamini and I
teaching methods. Harvard, who gave me ideas in standing. I was really hoping she
-price good quality generic medicines for all went to Katunayake to receive Leela with
Senaka was born in remote Bibile. His Mathematical Logic that I fol- would come and do a PhD here in
the people in Sri Lanka. The State Health Senaka’s ashes. One of the saddest days in
father was a Rate Mahattaya. He obtained a lowed up. Cambridge. She would have loved
Sector requirement was given to the MSD. my life. Senaka was only 54 years old when
scholarship to enable him to study at Trinity Likewise, Sarjana who was the programme here, which
For the Private Sector Senaka set up the Osu he was killed. He had a lot more energy in
College, Kandy. Once he became a doctor the tipped to do her doctorate in agri- encourages free curiosity about
Sala at Lipton Circus, Colombo. To reach the him to serve the people and fight for a social-
first thing, he did was to repay his scholar- cultural-biotechnology, related to the world around us.
people in the rest of the country he chose ist future for mankind. On this 13th of
ship so that a poor student could get the pest management, during the time But she'd no doubt now at her
reliable private pharmacies to whom the February we thank him for what he did for
chance that he obtained. It was at Trinity the world was under the spell of happiest surrounded by God and
Osu Sala out sourced the SPC medicines as the poor people of the world. It will never be
that he got interested in social service and Covid, which took many promis- God's glorious creatures in heav-
its agent. This acted as a pressure on the forgotten.
upliftment of the poor. He was attracted to en. I am looking forward to seeing
other private pharmacies to bring down the Tissa Vitarana ing lives. As was her good nature,
the Lanka Sama Samaja Party (LSSP) and she by correspondence helped her her again!
price of Drug Company products like General Secretary of the LSSP

English Language as it
Revolutionising Sri Lanka’s rice industry evolves and its pitfalls
through Value Chain Management
By LaLin i De SiLva Post-Harvest Loss Reduction: Invest in Bangladesh: Encourages farmer-led coop-
proper storage facilities to minimise wastage eratives and shared equipment ownership
This article intends to explore how Value and maintain grain quality. models.
Chain Management (VCM) can optimise cost Blockchain for Supply Chain Indonesia: Government-backed storage
structures in Sri Lanka’s paddy farming sec- Transparency: Implement blockchain tech- and logistics networks reduce post-harvest
nology to track rice production and prevent losses.

D
tor; to present innovative rice-based products espite living in different
price manipulation. USA: Heavy investment in genetically sought after language in the
that can create new markets and improve counties in England and
Hybrid Rice Varieties: Introduce hybrid modified (GM) rice varieties and precision world ! It’s the gateway to travel
public health; to analyse global best prac- Wales since 1975 and now
rice with higher yields and better disease farming. round the world - Chinese,
tices in rice VCM and how Sri Lanka can completing half a century, I still
resistance to increase productivity per acre. Brazil: Integration of rice farming with Japanese are all keen to learn,
adapt them and to propose policy measures consider myself to be a student of
aquaculture to maximise land use and providing opportunities for for-
for utilizing underutilised government ware- English. Every time I learn a new
10 Innovative Rice-Based Products for increase profitability. eigners! So much so that it is no
houses to support rice-based industries. word or phrase watching tv pro-
Healthier Consumption: Utilising Government Warehouses for New longer the prerogative of PR
Rice farming in Sri Lanka has remained grammes including Quizzes, I add
Rice Flour: Alternative to Rice-Based Industries: English - Perceived
stagnant in its methodology for decades. With it to my collections on Notes on
wheat flour, reducing gluten- The government owns several Pronunciation is the British
rising input costs, inefficient farming tech- my iPhone. Though had the privi-
related health issues. underutilized warehouses that can English accent regarded as the
niques, and a lack of diversification in rice- lege of being educated in the
Rice Noodles: A popular and be repurposed for rice processing standard one, carrying the high-
based products, farmers struggle to remain English medium back home, our
easily digestible staple in many industries. est social prestige, since as late as
profitable while consumers lack access to pronunciations were typically
Asian diets. Installing modern rice milling the very early 20th century. It has
healthier rice alternatives. The tea industry wayward! Teachers themselves at
Rice Bran Oil: A heart-friend- and packaging facilities will allow also been commonly referred to
faces a similar crisis. The government’s role Royal College couldn’t pronounce
ly cooking oil with high antioxi- farmers to sell polished rice directly. as the Queen's English or King's
has primarily been reactive, providing subsi- words properly! We had the
dant properties. Warehouses can serve as hubs for English.
dies rather than fostering a sustainable innate difficulty of pronouncing
Rice-Based Baby Food: producing rice-based products such As well as having the mental
model that ensures profitability and nutri- and distinguishing between letter
Nutritious and easily digestible as rice flour, noodles, and cereals. aptitude and a desire for the chal-
tional benefits for both growers and con- V and W, a bit like the French
food for infants. Cold storage facilities can pre- lenge of living and working over-
sumers. with letter H and Spanish with
Rice Milk: A lactose-free, serve rice bran for oil extraction seas, to be eligible to become an
The adoption of Value Chain Management letter V - Victor would be pro-
plant-based milk alternative. instead of it going to waste. Interact Assistant Language
(VCM) has transformed rice industries in nounced as “Bictor” !
Rice Crackers: A low- Collaborative partnerships with Teacher you must:
many countries, offering insights into how Dr. W. G. Somarathne Another problem is trying to
Be a native-level speaker of
Sri Lanka can restructure its rice sector. By calorie, high-fibre snack. private investors can transform translate into English as we
Value Chain Consultant English
modernizing supply chains, integrating tech- Fermented Rice these warehouses into rice innova- speak in our mother tongue - “ I
at www.vivonta.lk Have received an education
nology, and promoting value-added rice prod- Beverages: Gut-friendly pro- tion centers. will go and come” ! Or automati-
biotic drinks. How Both Farmers and conducted in English for at least
ucts, Sri Lanka can transition from a subsidy- cally adding “No” after a sentence
Rice Protein Powder: A plant-based protein Consumers Can Benefit from VCM: 12 years
dependent rice economy to a self-sustaining - “You went there, no “. However,
supplement for fitness enthusiasts. Farmers: Have at least a bachelor’s
and profitable industry. grammar was drummed into our
Rice Paper Wraps: Used for making health- Higher income through value-added rice degree in any subject from an
10 Ways to Reduce Paddy Farming heads by the teachers at school
accredited university
ier wraps and spring rolls. products rather than selling raw paddy. plus in my case, our beloved
Costs Using Value Chain Management: Puffed Rice Cereals: A fiber-rich breakfast Reduced dependence on chemical inputs Be a team-player that is profes-
Precision Agriculture: Implement satel- father who had an excellent com-
option. and expensive machinery. sional, flexible, cheerful, and
lite and drone-based monitoring to optimise mand of English language in
How 10 Countries Have Successfully Used Improved market access through digital energetic
irrigation and fertilizer use, reducing input both spoken and written helping,
VCM in Rice Farming: platforms. Be under 60 years of age
costs. by encouraging me to write let-
China: Digital platforms connect farmers Consumers: While not required, it helps
Direct Farmer-Market Linkages: ters and posting them to the
directly to consumers, eliminating middle- Access to healthier, diverse rice-based your chances if you:
Establish digital marketplaces for farmers to home address. He would then sit
men and ensuring fair pricing. products. Hold a driver’s licence
sell directly to wholesalers, bypassing middle- down with me during weekends
India: Government-supported Minimum Stable rice prices due to improved supply Have teaching experience
men. to read through and correct
Support Price (MSP) policy guarantees stable chain efficiency. Have a teaching qualifica-
Mechanisation & Shared Services: where I had gone wrong! Those
income for farmers while promoting organic Nutrient-rich rice alternatives that pro- tion, e.g., CELTA, DELTA, and
Introduce cooperative-based ownership of were the days us having to look
farming. mote better gut health. TEFL
harvesting and planting machinery to reduce up in an omnipresent dictionary
Vietnam: Focus on hybrid rice varieties Sri Lanka’s rice industry is at a cross- Have studied a second lan-
individual capital costs. at home but, I could never learn
and export-driven policies making it a global roads. By shifting from a conventional pro- guage at school or university
Integrated Pest Management (IPM): how it was pronounced! We are so
rice hub. duction model to an advanced Value Chain Can speak some basic
Reduce chemical dependency by using biolog- lucky worldwide now thanks to
Thailand: Investment in premium rice Management approach, both farmers and Japanese
ical pest control methods. Google!
branding (e.g., Jasmine rice) to fetch higher consumers stand to gain. The government Main purpose of submitting
Efficient Water Management: Adopt Sadly, even the younger gener-
international market prices. must take proactive steps to modernize farm- this is to encourage my mother-
System of Rice Intensification (SRI) methods ations born and brought up in the
Japan: Uses contract farming models ing practices, support rice-based industries, land younger generations to take
to cut water usage by 30-50%. U.K. going into university educa-
where food companies directly work with and encourage product diversification. heart, work hard and improve
Use of Organic Fertilizers & Biochar: tion and even beyond cannot
farmers to ensure quality and fair compensa- Learning from global best practices, Sri your written and spoken English
Reduce reliance on expensive chemical fertil- write grammatically correct sen-
tion. Lanka can transform its rice and the which is the gateway to travel the
izers by producing compost and biochar. tences! Using text languages “u”
Philippines: Rice research institutions Plantation sectors into profitable and sustain- world and broaden your horizons!
etc., do not help them either!
Cluster Farming: Group small-scale work closely with farmers to enhance yield able industries, ensuring food security and Sunil Dharmabandhu
farmers into cooperatives for bulk buying of Whether other countries like it
through high-tech solutions. economic growth. Wales, UK
inputs and collective bargaining power. or not, English is by far the most
 6 Thursday 13th February, 2025

Sudoku No. 5930 Valentine's Day not

just for young couples

Andy Capp
V
alentine’s Day, often associated
By Reg Henry Scargelli with young love and grand ges-
tures, has long been regarded as
a holiday for couples in the early stages
of romance. Red roses, heart-shaped

Solution to No. 5929

chocolates, and elaborate dinner dates
are the hallmark of this day, leading
many to believe that it is only for the
young and newly infatuated. However,
this narrow view fails to recognize that
No knowledge of arithmetic Valentine's Day is a celebration of love
is required to enjoy this. All in all its forms—whether that’s new
you need is a logical mind, love, long-lasting partnerships, or love
a pencil and an eraser. Try
it. Suffer its torture. shared with friends and family.
Discover its ecstasy. It's a While it's true that Valentine’s Day
mind game you will solve often holds particular appeal for young
with reasoning and logic. couples, it’s essential to acknowledge
The rules are very simple.
Fill in the grid with numbers
so that every row, every col-
Wizard of Id By Parker and Hart
that love doesn’t stop at a particular age
or stage in a relationship. For older cou-
umn and every small 3x3 ples, Valentine’s Day can be a reminder
box contains the numbers 1 to celebrate the years they’ve spent
to 9. Each number has its together, and to cherish the depth of
allotted place if you look
their connection. Relationships that
hard enough. No number
should be repeated in any have endured the trials of life, such as
row, column or 3x3 box. raising children, managing careers, and
Here's an easy one to try - weathering personal struggles, can find
See tomorrow's Island for new meaning and joy in celebrating
solution.
their bond on this special day.
For many, Valentine’s Day serves as
an opportunity to reconnect and reaf-
firm their commitment, no matter how
long they’ve been together. For those

KAKuro 5167 who have been married for decades, a

simple act of kindness or a thoughtful

Mother Goose & Grimm By Mike

gift can carry more weight than an
extravagant gesture. It’s about celebrat-
ing the enduring nature of love, which
is often marked by shared memories,
inside jokes, and quiet moments of sup-
port.
Moreover, Valentine’s Day is not
exclusive to romantic love. Increasingly,
the holiday is being embraced as an
occasion to express affection for friends
and family members. In a world where
individual relationships are often
stretched thin, taking the time to
acknowledge and appreciate loved
ones—whether that’s through a heart-
felt card, a homemade gift, or even a
casual gathering—can strengthen bonds
that go beyond romance.

Mutt & Jeff

In recent years, the concept of
“Valentine’s Day,” popularized by the
TV show Parks and Recreation, has
highlighted the importance of platonic
Solution 5166 love. Women, in particular, have
embraced this alternative to the tradi-
tional romantic celebration by gather-
ing with close friends to enjoy each
other's company and show appreciation
for their friendships. But this idea isn’t
limited to one gender—men, too, have
begun to adopt similar traditions, cele-
brating their close relationships with
friends. Valentine’s Day, then, becomes
a broader opportunity to express grati-
tude for the people who make life richer
and more fulfilling.
Families also use the occasion to
show love and appreciation for one

Pickles
another. Parents might exchange small
gifts or share a special meal with their
children, reinforcing the idea that love
extends to every member of the house-
hold. For many, this is a reminder that
relationships with family are as impor-
tant as those with a romantic partner.
The notion that Valentine’s Day is
solely for couples can alienate single
individuals, especially those who might
feel pressured by societal expectations
to be in a relationship. However,
Valentine’s Day can be a celebration of
How to play: Fill in the blank squares, using 1 to 9, without repeat- self-love and self-care for those who are
ing any number in any line. The lines must be filled in with num- not currently partnered. It can be an
bers that add up to the total in the shaded box at the top or begin- opportunity to indulge in activities that
ning of each line. A number in the bottom half of the shaded box is bring joy and fulfillment, whether that’s
the downward total; in the top half, it’s the horizontal total. treating oneself to a spa day, indulging
in a favourite meal, or simply enjoying
time alone.
Valentine’s Day is also a reminder
Daily Island Crossword No. 4684 that love begins with oneself. The holi-
day can serve as a reminder to practice
Across Down Crossword No. 4683 self-compassion and to acknowledge the
07 (of a display) tawdry or vulgar 01 Threshold (4) importance of self-worth, both in
(6) 02 Appraise (6) romantic and non-romantic contexts. By
08 Elegant and sumptuous (2,4) 03 Become cheerful (5,2) cultivating a healthy sense of self-love,
09 Blackthorn (4) individuals are more equipped to foster
04 Compact disc read-only mem- meaningful relationships with others.
10 Stretch (8) ory (2-3) Valentine’s Day, in its truest form, is
11 Serious collision (especially 05 To come to rest, settle (6) a celebration of love—an emotion that
of motor vehicles) (5-2) transcends age, gender, and relationship
06 Opinion poll (4,4)
13 A leather strap used to sharp- status. It’s not just about roses and
12 Ground meat formed into a chocolates, nor is it limited to young,
en razors (5)
ball and fried or simmered in newly-in-love couples. Whether it’s the
15 Large black-and-white herbiv- enduring love of long-time partners, the
broth (8)
orous mammal of bamboo affection shared between friends and
14 Laud (7) family, or the recognition of one’s self-
forests of China and Tibet (5)
16 Languid (6) worth, Valentine’s Day offers everyone a
17 In all (3,4)
18 Conduit consisting of a long chance to appreciate the love in their
20 Commentator (8) lives. As society evolves, so too does the
21 A bed on a ship or train; usu- hollow object (usually cylindrical) way we celebrate this holiday, making it
ally in tiers (4) (6) inclusive for people of all ages and rela-
19 Help (5) tionship types. So, this Valentine’s Day,
23 Graduates (6)
remember: love comes in many forms,
24 In tiny pieces (6) 22 Void (4) and it’s a celebration for all.
 The Island Features Thursday 13th February, 2025
7
Effective and non-effective
F
methods for mitigating
human-elephant conflict
drives took place, HEC still persists. In try, there are places where locals are agave, cacti, and bougainvillaea had
by THAriNdu MuTHukuMArANA
many cases, the problem-causing newly experiencing HEC. This hap- been used to deter elephants, but those
[email protected]
(Author of the award-winning book males don’t get driven because those pened because of habitat loss and the had been unsuccessful because of ele-
“The Life of Last Proboscideans:
Elephants”)
“We cannot solve our problems with
males usually avoid it. Instead, non-
problem-causing female elephants get
driven. In such incidents, after those
blocking of elephant corridors that
occurred due to poor development
planning done by various govern-
phants’ thick skin. Besides, elephants
even feed on thorny plants such as
Acacia eburnean that have sharp
Mein Kampf
the same thinking we used when we cre-
ated them”.
-Albert Einstein
driven elephants got enclosed in a
restricted home range, those ele-
phants did face starvation and mal-
ments. So, as a result of it, new places
experience HEC.
Still, the Sri Lankan elephant is
thorns that can grow up to 1 inch.
Beehive fencing: The fence is erect-
ed at chest height with beehives fixed
is 100; still
inspires hate
nourishment that eventually made classified as "Endangered" by the to it and spaced every ten meters. This
them die. For this, there are examples IUCN Red List due to its high risk of method had high success in deterring

W
hen we examine the records
of funds spent in the years coming from Lunugamvehera NP and extinction and declining population. crop-raiding elephants in Africa. In
beforehand to mitigate Yala NP. Also, we must remember that though addition, the produce from hives pro-
Removing the problem elephants culling or capturing of elephants is vided economic benefits to farmers. by SANTHOSH MATHEW
human-elephant conflict (HEC), it is
evident that the expenditure has been Removing problem elephants could not done, yet annually, in the last few This project was introduced by Save

A
hundred years ago, Adolf Hitler
growing. For example, in 2010, USD penned Mein Kampf while imprisoned
$505,001 was spent, but in 2018, USD after his failed Beer Hall Putsch of
$1,068,021 was spent. So, this shows 1923. What started as a bitter and self-justify-
that expenditure had been over double ing political tract went on to shape one of the
within a period of less than one most catastrophic ideologies in human histo-
decade. But in the same way, the HEC ry. As the world marks the centenary of its
had always been rising throughout the publication, the book remains an unsettling
years. So, what went wrong? The reminder of how extremist thought can take
answer is that the funds were expend- root and flourish. More disturbingly, the
ed mostly on ineffective mitigating resurgence of neo-Nazi sentiments across the
strategies rather than effective miti- world raises questions about the durability of
gating approaches. Henceforth, let’s such ideologies and their insidious influence
look at a glimpse of what are the non- on contemporary politics.
effective methods and effective meth- Kampf, first published in 1925, was largely
ods. ignored in its early years. However, once
Hitler rose to power in 1933, it became a cor-
Non-effective methods nerstone of Nazi propaganda, with millions
Translocation of copies distributed across Germany. By
Elephant translocation involves 1939, it had sold 5.2 million copies and had
capturing elephants from one place been translated into 11 languages. The book
and moving them to a safer environ- detailed Hitler’s vision of Aryan supremacy,
ment. Sri Lanka had done this for anti-Semitic beliefs, and expansionist ambi-
many decades. One of the earliest tions, laying the groundwork for the horrors
translocations occurred in 1979, when of the Holocaust and World War II. So deeply
10 elephants were relocated from embedded was it in Nazi Germany that new-
Deduru Oya to Wilpattu National Park lywed couples were gifted a copy as a state
(NP). So, it was a new experience for wedding present, ensuring that its venomous
the Department of Wildlife ideology seeped into the private lives of ordi-
Conservation (DWC), and they even nary Germans. In the aftermath of World
had to get a foreign veterinary sur- Villagers living in fear of wild elephants. (File photo) War II, Germany took extensive measures to
geon named Dr. Ian Hoffmeyr from curb the book’s influence.
Etosha NP in Namibia to sedate the the Elephants Organisation (SEO). The state of Bavaria, which held the copy-
elephants. Another tragic event happened when a young From 2014-2019 SEO collaborated with right, refused to allow its publication, and
the Sri Lanka Wildlife Conservation
Unfortunately, radio tracking col-
lars were not put on those elephants to
bull elephant named Homey that frequently for- Society (SLWCS) to do a pilot project in
stringent laws were enacted to prevent the
glorification of Nazi ideology. However, this
monitor updates of those elephants. aged at a garbage dump in Hambantota got Wasgamuwa. Unfortunately, results did little to stop international publishers
showed it was ineffective due to the from reproducing it. When the copyright
So, ultimately what happened was that
those translocated elephants’ status
translocated to Yala NP Block II, which took a jour- reason that African honey bees (Apes expired in 2016, Mein Kampf entered the pub-
never got documented. However, in ney of 75 km. Within a few days, Homey was back mellifera scutellata) and Asian honey
bees (Apes cerana indica) behaviour
lic domain, allowing for new editions and
extensive academic commentary to be pub-
recent translocations, the GPS track-
ing collars were fixed on them and at the garbage dump. Astonishingly, when data contrasts. Asian bees cannot scare lished. The Munich-based Institute for
away elephants, and those bees are not Contemporary History released an annotated
have given accurate updates on their
whereabouts. According to those data,
from the collar was downloaded, it was shown that active at nighttime. edition that meticulously dissected Hitler’s
3 conclusions are probable: (i) The the route Homey took to return contrasted with Trenches: Soil erosion had made
trenches ineffective, and also the con-
rhetoric and exposed its inherent fallacies.
Despite these efforts, the toxic ideology of
translocated elephant got killed in the
new home. (ii) Left the new home and the route Homey was taken. For the second time, struction and maintenance cost is very Mein Kampf continues to find resonance in
returned to the initial home. (iii) cre- Homey was translocated to Udawalawe NP, but as expensive. According to past experi-
ences, it had impeded wildlife move-
different parts of the world.
NeoNazi groups, far-right extremists, and
ated conflict with neighbouring vil-
lagers in the new home. time passed by, he created conflict with neigh- ment, and a lot of other smaller ani- white supremacists have not only revived
mals had died after falling to them. Hitler’s ideas but have also adapted them to
As for example, in 2007, a tusker
named Ravana that was crop raiding
bouring villages. Subsequently, Homey left the Also, there is a potential of hydrologi- contemporary political contexts. The inter-
in Anuradhapura got translocated to park and again returned to the garbage dump. For cal impacts that would have a negative
effect on villages.
net, once hailed as a tool for democratic dis-
course, has become a breeding ground for
Udawalawe NP. He then got into con-
flict with neighbouring villages of the third time, Homey got translocated to such movements. Online forums, encrypted
Effective methods messaging apps, and social media platforms
Handapanagala, Aluthwewa, and Maduruoya NP, almost 300 km away from Before touching this topic, it is have allowed these groups to network, radi-
Buttala. Due to this, Ravana got shot
in the leg, and as a result, Ravana got Hambantota. important to mention that the strate- calise, and recruit followers across national
borders. From the rise of farright parties in
re-translocated to Lunugamvehera NP. gies put forward here are science-based
projects, and these projects had been Europe to the resurgence of white suprema-
Again, Ravana raided crops on leased
put into experiment as pilot projects cist movements in the United States, the
land in the park, and a few months
with successful results. The villagers echoes of Mein Kampf are unmistakable.
later, Ravana got shot in the jaw and
state that after the implementation of In Germany, the Alternative for Germany
had an agonising death after suffering
the project, HEC had been solved or (AfD) has gained traction by capitalising on
for a few days.
mitigated. These projects had been nationalist rhetoric and antiimmigrant senti-
Another tragic event happened
ment. In the United States, groups like the
when a young bull elephant named done by the Centre for Conservation
Proud Boys and other white nationalist fac-
Homey that frequently foraged at a and Research and SLWCS.
tions have drawn inspiration from Nazi ideol-
garbage dump in Hambantota got According to research, it has been
ogy, often blending it with conspiracy theo-
translocated to Yala NP Block II, proved that the electric fence is the
ries and populist anger. Even in countries like
which took a journey of 75 km. Within most effective to deter elephants. But it Brazil, Ukraine, and Russia, neo-Nazi factions
a few days, Homey was back at the depends where the electric fence is have emerged, demonstrating how extremist
garbage dump. Astonishingly, when erected. If it is erected in the boundary narratives remain alarmingly adaptable. One
data from the collar was downloaded, of a protected area, it can be ineffec- of the most unsettling developments has been
it was shown that the route Homey tive, but instead, if it is erected at the the mainstreaming of far-right ideas in politi-
took to return contrasted with the border between elephant habitat and cal discourse. Where once explicit Nazi sym-
route Homey was taken. For the sec- human-use areas, it can be successful. bolism was confined to underground move-
ond time, Homey was translocated to This is what is called community-based ments, today, elements of that ideology have
Udawalawe NP, but as time passed by, electric fencing and proved to be suc- crept into mainstream politics through dog-
he created conflict with neighbouring cessful in mitigating HEC. whistle rhetoric, xenophobic policies, and his-
villages. Subsequently, Homey left the Another method is the paddy-field torical revisionism.
park and again returned to the electric fences. These fences are Leaders and political figures have increas-
garbage dump. For the third time, installed seasonally. During cultivation ingly used language that aligns with the
Homey got translocated to Maduruoya A victim of the human-elephant conflict
the fences are installed, and during grievances outlined in Mein Kampf, blaming
NP, almost 300 km away from harvest the fence is removed and minorities, immigrants, and global institu-
Hambantota. At times, Homey tried to be done in two ways: one is domestica- years, over 350 elephants have died
stored in their houses until the follow- tions for economic and social woes. The per-
come back to the garbage dump but tion and the other is culling. Such acts due to HEC. This is only the docu-
ing crop season. So, during the fallow sistence of such ideologies underscores the
was unsuccessful due to compact can enhance the risk for elephants’ mented data, and the undocumented
periods, elephants would forage the need for renewed vigilance. While democratic
human settlements. So, he continued extinction. Problem elephants are usu- figure can give a higher value. A
leftover harvest and other vegetation. institutions remain resilient, the rise of digi-
to stay at Maduruoya but started to ally male elephants, and elephants mother elephant usually gives birth to
By 2020, approximately 50 village elec- tal propaganda has made it easier than ever
create conflict with neighbouring vil- that raid crops are risk takers. a single calf with a two-year gestation
tric fences and 25 paddy-field electric for extremist ideas to reach new audiences.
lages. This resulted in him getting Emerging research shows that risk- period. They have 4-5 years of interval
fences were active in the Kurunegala, Countries that once prided themselves on
shot frequently. One day he got shot in taking behaviour contributes highly until the next calf is born. Females
stamping out fascist ideology now grapple
to their reproductive success. So, if become less fertile after 40 years. In Hambantota, Trincomalee, and
the head and died in a paddy with a new wave of radicalisation that thrives
such elephants are removed from the Sri Lanka only 6,000 elephants are left. Anuradhapura districts for up to 12
field. on misinformation, cultural anxieties, and
gene pool, it weakens the elephant So, such a high mortality rate due to years. Feedback from the villagers is
economic uncertainty. A hundred years after
Elephant Drives population. HEC is critical. positive.
Mein Kampf was first published, its legacy is
In modern days, there is a popular It needs to be mentioned that in 2020 a grim testament to the power of hate-driven
Elephant drives involve chasing ele-
misconception that the elephant popu- Biofencing and Geological Barriers a National Action Plan for the ideology.
phants from one area to another area,
lation has risen, and it is immoderate. Palmyra Palm fencing: This involves Mitigation of HEC was made by a com- The book itself may be confined to history,
and for this, firecrackers or thunder
In fact, scientifically, there is no way planting palmyra trees (Borassus) as a mittee of wildlife experts. Strategies but its core tenets continue to find willing
flashes would be used. This procedure
to explain whether the elephant popu- fence to restrict elephants’ movements. included in the National Action Plan adherents in modern societies. The lessons of
can take days to get completed. These
lation has risen or plummeted. Though it has some positive effects, were chosen based on their demon- the past remain crucial: extremism, if left
drives had happened as early as the
Because the first legitimate elephant practically there are problems to call it strated effectiveness, capacity to be unchecked, can quickly escalate from rheto-
1970s, and the latest to be 2024. From a
census was done in 2011. Before 2011, a solution. This project is expected to executed on a suitable geographic and ric to action. The challenge before democratic
scientific perspective, the decades of
elephant population numbers were take a longer time to achieve its antici- temporal scale, and cost-effectiveness. societies today is not merely to remember his-
elephant drives that have been done
given as guesses or estimations. After pated outcomes and could take even a Stakeholder discussions were per- tory but to actively counter the forces that
are one of the key reasons for Sri
2011, last year an elephant census was decade. Even so, the germination rate formed with the public and relevant seek to revive its darkest chapters.
Lanka having the highest level of HEC
done, but still the results haven’t been is lower, and by any chance, if at least agencies, and their feedback was inte- (The Statesman)
in the world. Records have clearly
published. There are many who think one tree fails to grow, the fence grated into the Action Plan as needed. (The writer is Associate Professor, Centre For
shown that after an elephant drive,
that the elephant population has becomes ineffective. So, if that action plan gets implement- South Asian Studies, Pondicherry Central
some or all driven elephants returned.
increased because, around the coun- Thorny plant fencing: Plants such as ed, HEC could be mitigated! University.)
Also, in every location where elephant
 Thursday 13th February, 2025 8

Nationwide blackout on Sunday was due to mafia or incompetency: activists

By Sanath nanayakkare tion, possibly involving the Defense megawatts of RE could be added to the
Last Sunday’s nationwide power fail- Ministry, to uncover the true cause of the grid without issues. However, only 1,400
ure in Sri Lanka has sparked significant outage. Wickramasinghe also highlighted megawatts have been added so far and the
criticism and speculation, with activists the economic damage caused by such out- overloading has occurred too soon.
and experts questioning the official ages and called for affected individuals to Udayakumara suggested that the recent
explanations provided by the government be compensated. outage might reflect either a bias against
and the Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB). M.P.K. Wanigasinghe, Chairman of renewable energy or incompetence
The outage, which occurred on the National Consumers’ Front, criti- among higher officials in the CEB.
Sunday, February 9, 2024, has been attrib- cized the current government for contin- The official explanation that a monkey
uted by Energy Minister Kumara uing the policies of the previous adminis- caused the outage has been widely
Jayakody to a monkey colliding with the tration in the power sector, despite hav- ridiculed, with many viewing it as an
Panadura grid substation, causing a sys- ing rejected those policies when they attempt to evade responsibility. The inci-
tem imbalance. However, this explana- came to power. This, he suggested, indi- dent has underscored the fragility of Sri
tion has been met with skepticism and
The official explanation that a monkey caused the outage has been widely ridiculed cates a lack of genuine reform or Lanka's power infrastructure and the
outright dismissal by various stakehold- ure or a simple short circuit could result Wickramasinghe pointed out that the improvement in the sector. need for more robust systems and
ers. in a nationwide blackout. He suggested government elected in 2015 faced similar Nandana Udayakumara, Deputy accountability. As the CEB works to
Malaka Wickramasinghe, Chairman that there might be an ulterior motive issues in 2016, and the president elected Chairman of the Engineers’ Association, restore full capacity to the national grid
of the Lanka Electricity Employees’ behind the outage, drawing parallels to in 2022 also encountered problems with raised concerns about the CEB's han- by February 14, the public and various
Federation, dismissed the notion (on past incidents where power failures were power cuts early in his tenure. He empha- dling of renewable energy (RE) integra- stakeholders are calling for more trans-
February 12) that a minor technical fail- allegedly used for political leverage. sized the need for a thorough investiga- tion. He referenced a 2022 report by the parency and effective solutions to prevent
CEB, which indicated that 2,600 future outages.

President AKD’s top

level talks in Kuwait focus
on bilateral cooperation By Ifham nIzam trade relations between Sri Lanka
Late Deshamanya Dr. Parakrama
and Kuwait.

P
resident Anura Kumara D.H.S. Jayawardena Ms. Stasshani Dissanayake
Both leaders acknowledged the
Dissanayake on Tuesday Chairman Jayawardena Deputy Chairman and
met with Sheikh Ahmad potential for increased collabora-
Aitken Spence PLC Chairperson Managing Director
Abdullah Al Ahmad Al Sabah, the tion in various sectors, with a par-
ticular focus on tourism. (during this period) Aitken Spence PLC Aitken Spence PLC
Prime Minister of Kuwait, to dis-
Sri Lanka's current political

Aitken Spence records strong performance with

cuss Sri Lanka's political and
financial stability and explore and financial stability presents
avenues for enhanced bilateral promising opportunities for
cooperation.
The Island Financial Review
Kuwaiti investors seeking to
explore the island's burgeoning Profit Before Tax of Rs. 4.3 Bn, an 124% increase
in the 9 months ended 31st December 2024/25
reliably learns that discussions tourism industry.
emphasized investment opportu- This engagement aligns with
nities in Sri Lanka's tourism sec- President Dissanayake's broader
tor, reflecting the nation's com- strategy to bolster international
partnerships and attract foreign Aitken Spence PLC, a leading con- Furthermore, the Group’s printing
mitment to economic revitaliza- glomerate with a diverse regional and packaging segment including
tion. investment to drive economic
growth. presence, reported a Profit Before the plantations segment made a posi-
Officials close to President Tax (PBT) of Rs. 4.3 Bn an increase tive contribution to the sector’s per-
Dissanayake highlighted the sig- By fostering closer ties with
of 124% for the 9 months ended formance.
nificance of Kuwait's support in nations like Kuwait, Sri Lanka
December 31, 2024. For the same The Group’s Services sector
securing the International aims to enhance its economic
period, the PBT excluding forex recorded a PBT of Rs. 113.8 Mn for
Monetary Fund (IMF) loan facili- prospects and ensure sustainable
reached Rs. 4.9 Bn. the 9 months ended December 31,
ty, which has been instrumental development in the coming years.
The total Group’s revenue in the 2024. The newly launched Port City
in Sri Lanka's economic recovery The discussions with the
reporting currency, including equi- BPO operation significantly con-
efforts. Kuwaiti Prime Minister are
ty-accounted investees, increased by tributed towards this performance.
They noted that the President expected to pave the way for 3% over the 9-month period, to reach However, the money transfer busi-
expressed his gratitude to the future collaborations, contribut- Rs. 76.3 Bn. Group Revenue of which ness was affected by a lower
Kuwaiti leadership for their assis- ing to the strengthening of bilat- approx. 65-70% is derived in USD or exchange rate on remittances and
President Anura Kumara Dissanayake meets eral relations and the realization
tance during challenging times. other foreign currencies directly or the additional costs incurred by the
Kuwaiti Prime Minister Sheikh Ahmad Abdullah Al of shared economic objectives, an
The meeting underscored the indirectly reflects the lower elevator segment on the accelerated
Ahmad Al Sabah. official said. exchange rate that prevailed during completion of several high-rise
mutual interest in strengthening
the period compared to the previous buildings in Colombo.
year. The average exchange rate for The Group’s indirect energy con-
Q3 reduced by Rs 34.07 while the sumption per unit revenue increased
average exchange rate for the 9 by 17%, driven by higher operational
months reduced by Rs. 20.87. activity across the Group, particu-
The Group recorded an EBITDA larly in the tourism sector. In con-
(excluding impacts from foreign cur- trast, direct energy consumption
rency exchange gains and losses) of from non-renewable sources
Rs. 16 Bn for the 9 months ended on decreased by 3% compared to the
December 31, 2024, reflecting a third quarter of the 2023–2024 finan-
growth of 0.3%. EBITDA includes cial year, aligning with the Group’s
earnings from equity accounted commitment to reducing emissions.
investees; however, excludes interest Additionally, the proportion of
Dialog Axiata PLC, Sri Lanka’s #1 expenses, tax, depreciation, and renewable energy in the Group’s
connectivity provider, is excited to amortisation. The Group’s profit direct energy consumption
announce the official availability of from operations (excluding forex) increased by 104%, reaching 33% of
the highly anticipated Samsung reached Rs. 7.8 Bn, an improvement the total—progressing toward the
Galaxy S25 series. Following a suc- of 4.6% for the cumulative period 50% target by 2030—compared to the
cessful pre-order campaign, cus- ended December 31, 2024. same period.
tomers across Sri Lanka are now The Group’s Tourism sector Water efficiency also improved,
receiving their Samsung Galaxy S25, demonstrated a notable improve- with the Group achieving a 30%
S25 Plus, and S25 Ultra smartphones, ment with a three-fold increase in reduction in water withdrawal per
marking a significant milestone in profitability, recording a PBT of Rs.
unit revenue, compared to the third
the availability of cutting-edge 424.2 Mn for the cumulative Q3
quarter of the previous financial
mobile technology. This launch fur- ended December 31, 2024. This was
year. This was primarily due to
ther reinforces the company’s com- driven by the Group’s hospitality
lower withdrawals in the Maldives
mitment to delivering the latest inno- sector which experienced increased
operations. Meanwhile, the Group’s
vations to its customers, ensuring occupancy rates across all its hotels,
waste-to-energy power plant repur-
they enjoy an exceptional mobile and particularly the overseas hotels
posed 133,099 metric tons of munici-
experience with the powerful features segment. The Group’s destination
pal solid waste from the Colombo
of the Samsung Galaxy S25 series. management segment was impacted
by the 18% VAT on existing con- district during the first three quar-
The highly anticipated Samsung
tracts and the Red Sea Conflict that ters of the 2024–2025 financial year—
Galaxy S25, S25 Plus, and S25 Ultra
has a direct impact on cruise a volume that is equivalent in
are now available at selected Dialog
tourism, although we expect a signif- weight to approximately 26,620 Sri
Experience Centers and online at
icant improvement in Q4 with an Lankan elephants—contributing to a
https://www.dialog.lk/shop, starting
adjustment to contract rates. cleaner Colombo through a strategic
from Rs. 295,999, Rs. 365,999, and Rs.
The Group’s Maritime & Freight and sustainable waste management
474,999, respectively. The Samsung
Logistics sector achieved a PBT of solution.
Galaxy S25 series boasts exceptional
Rs. 3.3 Bn for the 9 months ended During the quarter, Group Human
features, including a vibrant
December 31, 2024, despite the sub- Resources organised an Executive
Dynamic AMOLED 2X display for L-R) Erash Fernando, General Manager – Operations Stelacom, Thushara Rathnaweera,
stantial reduction in the exchange Development Programme (EDP) to
crystal-clear visuals, a powerful Deputy General Manager Head of MX Group - Samsung Electronics, SangHwa Song,
Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset rate. The bunkering business and strengthen the leadership team's
Managing Director/Head of Branch - Samsung Electronics Sri Lanka, Micheal
for seamless performance, and the overseas freight and airline seg- capacity for driving organisational
Jayawardena, Thisara Kasthuriarachchi, Vice President/Head of Growth and
advanced camera systems. The Operations - Dialog Axiata PLC, Ayomal Gunasekera, Assistant Vice President - Group ment were the main contributors transformation at Aitken Spence,
Galaxy S25 and S25 Plus feature a Loyalty Programme, Club Vision & Service Culture Transformation, Dialog Axiata PLC towards growth in this sector’s per- targeting Assistant Vice Presidents
50MP main sensor for high-quality and Deshan Wijeweera, Head of Device Business, Dialog Axiata PLC. formance. and above. Titled "Purposeful
photos and videos, while the Galaxy The Group’s Strategic Transformation," the programme
time language translation, AI- This launch further reinforces was expertly facilitated and conduct-
S25 Ultra takes it a step further with Investments sector recorded a PBT
enhanced photography, and smart Dialog’s ongoing efforts to provide of Rs. 407.3 Mn and reflected a ed in three separate sessions, each
an advanced 200MP camera, offering battery optimisation, users can enjoy Sri Lankans with the latest mobile
unparalleled detail and clarity—mak- growth exceeding 100% for the 9 tailored to focus on different sectors
a more intuitive and seamless smart- technology, coupled with unrivalled months ended on December 31, 2024. of the Group. Following the EDP, a
ing it the perfect choice for mobile phone experience. Additionally, the connectivity. With the most advanced
photography enthusiasts. This impressive nine-month per- workshop was held with members of
Galaxy S25 series is powered by 5G-ready network in Sri Lanka, formance was primarily driven by the Group Supervisory Board (GSB),
A standout feature of the Samsung Google Gemini, delivering advanced Dialog continues to drive innovation,
Galaxy S25 series is the integration the enhanced results of the Waste to providing the leadership team with
AI-driven assistance, including ensuring that customers enjoy seam- Energy Power Plant and the settle- an opportunity to share their
of Galaxy AI, which brings next-gen- smarter voice interactions, improved less connectivity and exclusive value-
eration intelligence to mobile ment of previously delayed interest insights and ideas, aligning them
search capabilities, and enhanced added services tailored to their payments by CEB received by the with the key learnings from the pro-
devices. With features such as real- device personalisation. needs. Group’s renewable energy segment. gramme.
 Thursday 13th February, 2025 Business News/ Advertorial Page 9

Vinodh Wickremeratne’s Jottings

as Memoirs on the Past
by Royston Ellis In his introduction, Vinodh writes that dancing was popular.
his memoirs are “more suitable for Vinodh experienced at first hand the
Ceylonese gents over the age of 50” before transformation of colonial Ceylon into

V
inodh L. J. Wickremeratne
describes himself as a pointing out that “the recent past gets modern Sri Lanka, because of a privi-
Colombologist, a word he has easily forgotten” as the reason for compil- leged start to life. His father (Mahee L.J.
invented to explain his fascination not ing this collection of details of remem- Wickremeratne) was a government civil
just with Colombo’s recent history, but bered events, people, shops, products, servant becoming in 1962, Government
also with the prominent people who have companies, motor vehicles, popular cafés, Agent for Ampara (said to be the
contributed so much to the development club life, religious and sporting personal- youngest at the time). He retired prema-
of Colombo and Sri Lanka. He is not a ities, banks, patent medicines, fashions, turely in 1976 from Government Service
historian, although he conducts research music and musicians, horse racing, hote- as Chairman of the Ceylon Sugar
for people into Ceylon’s colonial past liers and more, in preparation for a nar- Corporation, to become a leading figure
under the apt heading “Colonial rative. As can be expected, there is a lot of in private sector companies.
Cousins.” years” – either to refresh memories or to roads, canals, aerodromes, mercantile , information about railways. His father’s career and Vinodh’s child-
This self-published book of 173 (A4- use the material for biographies or his- industrial and social lifestyles, He states as his reason for writing: “No hood (one of curiosity about everything
size) pages and 93,000 words in large type torical novels. telegraphs, gas lighting, rest houses and one will have such information which happening around him) gives authority
is not so much a memoir as notes for a Although I and many others know genealogy. will ‘go down’ with him, never ever to be to this memoir. What could be a boring
memoir. It seems Vinodh is pioneering a Vinodh as a model railway and steam We learn also that while he was await- recovered.” He records such forgotten collection of names, events and places
new form of reminiscences since there is train enthusiast and co-author of Ceylon ing A- Level results, he gained tea planta- detail as “Before 1971 it was usual to go to becomes an entertaining read due to
no narrative, few anecdotes but hundreds Railway Heritage, readers will learn from tion experience before becoming a junior a good hardware shop to buy shotgun car- Vinodh’s amusing asides and startling
of fascinating snippets of information this book that he wears many hats. He auditor learning about accountancy, tridges for a ‘shoot’ as hunting trips were puns.
about Sri Lanka’s recent past. It is amaz- mentions his work as a vintage car restor- bookkeeping, taxation, incorporations, known.” He remembers that, in contrast The result is a wonderful cornucopia
ing what Vinodh remembers or has dis- er, designer of precision working models shareholders’ reports and investigations. to today, [in the 1960s and 1970s] children of arcane titbits adding unexpected foot-
covered through research. As such, this of aircraft, boats, cars, bikes and doll’s Born in 1958, he describes himself as a were kept occupied with Snakes & notes to the history of Sri Lanka’s recent
volume is a huge source of accurate houses, and consultant on the develop- “born again bachelor” after his divorce in Ladders, jigsaw puzzles or Ludo, toys and past.
detail for anyone interested in “yester- ment of railways, tramways, motor 1995. kites were home-made and ballroom (thuppahis.com)

SriLankan Airlines hosts

oneworld's 25th Anniversary
Roadshow at BIA

BOC launches ‘Rewardz Plus’

points-based reward scheme
for credit cardholders
The Bank of Ceylon (BOC) recently offsetting bills at participating mer- tion to those discount programs.
introduced a points-based rewards chants. For over 85 years, Bank of Ceylon
scheme, ‘Rewardz Plus,’ aimed at pro- Speaking on the launch, Deputy has been a cornerstone of Sri Lanka's
viding added value to its credit card- General Manager (Product and financial landscape, connecting indi-
holders while enhancing customer Banking Development) Mr. Y A viduals and businesses to global
engagement and loyalty. The launching Jayathilake of Bank of Ceylon stated, opportunities. BOC’s extensive net-
event of the service, which was held at ‘’Introducing ‘Rewardz Plus’ offers our work with over 2,300 touch points
BOC Head office, was graced by credit cardholders an opportunity to spread across the nation, ensures that
Kavinda De Zoysa Chairman, Russel get more value from their everyday bank’s customers have convenient
Fonseka General Manager/ CEO, and spending. This initiative is designed to access to a wide range of financial
corporate and executive management provide greater flexibility and conven- services. Moreover BOC was ranked as
of BOC. Initially rolled out for credit ience, allowing customers to redeem the only Sri Lankan Bank among the
SriLankan Airlines joined the fes- 1,000 destinations worldwide. The
cards, the scheme is designed to points across a variety of options, Top 1000 World Banks 2024 and the
tivities of oneworld’s 25th milestone roadshow aims to recon-
encourage increased usage and reward from travel to shopping and bill pay- Banker of the Year 2021,2023 and 2024
Anniversary and hosted the one- nect staff with the alliance’s vision
customers through a structured points ments. We believe this program will by The Banker Magazine UK, The
day. oneteam. oneworld25 Roadshow by empowering them with knowl-
accumulation and redemption system. encourage increased engagement with Number 1 Banking Brand in Sri
at Bandaranaike International edge to elevate their work and
‘Rewardz Plus’ allows credit card- our credit card customers while recog- Lanka by Brand Finance Lanka. BOC
Airport on 5 February 2025, as it careers, as well as helping them to
holders to earn points, based on their nizing and rewarding them." also received the People’s Banking
made a stop in Sri Lanka on its jour- understand the alliance’s benefits
spending. Customers can redeem their BOC has been rewarding its pay- Services Brand of the year at the
ney around the world, covering the for passengers and staff of member
accumulated points through a range of ment cards users by way of various SLIM KANTAR Peoples Awards
home country of each member air- airlines. As oneworld continues to
options available via the programs such as Seasonal discounts 2024.Internationally, Bank of Ceylon
line. Since joining the prestigious go places, both figuratively and liter-
rewardzplus.boc.lk.These options and throughout the year discounts at has established a strong presence in
oneworld alliance in 2014, ally, SriLankan Airlines is excited to
include purchasing e-vouchers from supermarkets, hotels and restaurants. key locations such as a Subsidiary in
SriLankan has been able to offer its be a part of the alliance’s next chap-
registered merchants and service With the introduction of ‘ Rewardz London, UK; branches in Male and
passengers an expanded global ter and share in its goal of creating
providers, shopping online at selected Plus’ the credit card customers will Hulhumalé in the Maldives; Chennai,
reach, smoother connections and exceptional experiences for trav-
stores, booking flights and hotels, and be able to enjoy more benefits in addi- India; and the Seychelles.
exclusive benefits across more than ellers.

Celebrate Valentine’s Day

in style at Cinnamon Red
Record-breaking entries at Effie Awards Sri Lanka
2024 signals country’s marketing prowess

The Sri Lanka Institute of Marketing impactful marketing strategies. As the results. For future Marketers, this surge
(SLIM) announced a significant increase national body for marketing in Sri in participation serves as an inspiration
in entries for the Effie Awards Sri Lanka Lanka, SLIM is proud to host such a and a benchmark for what can be
This Valentine’s Day, treat your Alternatively, experience the 2024, reflecting the industry's growing prestigious event that not only cele- achieved through strategic and effec-
special someone to an unforget- “Night of Red – Love and Flavour” emphasis on marketing strategies that brates outstanding achievements but tive marketing.”
table evening at Cinnamon Red, dinner buffet at Cinnamon Red, To support participating agencies, the
deliver tangible results. With 250 entries also elevates the standards and quality
where love takes center stage. featuring a delectable spread of submitted, a notable 39% rise from 2023, of marketing practices across the indus- Effie Awards 2024 Committee organized
At Cinnamon Red, indulge in the gourmet dishes. This elegant din- this year's awards showcase the strength try." three workshops led by industry experts.
"Love Served in Red" promotion – a ing experience is priced at LKR of Sri Lanka’s marketing industry and Meanwhile, Dr. Dilhan Sampath These sessions offered valuable guid-
delightful 5-course menu, with a 6,500 nett per person and runs from its commitment to effective marketing Jayatilleke, Vice President – Events & ance on crafting winning entries, includ-
glass of bubbly to welcome you. Set 7 PM to 10.30 PM on the same communications. Sustainability of SLIM said, “The ing developing compelling video case
against a romantic backdrop, this evening. Gayan Perera, President of SLIM record number of entries for the Effie studies and effectively utilizing research
dinner is priced at LKR 18,000 per Don’t miss the chance to create said, “This year's significant increase in Awards Sri Lanka 2024 showcases the data. Further, participants were provid-
couple and takes place on 14th memories of a lifetime with these entries underscores the growing recog- dedication and creativity of our ed ample time for preparing strong sub-
February 2025, from 7 PM to mid- exceptional dining experiences. nition of the Effie Awards as a pivotal Marketers, who are constantly pushing missions, especially taking into consid-
night. platform for showcasing innovative and the boundaries to achieve remarkable eration the intensity of their ongoing
work.
10 Thursday 13th February, 2025 The Island Features
Cherry Deluna in
the spotlight as
guest singer

The band Déjà Vu

Dirk and Michelle

welcoming guests to The
Sri Lankan Anchorman's
20th Anniversary
celebrations

T
wenty-one years in the news, in Toronto, brations months in advance to ensure that the
Canada, and that certainly calls for big time audience got their monies worth, and there was
celebrations! plenty of variety in the music we provided last
Dirk Tissera, Editor-in-Chief and Publisher of year, led by veteran singer, the legendary Fahmy
The Sri Lanka Anchorman, is working on making Nazick, along with the band Déjà Vu, guest
it a big scene. singer Cherry Deluna, and DJ Chami.
He says the 21st What is special about The Sri Lanka
Anniversary celebrations will Anchorman, a tabloid newspaper, is its
take the form of a gala dinner wide and varied content which Sri Lankan-
dance, scheduled for Friday, Canadians eagerly look forward to reading.
30th May, 2025, in Toronto, In fact, Dirk Tissera received a top
Canada, adding that there Toronto press award from the National
would be plenty of surprises! Ethnic Press & Media Council of Canada
In fact, The Sri Lankan (NEPMCC) for excellence in editorial con-
h Iv a n Alvis
Anchorman's 20th Anniversary, Wit tent and visual presentation.
‘A Night To Remember,’ held on An old boy of St. Mary’s College,
31 May, 2024, at the J&J Dehiwela, he had his early grooming, in journal- Fahmy Nazick
Convention Centre, in Toronto, turned out to a ism, right here, in Colombo, and then moved to
resounding success. Canada, and is now based in Toronto.

Glam
Dirk mentioned that last year’s event was sold Dirk Tissera is efficiently supported by his
out long before the scheduled date. wife Michelle in the publication of The Sri Lanka
“We generally work on our anniversary cele- Anchorman.

Homemade Scen
e
= Lemon:
Lemons may help dry up blem-
ishes, and help them dissipate more

remedies
quickly. Slice a lemon, and rub a q-

Thank you… tip over the exposed juice and apply

the lemon juice-soaked q-tip to skin,

for pimples
and leave overnight.

from Mrs World (Since citrus fruits can make your

skin extra sensitive to sunlight, this is
best done at night, and

M
any of us
com-
plain
about pimples
and are looking
for remedies to
get rid of them.
Yes, notice-
able pimples can
upset the beauty
of an individual
and the only
way they can be
hidden is by
photo editing
(Lol). And we
do it, right!
Jokes apart,
here are some
homemade beauty tips that you can
washed off before you
do at home, which may help allevi-
are exposed to sunlight).
ate pimples, when they pop up.
These homemade beauty tips =Garlic:
work to combat different causes of Take a garlic clove, and cut it in
Mrs World Tshego Gaelae half to get the juices exposed. Rub
pimples, so try them out, and find
It certainly did come as a surprise to the garlic clove onto affected areas,
which method works the best for
me when this little message popped up in leave for five minutes, and then
your skin type!
my email (08th February), from Mrs World rinse with warm water.
=Baking Soda:
Tshego Gaelae from South Africa. = Yoghurt:
Mix 01 teaspoon of baking soda
In spite of her hectic activities as Mrs Yoghurt is a natural astringent
with sufficient water to make a
World in South Africa she still found the and full of good bacteria that may
time to send me this appreciative note… thick paste. Apply this paste onto
the affected areas, and leave it for 01 help restore the natural pH balance
– 02 minutes, and then wash your of your skin. Spread plain, non-
face with warm water. flavoured yoghurt onto the skin, and
(Oh, don’t leave baking soda on allow to sit for 15 minutes. Rinse
your skin for more than a couple with warm water.
minutes, as it can cause irritation). By the way, you can try this out,
= Honey: as well … how to wash your face
Put a little honey (raw) onto a q- using the Oil Cleansing Method:
tip (a short stick with a small = Rinse your face with cool or
amount of cotton at both ends) and lukewarm water.
apply to the affected area. Leave it =Gently massage olive oil
on the skin for 30 minutes, and then (organic) in a circular motion, over
wash well with warm water. your face for 01 – 02 minutes.
= Ice / Ice Pack: = Gently rub oil across your eye
Apply an ice pack to the affected lids and eye lashes to remove eye
area for 15 – 30 seconds ... wait a few makeup. Oil does a great job of
minutes, and repeat.
This may help improve blood cir-
removing eye makeup!
=Gently wipe off your face and Nishu Kariyawasam
culation and tighten pores, while eyes with a washcloth. Makeup: CB Bridal and Hair Salon
reducing the oil and dirt on the = If you have dry skin, you can Outfit: Yfrock YesDesign
rub a little olive oil into your skin as
skin. Pic by: Chanaka Balasooriya
a moisturizer.
Page Layout by Chamath Gunawardena
 The Island SPORTS Thursday 13th February, 2025
11
Dr Nimal Lucas wins six
medals at the 2025 New
Zealand Masters Games

Rev. Fr. Prasad Niranjan, the Rector of Holy Cross College (centre) and Rev. Sr. Jessica Kulathunga, Principal of Holy Family
Convent (fifth from right) and the members of the tutorial staff, officials of the old boys and old girls unions and the head pre-
fects of the two schools, namely Bihan Geenuka (extreme left) and Yumindi Silva (extreme right) pose for a picture at the
press conference to announce the joint sports meet of the two schools

Holy Cross-Holy Family

joint sports meet to celebrate Dr Nimal Lucas

125th anniversary D
r Gerard Nimal Lucas, the Allen. He won bronze medals in
sole participant from Sri the over 75 Men’s Doubles, part-
Lanka in the table tennis nered by Robert Dunn and the
event, won 6 medals at the New over 70 Team Event, partnered by
Zealand Masters Games held at Robert Dunn. His partners
the Jubilee Stadium, Jeanette Boswell, Kerry Allen and
Wanganui,New Zealand from 5 th Robert Dunn are all New Zealand

N
eighbours Holy Cross College together before Sisters belonging to Holy "As our Holy Father Pope Francis rec-
Kalutara and Holy Family Family Congregation undertook the ommends for Catholic schools in its to 9 th February 2025. players.
Convent will jointly conduct their management of the girls section in 1934 encyclical 'all are brothers', and the guid- Dr Lucas won a gold medal in He has had a glittering record
sports meet on February 22 to celebrate with the aim of bestowing a qualitative ance and encouragement of Cardinal the over 75 Mixed Doubles, part- and a superlative career in the
the 125th Anniversary of Holy Cross education for girls. Malcom Ranjith Archbishop of Colombo nered by Jeanette Boswell. sport from his younger days, has
College. From then on, Holy Cross College on mixed education, this combined fra- He won silver medals in the captained the country at table ten-
This was revealed at a jointly conduct- became a boys school and Holy Family a ternal sports meet could be a step over 75 Men’s Singles, over 70 nis, and continues to shine
ed press conference at Kalutara last girls school. towards its practicality," the statement Men’s Singles and over 70 Mixed superbly even as a veteran.
week. The organisers intend to give a Although the two schools separated further said. Doubles, partnered by Kerry
novel experience to the participating stu- they had held combined sports meets Reverend Father Gemunu Dias, the

Kuhnemann reported for

dents who otherwise compete separately untill 1983. General Manager of Catholic Schools
at their annual sports meets. From 1986 onwards each school had Archdiocese, will be the chief guest. It
The organisers said that the students their sports meet separately to give more will be held under the guidance of the

suspect action after

of the two schools will compete for their opportunities for students. Rector of Holy Cross College, Kalutara,
respective houses (of the two schools) but "This year remembering the long jour- Rev. Fr. Prasad Niranjan, and the
will come together for drill displays, band ney of 125 years, the two schools will per- Principal of Holy Family Convent,

Sri Lanka Test

performances and to compete in mixed form together at the sports meet as Kalutara. Rev. Sr. Jessica Kulathunga,
relays. 'Brothers and Sisters' under the theme with the collaboration of staff and stu-
According to authorities of the two 'Legacy of Fraternity", a joint statement dents of the two schools at Holy Cross
schools, the girls and boys had studied said of the event. College grounds.

L
eft-arm spinner Matt action has been questioned.

Bumrah ruled out of Champions Trophy;

Kuhnemann has been reported “Cricket Australia will liaise close-
for a suspect action following ly with the ICC and independent
Australia’s Test series in Sri Lanka. experts in line with ICC regulations.

Varun a late inclusion in India squad

Kuhnemann, who claimed 16 wick- No further comment will be made by
ets in the two matches in Galle, will Cricket Australia or Matthew until the
now have to undergo independent test- matter is resolved.”
ing at an ICC-accredited centre with Kuhnemann was lauded as
Brisbane the likely location. Bowlers Australia’s best bowler in the Sri

I
n a significant jolt to India’s plans
are permitted 15 degrees of flex in Lanka series by Nathan Lyon after the
for the Champions Trophy, Jasprit
their actions. duo teamed up to take 30 off the 40
Bumrah has been ruled out of the
It is the first time in a professional wickets in the 2-0 series sweep.
tournament. ESPNcricinfo has learned
career which began in 2017 that He faced a race against time to be fit
that Bumrah is yet to completely recov-
Kuhnemann’s action has been called for the tour after breaking his thumb
er from the discomfort in his back, an
into question. He is able to continue in the BBL in mid-January but made a
injury he picked up during the Sydney
playing domestic cricket while his remarkable recovery to be able to take
Test in January that also ruled him out
action is assessed. his place in the side.
of the England white-ball series.
Should he fail the assessment in the An ICC media release said:
Yashasvi Jaiswal has also been left
coming weeks he would be banned “Australia’s left-arm spinner Matthew
out of the provisional squad, and Varun
from bowling until remedial work is Kuhnemann has been reported with a
Chakravarthy has been named as his
undertaken and the corrections are suspect bowling action during the sec-
replacement.
approved. ond match of their ICC World Test
While Bumrah’s latest scans, which
“The Australian team was notified Championship series against Sri
he underwent in Bengaluru over the
of the match officials’ referral follow- Lanka in Galle.
weekend, did not reveal anything
ing the second Test against Sri Lanka “The match officials’ report cited
severe, he is not entirely ready to return
in Galle and will support Matt through concerns about the legality of the 28-
to bowling. There is no confirmation on
the process of clearing this matter,” a year-old’s bowling action. Kuhnemann
the timeline of his return. It is likely he
Jasprit Bumrah has not played since he had back issues during the New Year’s CA spokesperson said. will undergo an Independent
will resume running in a couple of
Test in Sydney “Matt has played 124 professional Assessment of his bowling action at
weeks and then gradually get back to
matches since his debut in 2017, an ICC Accredited Testing facility to
bowling. His progress will be monitored
over. But the seamer from Delhi Arshdeep Singh capable of handling the including five Test matches and four determine the legality of his bowling
by the BCCI’s medical team in
bounced back, picking three wickets to death overs. One-Day Internationals. He has played action.”
Bengaluru.
transfer the pressure back on England, Varun has been drafted into the 55 Big Bash League games since 2018. Kuhnemann has taken 25 wickets in
This is the second ICC tournament
which played a key role in India’s win. squad as Jaiswal, along with Siraj and “This is the first time in those eight five Tests at an average of 22.20.
Bumrah will miss because of injury,
Eyebrows were raised after the selec- Shivam Dube, have been moved to the years of professional cricket that his (Cricinfo)
having sat out the 2022 T20 World Cup in
tion panel, led by Ajit Agarkar, in coor- line-up of non-travelling reserves.
Australia owing to a back injury that
dination with the Indian team think- Last week, Rohit had strongly hinted
eventually required surgery.
tank comprising head coach Gautam at Varun’s inclusion in the squad, say-
Bumrah’s replacement is Harshit
Gambhir and captain Rohit Sharma, ing that the spinner “clearly had some-
Rana, who made his ODI debut during
had picked Rana ahead of the other con- thing different about him”. Varun has
the ongoing England series. The ICC
tenders, including Mohammed Siraj, for taken 31 wickets at 11.25 since his come-
had set February 11 as the deadline for
the England series. Siraj has been back into India’s T20I squad, and on
all participating teams to submit their
India’s third-most senior bowler after Sunday, he made his ODI debut as well,
final squads of 15 for the Champions
Bumrah and Shami and was also part of taking 1 for 54 in Cuttack.
Trophy. Any subsequent changes to the
their dominant run in the 2023 World India’s squad for the Champions
squad will need approval from the tour-
Cup. However, in January’s media brief- Trophy
nament’s technical committee.
ing while announcing the provisional Rohit Sharma (capt), Shubman Gill
When the BCCI announced the provi-
squad for the Champions Trophy and (vice-capt), Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL
sional squad for the Champions Trophy
the England series, Rohit explained that Rahul (wk), Rishabh Pant (wk), Hardik
and the England series in January, Rana
Siraj’s “effectiveness comes down a lit- Pandya, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar,
was named as Bumrah’s back-up for the
tle” if he was not “going to take the new Kuldeep Yadav, Harshit Rana, Matt Kuhnemann played a major part in Australia’s success
England ODIs. Rana made his ODI
ball”. Mohammed Shami, Arshdeep Singh,
debut in the first game of the England
Rohit had also said that with a ques- Ravindra Jadeja, Varun Chakravarthy

Sabalenka and Gauff both knocked

series in Nagpur, sharing the new ball
tion mark over Bumrah’s fitness, the Non-travelling substitutes:
with Mohammed Shami. Rana started
decision makers collectively had confi- Yashasvi Jaiswal, Mohammed Siraj,
impressively, but Phil Salt then

out in second round in Qatar

dence in Shami controlling the front- Shivam Dube
thrashed him for 26 runs in his third
end of the innings and left-arm quick (Cricinfo)

ICC bans Bangladesh’s Shohely Akhter for W

orld number one Aryna Sabalenka
and number three Coco Gauff have
while she managed just eight winners.
Gauff had won her last 17 matches against

five years on corruption charges

both been knocked out in the second opponents ranked outside the top 20 before fac-
round of the Qatar Open. ing Kostyuk.
Sabalenka was beaten by Ekaterina The 22-year-old will now face the winner of
Alexandrova at the WTA 1,000 event in Doha, an all-Polish tie between Magda Linette and

B
angladesh offspinner Shohely Akhter has player to get out hit wicket during the match. case, “including giving Ms Akther credit for
become the first female cricketer to be The player who was approached by Akhter agreeing an outcome that avoids the need for a while Gauff lost to Marta Kostyuk. Magdalena Frech.
banned for corruption. Akhter, who has reported the matter to the ACU immediately, pro- hearing and so saves considerable time and Russian Alexandrova, who beat Emma Elsewhere, former Wimbledon champion
played two ODIs and 13 T20Is, was found guilty viding all the voice notes from Shohely, who had money for use elsewhere in the fight against cor- Raducanu in the first round, came from a break Elena Rybakina claimed a 6-2 6-4 win against
of attempting to fix, offering a bribe and failing deleted those files on her devices. ruption, and has considered relevant precedents. down twice in the third set and held serve twice American Peyton Stearns, while Jasmine
to disclose full details of an approach to the When interviewed by the ACU, Shohely con- “The ICC therefore considers that a period of against three-time Grand Slam champion Paolini - last year’s Wimbledon and French
ICC’s Anti-Corruption Code (ACU), as well as firmed that she did send the voice messages to ineligibility of five (5) years is reasonable and Sabalenka. Open runner-up - defeated Caroline Garcia 6-3
obstructing the investigation. the player but initially claimed that “she only proportionate. Ms Akhter has agreed to this The world number 26 then held her nerve in 6-4.
She has been banned for five years from all did so in order to show her friend that members sanction. As such, a period of ineligibility of five the third set tie-break to secure a 3-6 6-3 7-6 win. Three-time Grand Slam finalist Ons Jabeur
cricket after she admitted breaching five provi- of the Bangladesh team were not involved in fix- (5) years is imposed.” The 30-year-old, who won a WTA Tour title set up a meeting with former Australian Open
sions of the anti-corruption code. ing, not because she was genuinely making a As such, neither Akhter nor the ICC has any in Austria last week, will play Belgium’s Elise champion Sofia Kenin after beating world num-
The charges against her centre around an corrupt approach”. right of appeal against this decision. Mertens in the last 16. ber eight Qinwen Zheng of China 6-4 6-2.
approach she made to a Bangladesh cricketer In her first interview with the ACU, Akhter The ACU which oversees all senior interna- Ukrainian Kostyuk, the world number 21, It was the Tunisian’s first win against a top-
during the 2023 Women’s T20 World Cup held in showed the ACU screenshots which she claimed tional cricket, does not make public information fought back from 3-1 down in the second set to 10 opponent since last year’s Madrid Open after
South Africa. Akhter, 36, was not part of the were a conversation between her and a friend on investigations that do not lead to charges, but wrap up a 6-2 7-5 victory over Gauff in just 73 struggling with injury.
Bangladesh playing squad for that World Cup, about the “challenge”. She said that these mes- it is believed that a small number of investiga- minutes. Slovakia’s Rebecca Sramkova fought back from
having last played in October 2022. sages had been exchanged prior to February 14, tions around women’s events have taken place in It is a second successive defeat for Gauff, a set down to beat 12th seed Mirra Andreeva 3-6 6-3
The ACU’s investigation focused on Shohely’s when she contacted the Bangladesh player. The the past. This, however, is believed to be the first who received a bye in the first round and was 7-5, while American sixth seed Jessica Pegula beat
conversation on Facebook Messenger with the ACU however confirmed that those files were time an investigation of an attempt to corrupt at playing for the first time since she lost to Paula Elina Svitolina 6-3, 7-6 (7-3).
cricketer on February 14, 2023. It was the day of created after February 14 by “reviewing underly- a women’s event has reached a conclusion with Badosa in the quarter-finals of the Australian Linda Noskova won 6-2 6-3 against Kazakhstan’s
the T20 World Cup match between Bangladesh ing metadata for the messages”. charges. Open last month. Yulia Putintseva to set up a last-16 meeting with
and Australia. She made an offer of 2 million In deciding on the length of her ban, the ICC The 2023 US Open champion was undone by three-time defending champion Iga Swiatek.
Bangladeshi Taka (USD 16,400 approx.) to the said it had considered the circumstances of the (Cricinfo) seven double faults and 39 unforced errors (BBC)
 Thursday 13th February, 2025

Asalanka’s heroics
power Sri Lanka to 49-run
win over Australia
by Rex Clementine a match-defining 79-run partner- openers cheaply, before Sri
ship for the ninth wicket with Lanka’s spinners tightened the

S
ri Lanka pulled off a stun-
ning comeback against Eshan Malinga, dragging Sri noose.
world champions Australia, Lanka to a respectable 214 all out A pivotal moment came when
clinching a 49-run victory at RPS in 46 overs. Dunith Wellalage struck with his
yesterday. Defending a modest tar- That partnership is a record for very first ball, cleaning up Steve
get of 215, the hosts Smith, the
bowled out the visi- Australian skipper
tors for just 165 who had tormented
inside 34 overs, Sri Lanka with
sealing a 1-0 lead in back-to-back cen-
the two-match turies in the Test
series. series. This time,
At the heart of Smith misjudged a
Sri Lanka’s tri- slog sweep and was
umph was their tal- castled before he
ismanic captain had settled in – a
Charith Asalanka, huge breakthrough
who played a cap- that sent the crowd
tain’s knock for the into raptures.
ages, smashing a From there, Sri
career-best 127 before chipping in the ninth wicket at R. Premadasa
Lanka’s bowlers kept applying the
with the crucial wicket of Alex Stadium, and how vital it turned
out to be! Malinga may have con- squeeze. Mystery spinner
Carey. It was a masterclass in Maheesh Theekshana was the
leading from the front, an innings tributed just one run, but his 26-
ball vigil was priceless – he was pick of the lot, bamboozling the
that turned the tide when his side Aussie batters and finishing with
was staring down the barrel. the perfect foil, holding up an end
while Asalanka farmed the strike, four wickets. The visitors, miss-
Opting to bat first, Sri Lanka
dictated terms, and took calculat- ing key players Glenn Maxwell,
found themselves in dire straits at
ed risks. Travis Head, and Josh Inglis,
133 for eight in the 33rd over, with
Asalanka’s knock was a gem – lacked the firepower to mount a
Australia’s four-pronged pace
attack running riot. The innings full of grit, flair, and controlled serious challenge and folded
was in freefall and the hosts aggression. He found the bound- meekly.
looked set to fold well below a par ary at crucial moments, striking This victory was a shot in the
score. But Asalanka, cool as a 14 fours and five sixes in his 127 arm for Sri Lanka, who had been
cucumber under pressure, put on off 126 balls. His ability to shield mauled in the preceding Test
the tail and counterattack series in Galle, including a crush-
under pressure justified ing innings-and-242-run defeat –
why he was named captain their heaviest in Test cricket. To
of the ICC ODI Team of the
bounce back so emphatically
Year for 2024. His innings
against the world champions was
finally ended when he mis-
a statement performance, one that
read a Sean Abbott slower
ball and holed out to deep will inject confidence.
midwicket, walking off to a For Australia, this series is a
standing ovation. crucial tune-up ahead of their
Chasing 215, Australia Champions Trophy campaign in
never really got going. Pakistan next week, but they will
Asitha Fernando set the be concerned by the way their bat- Charith Asalanka played a captain’s knock posting his career best score as Sri Lanka
tone early, dismissing both ting collapsed under pressure. completed a 49 run win over Australia at RPS yesterday.

Manasa, Yenula fight back to

resurrect St. Joseph’s
score 75 runs.
Madubashana’s back to the wall knock
of 116, the best by a number eight bats-
man this season, came in 180 balls. He
was able to anchor the tail for more than
ten overs to help Joes reach their eventu-
al total.
In reply the Sebs were four runs for no
wickets at stumps.
Meanwhile, the other semi-final
between Royal and Trinity was halted by
a court order. The two teams had reached
Anuradhapura on the eve of the match
and the SLSCA had informed the two
teams of the injunction order after their
arrival.
Scores
St. Joseph’s 270 all out in 84.3 overs
(Rishma Amarasinghe 31, Yenula
Dewthusa 74, Maanasa Madubashana
Maanasa Madubashana 116, Adesh Almeida 6/47, Risinu Prabesh
Yenula Dewthusa
2/39)
by Reemus FeRnando two were separated they had batted for
St. Sebastian’s 4 for no loss in 3 overs
fifty overs. Dewthusa faced 175 balls to

A
remarkable seventh wicket stand
of 167 runs between Yenula
Dewthusa and Manasa

AM Ghazanfar ruled out of

Madubashana helped St. Joseph’s
College Darley Road recover from a ter-

Champions Trophy and IPL

rific batting collapse to post 270 runs
against St. Sebastian’s College,
Moratuwa on day one of the Under 19

A
fghanistan were dealt a huge blow and was not named in the original
Division I Tier ‘A’ cricket tournament
ahead of the Champions Trophy Champions Trophy squad either. He has
semi-final at Samadi Ground
as their mystery spinner AM been deemed to not have fully recovered
Anuradhapura on Wednesday.
Ghazanfar has been ruled out from the from his previous injuries as well.
Put to bat, the Joes’ top order col-
tournament due to injury. Squad: Hashmatullah Shahidi (C),
lapsed against right-arm and left-arm
The right-arm offspinner, who Rahmat Shah (VC), Rahmanullah
new ball combination of Adesh Almeida
replaced fellow finger-spinner Mujeeb Ur Gurbaz (WK), Ikram Alikhil (WK),
and Risinu Prabesh. While openers
Rahman in the squad for the marquee Ibrahim Zadran, Sediqullah Atal,
Abishek Jayaweera and Aveesha Samash
tournament, had sustained a fracture in Azmatullah Omarzai, Mohammad Nabi,
departed without scoring, none of the
his L4 vertebra. Gulbadin Naib, Rashid Khan,
top four batsmen reached double figures.
Mujeeb, who played the full SA20 sea- Nangeyalia Kharote , Noor Ahmad,
However, experienced campaigner
son with Paarl Royals through January Fazalhaq Farooqi, Naveed Zadran and
Yenula Dewthusa and number eight bats-
and early February, hasn’t played for Farid Ahmad Malik
man Madubashana had other ideas as
Afghanistan since the tour of Zimbabwe, (Cricbuzz)
they guided the Joes to safety. When the

Published by Upali Newspapers (Private) Limited, 223, Bloemendhal Road, Colombo 13 and Printed at 195/187, High Level Road, Homagama on Thursday 13th February, 2025