Following diplomatic discussions held by Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardana and Fisheries Minister Douglas Devananda during their visits to China, the Chinese Government has donated 75,000 fishing nets. Minister Devananda has organized the distribution of these nets to fishing communities in the Northern and Eastern provinces. The distribution plan allocates the nets as follows: The nets
Sri Lanka is set to launch a digital program allowing migrant workers to report concerns while employed abroad, according to Minister of Labor and Foreign Employment, Manusha Nanayakkara. The new initiative will be accessible via smartphones, enabling domestic workers to report issues such as unpaid salaries or any other problems they encounter. This development was
Sri Lanka agreed to a revised deal with the IMF that includes significant tax changes: These changes are expected to be approved by parliament by July 2024 and take effect in January 2025. Concerns and Context: This tax reform is part of Sri Lanka’s effort to address its economic challenges with the help of the
The Sri Lankan rupee started the trading day on Wednesday (today) a touch weaker against the US dollar. The opening exchange rate was 302.20/35 rupees to the dollar, compared to 302.10/20 on Tuesday. Meanwhile, the Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE) witnessed a positive opening. The All Share Price Index (ASPI) rose by 0.11% to reach 12,117
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has scheduled a review of Sri Lanka’s economic program for June 12th. This review will assess the country’s progress on reforms and economic policies. “The session will evaluate Sri Lanka’s economic policies and reform progress,” stated State Minister for Finance Shehan Semasinghe. “We look forward to the continued support of
Minister of Agriculture and Plantation Industries, Mahinda Amaraweera, conveyed President Ranil Wickremesinghe’s announcement to the Cabinet, stating that the government cannot afford to offer any salary increase to government employees this year. This decision was reiterated during discussions with union representatives from the animal production and livestock development sector. Despite requests from trade union representatives
A recent search operation conducted by the Navy near Pandaraweli beach in Silawathura led to the apprehension of two individuals caught in the act of preparing approximately 3500 illegally harvested sea cucumbers for transportation. The Navy also seized the cab used for this illicit activity. The Navy’s vigilant patrols and search operations in coastal and
The Meteorology Department has issued a warning regarding the anticipated increase in showery and windy conditions over the next few days, attributed to pre-monsoonal activity across the country and surrounding sea areas. Heavy rainfall is forecasted, particularly in the South-western regions including the Western, Sabaragamuwa, Central, and North-western provinces, as well as in Galle, Matara,
Law Professor and Attorney Dr. Prathibha Mahanamahewa emphasized the importance of swiftly implementing new rules and regulations to bolster sustainable economic growth. He stated that alongside the government’s efforts to strengthen law enforcement against theft, there’s an urgent need to enact measures that empower the economy. Under the current President’s leadership, over 75 new laws
Examinations Commissioner General Amith Jayasundara addressed the media yesterday, announcing adjustments to the G.C.E. Ordinary Level Examination 2023 (2024) Science Paper 1. Responding to complaints, it was decided to award one mark each for questions No. 9 and 39, following controversy surrounding the exam. The decision stemmed from concerns over questions outside essential teachings, which