COLOMBO, Sri Lanka – Sri Lanka’s Trade Minister, Nalin Fernando, has announced that the government is considering imposing price controls on cement. This move comes amid concerns over high building material costs, despite existing protectionist taxes on steel and tiles. Minister Fernando stated, “We will announce a maximum retail price for cement once companies discuss
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
State Minister Pramitha Bandara Tennakoon has reiterated the government’s commitment to combatting human trafficking, emphasizing strict enforcement of the law regardless of social status. Speaking at a media briefing under the theme “Collective Path to a Stable Country,” Tennakoon highlighted the imposition of severe penalties on offenders. During the briefing, Tennakoon disclosed the arrest of
The 2005 Presidential Election in Sri Lanka was fraught with intricate dynamics and strategic maneuvers by key political players. Speculation suggests that had the North East Voters not been influenced by Prabhakaran, Ranil Wickremesinghe might have emerged victorious. However, Mahinda Rajapaksa, backed by the Chandrika Bandaranaike’s government, secured the presidency, despite the challenges posed by
President Ranil Wickremesinghe has taken decisive action to accelerate the allocation of lands to war heroes by appointing a special committee. Chaired by the President’s Secretary, Saman Ekanayake, the committee comprises senior officials from various key departments, including the Defence Ministry, the Land Commissioner General, and the Ranaviru Seva Authority. The initiative aims to provide
Transport, Highways, and Mass Media Minister Dr. Bandula Gunawardhana addressed concerns regarding recent turbulence in the stock market, attributing the decline in trading to unfounded rumors. According to sources within the stock market, confusion arose amidst speculations spread by conspiratorial saboteurs, suggesting an imminent dissolution of Parliament. Dr. Gunawardhana emphasized that such rumors lack substance