India’s ‘Constitution Day’ was observed through a series of events organized by the High Commission of India, Colombo on 26 November 2022. The special day marked the adoption of the Indian Constitution on 26 November 1949.
More than 200 school children from different parts of Sri Lanka enthusiastically participated in the Children’s Art Competition organized on 26 November 2022. Themes of the Competition such as ‘Incredible India’ and ‘Fundamental Duties’ were closely linked to India and her Constitution which helped the young and creative students from Sri Lanka develop a closer understanding of their civilizational partner, India. High Commissioner Gopal Baglay, who was the Chief Guest at the Competition, complimented families and teachers of the children for nurturing the talents of the next generation by encouraging them to participate in such competitions.
In order to instill a sense of environmental responsibility and care for future generations in the children, a unique workshop which gave training on creating beautiful environment-friendly art works from waste materials was also organized on the occasion. A tailor-made exhibition – ‘Making of Indian Constitution’ – gave the pictorial history and background of events and milestones that made the world’s largest written Constitution a reality.
The High Commissioner and officials of the High Commission paid floral tributes to Dr. B. R. Ambedkar, main architect of the Indian Constitution on Constitution Day, 2022. Earlier, preamble of the Constitution which professes guiding principles of India was read out by the High Commissioner and Indian officials in Sri Lanka.
Following the adoption of the Indian Constitution on 26 November 1949, it came into effect on 26 January 1950. Indians across the world celebrate ‘Republic Day’ every year with great fervor to mark this momentous occasion. The Indian Constitution, which has drawn from best practices and procedures of various countries, has been the main anchor and basis for decision making for policy makers of India.
A few showers will occur in the Western, Sabaragamuwa and North-western provinces and in the Nuwara-Eliya, Kandy, Galle and Matara districts today (July 01), the Department of Meteorology.
Fairly strong winds of about 30-40kmph can be expected at times over the Western slopes of the central hills and in the Northern, North-central and North-western provinces and in the Trincomalee and Hambantota districts.
The general public has been requested to take adequate precautions to minimize damages caused by temporary localized strong winds and lightning during thundershowers.
The Ceylon Petroleum Corporation (CPC) has announced a revision of fuel prices, effective from midnight today (June 30).
The price of Petrol 92 Octane has been increased by Rs. 12 to Rs. 305 per litre, while the price of Kerosene has been increased by Rs. 07 to Rs. 185 per litre. The price of Auto Diesel has also been increased by Rs. 15, bringing it to Rs. 289 per litre.
However, the prices of Petrol 95 Octane and Super Diesel remain unchanged, according to Ceypetco.
The new fuel prices are as follows:
• Petrol Octane 92 – Rs. 305 (increased by Rs. 12) • Auto Diesel – Rs. 289 (increased by Rs. 15) • Kerosene – Rs. 185 (increased by Rs. 7) • Petrol Octane 95 – Rs. 341 (not revised) • Super Diesel – Rs. 325 (not revised)
Meanwhile, Lanka IOC has also revised retail fuel prices to match Ceypetco prices.
Former Minister and veteran politician Gamini Lokuge has passed away today (June 30) at the age of 82.
Commencing his political career in 1960 as a member of the United National Party, his first successful national-level campaign came in 1983, when he was elected by a clear majority to represent the Kesbewa District.
He served as Minister of Tourism during the UNP-led governments in 1989 and 2002. In 2006, following personal disagreements with then UNP leader Ranil Wickremesinghe, he crossed over to the government of former President Mahinda Rajapaksa.
In January 2007, Lokuge was appointed Minister of Sports and Public Recreation. He was re-elected to Parliament in both 2010 and 2015.
On 27 November 2019, he was appointed State Minister for Urban Development, and on 12 August 2020, he assumed duties as the Cabinet Minister of Transport.