The government has decided to open the 77th Independence Day celebrations for the public to witness, Public Administration, Provincial Councils and Local Government Minister Dr. A.H.M.H Abayarathna said today (Jan. 30).
Speaking at a media briefing in Colombo, he said that the theme for this year’s (2025) Independence Day celebrations is “Let’s Rally for National Renaissance” (Jathika Punarudhayata Pelagasemu).
The minister has also said that the government has allocated Rs. 80 million for the celebrations and hopes to limit the expenditure within the allocated funds. He added that other institutions such as the security forces will have separate budgets.
The Secretary to the Ministry of Defence, Air Vice Marshal (Retired) Sampath Thuyacontha, revealed that there have been some changes to the Independence Day parade’s structure.
He stated that only 1,873 military personnel will join this year’s military parade, a reduction of 1,511 members from last year. He also confirmed that armored vehicles from the tri forces will not be featured this year.
He added that only 03 aircraft will be used this year, which is a decrease from the 19 aircraft used last year.
However, the Navy will conduct 25 traditional gun salutes, he said.
