News

Japan empowers women entrepreneurs in Sri Lanka

Published

1 month ago

April 9, 2025

editor

Marking the end of the project “Pathways to Peace: Realizing the National Action Plan on Women, Peace, and Security in Sri Lanka”, in-kind assistance ceremonies and Diversity Markets were held from 26h to 29th March in the Districts of Anuradhapura and Batticaloa supporting 206 women entrepreneurs.

The project is supported by the Government of Japan, which provides financial assistance amounting to 1.7 million USD.

Implemented by UN Women in collaboration with Chrysalis and supported generously by the Government of Japan, this initiative made substantial strides in empowering women-led businesses in conflict-affected areas, including Anuradhapura, Batticaloa, Mannar, and Mullaitivu.

Through the implementation of the project, over 460 women entrepreneurs have gained valuable skills through targeted training in business planning, financial literacy, and product innovation. These capacity-building sessions have not only helped refine business models but have also been complemented by training on market access and technology transfer, promoting sustainable practices.This partnership reflects Japan’s enduring commitment to gender equality and inclusive progress, aligning with shared goals outlined in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Women, Peace, and Security Agenda. By fostering pathways to economic empowerment, the initiative contributes to lasting peace and development in Sri Lanka.

News

PC suspended for WhatsApping confidential police info

Published

1 hour ago

May 15, 2025

editor

.A constable attached to the Parliamentary Security Division has been suspended for allegedly sharing confidential police information through a WhatsApp group, violating official protocols.

According to Police Headquarters, the suspect had been operating a WhatsApp group under the name “CRTM / RTM message No. 3” on his personal phone without authorization from senior officers.

Investigations revealed that several members of the group were civilians or unaffiliated with the police, and that sensitive internal communications meant for police personnel were shared with unauthorized individuals.

The SSP, Director of the Parliamentary Security Division, has suspended the constable for breaching discipline by irresponsibly disclosing confidential police matters to outsiders.

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DMT holds “Vehicle tuning dansala” for Vesak

Published

2 hours ago

May 15, 2025

editor

The Department of Motor Traffic (DMT) has organized a special “vehicle tuning Dansala” to be held today and tomorrow (May 15 and 16) in front of its head office in Narahenpita.

In an official statement, the department noted that old motorcycles and three-wheelers – comprising the majority of Sri Lanka’s vehicle population – often lack systematic maintenance due to economic constraints, leading to harmful emissions.

The initiative, organized for the third time by the DMT’s Motor Vehicle Emissions Trust Fund, aims to address this issue.

Free tuning services for motorcycles and three-wheelers will be provided at the dansala, with support from some of Sri Lanka’s most experienced vehicle technicians.

Through this effort, the DMT hopes to improve fuel efficiency, reduce unnecessary fuel expenses, and minimize harmful emissions.

News

New conditions for bus imports from Jan. 2026

Published

2 hours ago

May 15, 2025

editor

Minister of Transport, Highways, Ports and Civil Aviation – Bimal Rathnayake has announced that the government will implement new regulations for the import of public transport buses starting January next year.

Speaking at a media briefing yesterday (May 14), the Minister stated that under the revised guidelines, only buses meeting modern safety and quality standards will be approved for import.

He further stated that the Ministry of Transport will begin inspections to ensure all public transport vehicles currently in operation comply with required safety and operational standards.