News

No objections to fertiliser subsidy – EC

Published

6 months ago

October 3, 2024

editor

The Election Commission (EC) stated it has no objections to the government’s decision to provide a fertiliser subsidy of Rs. 25,000 to paddy farmers.
Speaking to ‘Daily Mirror’, Commissioner of General Elections Saman Sri Ratnayake has said, “This decision was initially made by the previous government, which the EC withdrew as it was seen as a move to promote a candidate… However, the latest move to grant the fertiliser subsidy by the new government is the execution of the earlier decision.”

The statement comes amid much confusion regarding the matter.

Meanwhile, Secretary to the Ministry of Agriculture – Mr. M.P.N.M. Wickramasinghe has also announced the provision of Rs. 25,000 per hectare allowance to paddy farmers.

He said this while speaking to media after a discussion held with President Anura Kumara Dissanayake earlier in today (Oct. 03).

“This morning, the President visited the Ministry of Agriculture for a progress review with officials. He advised to implement a QR code system for farmers to purchase fertiliser, allowing the necessary information to be captured. Once it is done, the relevant amount will be processed through a banking system…Therefore, there is no hindrance to provide the fertiliser subsidy, ” he added.

News

Police media spokesman resigns

Published

9 hours ago

March 20, 2025

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The Sri Lanka Police Media Spokesman SSP Buddhika Manatunga has tendered his resignation from the position.

According to reports, he has handed over his letter of resignation to the Acting IGP Priyantha Weerasooriya.

News

Speaker endorses certificate on Inland Revenue (Amendment) Bill

Published

9 hours ago

March 20, 2025

editor

Hon. Speaker of Parliament endorses the certificate on the Bill

The Inland Revenue (Amendment) Bill was passed without amendments in Parliament today (20).

The debate on the Second Reading of this Bill was held today from 5:40 PM to 7:10 PM. Subsequently, following the consideration of the Bill at the Committee Stage, the Inland Revenue (Amendment) Bill was passed in Parliament.

The Inland Revenue (Amendment) Bill was presented to Parliament for its First Reading on 01.03.2025.

Furthermore, Speaker, Dr. Jagath Wickramaratne endorsed the certificate on Inland Revenue (Amendment) Bill today (20), in accordance with Article 79 of the Constitution.

Accordingly, this Bill will be enforced as the Inland Revenue (Amendment) Act No. 02 of 2025.

News

Japan provides fire trucks to Sri Lanka

Published

9 hours ago

March 20, 2025

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The Government of Japan, through a grant assistance of JPY 300 million, has decided to provide state-of-the-art Japanese fire trucks to the Government of Sri Lanka to strengthen disaster response capabilities in the country’s Export Processing Zones (EPZs), ensuring a safer business environment and contributing to economic and social stability.

Ambassador of Japan to Sri Lanka – Mr. Akio Isomata SOMATA and Secretary of the Finance Ministry – Mr. K. M. M. Siriwardana, today (March 20) signed and exchanged notes in Colombo on this grant assistance.

The EPZs play a crucial role in Sri Lanka’s economy by attracting investment and driving industrial growth.

The increasing risks of fire hazards and other emergencies risk hampering its critical functions.

The Japanese fire trucks, equipped with cutting-edge technology, will bolster the capacity of EPZs, safeguarding businesses, workers, and communities.

The project also underscores Japan’s unwavering commitment to addressing Sri Lanka’s socio-economic challenges and promoting sustainable development.