highlights The Crown of India friday 6 august 2021 - on Course Towards Latest Edition a Glorious Future Vol: 10/170 Price : Rs 30.00 In Sports Our Athletes lack discipline- Namal Sports Minister Namal Rajapaksa criticized the conduct of certain athletes who competed at the Tokyo Olympic Games, claiming there were serious concerns about their discipline. A16

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Health Minister admits Medics concerned over increasing COVID-19 deaths COVID-19 cases spiked since 25 July Orders to allocate normal At Least Three to Four wards to treat COVID patients By Gagani Weerakoon, Methmalie Dissanayake and J.T. de Silva Patients Die Every Hour An increase can be seen in the number of COVID-19 patients who were hospitalised during past 10 days (25 July - 4 August), Minister Suggest re-imposing stricter travel restrictions of Health By Dilanthi Jayamanne informed Parliament yesterday (5). people, who remain undetected, In response to a question from can be five or six times higher,” he Opposition Leader Sajith Medical officers raised serious added. Premadasa, under the Standing concerns about the surging Right now, it looks like the virus Order 27/2, the Minister said that 21,344 patients numbers of COVID-19 patients and is ahead and winning although the were reported during that period while 591 have died deaths, with statistics showing at vaccination process has been due to COVID-19. least three to four patients dying ramped up, he emphasised. every hour. Almost all main hospitals in the Story Continued on page 2 Vice President of the country have reached their Medical Association (SLMA), Dr. maximum capacity while some Manilka Sumanatillake told the have already declared emergency. 14 Children have Media that if the country was to win The Ragama and Kalubowila the race between the rapidly teaching hospitals, where wards increasing COVID infections and were flooded with COVID-19 died from COVID to the numbers being vaccinated it patients by Wednesday (4), were would have to re-impose stricter seen having patients under trees date – Wanniarachchi travel restrictions for a short period. and outside the buildings by last He also said Sri Lanka’s daily midnight. By Gagani Weerakoon and Methmalie COVID-19 cases count could be Meanwhile, with at least 20 Dissanayake several times higher than the children being admitted with COVID official figures. -19 to the Lady Ridgeway Hospital It has been recorded that 45,831 children have “With the Delta variant of concern per day, measures were taken to been infected with COVID-19 until now while 14 having a higher transmissibility, the send some of the patients to the children have succumbed to the virus, Minister of actual number of virus-infected Rajagiriya Ayurveda Hospital. Health Pavithra Wanniarachchi informed Parliament yesterday (5). Fifty per cent of deaths have been reported from Story Continued on page 2 the 0 – 5 year age group. Vaccinating Sajith denied access Namal explains Story Continued on page 2 Tokyo trip expenses: prisoners against to detained teachers Arrested teacher COVID begins By Nabiya Vaffoor ‘State Minister unionists released on bail Opposition Leader was Ranasinghe By Thameenah Razeek denied entry to the Colombo Harbour Police By Hansi Nanayakkara station yesterday (5) by officers of the Sri bought my tickets’ Vaccinating prisoners against COVID-19 Lanka Ports Authority. Premadasa sought The 44 protesters, who were arrested during a began yesterday (5), according to the access to the Police station to look into the By Gagani Weerakoon and demonstration in front of the Presidential Secretariat Prisons Department. condition of individuals who were arrested Methmalie Dissanayake in Colombo on Wednesday, were enlarged on The Sinopharm vaccine will be given to on Wednesday (4) for allegedly behaving in personal bail yesterday by Colombo Fort Chief ... the prison inmates. an unruly manner. Sports Minister Inmates at the Welikada, Magazine and Police arrested over 44 individuals Namal Rajapaksa Colombo remand prisons will be belonging to teacher trade unions, who were yesterday (5) said vaccinated during the first phase, engaged in a protest in front of the State Minister according to Prisons Department Presidential Secretariat. Roshan spokesman Chandana Ekanayake. He “What kind of democracy is there in the Ranasinghe added that the programme will thereafter country if the Leader of the Opposition, a sponsored his be adopted in other prisons across the Member of Parliament and lawyers are not ticket to visit Japan country. allowed to enter the Police station? The to attend the Tokyo Parliamentary Privileges of... Olympic Games. Making a Story Continued on page 2 clarification regarding reports 2nd compensation claim for that four ministers MV X-Press Pearl disaster Calling State employees attended the Story Continued on page 2 back to work Olympics, in response to SJB MP Hesha Report to be handed Withanage in Parliament, Rajapaksa said he and only the State Minister of Required Nitrogen, over to AG – MEPA Health Min says Sports attended the games while... Potassium for farmlands By Faadhila Thassim pregnant women Story Continued on page 2 Soil testing to begin from The report on the second compensation claim for the MV X-Press Pearl disaster will will get waiver Ampara – Agri Ministry be submitted to the Attorney General (AG) Govt’s policy on within 48 hours, Chairperson of the By Gagani Weerakoon and By Thameenah Razeek Marine Environment Protection Authority Methmalie Dissanayake organic fertiliser (MEPA), Attorney Dharshani Lahandapura The Ministry of Agriculture and the Department of said. Health Minister Pavithra Wanniarachchi unchanged Agriculture will begin soil testing in various types of She stated that the compensation will be said that guidelines and instructions are agriculture lands in the Ampara District next week to purely economic for expenses incurred being prepared to limit pregnant women – Weeratunga provide the proper amount of Nitrogen (N) and from 3 June to 31 July, adding that the being recalled for duty. Potassium (K). environmental damage caused by the She made this remark in response to a By Thameenah Razeek At the President’s Media Centre yesterday (5), maritime disaster, currently being ... question raised by Opposition Leader... Secretary to the Ministry of Agriculture Senior... Despite the fact Story Continued on page 2 Story Continued on page 2 that certain Story Continued on page 2 decisions are made and COPA reveals shortcomings in Dept changed, based on Amendments to KNDU Bill scientific advice and need, the being analysed – Chamal of Probation, Childcare Services Government’s policy on the use By W. K. Prasad Manju By Gagani Weerakoon and of organic Methmalie Dissanayake fertilisers has not State Minister of Defence changed, Chief told Ceylon It was revealed, at the Committee Adviser to the Today the amendments on Public Accounts (COPA) sitting President Lalith submitted to the Kotelawala this week, that the Department of Weeratunga National Defence University Probation and Childcare Services has affirmed. (KNDU) Draft Bill are being failed to formulate a national policy to In response to queries by journalists, studied and that the public will protect the rights of the child, enact Weeratunga said it is difficult to direct be given opportunity to voice relevant laws and formulate policies a country that had been accustomed to their suggestions and views as in line with international standards to use chemical fertilisers for decades, to well. safeguard the rights,... adopt organic fertilisers overnight.

Story Continued on page 2 Story Continued on page 2 Story Continued on page 2 A2 friday 6 august 2021 news

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COVID-19 cases She said that 134,179 PCR tests have been steps to fulfil the increasing oxygen demand. conducted from 25 July to 4 August. One of them is importing six liquid oxygen At Least... According to the Minister, 23,804 patients cylinders which have capacity of 20 tonnes,” Hospital Director, Dr. G. According to records issued crisis situation. were being treated at hospitals by 23 July. she elaborated. Wijesuriya said that the first by the Epidemiology Unit on 27 However, that number had been increased to Meanwhile, Minister Wanniarachchi told floor of the Ayurveda Hospital and 29 July 2021 there were Responding to questions, 30,017 on 1 August. During those days, there Ceylon Today that she has ordered health was utilised to transfer the 1,711 and 1,940 cases when contacted, Dr. Herath were about 140 -150 patients receiving authorities to allocate normal wards to cater to COVID positive children. respectively. However the said yesterday (5) that he had treatments in ICUs. A total of 164 patients were the increasing number of COVID-19 infected Dr. Sumanatillake, who is numbers leaped to 2,370 by 29 been to Galle and Matara receiving treatments in ICUs by 4 August, she patients, while allowing wards that are freed up also a consultant July 2021. By Monday (2) the hospitals to assess the added. Speaking further, the Minister said to be set aside for patients stricken with other Endocrinologist, said “not beginning of August, there has situation. “If it comes to the that four COVID-19 variants, Alpha, Beta, illnesses and diseases. only there is an increase seen been a steady increase in the worst we would have to utilise Delta and Gamma, have been reported She took this decision after most major in the number of COVID cases detections till a total 2,561 available resources,” he said worldwide. Out of them Alpha, Beta and Delta hospitals reached maximum capacity due to a but once more there is hike in cases were recorded on noting that the available health variants have been reported in Sri Lanka. sudden spike in COVID-19 cases during the the number of COVID deaths. Wednesday (4). staff could not be expanded. When Premadasa queried about ICU beds past few days. From the 40 and 50 and 60s The total number of fully “Nor can we burden the other and Oxygen capacity in the country, the Wanniarachchi said she visited the Ragama that were reported by the vaccinated cases in the country health services by cutting them Minister said that 96 ICU beds have been Hospital to look into the crisis there and Director General Health was 2,645,844 while the down.” added to the system for COVID-19 patients. instructed the Hospital Director to provide all Services (DGHS) during the number of COVID cases “However, if it comes to a Right now, there are 186 ICU beds in COVID- available facilities towards the treatment of past number of days there recorded in the Post New Year critical situation we may have 19 ICUs. COVID patients and to prioritise them. was a leap to 82 deaths on cluster have surpassed to do so,” he noted “Right now, we have enough oxygen supply She added that a pilot project to treat COVID- Wednesday (3) comprising 41 205,981 by Tuesday (3). In the meantime, China has and two companies fulfil the demand. However, 19 patients who had shown minor symptoms men and 41 women between The National Operation pledged to “keep its when the number of patients increases, oxygen at home within the Western Province will be the ages of 30 to 60 years and Centre for Prevention of commitment” by delivering supply should be increased too. Therefore, we conducted in other provinces as well with effect above. This means that three COVID-19 Outbreak (NOCPCO) more Sinopharm Vaccines to have obtained Cabinet approval for several from 9 August. COVID deaths occurred every said there were 86 State Sri Lanka. hour. According to this, on an hospitals treating patients with The Chinese Embassy in Sri hourly basis, there have been COVID-19 also by Wednesday Lanka, in a tweet, stated that three COVID deaths, he (4) with 6,718 patients. There it would deliver a total of four lamented. were 64 interim care centres million doses of the The SLMA Vice President (ICCs) with 14,700 patients Sinopharm Vaccine to Sri Report to... lamented that the number of and 45 paid ICC with another Lanka despite the increasing ...thoroughly assessed, will be sought in the claim. An interim compensation of USD 40 COVID cases in the COVID 4,880 patients being treated. demand for the vaccines on future. Lahandapura said the complete million was previously sought from MV X-Press wards at the National Hospital Meanwhile, Deputy Director domestic turf. payment of the interim compensation sought Pearl’s operator for the costs and losses Colombo and Teaching General Disaster Management It said that 2.14 million doses for the 20 May to 3 June period has not been including that of expenses incurred in Hospital Kalubowila, had and Emergency Response Dr. of the vaccine were scheduled paid by the Ship’s operator on the basis that controlling the fire that broke out in the ship, outnumbered the available Hemantha Herath said that to reach Sri Lanka today (6) further evidence is required and added that the the loss of daily income faced by fishermen beds in those wards. At the although there was an increase while another 1.86 million requested documents will also be handed over including damage caused to fishing gear, cost NHSL alone there are 600 in COVID patients in several doses were to land in the island to the AG. Accordingly, the report submitted to incurred to clear the shores and for COVID patients at present. hospitals it has not reached a the country by Sunday (8). the AG will be sent to the ship operator for the investigations between 20 May to 3 June.

Arrested teacher... Amendments to... State Minister...... Magistrate Priyantha on each of the suspects, had protesters, seized by the Police, He pointed out that parties have ... another two ministers travelled Liyanage. been released and informed the were also ordered to be released. submitted logical ideas and proposals in to Japan for official duties of their They were all released on Magistrate that none of them On Wednesday, teachers’ and relation to the Draft Bill while some parties ministries. surety bail in Rs 100,000 by had tested COVID-19 positive. principals’ trade unions arrived are simply raising their voices in a futile Speaking further, Rajapaksa said Magistrate Liyanage. The Police He also said that though the in Colombo in four vehicle manner. the ministers travelled using their had stated that if the suspects rapid antigen test results had parades, demanding solutions to Rajapaksa said arrangements will be personal funds. were to be enlarged on bail it been negative, medical opinion their salary anomalies issue. made to further expand opportunities to “State Minister Ranasinghe has could lead to public riots and had been that PCR tests should They later staged a protest obtain an education and that it will be done businesses in Japan for decades. He that the suspects could also also be conducted on them. near the Presidential Secretariat, while protecting free education in the bought tickets on his own and subtly interfere with evidence. They were produced before the causing traffic congestion in the country. He also said that it is up to a bought tickets for me as well. You But, the Court rejected that Colombo Fort Magistrate’s Court area. The Police had arrested 22 responsible government to expand should be happy that one of our submission and released the earlier, under provisions of the male teachers, 16 female education opportunities while safeguarding members in Parliament has suspects on bail. The Quarantine & Prevention of teachers and six others on free education at the same time. businesses in Japan and the prosecution was represented by Diseases Ordinance, the Penal charges of unlawful assembly, After the amendments have been ministers who travelled to Japan DSG Dileepa Peiris. Code and the National unruly behaviour, blocking a analysed, the Bill will be presented for a used their personal funds. It seems He said that the results of Thoroughfares Act. main road and violation of second reading Parliament in the future, that you are jealous about that,” he rapid antigen tests, conducted Accordingly, the vehicles of the quarantine regulations. the State Minister further added. stressed.

Soil testing... Govt’s policy...... Professor Udith K. Phosphorous will be distributed as He made these remarks yesterday Prof. Jayasinghe continued, “For recommendation of the Ministry of Jayasinghe,said that the Ministry a mineral and Nitrogen will be (5) at the Presidential Media Centre this goal, we will seek the advice and Agriculture and other relevant expects to start issuing Nitrogen distributed in powder form. He during an open forum titled ‘Has the assistance of specialists from State authorities. and Potassium extracts to farmers. mentioned that some soils are high Chemical Fertiliser Ban Been Lifted?’ universities, faculties of agriculture Kingsley Rathnayake, the He stated that they will first in potassium and in such case the Meanwhile, Secretary to the and the field, as well as the President’s Spokesman, quoted the determine how much Potassium Agriculture Department will make Ministry of Agriculture, Senior cooperation of all Media President’s comments on the organic and Nitrogen is needed in arable sure that the chemical is not added Professor Udith K. Jayasinghe, stated institutions,” fertiliser ban, saying, “Problems may lands in terms of quantity after to those soils. that only natural mineral and frozen According to S. R. Attygalle, arise at the start of the programme. which it will decide how much will “Similarly, we will avoid using particles are imported for plant Secretary to the Ministry of Finance, The development of a long-term be distributed. excessive amounts of fertiliser that nutrients, and this is an important despite the import limits, certain green socioeconomic pattern, on the Jayasinghe also said that the will wash away before the crops factor in biological soil enrichment. decisions must be taken in the other hand, should not be put off. We criteria is now being developed, and have a chance to absorb it. While many farmers are unfamiliar national interest, and nothing is done must select the best solutions to the that once completed, the Currently, fertilisers are given in with the use of organic manure, he that is not related to policy. problems that arise. Farmers may authorities will educate farmers on whatever quantity requested by the stated that a mechanism has been In response to the decision to believe that ceasing to use chemical how the Government will provide farmer. But now we’ve started to established to track these activities import only natural mineral and fertilisers will reduce output. In that these chemicals. regulate things and stop wasting on a weekly basis, and plans are in frozen particulate matter, he stated case, revenue will be reduced by a When asked how the chemicals money on chemical extracts,” he the works to use technical and new that such actions are carried out yearly chemical fertiliser subsidy of will be disseminated, he stated that said. techniques for this purpose. under the strict supervision and less than 50 billion rupees.”

14 Children... Sajith denied.... COPA reveals ....

Responding to a question by the Opposition Leader Sajith ...MP Nalin Bandara and mine have been violated ... development and protection of Prof. Vitarana told Department Premadasa under the Standing Order 27/2, Wanniarachchi here. The democratic right of the 44 teachers who orphaned, abandoned and vulnerable officials that national policies and said that 19,688 of the cases are of children under 10 years were arrested has been violated since none of their children in Sri Lanka until now. plans should be formulated of age. lawyers were allowed to visit them,” he added. In addition to that, COPA Chairman immediately with a proper Premadasa queried whether the Government is aware of Premadasa expressed his disappointment, Prof. pointed out that understanding regarding the existing the spike in the number of COVID-19 infected children emphasising that as the Leader of the Opposition the Department has also failed to situation. recently. He also sought an explanation regarding the he had a responsibility to look into the wellbeing of complete acting upon a national It was also disclosed that the Government’s plans on controlling the situation. teachers who were arbitrarily detained. mechanism in relation to Department had spent Rs. 4.98 million According to the data provided by the Minister regarding “When we tried to enter the Colombo Port, the implementation, follow up and in 2016 on three research projects into COVID-19 deaths among children, seven have been reported Ports Authority said that they need Police approval, evaluation even in 2021. the failure of socialising from age group 0 -5 while three have been reported from age when we asked the Police they say that they need Furthermore,committee members institutionalised children, the impact group 6 – 10. “Four children between 11 – 18 years have died the approval of the Ports Authority,” he added. observed that no action had been upon children whose parents are due to COVID-19 as well,” Wanniarachchi informed. Premadasa arrived at the premises, yesterday (5) taken over 485 complaints reported to abroad and their safety, and on a Speaking further, she said that the possibility of morning to inquire about the teachers who were the Department of Probation and Child review of child participation within the vaccinating children with the Pfizer Biontech jab is being arbitrarily arrested and detained by the Ports Care Services and that it had not Sri Lankan structure. However, the studied. “Final decision regarding that will be taken by Police for participating in the protest by Teachers inquired into the status or progress Committee observed a failure in Advisory Committee on Communicable Diseases,” she added. and Principals. regarding solutions given on such designing and implementing adequate complaints. programme projects out of COPA directed the attention of recommendations and conclusions officials towards the need to formulate drawn from the reports. a systematic legal framework regarding Due to this concern, the importance news reporting on children by the of establishing a research unit in the Health Min... Media and on a formal programme Department of Probation and aimed at providing counselling services Childcare Services to look into ... Sajith Premadasa on the country’s duty. According to the State Minister, this to children undergoing depression and problems faced by children and current COVID-19 situation. has been decided at the meeting attended reintegrating them into society. Prof. studying arising matters was also Both Government and Opposition MPs by the Director General of Health Services, Vitarana further emphasised that a proposed during the committee raised concernsin Parliament yesterday (5) Public Administration Ministry Secretary proper national policy should be meeting. regarding the safety of pregnant women. and Finance Ministry Secretary,“They have formulated considering the “As there is no regulation for cyber- Wanniarachchi said that safety of discussed that a special mechanism should aforementioned factors. crimes against children, it is important pregnant women will be ensured and steps be in place to recall public sector employees This was disclosed when the Auditor to take immediate action to regulate are being taken regarding the matter. for duty”. General’s reports on the Department of them. As children are being educated Meanwhile, State Minister Prof. Channa The Public Administration Ministry would Probation and Child Care Services for online from home these days, the Jayasumana said that a special mechanism issue a circular allowing pregnant women the years 2016, 2017 and 2018 and committee also focused on addressing will be introduced on recalling pregnant to work from home, Prof. Jayasumana the current performance reports were the issues that may arise in the use of women and public sector employees for added. submitted to COPA. the Internet,”COPA pointed out. news friday 6 august 2021 A3 Following reassurance from Health Ministry UK Extends Travel Health TUs call off Ban on Sri Lanka By Paneetha Ameresekere However, diplomats and such like (aforesaid professionals), other UK on Wednesday (4) extended than patients upon arrival to the their travel ban to Sri Lankan UK need to be quarantined. strike temporarily tourists wanting to visit that This ban is extended to six other country due to the prevailing SAARC countries except Bhutan. By Dilanthi Jayamanne Saman Ratnapriya and President of The duo said trade union demands COVID-19 pandemic in this However, in the case of India, it will the College of Medical Laboratory also included the continuation of country, as per an announcement move out from the red list and Several trade unions in the State Science Sri Lanka (CMLSSL), Ravi paying the COVID risk allowance, made by their Foreign Office. move into the less stringent amber health sector temporarily called off a Kumudesh said discussions had been implementation of the Cabinet Sri Lanka joins a band of 64 list on Sunday (8), where, however, strike they launched at 7:00 a.m. held between Health Secretary, Major Decision to make the health service a countries where this red list; that visitors from that country will yesterday (5), after minutes of the General (Retired) Dr. Sanjeewa closed service, and the full payment is a ban on tourist visits to the UK nonetheless have to be discussion held between the Health Munasinghe and trade unionists of overtime. is applicable. quarantined and undergo PCR Ministry and the Union Leaders were demanding that the Ministry The strike, which commenced at This ban however, is not tests in the UK to prove that they issued to the strikers. continues with the special leave 7:00 a.m., was temporarily called off applicable to diplomats, patients are COVID-19 free. President of the Government system set up for the health service once the discussion minutes were visiting the UK for medical Citizens from green list Nursing Officers’ Association (GNOA), during the COVID-19 pandemic. issued to trade unions. treatment and a few specified countries, however, are exempted professionals such as aeronautical from being quarantined. engineers and airline pilots and Meanwhile, the eight SAARC crew, foreign BBC crew and countries are Sri Lanka, Bhutan, Immigration and Emigration Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, President visits Army and Defence HQ Complex Officials, flying/visiting the UK. Pakistan, Maldives and India.

President Gotabaya Gotabaya Rajapaksa was Rajapaksa, Commander-in- introduced to the Principal Chief of the Armed Forces Staff Officers (PSOs) at the cum the conceptual Army Headquarters by Indian HC calls on FM Gunawardena brainchild behind the General Shavendra Silva erection of the new state-of- before he was invited to sit the art Defence Headquarters for a group photograph with complex at Sri Senior Officers as a memory Jayewardenepura who saw of his visit to the location. the fruition of the project, Principal Advisor to the called at the Army President, Lalith Headquarters on Wednesday Weeratunga, Secretary to (3) for the first time at the the President, Dr. P.B. invitation of the Chief of Jayasundara and Defence Defence Staff and Secretary, General (Retired) Commander of the Army, Kamal Gunaratne were General Shavendra Silva to Head of the State who was President Colours and among those who joined. be received in a dignified red- making his maiden visit to Regimental Colours squads The day’s Chief Guest, a carpet welcome, adorned the Defence Headquarters who had been quarantined former military stalwart in with military salutes. Complex as the Head of the for over a month after placing the prestigious Gajaba As the clock struck 10:00 State. them in a bubble adhering to Regiment (GR), prior to his a.m., the motorcade carrying No sooner than the day's health procedures. retirement many years ago, the President, preceded by VIP alighted from the vehicle The day’s Chief Guest, recalling a few of his mounted horse riders entered at the main porch, General Head of the State, flanked by memorable occasions, the Army Headquarters main Shavendra Silva received the the host, General Shavendra shared a few thoughts with entrance as troops in a drive- President warmly and invited Silva reviewed the parade Senior Officers present past Guard Turnout salute him to review the highest closely and took the salute there, before he moved to greeted the visiting military salute, the Guard of from the special dais. attend the next segment of Commander-in-Chief of the Honour, presented by Gajaba No sooner than the day’s the day’s itinerary in the Armed Forces, the President, Regiment troops, made up of Chief Guest, the President Army Headquarters. High Commissioner of India, Gopal Baglay called on Foreign Minister Dinesh attaching due respect to the 4 Officers, 96 Other Ranks, took the honours, President Gunawardena on Monday (3).

International Conference on Business Management 2021 The Faculty of Management practitioners and the industry to 19 pandemic has led policymakers Business Forum. researchers to further hone their Studies and Commerce of the deliberate on contemporary and business leaders worldwide to The main conference will be graced research skills by presenting their University of Sri Jayewardenepura, challenges of the economy. adopt strategies to suit the ‘new by a globally renowned academic in PhD study in progress to an considered the pioneer in The ICBM 2021, the 18th has normal.’The ICBM 2021 offers a the field, Assistant Professor in international scholarly audience.The Management education in the picked a timely theme addressing the platform to start a dialogue among Public Administration Evangelia Business Forum, signifying the country and one of the best present turbulence and uncertainty the members of the academia and Petridou, affiliated with the Risk and holistic approach of the Conference Management faculties in the region, that we find ourselves in: “Managing the industry, representing not only Crisis Research Centre at Mid towards its theme, guarantees the hosts the International Conference in Crisis: Brace for Challenges Ahead the country but the region as well. Sweden University. industry representation in a dialogue on Business Management (ICBM) to Ensure Growth.” The ICBM 2021 features three The PhD Colloquium offers the that will prompt far-reaching every year, with the aim of bringing This unprecedented and novel main events, the main conference, opportunity for the next generation economic consequences beyond together the academia, the situation brought on by the COVID- the PhD Colloquium and the of national/international academic boundaries. A4 friday 6 august 2021 news

Abandoned Alawwa Hospital DMO and Staff Urgently Required to Avert a Disaster By Eunice Ruth and Dimesh Adikari

In 2018 the Alawwa Divisional Hospital in the Kurunegala District was abandoned. There was no District Medical Officer (DMO). Due to the poor condition of the hospital, the Management and staff are unable to provide a proper hospital services. Currently, the hospital is in a very bad condition and no indication of any attention forthcoming. The residents and the public who use the hospital said, after the retirement of the DMO of the Alawwa Divisional Hospital in 2018, another DMO was appointed to continue the hospital management works and services. “Normally we go to hospital to get systems” he said. Nowadays we have to their duties. However, the person who However, within a short period, he died medicines for our diseases or injuries. get a leave on weekdays to get the conducts management activities and since then, no DMO was appointed But unfortunately, while only visiting medical report. “The hospital should should be a well experienced person to continue hospital services. this hospital, people will get a special follow a proper system in treating and the officials should be responsible At present, the hospital buildings offer to increase their pressure levels at people and all the relevant authorities for appointing experienced and including wards, water tanks and all the hospital itself. There are only few should pay attention to resolving the educated people for relevant positions. other resources of the hospital are doctors at the hospital and they always existing issue by appointing a The major reason behind the decaying. The path which was used to prescribe medicines to the patients, responsible DMO,” said Madushanka. deficiencies at the hospital is improper reach the hospital is in a dilapidated even without having a proper management, he said. condition. The residents and people of knowledge regarding the disease or the Hospital serves three While speaking about the the area who used this hospital are injury,” said Piyasena. He also Districts development which needs to be done, currently suffering due to the bad requested the responsible authorities to Thennakoon pointed a major concern condition of the hospital and no proper appoint at least a DMO to maintain the U. B. Thennakoon, the Co-Chairman which should be considered. The medical service. the people said the hospital and to provide proper of the Hospital Committee, noted that hospital is located near three major hospital has several other issues apart treatments for patients. even though Alawwa Divisional roads, Colombo, Trincomalee and from the lack of DMO and staffs. The Hospital belongs to the Kurunegala Anuradhpura with a railway station people complained that, if the Transferring patients to District, the Alawwa residents mostly near the hospital. Within a day, we can management of the hospital had Kurunegala use the Kegalle District Hospital. expect at-least two or sometimes more properly continued their services, the Alawwa Divisional Hospital belongs to patients due to accidents. In order to hospital will not be in such a situation Buddhika Prasanjith, a resident of regions of the Kurunegala, Kegalle and treat patients on emergency situations, today and they requested the Siyambalapitiya, Alawwa, noted that Gampaha Districts. The Alawwa we need at least two doctors on shift. authorities and responsible this hospital belongs to 66 Grama hospital was mostly used by the people He said that, we have a shortage of departments to take immediate action Niladhari Divisions of Alawwa. of Kegalle and Ambepussa. Even doctors and staff at the hospital. to renovate and commence hospital However, currently, the hospital is though it is used by three districts, the Currently, we have only five doctors at services. transferring all the newly admitted Siyambalapitiya had conducted a authorities have not paid enough the hospital where they provide eight- While speaking to the residents of the patients to the Kurunegala hospital. Shramadana to clean the hospital and attention and for past two years it had hour and 12-hour services per day. The surrounding area, a resident of According to our knowledge, the major its surroundings. Authorities should no DMO, he added. services at the hospital are not being Werellagama, Alawwa, D. A. Piyasena, reason behind this issue was not pay more attention to the condition of As the hospital committee, we have given to the public properly due to this noted that previously, this Alawwa having a proper person to handle and the hospital and they should take already informed the authorities shortage of doctors and the DMO. hospital was used by a wide range of manage the hospital. We have no one to actions to make changes in the hospital including the Director of Provincial The hospital has no supervisor to people and even the wards of the report all these issues and even if we management and staff. He said, as the Health Services and District Director of check whether the given work was hospital was filled with more patients. tell our issues, no one is ready to help people who use the hospital, we are Health services, along with a letter done by the staff and doctors. The In this hospital, more than 30 babies us by resolving them, he added. ready to support the authorities as well regarding the problems which we are hospital has no minor staff and other were born on a monthly basis. However, “Dr. Gamini Vijayabandara was the as the hospital to uplift the current facing currently in the hospital. In sanitary workers to conduct cleaning today there are no patients and even if last DMO of the hospital and when he condition. committee meetings, the officials and other activities within the hospital a pregnant mother visits the hospital, was there at the hospital, he never sent Another resident of Maharachimulla, always say that they will answer all our premises. In order to resolve all the the hospital management transfer the a patient to the Kurunegala hospital. Alawwa, K. P. Nalinda Madushanka, problems soon, but unfortunately, till issues and to develop the hospital, the mother immediately to the Kurunegala He treats the patient at the hospital who works in the private sector, said today we have not received any Health Department and relevant hospital without even checking her. He itself. Even the wards were filled due to that even though the hospital notice response from them and no actions authorities should inspect the hospital said that if an injured person arrived at his dedication and medication. After his boards says the OPD opens at 8 am, have been taken to resolve the and make necessary arrangements to the hospital, the hospital management retirement, the hospital was in a daily they open after 8:45 a.m. and he problems, said Thennakoon. He also uplift the situation. He urged the is unable to provide medication. They terrible state and the management said they will not provide any medical pointed out that inexperienced people authorities to help the hospital by lament they have no medicine at the functions at zero level,” said Prasanjith. reports on weekends. “We are facing are managing the hospital and activities providing a proper management team hospital. He noted the residents of many difficulties due to the hospital within the hospital and try hard to fulfil and staff. Police K9s to Chemical fertilizer ban sniff out dengue still in place – Lokuge

By Faadhila Thassim He said, thereby licences have importing if local supplies are breeding sites been provided to compost depleted. The decision taken by President producers to obtain Nitrogen On the recommendation of the By Keerthi Mendis the two dogs had been able to sniff out Gotabaya Rajapaksa to ban the extracts and Potassium and add Department of Agriculture and the mosquito breeding sites without a hitch import of chemical fertilizer has not them to fertilizer as stimulants, as Fertilizer Secretariat of the The Police Kennels Division has decided thanks to their strong sense of smell. been reversed, Minister of there will be a shift towards the Ministry of Agriculture, the Import to utilise two K9 Units, Johnny and The two dogs were previously trained to Transport, said, use of compost in the future. and Export Control Department Roma, in their bid to locate dengue locate hidden explosives. According to adding that Nitrogen extracts and It is widely acknowledged that sent the Gazette Notification mosquito breeding sites. Police Department sources, these dogs Potassium imports will be Nitrogen extracts and Potassium allowing the imports of Nitrogen Sources said the two dogs had will be deployed to affected areas. They permitted due to their importance are essential for fertilizers, and it extracts as well as Potassium, to successfully completed their training. The will also collaborate with PHIs in the as a stimulant for the production of is the Government’s responsibility the Government Printer on 3 Kandy Police Kennels Division stated that future. carbonic fertilizer. to resort to alternatives such as August.

Salary anomalies of teachers and principals Controversial local children’s Man who homes Permanent solution spat on Investigations in next Budget – GL PHI officer uncover horrific By Gagani Weerakoon and “Even amidst a pandemic, the details of child abuse Methmalie Dissanayake Government has taken steps to pay teachers’ salaries fully without any remanded By Ananda Karunadasa- conducted by former SDIG of Education Minister Prof. G.L. deductions, when the private sector Anuradhapura North-Central Province By Thameenah Razeek Peiris, Wednesday (4), said in has slashed its salaries by about 40 Nandana Munasinghe into the Parliament that a permanent per cent,” he said, and questioned Five girls who had been put activities of the Avanthidevi solution for the salary anomalies of how reasonable it is for teachers to The father of a COVID-infected person has been up at the Avanthidevi Children’s Home. teachers and principals will be not report for duty, jeopardising the remanded till 17 August for spitting at a Public Children’s Home in Furthermore a separate presented in the next Budget, which education of over 4 million Health Inspector (PHI) from the Narammala Medical Anuradhapura had been probe into the same incident is due in three months. students. Officer of Health Office who came to check on them. cruelly, sexually abused while had been carried out by a In response to a question raised The Opposition Leader questioned Police Spokesman SDIG Ajith Rohana said on another eight had also three-member committee by Opposition Leader Sajith whether the Government is working Wednesday (4) the incident occurred on 3 August at suffered a similar under the supervision of the Premadasa under Standing Order on solving this decade-long salary a residence in Puskoladeniya, Giriulla. According to predicament. former Secretary of the North- 27/2, the Minister said he hopes to issue of teachers and principals. the Police, the suspect attempted to assault the Another six children had Central Provincial Council discuss the amount of money “If you are not, what are the PHI. been treated cruelly at the H.M.P. Bandara. allocated to his Ministry soon with solutions and suggestions of yours The 48-year-old was arrested and it is thought controversial orphanage, Investigation reports on the new Finance Minister Basil to solve this problem? During the that he was under the influence of alcohol at the sources say adding that cases have recommended Rajapaksa. last Budget, the Education Minister time of the incident. another child at North-Central Province “Premadasa, as the Opposition when we inquired about the specific In December of last year, a similar incident was Anuradhapura’s Yeheli Governor Maheepala Herath Leader and as a former Minister course of action to be taken to reported in the Atulugama area of Bandaragama, Counselling Centre had been for a detailed inquiry by the must be well aware that the solution eliminate the salary anomaly of where the suspect was sentenced to six years of raped. CID into the charges levelled for this problem will be present in teachers and principals, the rigorous imprisonment and a fine of Rs 10,000 by The sordid details had come against the Avanthidevi the Budget in November.” Treasury approved it,” he said. the Panadura Magistrate. to light following a probe Children’s Home. column friday 6 august 2021 A5

Notes to the People Commodifying Higher Education By Sumanasiri Liyanage required by the University”. It civilians”. In my opinion this kind of appears that the forces that stand for bifurcation will be doomed to failure. It may sound odd that the two privatisation and commodification of There is no Chinese Wall between consecutive columns are apportioned higher education appear to be using civil and military education. A to address the same issue, the issue militarisation as a deviationist tactic famous military strategist, Carl von of education and educational reforms. to hide the real meaning of the KNDU Clausewitz, once defined war as a However, the subject of the column Bill. continuation of politics by other last week dealt with general education means. Politician and revolutionary, while this is supposed to discuss an Bifurcation of Civil and Leon Trotsky, had suddenly issue related to higher education. The Military Education transformed himself into a military debate today is more or less strategist in order to fight with the concerned with the proposed Bill: KNDU debate has eventually led to reactionary forces backed by General Sir John Kotelawala National an absurd argument that civil imperialist countries. Hence, Defence University Act (KNDU Bill). It education should be totally separated teaching civil subjects in a military may be hilarious that the Bill from military education and vice institution is extremely necessary prepared by the yahapalana versa. An additional argument that because in a democratic country we Government and gazette in 2018 is civil portion of education should be need soldiers who know not only to without any significant changes, assigned to public university system handle arms but also are almost a verbatim copy, presented to while the military education should knowledgeable of human rights, Parliament by Government. Had this be handed over to KNDU type history, peace and conflict resolution. been presented then by the structures. My good friend, Prof Encouraging military academic yahapalana Government in 2018 Bannehaka, President of FUTA institutions to make their students would the political parties in the opined: “We would like to reiterate aware of historical changes, spatial present Government have that all Military academic sciences would contribute immensely campaigned against it and the parties General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University is a member of the Association of programmes currently enrolling for rearticulating the role of the in the yahapalana Government Commonwealth Universities civilian students should be Armed Forces in a future society. campaigned for it? integrated into the existing university (The writer is a retired teacher Although I do not fully share this centres, academic institutions and system in the country and that a of Political Economy at the ideology, throughout this column I other such specialised institutions, Military institution is not a suitable University of Peradeniya.) base my argument on the premise schools and divisions as may be place to provide higher education to [email protected] that a modern Nation-State needs a The Bill says the standing Army, Navy and Air Force. KNDU is authorised All over the world, these standing Armed Forces are recruited, formed to ‘charge fees for and trained in an almost uniform the provision of manner, minor differences and deviations notwithstanding. Hence, any courses of within this paradigm separate study, training and institution/s for this identified objective are present in many instructions countries. Following this principle, it including has been proposed to set up KNDU as a State-funded independent body educational and moving beyond its present status. So, professional, to the ‘The University shall be a body corporate with perpetual succession public or any and a common seal, and by the name institution and to assigned to it by subsection (1), may sue and be sued, in all courts’. disburse the income KNDU objectives so generated for the The objectives of the KNDU are attainment of the listed as follows: (a) provide facilities objectives of the to introduce officer cadets to the profession of arms, and guide them to University in such develop their knowledge and skills in manner as shall be the profession of arms, prior to being commissioned in the Armed Forces; prescribed by any (b) provide for such courses of study and instruction in such branches of Ordinance’ learning for officer cadets, officers of the Armed Forces, public servants and other persons leading to the level. The KNDU Bill will authorise the award of such degrees, diplomas and KNDU to charge fees from students other academic distinctions; (c) foster while at the same time it is funded by a spirit of comradeship and goodwill the taxpayers’ money. Hence, the Bill and promote understanding among leaves the issue of selection of officer cadets to develop their students unclear. This is the issue character, self-confidence and that has bee raised in recent times by qualities of leadership; and (d) to the Inter-University Students admit officer cadets, officers, public Federation and the Sisu Jana officers and other persons to follow Vyaparaya. such courses of study and to hold examinations for the purpose of The Issue of Militarisation ascertaining the proficiency acquired One of the criticisms against the in such courses of study and in such KNDU Bill is that it proposes to branches of learning. Here the establish a militarised institution in question arises as to who are the non- the area of higher education. It is true specified ‘other persons’. How and higher educational institutions what is the procedure that these should be more democratic and its ‘other persons’ are recruited or inner mechanism should be designed selected. In a State-funded institution to promote critical thinking. that is directly linked with the Nonetheless, unless someone security status of the country, it is questions the paradigm of a modern extremely dangerous to leave these Nation-State in its entirety and a other persons non-specified and/or proponent of dissolution of a standing undefined. Army, a deviation of a military The matter became worse since academic institution from this model these non-specified persons may cannot be questioned. It is interesting belong to a category of people who to note that the administration model could pay and enter into this defence that the KNDU is supposed to follow is establishment. The Bill says the a corporate management model KNDU is authorised to ‘charge fees for making the Vice-Chancellor more or the provision of any courses of study, less a Chief Operating Officer (COO) training and instructions including and giving the Board of Management educational and professional, to the more power and autority. Democracy public or any institution and to is an exception in the capitalist disburse the income so generated for system and confined to specified the attainment of the objectives of the formal institutions where an electoral University in such manner as shall be principle is in application. prescribed by any Ordinance. Let me The criticism that KNDU would lead summarise the argument so far. to militarisation in higher education is Section 5 (a) and Section 5 (i) together valid only if the public university with 19 (r) may be using KNDU as a system that comes under the springboard to legalise the payment of University Grants Commission is fees for Government higher education organised following the KNDU model. institutions. Hence, the demand that KNDU should Two basic issues may be identified. come under UGC is a dangerous idea. First is the lack of clarity on the Normally a military establishment is a definition of ‘other persons’ and the centrally organised system. Centrality possibility of a security threat that is is a core in organising a military attached to it. Secondly, the KNDU structure. On the contrary, KNDU Bill contradicts with the core proposes a kind of decentralised principles of the Kannangara Report. structure creating a confusion and One of the key elements that has been suspicion that it would make an emphasised many a time is that attempt through KNDU to penetrate education should be free, i.e. meaning into the higher education system. The non-fee levying, from the lower Bill says: “establish campuses, kindergarten up to the university colleges, faculties, departments, A6 Friday 6 august 2021 Editorial

Ceylon Newspapers (Pvt) Ltd. Hospital No: 101, Rosmead Place, Colombo 07. Editorial Tel: 0117566522, 0117566526, 0117566527 Fax: 0117566545 Strikes Marketing Manager: 0117566550, 0117566551 Circulation Manager: 0117566580, 0117566581 E-mail : [email protected] COVID A public health crisis...

The EU’s Post-Merkel Void

By Ana Palacio

The European project has always had Currently, all major hospitals are filled with its fault lines, but they have rarely COVID-19 patients due to the increasing number caused earthquakes. That is thanks of cases reported throughout the island. Most State largely to Germany, which has proved to Hospitals have declared healthcare emergencies as be a skilled arbitrator of disputes among they have run out of beds, due to the major influx European Union member States, of those infected with the virus. ICU facilities are especially during Chancellor Angela also strained as a result of the increasing number Merkel’s 16-year tenure. With Merkel’s of patients with COVID pneumonia. final term ending in September, is the EU A recent video, widely shared on WhatsApp, in for a tremor – or worse? provided a glimpse into the situation in one State When Europe was focused exclusively Hospital and it was much akin to the horrific on consolidating the single market, its scenes that unfolded in India several months ago. fault lines were primarily economic. The footage showed dirty hallways strewn with During the euro crisis that began in patients on makeshift beds and mats, with some 2009, the economic cracks deepened, even slouching on benches trying to sleep. The with many ‘frugal’ northern eurozone wards were far from any level of cleanliness that countries finding themselves at odds with should be maintained by a hospital and the their supposedly ‘profligate’ southern bathrooms were beyond appalling. neighbours. Health authorities are warning that the number It was not until the COVID-19 of fatalities from COVID could increase in the pandemic that – thanks not least to coming days and further say that the crisis could Merkel – EU members agreed to anything seriously impact healthcare workers. close to a European fiscal-transfer Meanwhile, the demand for oxygen at the Jaffna mechanism. But even the joint recovery Teaching Hospital has more than doubled with fund, Next Generation EU, has a limited ambulances from the peninsula plying three times scope. And national spending plans a day to the Anuradhapura Base Hospital to bring under the programme have not been back what is required to keep their patients alive. without controversy. law, as it undermined the principle of the With French President Emmanuel Director of Jaffna Teaching Hospital mentioned Moreover, Europe’s economic fissures ‘irremovability’ of Judges. The Macron’s support, Merkel also called for that those falling sick are the ones who have not now run alongside growing political Commission has given Poland until the EU to invite Russian President been vaccinated and urged the public to get the divides, which have accompanied the August 16 to comply with the ruling or Vladimir Putin for a summit. Instead, the vaccine. EU’s shift toward broader-based face financial sanctions. EU Council recently approved a The various on-going protests across the island integration. While there is no shortage of But the Commission’s track record of statement establishing a hardline stance are also worrying. Although the right to protest, policy disagreements among member following through on such threats is not toward Russia. The heated meeting that gather in public and voice dissent are States – migration is one notable example particularly convincing. After all, it has produced the statement deepened a key acknowledged as an important part of democratic – the most prominent divisions relate, also said that rule-of-law concerns could European fault line, which splits discourse, those participating in these first, to Article 2 of the Treaty on prevent the two countries from receiving countries into two blocs that almost demonstrations should always do so according to European Union, and second, to EU their share of Next Generation EU funds. perfectly mirror Cold War-era divisions. the health guidelines. If by any chance these foreign policy. But it has already postponed its decision Such a rebuke of Germany is far from protest turn into COVID super spreader events, it Article 2 sets out the EU’s founding on Hungary, and is expected to do the the norm. On the contrary, Germany has will only serve to discredit whatever causes the principles: “respect for human dignity, same for Poland, even though both usually led, and its European partners demonstrators are trying to bring awareness to. freedom, democracy, equality, the rule of Governments have used the COVID-19 have usually followed. With her However, Chairman of the Association of law, and respect for human rights.” But crisis as a pretext to tighten their grip impressive ability to prepare, prime, and Government Medical Laboratory Technologists its interpretation has been a source of further. cajole both partners and opponents, Ravi Kumudesh recently said that it was too soon significant conflict, with Poland and Rather than make waves so soon before Merkel has pulled the EU back from the to state conclusively whether ongoing protests Hungary at the centre of the controversy. the German election, Commission brink more than once. She may not have could lead to another spike in the spread of COVID Since winning a landslide President Ursula von der Leyen seems to closed the fault lines, but she certainly and added that the number of infections reported Parliamentary Election victory in 2010, be pinning her hopes on Orbán’s Fidesz knows how to work across them. during the next two to three weeks could indicate Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán party and PiS being voted out in the next But, as the Russia dispute shows, this whether the protests had contributed directly to a has launched an assault on the rule of election cycle. But make no mistake: if was not a sustainable model. Now that possible spread of the fatal illness. law, eroding civil liberties and expanding Germany wanted to take real action to Merkel is stepping down, the EU faces a The Ragama Hospital seems to be the worst executive power considerably. Poland’s uphold Article 2, it would happen. watershed moment – one over which only affected with patients even reported to have seen illiberal ruling party, Law and Justice Indeed, Germany has effectively led German voters have any control. The EU corpses placed in the corridor, raising serious (PiS), followed suit after coming to power Europe’s non-strategy to rein in its is losing its number one fixer, and concerns. The hospital’s Director Dr. Liyanage in 2015, focusing its attacks on the illiberal members. whether the next German Chancellor will Ranasinghe, speaking to Ceylon Today on judicial system. Europe’s foreign-policy record is be willing or able to assume that role is Wednesday (4), warned that it would have to shut Of course, the EU has acknowledged similarly disappointing, with Germany far from certain. down if the rate of infections continues to climb. these assaults. In December 2017, the again bearing no small share of the The German-led strategy of waiting Likewise, the Karapitya and Ratnapura Teaching European Commission went so far as to blame for the lack of direction. From the until desperate times enable desperate Hospitals have declared an emergency situation as invoke Article 7 of the treaty – which EU’s dealings with Turkey to its measures has kept the Union intact. But their facilities have exceeded their maximum provides a mechanism for holding Comprehensive Agreement on Investment it has also enabled the EU to avoid taking capacity. accountable member-State Governments with China – signed on the last day of clear stances on important issues, often As hospitals around Sri Lanka are nearing whose actions threaten the rule of law, Germany’s European Council presidency to the benefit of rule-breakers and breaking point, it is up to us citizens to best keep human rights, or democratic principles – – the Union has made a number of autocrats. No matter who succeeds stick to healthcare guidelines and obtain vaccines against Poland, the first time it had been dubious decisions. Merkel, EU leaders will have to start when they are available, without hesitation. The triggered. In September 2018, the And yet, there is one area where making tough decisions – beginning with scope of the authorities is very limited in a European Parliament did the same Germany no longer enjoys the sway it what to do about the strongmen both situation such as this and will require the utmost against Hungary. But the EU Council has normally does: Russia. Here, Germany within and beyond the Union’s borders. cooperation so that healthcare facilities can remain yet to make a decision about either, has taken a clear stance, pushing for the About the Author: Ana Palacio, a functional and treat their COVID patients. What claiming it will ‘return to the issue.’ normalisation of relations. Merkel’s former Minister of Foreign Affairs of happened in India recently is a warning as it is Meanwhile, violations have continued. recent agreement with US President Joe Spain and former Senior Vice tragic. It is our civic duty to stop Sri Lanka from In June 2019, the European Court of Biden’s administration to allow the President and General Counsel of the spiralling into a worse crisis. Justice ruled that the Polish completion of the Nord Stream 2 pipeline, World Bank Group, is a visiting Government’s controversial reform of the which will pump Russian gas directly to Lecturer at Georgetown University. country’s Supreme Court breached EU Germany, is emblematic of this. (Courtesy-www.project-syndicate.org) focus Friday 6 august 2021 A7 The Crown of India – On Course Towards a Glorious Future

By A Special Correspondent Development Councils, the second tier relief to the people in dealing with the coming up. Hands of the farmers are J&K fares well on this count too. A of the three-tier local self-government harsh winters, there was 17% more being strengthened in multiple ways remote hamlet in J&K is the first one It was exactly two years ago (5 August framework in India, was held in energy supply compared to the past. including through geographical in India to vaccinate the entire adult 2019) that Government of India passed October 2019. With the elections to the Dependency on diesel generators was indication (GI) tag for products such population against COVID. For a a historic people-centric legislation for other two tiers, people’s representatives eliminated through 100% household as Kashmiri saffron. A mushroom population of 6.3 million, the number Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) by doing were chosen at all levels for the first electrification. which is locally called Gucchi, or of active cases and test positivity rate away with differential treatment of the time in J&K. Impressive voter turnout Progress and skilling of the youth Morel is a forest produce collected was 1,121 and 0.2% respectively on 1 erstwhile State of J&K. The marvellous in these elections, braving multiple in J&K need special mention. by local farmers and tribesmen is August 2021. journey of the Union Territory of J&K hurdles, attests to people’s mandate for Scholarships to students at O/Level priced at over USD 250 per Sustainable Development Goals over the course of last two years the important piece of legislation that and beyond have trebled. kilogram, GI tag has been sought for (SDG) India Index is a measure of narrates the splendid success story of promised them a better future. Most Establishment of 50 new colleges this special mushroom too. progress made by regions in India on charting an untrodden path. citizen services are now a few clicks has fuelled new hopes in lives of over Digitisation of apple trade in J&K, UN SDGs. J&K has emerged as the All Central Laws have now been away following the digitisation of local 20,000 students. To make engineers which contributes more than 50% to ‘front-runner’ on this Index outdoing extended to J&K in contrast to the Government institutions in villages. more employable, dedicated Centres India’s trade in apples, recorded an most other States and Union period before August 2019 wherein J&K achieved an engineering marvel for Invention, Innovation, Incubation increase in prices in 2019 after a Territories in the country. there was only limited application of which was considered impossible. and Training have been opened up steady decline for almost a decade Super imposition of each of these these Laws. The world’s largest Standing taller than Eiffel Tower at a under public-private partnership. following direct procurement of developments point to a glorious democracy started bearing the fruits of height of 359 metres, the world’s tallest 15,000 vacancies have been produce and digital transfer of future for J&K, the crown of India. A democracy immediately after passing of railway bridge was constructed over a identified for the youth with two IT payments by Government. future one would not have imagined the legislation. Elections to the Block deep gorge. In what came as a huge parks and multiple rural BPOs If handling of COVID is a metric, more than two years ago. A8 FRIDAY 6 AUGUST 2021 ASIA Threats of Cellphone Blocks, Work Bans Boost Pakistan’s Vaccination Rate Tens of thousands of Pakistanis are thronging Coronavirus vaccination centres daily after officials announced penalties for the unvaccinated, including blocked cell phones and barred access to offices, restaurants, shopping malls and transport. Queues for inoculations stretched more than a kilometre in some locations this week, in response to measures designed to help slow a Delta variant-fuelled surge in infections that has put pressure on Pakistan’s poor health infrastructure. In a country that has a long anti- vaccination history, health workers said many in line were more afraid of the restrictions - some started 1 August, while others kick in on 30 August - than the health threat of COVID-19. That perception was supported by people queuing who spoke to Reuters. “I’m personally not scared of Corona,” said banker Abdul Rauf as he stood in a queue at a vaccination centre in southern Karachi, with his mask down to chin. “Our salaries will be stopped, our SIMs will be blocked, so all these things are out there, so that’s why I Residents line up to receive a vaccine against COVID-19 at a vaccination facility in Karachi, Pakistan (Reuters) got my second dose done.” Pakistan has a long anti- ban staff from entering public The Local Government in the vaccination centres. Pakistan on vaccination.’ Murtaza Wahab, a vaccination history - Pakistan and offices, schools, restaurants, Southern Province of Sindh went Thursday (5), reported 5,661 new Sindh Provincial Government neighbouring Afghanistan are the transport, shopping malls and air even further, warning it could COVID-19 cases, the highest single- spokesman, said work was underway only countries in the world where travel without vaccination withhold the salaries of Government day number in more than three on the logistics of blocking cell polio is still an endemic disease - certificates. servants and block people’s months, and 60 deaths. Around 70 phones. and COVID-19 hesitancy has been The announcement prompted an cellphone SIM cards unless they had per cent of the new cases are the Anecdotal reports suggested some high. immediate rise in vaccination rates, the required certificates. Delta variant and more than 4,000 businesses had already begun Out of a population of 220 million, which hit one million a day last “There is a small percentage who people in critical condition, officials restrictions on service. only 6.7 million people have been week. are coming to get a shot for fear of said. “We were denied McDonald’s at a fully vaccinated, according to the “I came here and obtained this the disease or for their safety, but The country has recorded more rest area on a motorway if we National Command and Operations card after getting the vaccination, majority of the people are coming for than one million infections and couldn’t show a text message to Centre (NCOC), a military run body merely because I have to travel fear of having their business closed around 23,600 deaths since the prove that we are vaccinated,” said that oversees the COVID-19 abroad, and I will not be able to ... or the youngsters who want a shot beginning of the pandemic. Moiz Raja, who travelled from operations. travel without doing this,” said for fear that their SIMs will be Health Minister Faisal Sultan said Islamabad to eastern Lahore city last Pakistan’s Federal Government Mohammad Atiq Qureshi, a lawyer in blocked,” said Dr. Jamila said, a the requirement of a vaccination week. announced late last month it would Karachi. health worker at one of the certificate had ‘helped to encourage (Reuters)

Bangkok, Thailand Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Coral-damaging sunscreens PM does not have majority banned in marine parks support - Opposition, Ally Malaysian Prime Minister Pakatan Harapan, disputed support for the Prime Minister - Muhyiddin Yassin does not Muhyiddin’s majority claim and a factor that has kept have a majority as he has called for an immediate vote. Muhyiddin in power despite asserted, the main opposition “After Pakatan Harapan threats from UMNO to quit. bloc and a key ally said, leaders made careful Deputy Prime Minister and predicting that he could lose a calculations with friends from UMNO politician Ismail Sabri confidence vote next month. Opposition parties and all who Yaakob has stood by On Wednesday (4), do not support Muhyiddin, it is Muhyiddin and appeared along Muhyiddin said he retained clear that Muhyiddin did not with him in a televised address majority support among speak the truth,” the bloc said on Wednesday. lawmakers and would prove it in a statement on Thursday (5). Muhyiddin said the political through a confidence vote when The United Malays National turmoil was triggered by Malaysia’s Parliament Organisation (UMNO), the ‘certain parties’ whose reconvened next month. His biggest bloc in Muhyiddin’s demands he had refused to comments followed the ruling alliance, also challenged meet, including freeing withdrawal of support from the Premier. individuals facing corruption some members of his coalition. In a statement on charges. Thailand has banned coral reproduction and cause island of Palau and the U.S. Muhyiddin’s grip on power Wednesday, UMNO President Several UMNO lawmakers sunscreens containing reef bleaching. State of Hawaii. has been shaky since coming to Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said more face corruption charges since chemicals that damage coral Anyone flouting the ban This is the latest attempt power in March 2020 as he than eight lawmakers from the the party’s defeat in 2018 from all of its marine can be fined up to 100,000 by the Thai Government to leads an unstable coalition. The party have withdrawn support. elections, including former national parks. baht (USD3,009). protect its coral from the latest crisis comes as Malaysia UMNO has constantly premier Najib Razak and party Concerns are growing that However, officials have not tourism industry. sees a resurgence in COVID-19 challenged Muhyiddin even president Hamidi. lotions tourists use for sun said how they plan to enforce Maya Bay, on the island infections and economic after agreeing to form a They have both denied protection are harming slow- the new rule. of Phi Phi Leh - made slowdown from lockdowns. government with him last year. wrongdoing. growing corals. The banned lotions are those famous by its appearance The main opposition bloc, But the party is split on its (Reuters) The Thai Department of containing oxybenzone, in the film The Beach - has Conservation said four octinoxate, 4-methylbenzylidene been closed since ingredients commonly found camphor or butylparaben. 2018 after most of its coral in sun creams were shown to Similar bans have been was destroyed. destroy coral larvae, obstruct introduced by the Pacific (BBC) U.S. approves potential sales of

Dhaka, Bangladesh howitzers to Taiwan - Pentagon The U.S. State Department according to comments by a approved the potential sale of 40 spokesperson on the Ministry’s Lightning strike kills 17 155mm M109A6 Medium Self- website. Propelled Howitzer artillery The spokesperson said the systems to Taiwan in a deal sales ‘interfered’ in China’s wedding party guests valued at up to USD 750 million, domestic affairs and warned that the Pentagon said on Wednesday China would take At least 17 members of a (4). countermeasures as the issue wedding party have died in This comes after arms sales last develops. Bangladesh after being year that included drones and China’s Taiwan Affairs Office struck by lightning, officials coastal missile defences meant to did not reply to a request for said. upgrade the island’s capabilities comment. Fourteen other people, and discourage a Chinese Like most nations, the United including the groom, were invasion. The Biden States has no formal diplomatic injured. The bride was not administration has approved expressed ‘sincere gratitude’ to ties with Taiwan but is required with the wedding party. other direct commercial sales of the U.S. Government in a by law to provide the Chinese- The party was arms to Taiwan since taking office. statement on Thursday (5), claimed Island with the means to disembarking from a boat at The package would include the saying the sales would help its defend itself and is its most the riverside town of Shibganj, howitzers, 1,698 precision ground forces increase their important international backer, heading towards the bride’s guidance kits for munitions, ‘capacity for speedy reaction and to Beijing’s anger. Despite house, when they were spares, training, ground stations fire support’. approval by the State caught in a thunderstorm. and upgrades for Taiwan’s The Ministry called the Department, the notification does Local people said several declared lightning strikes a has played a part in the rising previous generation of howitzers, continuous U.S. arms support a not indicate that a contract has bolts of lightning hit the natural disaster when more number deadly lightning the Pentagon said. ‘basis for maintaining regional been signed or that negotiations group. than 200 people died in the strikes due to the The Pentagon’s Defence stability.’ have concluded. Every year, hundreds of month of May alone, disappearance of many tall Security Cooperation Agency China’s Foreign Ministry said it The Pentagon said BAE people across South Asia are including 82 people on a trees that before would have notified Congress of the possible was ‘firmly opposed’ to the sales Systems Plc was the prime killed by lightning. single day. drawn lightning strikes. sale on Wednesday. and has lodged ‘stern contractor for the weapons. In 2016, Bangladesh Experts say deforestation (BBC) Taiwan’s Defence Ministry representations’ to Washington, (Reuters) world friday 6 august 2021 A9 WHO calls for booster pause to vaccinate poorer nations

The World Health Organization (WHO) has called for a suspension on booster vaccines for COVID-19 until at least the end of September. WHO Chief Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said a pause would allow for at least 10 per cent of the population in every country to be vaccinated. A number of nations including Israel and Germany have announced plans to administer a third dose. But Dr. Tedros has warned poorer nations are falling behind. According to the WHO, low-income countries have only been able to administer 1.5 doses for every 100 people due to a lack of supply. Dr. Tedros said that there needs to be a reversal and that the majority of vaccines should go to lower income countries. “I understand the concern of all governments to protect their people from the Delta variant. But we cannot accept countries that have already used most of the global supply of vaccines using even more of it,” he added. It is a strong call from the WHO, as the agency attempts to narrow the gap between high-income and low-income nations. It had wanted 10 per cent of people in every country to be vaccinated by next month, but that target is unlikely to be met on the current trajectory. In Haiti and the Democratic Republic of Congo, none of the Firefighters walk as flames rise during a wildfire in the village of Rovies, on Evia island, Greece, 4 August 2021 (Reuters) population has received two doses of the vaccine. Indonesia, which has seen infections and deaths spike in recent months due to the Delta variant, has only fully vaccinated 7.9 per cent Greek authorities ordered of its population, according to Our World in Data. more evacuations on an island Meanwhile, Israel began rolling out a booster shot for the over near Athens on Thursday (5) Greece Battles 60s, while Germany announced on Tuesday (3) that it would and battled a blaze near the start offering third doses of the Moderna and Pfizer vaccines. In site of the ancient Olympic the UK, millions of people classed as vulnerable could be offered Games in the western a booster from September. Peloponnese as wildfires Wildfires for Third The US has not announced a policy on booster vaccinations burned for a third day. but the White House said on Wednesday (4) that it has enough Temperatures of more than doses to distribute vaccines abroad while also ensuring 40 Celsius (104 Fahrenheit) Americans can be fully vaccinated. and strong winds have fanned “We definitely feel like it’s a false choice and we can do both,” more than 150 wildfires in Day, Site of Ancient White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki said. different areas of the country This is not the first time that Dr Tedros has called on richer in recent days, adding to the nations to donate vaccine supplies to low-income countries. conflagrations in Turkey and (BBC) other areas of the Olympics saved Mediterranean. ‘Nightmare with no end,’ the Authorities cleared more archaeological site and the Cyprus and France and two Eleftheros Typos newspaper people on Evia on Thursday as town intact,” Citizens’ aircraft from Sweden were wrote on its front page on church bells sounded a Protection Minister Mihalis expected later on Thursday. Wednesday (4). ‘Fires warning. More than 170 Chrisohoidis told State Fires that had threatened Everywhere,’ the left-wing Avgi firefighters with 52 engines television. The site, where the the northern outskirts of said. and six aircraft were operating Olympic flame begins its Athens on Tuesday were More than a dozen villages in the area. More villages were journey to the city hosting the under control, with firefighters have been evacuated on the evacuated in the Peloponnese modern Olympics, is one of and aircraft still working island of Evia near Athens region on Thursday as a blaze Greece’s most popular tourist there. The opposition Syriza since Tuesday (3), with some raged near the archaeological attractions. and KINAL parties have 85 people rescued by boat games site in Ancient Local Media showed farm accused the Government of from a beach, as the wildfire Olympia, but its treasures animals among swings in a being slow to respond to scorched pine trees and sent were out of danger, authorities children’s playground, moved Tuesday’s blaze, while winds clouds of ash and smoke into said. there to save them from the were still low and conditions the air. Miles away, skies in “Our forces fought an all- flames. favourable. Poorer nations currently experiencing a spike in cases are yet to vaccinate a large proportion of their population (BBC) Athens were darkened. night battle to keep the Reinforcements arrived from (Reuters)

Mexico City, Mexico Dallas, United States Govt sues US Migrant van crash kills at gun manufacturers least 10 in Texas At least 10 people have been The driver and nine killed and 20 injured after the passengers were pronounced over arms trafficking van they were travelling in dead at the scene. The crashed in Texas. remainder of the group were The Mexican Government Mexico between 2014 and US authorities said the sent to local medical facilities. has sued some of the biggest 2018 which were submitted vehicle was driving at high Authorities said the identities U.S. gun manufacturers, for tracing had come from speed when it tried to veer off a of the deceased will be released accusing them of fuelling the US highway and hit a metal pole once their next of kin have bloodshed through reckless In 2019 alone, more than and stop sign in the city of been notified. business practices. 17,000 murders in Mexico Encino. In March, 13 migrants died The lawsuit alleges that were linked to trafficked A Texas State official said 30 during a similar incident in the companies knew they weapons. people were onboard, but the southern California, after their were contributing to illegal One official told reporters van had only been designed to vehicle collided with a truck. In arms trafficking, which has the damage caused by carry 15 passengers. the aftermath, federal been linked to many deaths. trafficked guns would be It is believed that some of the prosecutors charged a 47-year- Officials say Mexico is equal to around 1.7 per cent passengers were old US resident for transporting seeking as much as USD 10 of Mexico’s gross domestic undocumented migrants who unauthorised individuals into billion in compensation, product (GDP). had crossed the border from the country. though any amount would Speaking at a news Mexico. (BBC) be decided by the Court. conference on Wednesday, The companies have not Foreign Minister Marcelo yet commented. Ebrard said: “We are going to They include Smith and win the trial and we are Wesson and Barrett going to drastically reduce Firearms, among others. The illicit arms trafficking to BBC has contacted both Mexico.” companies for comment. Ministry said in a document be purchased legally at one Mexican officials stressed The lawsuit was filed on related to the lawsuit. shop located on an Army that the lawsuit was not Wednesday (4) in the US Mexico said the companies Base in the capital. aimed at the US State of Massachusetts. had used “marketing As a result, those who Government. Ebrard said he It says the Mexican strategies to promote want to buy weapons often believed that President Joe Government took the action weapons that are ever more get them from the US Biden’s administration was “to put an end to the massive lethal, without mechanisms According to a Mexican willing to work with Mexico damage that the [companies] of security or traceability”. Government statement, to curb arms trafficking. cause by actively facilitating Mexican officials said that criminal organisations buy But experts have cast the unlawful trafficking of some of the guns made by thousands of pistols, rifles, doubt on Mexico’s likelihood their guns to drug cartels Colt appeared to target the assault weapons and of success with the lawsuit. and other criminals in Mexican market in ammunition in Lorenzo Meyer, an Mexico”. particular, such as a pistol supermarkets, on the emeritus professor at the The gun manufacturers engraved with the face and internet and at arms fairs in College of Mexico, told AFP “are conscious of the fact name of Mexican the US which are then used news agency that US law that their products are revolutionary leader to commit crimes in Mexico. “makes it almost impossible trafficked and used in illicit Emiliano Zapata. The US Bureau of Alcohol, for gun manufacturers to be activities against the civilian Mexico has strict rules Tobacco, Firearms and held responsible” for the population and authorities regulating the sale of Explosives found that 70 per illegal trade. Officials said 30 people were onboard when it hit a metal pole and stop of Mexico”, the Foreign weapons and they can only cent of firearms recovered in (BBC) sign near the Mexican border (BBC) A10 Friday 6 august 2021 MBSL Looks to a Successful Rights Issue

By Ishara Gamage resulting in the issuance of 373.2 appointment of a new CEO, range market capitalisation, million new shares at six rupees Dammika Hapuhinna, a veteran liquidity and profitability of firms State-owned Bank of Ceylon each. The stated capital of MBSL at with senior overseas finance to be included in the Index. (BOC) subsidiary, Merchant Bank present is Rs 2.12 billion. The MBSL company experience. Referring to these unique of Sri Lanka and Finance Plc share price closed at Rs 6.90 on MBSL is a unique institution in attributes and quick turnaround (MBSL) plans to raise Rs 2.24 Wednesday, 4 August 2021, 15% the annals of the financial market exhibited by MBSL, Kanchana billion in fresh capital via a Rights above the 52-week low of Rs 6.00 set of Sri Lanka. The pioneer Ratwatte, Chairman of both BoC Issue, the company announced on 7 April 2021. Its net asset value merchant or investment bank in and MBSL said, “Based on their this week. as of 31 March 2021 was Rs 10.42, Sri Lanka, it entered the financial historic achievements, their The main purpose of the issue is up from Rs 8.85 at year end 2020, a sector in 1982 as a majority recent performance and potential to comply with the minimum growth of nearly 18%. The owned subsidiary of BoC and was resulting from government capital rules of the Central Bank percentage of MBSL shares held by quoted on the Colombo Stock initiatives for domestic industry, of Sri Lanka (CBSL). the public numbering some 10,900 Exchange (CSE) in 1991. The we believe the investment is Approval for the capital raising shareholders as of 31 March 2021 listing on the CSE renders MBSL justified and look forward to a Thursday Markets has been obtained from the was 25.51%. one of a few quoted financial beneficial outcome”. Boards of MBSL, its majority This Rights Issue is the entities majority owned by a State The capital raised will enable owner BoC and the regulator, culmination of MBSL ‘s efforts to Financial Entity (BoC), the holder MBSL, for their part to Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL). regain momentum after reporting of the largest banking franchise in comfortably meet regulatory and Exhibiting full confidence in the a loss in 2020. Its turnaround the country. MBSL is also the funding requirements going Shares crash capital raising effort and in the came in quick succession. For the owner of the proven stock market forward and provide a stronger management of their majority 1st quarter 2021 MBSL reported a index brand, the MBSL MIDCAP base on which to achieve its owned subsidiary and thereby profit, a near 265% growth Index. In another pioneering medium-term goals. Referring to to 3-weeks low guaranteeing a successful compared to the pre-tax loss move, MBSL constructed the the rights issue. Hapuhinna, the outcome to the capital raising recorded in the same period in stock market index that measures newly appointed CEO of MBSL By Mario Andree effort, BoC with a near 75% direct 2020. The profit turnaround was the aggregate price level and price said “I am grateful to our parent ownership stake in MBSL will be based on a 70% increase in Net movements of medium size bank, BoC, for the confidence The Colombo Stock Exchange posted losses subscribing for its entire Interest Income, compared to the companies listed on the CSE. placed in MBSL and look forward for the second consecutive session on entitlement in full. same period in 2020. Then, more The index came into operation to a close partnership with them Thursday (5) as the benchmark index slipped The issue will be on the basis of recently, in early June 2021came in the year 1999. It is revised in pursuing our corporate plan on a higher turnover, despite some foreign nine new shares for four held, the announcement of the annually in reference to mid- that justifies their investment.” entry to the Colombo Bourse, to record a three-week low. The benchmark All Share Price Index (ASPI), which started the day at 8,210.31 points, 8,142.24 points during the opening hours before rising to 8,187.21 points shortly ComBank - Most Respected afterwards. However, the index slipped to close the day at 8,011.94 points, losing th 198.37 points (2.42 per cent) compared to the Bank for 17 year previous day’s close. This is the lowest recorded index value since 16 July this year. The Commercial Bank of Ceylon Dynamism, Corporate Culture, CSR Asiri Hospital Holdings, Watawala has been ranked the Most & Sustainability, Vision and Plantations, Cargills, Ambeon Capital, Respected Bank in Sri Lanka for the National Perspective. Hapugastanne Plantations pushed up the 17th consecutive year in the 2021 Notably, Commercial Bank was index, whilst LOLC Holdings, Expo Lanka, listing of the Most Respected ranked among the top 10 corporate Brown Investment, Vallibel One and Royal Entities in Sri Lanka compiled by entities in Sri Lanka in 2021 in Ceramic Lanka dragged the index. LMD. seven of the 12 attributes and was The more liquid S&P SL20, which started With this latest ranking, the the highest-ranked bank for the day at 3,109.97 points, slipped to country’s largest private-sector Financial Performance, CSR & 3,073.29 points during the opening hours bank also enjoys the distinction of Sustainability and Crisis before gaining to 3,096.22 points. However, being among the top five Most Management. the index slipped to close the day at 3,037.61 Respected entities in Sri Lanka in Replacing the Olympic Ranking points, losing 72.36 points (2.33 per cent) every one of the 17 years since the System it adopted in 2015 to record compared to the previous day’s close. publication launched the ranking in peer perceptions of corporate The daily turnover reached Rs 5.06 billion 2005. The latest edition of the LMD admiration, LMD used a weighted during the day, lower that Rs 5.68 billion ranking of Sri Lanka’s most ranking system based on the recorded during the previous day. respected companies includes the opinions of surveyed respondents Shares of 273 listed companies were traded largest and most diversified this year too. The ranking system during the day. conglomerates in the country, as operates by weighting three Sampath Bank Head Office More than 242.6 million shares changed well as leading players in apparel nominations for each company by hands during the 38,392 trades that took and telecommunications and some assigning a weight of five points for place. of the world’s best-known the first mention, a weight of three Most Respected Entities Listing Foreigners entered the CSE. The net foreign multinational companies. for the second, and one for the third inflows (NFOs) during the day amounted to Rs LMD added two new Attributes mention. The final rankings were 18 million, as foreigners purchased shares this year to the 10 by which based on the total sum value of the Sampath Bank Rises worth Rs 66 million, as against the Rs 48 companies are ranked as part of the weighted scores for each company. million sold. survey. Besides the two debuting This survey commissioned and to Top Five The top ten winners during the day were: Attributes – ‘HR & People conceptualised by LMD and Hapugastenne Plantations, Ramboda Falls, Management’ and ‘Crisis conducted by NeilsenIQ, covered a Highest Rated Bank in 9 out of 12 Mercantile Shipping, Renuka Foods, Management’ – the survey ranked sample of 800 respondents who are Printcare, Durdans, Watawala Plantations, companies according to Financial managers and above in companies Attributes Surveyed CT Land, Asiri Hospital Holdings and Orient Performance, Quality listed in the Colombo Stock Exchange Finance. Consciousness, Management (CSE), the LMD 100 (2019/2020) and Sampath Bank PLC has particularly high on Honesty The top ten losers were: SMB Leasing, Profile, Honesty, Innovation, Brands Annual 2020. been ranked 5th in LMD’s and National Perspective. Industrial Asphalt, Hotel Sigiriya, Agstar, Most Respected Entities in This reflects the brand’s Anilana Hotels, Mullers and Phipps, Sri Lanka 2021 rankings trustworthiness and its Sinhaputhra Finance, Palm Garden Hotels, based on a survey significant contributions to Hunters and Durdans (non-voting). commissioned and nation building. conceptualised by LMD and “We are honoured to see conducted by Nielsen. our peers in corporate Sri The rankings are based on Lanka rate us amongst the ratings received from a Top 5 Most Respected sample of 800 respondents – Entities in the country. It is Inflationary MP managers and above – from our honour to emerge as the listed companies on a set of highest rated bank in 9 out of 12 different attributes. 12 attributes being surveyed. Up Rs 2.4 B Continuing its steady year- Earlier this year, we were on-year rise in one of the ranked as Sri Lanka’s ‘Most By Paneetha Ameresekere country’s most prestigious Loved Bank Brand.’ We are corporate leaderboards, the grateful to our customers, Government of Sri Lanka’s demand pull Bank has moved up from business partners and the inflationary face value money printing (FVMP) 9th place in 2018 to 5th place nation at large for their love, debt increased by Rs 2,445 million and in 2021, despite challenging respect, and trust,” said therewith its FVMP debt as a whole by 0.19 market conditions during this Managing Director, Nanda per cent to Rs 1,287,132.84 million (Rs 1.29 period. Fernando. “These rankings trillion) yesterday. Cruise ship ‘Navigator Furthermore, Sampath are a result of the vision and GoSL’s FVMP debt has been over one trillion Bank has emerged as the guidance of our Board of rupees for a record 11 consecutive market highest rated bank in nine Directors and the days to yesterday due to a lack of revenue. of the Seas’ calls at out of 12 of the attributes commitment and relentless GoSL’s money printing borrowing costs surveyed for this year’s efforts of my team at (MPBCs) decreased by Rs 133.98 million (0.41 rankings, viz., Corporate Sampath Bank. Inspired by per cent) to Rs 32,355.90 million yesterday Hambantota Port Culture, Dynamism, Honesty, these awards and due to market preference for low returns, HR and People Management, recognition, we look forward riskless Treasury T-Bonds and T-Bills in The Cruise ship, ‘Navigator of the to Yeosu, South Korea. The vessel Innovation, Management to delivering innovative secondary market trading rather than lend to Seas’, under the agency of has a crew of 217, but there was no Profile, National Perspective, solutions that add value to the lucrative private sector, the engine of Prudential Shipping, called at the disembarkation at the Hambantota Quality Consciousness and the nation, as we continue to growth, due to uncertainty. Hambantota International Port (HIP) Port as per Covid protocol. Vision. The Bank has been present the future of all Sri The interbank foreign exchange (FX) market for bunkering, marking another Tissa Wickramasinghe, COO of ranked ahead of larger, older Lankans,” he said. was ‘dead’ for the 66th consecutive market significant milestone in the diversity HIPG says the port has already players in the banking Recently, Sampath Bank day to yesterday due to Central Bank of Sri of the vessels calling at HIP for launched the wholesale supply of industry in these areas. was recognised as Sri Lanka (CBSL) / GoSL continuing to fix the bunkering. Marine Bunker fuels. “In order to These ratings given to Lanka’s ‘Best Retail Bank’ benchmark ‘spot’ price at an unrealistic rate Bunkering is an important part of further develop HIP as a Sampath Bank by and ‘Best Commercial Bank’ Rs 202/203 to the US dollar in two way HIP’s energy services portfolio. competitive marine bunker supply representatives of some of the for the 8th consecutive year quotes amidst depreciative pressure due to a Different categories of vessels location, we entered into a strategic leading enterprises are a at the esteemed World lack of supply. calling at the port for this service is partnership with Sinopec Fuel Oil testament to the high esteem Finance Banking Awards If, however, trades were executed even at another step in the port coming Lanka Limited (SFOL) to provide in which the corporate sector organized by the World the administered selling rate of Rs 203 to the closer to establishing itself as a bunkering services as a wholesale and the nation at large holds Finance magazine based in dollar, the market exchange rate (MER) in strategic bunker supply location on exporter and also service vessels the Bank. This is shaped the UK. The Bank has been interbank FX trading will have had the main East West shipping calling at HIP as a value added largely by the Bank’s rated as Sri Lanka’s Most depreciated by Rs 14.50 (7.69 per cent) in the route. This vessel is also the first service. Sinopec, with their vast steadfast commitment to Loved Bank Brand and calendar year to yesterday and year on year passenger vessel to arrive at the resources, guarantees the supply of delivering greater value to the ranked amongst the Top 10 by Rs 17.35 (9.35 per cent), thereby causing port since the outbreak of the VLSFO in Hambantota currently nation through its focus on ‘Most Valuable Consumer cost-push inflationary pressure as Sri Lanka pandemic. and MGO in the near future, innovation and service Brands’ in the Country by is an import dependent economy. The vessel, sailing under the enabling the port to service all excellence. LMD’s Brands Annual Bahamian flag, whose last port of vessels plying the principal sea Sampath Bank has Rankings for four years in a call was Port Said, Egypt, is enroute route in the Indian Ocean.” consistently been rated row (2018 to 2021). tourism friDAY 6 august 2021 Ceylon FT b11 How Does a UNESCO World Heritage Rating Affect a Tourist Destination?

This week, all eyes have been on most important places in a given UNESCO, the France-based body that country or city. bestows the ranking of ‘World Heritage “What happens is you end up going Site’ on some of the world’s most to a few places that you probably have beautiful, historic and otherwise never heard of before. But by going to important places. them, you discover this whole part of In many years, the announcement a country, its heritage, its culture that of new additions to the UNESCO list is you wouldn’t have known about a cause for some excitement, at least otherwise.” in the travel world. But 2021’s Gravari-Barbas points out that with announcement season has been a UNESCO designation comes a significantly more dramatic. deeper tourism infrastructure First, the will-they-or-won›t-they investment – all those new visitors will tug-of-war between Australia and need beds to sleep in, restaurants to UNESCO over the latter›s discussion eat in, and souvenirs to buy. of whether to add the Great Barrier Considering how much work goes into Reef to the official list of ‘sites in a nomination bid, none of this danger’ turned into a full-on soap happens by accident. opera, complete with Ambassadors At its best, UNESCO World Heritage going on a press junket. designation can bring much-needed Ultimately the Barrier Reef escaped money, support, and global the ‘in danger’ designation, while the UNESCO can send back notes or Joya de Ceren in El Salvador. Fiji›s she says. “UNESCO is very well recognition to a deserving destination. city of Liverpool had its status revoked suggestions on how to improve a first and only UNESCO site, the port known among tourists.” Having an At its worst, it could be the first step completely, which UNESCO said was nomination. Some languish in the town of Levuka, didn›t come until international ‘brand name’ toward over-tourism. “due to the irreversible loss of ‘under consideration’ file for years. 2013. endorsement can be the deciding An ancient rock and a attributes conveying the outstanding Not everyone considers these The value of free PR factor in why a traveller chooses one universal value of the property.” designations, or large-scale potential vacation spot over another. modern hard place With all the fuss around who will investments in tourism infrastructure, It’s called ‘The UNESCO effect.’ ‘People search the list.’ make the cut and who won’t, there’s to be a priority. Some governments Maria Gravari-Barbas is the One of those people who search the The mercantile city of Liverpool one question that hasn’t been don’t see the value in trying to coordinator of the UNESCO Chair list is Michael Turtle, an Australian was added to the UNESCO list in answered: Does UNESCO designation nominate their sites, while others seek ‘Tourism, Culture, Development’ travel blogger who has visited 322 2004 and removed this year. really make a difference with UNESCO listings the way they might program at the Sorbonne in Paris, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites. UNESCO cited upcoming travellers? chase Olympic gold medals. she knows better than nearly anyone “If you were bringing together a development projects like a new Although UNESCO considers itself how the power of the UNESCO brand museum or a gallery that was trying stadium for the Everton football How to define heritage an apolitical organisation, its can skyrocket a lesser-known to tell the history of the world and you team in its decision, saying that With 1,153 World Heritage sites on headquarters is in Paris, meaning that destination to a different level. could go and collect all these places such projects would destroy what the list, travellers shouldn’t expect a some critics accuse the organisation With a UNESCO announcement that told the story, World Heritage made the city special. one-size-fits-all approach. of being too European-centric. comes free global advertising. With Sites are those places,” he says. For the city’s mayor, it was an ‘Heritage’ can be defined in a lot of Together, Europe and North the free global advertising come Turtle, whose book Great World impossible decision. ways, and UNESCO splits sites into America have 545 inscribed sites, thousands of people who might hear Wonders: 100 Remarkable World “We are proud of our history and do three categories: cultural significance, which comprise more than half the of a place for the first time and make Heritage Sites comes out in August, not shy away from it,” Liverpool environmental significance, or a total list. Italy has 58 by itself, while an effort to seek it out or add it to their admits to being a bit of a ‘compulsive Metro Mayor Steve Rotherham wrote combination of both. Among the the entire continent of Africa only next itinerary. And with those tourists list-crosser.’ But more than just in an op-ed on the UK website iNews. thousand-plus names on the list are has 98. For every already-iconic come money. having bragging rights, he counts on “It is on full display in some of our some of the most beloved places on Stonehenge, there›s a less famous “Yes, there’s clearly a difference,” UNESCO to point him toward the world-class museums and visitor the planet: Machu Picchu, Venice’s attractions. That does not mean that canals, the Grand Canyon, Angkor we should sit by and allow the city Wat. itself to become a museum.” The nomination process is Rotherham called UNESCO’s ruling painstaking, time-consuming and ‘retrograde’ and mentioned other expensive. Many developing countries World Heritage Sites that could also have sites that can and should be be considered guilty of the same recognised for global importance, but ‘crime’ of modernising around an they can’t afford the time and money ancient landmark – the fast food it takes to put together a campaign. restaurants across the street from the “The minimum duration between Pyramids of Giza being an oft-cited nomination and inscription is two example. years, but it usually takes much “Places like Liverpool should not be longer,” a UNESCO rep explains to faced with the binary choice between CNN. “Countries must first inscribe a maintaining heritage status or site they intend to nominate on the regenerating communities that have Tentative List, which is submitted to been left behind – and restoring the UNESCO. They then have to complete jobs and opportunities that come with a nomination file which must contain it,” he adds. information about the site’s attributes UNESCO maintains that any site and the management and protection dropped from the heritage list can mechanisms put in place for the site.” re-apply and that cancellations are And just because a nomination has not permanent. That said, no one has been submitted doesn’t mean the ever managed to get back on the list journey is over. Plenty of destinations after being removed. don’t get inscribed on their first try. (CNN) We urgently need to kickstart tourism’s recovery But crisis offers an opportunity to rethink it

This should be the time of year development, are particularly at risk. workforce, up-skilling the sector to when people are packing suitcases On the other hand, travellers’ become more resilient. and gathering travel documents for confidence is affected by the ever- At the same time, we must look their summer holidays – at least in changing travel restrictions that beyond the immediate restart of the northern hemisphere. For many cannot be eased or lifted right now, tourism. This crisis is an opportunity economies, these months are critical, particularly in light of new variants of to rethink tourism. For instance, and millions of businesses and the virus emerging and in the absence so-called ‘over-tourism’ had been a workers are eager for tourists to of sufficient roll-out of vaccinations. concern in many places prior to the return, especially given how badly the Added to that, we have the costs of pandemic. sector has already been hit. tests, a lack of coordination and Now is the moment to redesign and Last year was catastrophic for clarity over regulations in place at adjust tourism policies and tourism and the millions of people destinations, limited international management, including through who depend on it. After six decades of cooperation, the cancellation or greater diversification, more extraordinary growth, the sector was rescheduling of flights, and general innovative products and the brought to a near-complete standstill uncertainty about the evolution of the revitalisation of rural areas. Across by the COVID-19 pandemic. virus. It is small wonder so many the world, people have started to International tourist arrivals fell to people remain wary of travelling. rediscover their own countries levels not seen since 1990. We But tourists – and their money – are through domestic tourism and this estimate that the crisis has cost the so needed right now. International offers an opportunity to spread the world about US$ 4 trillion and placed tourism is a vital source of income for sector’s benefits more widely. over 100 million direct tourism jobs at many countries. The foreign exchange As we enter another peak travel risk. The impact is so big because of earned through tourism is in many season with the COVID-19 pandemic the numerous suppliers and places a critical source for funds to ongoing, we need to face up to the fact businesses that are linked to the core finance public spending, investment that the crisis confronting tourism is sector. To put these numbers into for much-needed payment of relief on hold. We thus need urgent action. Trade and Development and the UN far from over. perspective, the impact is almost and recovery measures, and for We need to kickstart tourism’s World Tourism Organisation are Last year, we set out three possible equivalent to the GDP of France. servicing debt repayments that have recovery for the millions who, for more leading the way in providing clear, scenarios for the pandemic’s expected been piling up. than a year now, have been left updated and trusted data and impact on the sector. The worst-case Slow progress Tourism’s impact goes beyond struggling. analysis used by governments and scenario turned out to be too With vaccinations being rolled out economics. The sector is a key pillar of First and foremost, we need to businesses to inform recovery policies optimistic. And this year, even in the in most developed economies, we the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable collectively ensure that vaccination is and decision-making. most optimistic scenario, we will still would have expected the situation Development, with a unique ability to equitably available across the world. Countries should also ensure that be 60% below the levels of 2019. today to be significantly better than contribute to most – if not all – of the One key concern is that developing their tourism businesses of all sizes can But again, this should be seized as this time last year. Unfortunately, it is 17 Sustainable Development Goals, countries, many of which are highly survive the current crisis so that the an opportunity to realign the sector not. including through providing dependent on international tourism, power of the sector can be tapped when towards greater sustainability and So, what has happened? On the one opportunities for youth and women, are bearing the heaviest brunt of the tourists return. This requires measures inclusivity rather than simply going hand, relatively slow progress in and helping preserve and promote uneven vaccination roll-out. such as credit lines for tourism back to the way we were before. vaccination puts many tourism natural and cultural heritage. Addressing this will require businesses and the provision of social Tourism is the sector with the workers at risk, thus affecting the unprecedented levels of cooperation. protection for tourism workers. broadest economic value chain and supply side. Tourism workers in Kickstarting the recovery However, while leaders have pledged In addition, digital technologies the deepest social footprint. Herein developing economies, including We are now less than 10 years away their commitment to international need to be used to increase security lies the opportunity to rethink, restart destinations such as small island from our global goal of ensuring solidarity, their words are yet to be and boost travellers’ confidence. It is and to grow back better. But first, we developing States, where tourism is a shared prosperity by 2030. The backed up by actions. also time to step up digitalisation need to restart tourism. lifeline and a key driver of pandemic has put our joint progress On our side, the UN Conference on among companies and the tourism (WEF) B12 CEYLON FT FRIDAY 6 AUGUST 2021 CORPORATE Via China - Sri Lanka Virtual Investor Forum Standard Chartered Showcases Sri Lanka’s Potential Standard Chartered Sri Lanka, “There is no better way of protecting advantage of the diverse opportunities (HIPG) & Secretary General to the providing extended coordination together with Standard Chartered investors than giving them the signal in Sri Lanka across sectors such as Chinese Chamber of Commerce services ranging from company China, recently organised the that Sri Lanka will take the necessary manufacturing – specifically in touched on the importance of creating registration to governmental, logistics ‘Showcase Sri Lanka: 2021 China - steps to honour our commitments. apparel and pharmaceuticals, ICT, ‘ease of doing business’ for and financial services.” Sri Lanka Virtual Investor Forum’ to Even during the pandemic, Sri Lanka tourism, agri and food processing and international investors through the Highlighting the importance of the highlight the partnership potential passed the Colombo Port City infrastructure. He said, “Sri Lanka is establishment of Hambantota’s multi- geographical location of Sri Lanka, Li between the two countries and the commission law, which sets the ranked one of the most peaceful purpose port. The infrastructure in Xing, Head of Sales & Marketing, emerging strategic opportunities in a bedrock for the value addition that countries in South Asia. With its place holds an industrial park with CHEC Port City Colombo, said “Sri shifting global landscape. This would take place in our business progressive and investor-friendly container, break bulk, RORO & Lanka has quick access to a wide webinar was the first initiative ventures and business activities with laws, backed by a Constitution that energy services terminals, which range of booming markets around the undertaken through the partnership the rest of the world. My invitation to protects investors, it becomes a low- would enable the logistic savings on world and will soon pave the way for between Standard Chartered Sri investors from China comes with the risk environment for anyone looking investors’ exports and imports. He Port City Colombo to become a Lanka and the Board of Investment of reassurance that we will be providing to invest in the country. As the apex said, “We are a Free Port which gives lucrative economic hub for Sri Lanka (BOI) to promote Sri Lanka them with new opportunities, agency for promoting and facilitating the freedom for industries to carry out entertainment, health care, education as a preferred investment destination supported by regulatory framework, foreign direct investments in Sri their trade activities, through the and offshore financial services. The and work together to bring targeted to take their investments to a level Lanka, BOI will provide investors with exemption of Customs within the recently passed Colombo Port City Chinese investments into the country. that can really make projects very end-to-end facilitation, and help them bonded area. In addition, the port Economic Commission Bill will allow Emphasising on the timeliness of feasible here in Sri Lanka,” he said. set up their business in Sri Lanka in investment services does go the extra enterprises entering the port to the forum State Minister of Finance, Sanjaya Mohottala, Chairman, the shortest possible time.” mile to accommodate foreign conduct offshore services and enjoy Capital Markets and State Enterprise Board of Investment Sri Lanka, Tim Xiao, Senior General Manager, investments through the tax reduction policies, making it the Reforms Ajith Nivard Cabraal was the delivered a presentation to showcase Port Investment Services and Legal, establishment of the One Stop Shop ideal destination for foreign keynote speaker. how Chinese investors can take Hambantota International Port Group (OSS) with the BOI together with companies to invest in.”

Softlogic Life Among Asia's Sunquick Lanka (Pvt) Ltd Best Workplaces in 2021 certified Great Place to Work Sunquick Lanka (Pvt.) Ltd. Affirming its indelible even during these (SQL) the joint venture reputation as a world-class unprecedented times, only company between CO-RO employer, Sri Lanka's fastest- because it is a performance A/S Denmark and C. W. growing life insurer, Softlogic powered by employee passion Mackie PLC was certified as Life, was recently honoured as and trust fostered in a vibrant one of the great places to work one among the Best Large and inclusive work by the independent evaluators Workplaces in Asia during 2021. environment. This is our at Great Place to Work in Sri The victory also marks employees’ endorsement of the Lanka. Softlogic Life's fifth year as an many years we have spent in Sunquick Lanka (Pvt.) Ltd. organisation recognised as a building this incredible earned this credential based Great Place to Work, a unique performance-led culture. on extensive ratings provided feat only a handful of Whilst we are honoured, we by its employees in an organisations in the country humbly believe that this is only anonymous survey conducted have gone on to achieve. This is the beginning of a great by Great Place to Work. The honoured to have been ensure that their needs a clear testament to the journey," remarked Softlogic ratings were based on five awarded the Great Place to continue to be met in the company's calibre as an Life Managing Director Iftikar main principles; employee Work certification. Creating years to come.” exceptional employer and its Ahamed. credibility towards the an Employee-centric culture “We applaud Sunquick deep commitment towards "This recognition is a clear organisation, respect for each is of utmost importance and Lanka (Pvt.) Ltd. for seeking placing great value upon testament to our drive to other, fairness, pride and we are very proud of that. employees’ feedback and the Iftikar Ahamed employee growth, happiness and constantly seek out ways to camaraderie. As a market Satisfied employees always opportunity to certify itself”, wellbeing. and particularly with the offer an engaging and leader in the Squash and make the products with said CEO of Great Place to This year, over 3.3 million unique working dynamics meaningful work experience to Cordial category in Sri Lanka, utmost responsibility, which Work in Sri Lanka, Kshanika employees from across 16 introduced by the COVID-19 our employees. As always, we the Sunquick brand enjoys will help the organisation to Ratnayake. “These ratings countries in Asia and the Middle pandemic still in play. For will remain invested in over 70% market share and complete high quality measure its capacity to earn East were surveyed to determine many years, our strategy has introducing innovative tools the company has products and also lead to its own employees’ trust and the Best WorkplacesTM in the been very simple. We have and initiatives to enable our continuously upheld its expand its loyal customer create a great workplace – region, giving rise to the largest always put our employees' team members to grow their Quality Standards as one of base and market share. We critical metrics that anyone cumulation of employee personal and professional strengths, reward their the most trusted brands in are thankful to our employees considering working for or experiences in Asia. growth first, which we believe achievements, and continue to the country. for their consistency and doing business with "We are honoured to have is the best kind of motivation to deliver on our mission of Commenting on the perseverance in spite of the Sunquick Lanka (Pvt.) Ltd. been recognised among Asia's allow us to do what we do best. enhancing the quality of life of achievement, - Managing many challenges that we should take into account as best workplaces as a young, Our team continues to achieve all Sri Lankans," Ahamed Director Mangala Perera have been faced during the an indicator of high fully-homegrown company, incredible growth and results added. stated, “We are extremely past year and we will strive to performance,”she said.

HNB partners Singer Vanithabhimana launches to offer exciting deals Sri Lanka’s leading private sector productivity and get back on their for 2nd consecutive year bank, HNB PLC partnered with Singer, feet,” HNB Head of Personal Financial Sri Lanka’s premier consumer durable Services, Kanchana Karunagama said. retailer and sole agents for John Deere HNB will offer customers an in Sri Lanka, to offer customers attractive leasing package inclusive of convenient leasing solutions on tractors special low interest rates and a free and agri-machinery. credit card, with the bank waiving off The partnership was inked with a the first year annual fee. The package ceremony held at Singer Head Office in is also anchored to attractive benefits the presence of HNB Head of Personal from HNB General Insurance, Financial Services, Kanchana including a free life insurance cover Karunagama and Singer Chief and discounted vehicle premiums for Executive Officer Mahesh Wijewardene. Singer customers. “We’re aware of the difficulties many “Singer has always been committed of our SME customers are facing due to to enhancing the Agriculture sector in the extremely challenging market Sri Lanka. With John Deere, we are conditions in the country. In order to able to provide globally recognised better support their needs, we are tractors and Agri machinery to our delighted to partner with Singer to offer consumers across the country. This valuable deals and discounts on its partnership with HNB PLC will no internationally renowned brand of doubt help make these world class John Deere tractors and agri machinery more accessible,” Singer NDB Bank and Sirasa News1st Resources 02. Financial Sport 7. Volunteer Services 8. machinery, which could help many Chief Executive Officer, Mahesh launched Sri Lanka Management 03. Marketing and Innovation 9. Literature and 10. SME customers enhance their Wijewardene said. Vanithabhimana for the second year Advertising 04. Legal Division 05. Education Services are thus running. It is an awards programme Government Division 06. included. to empower women of Sri Lanka. Information Technology 07. Parallel to the awarding Similar to the successful awards Tourism 08. Arts 09. Sports and ceremony of the provincial ceremony held at the Nelum Pokuna 10. Entrepreneurship. competition, a Women’s Day Theatre on 8 Women holding senior festival will be held in each March 2021, Sri Lanka positions in the relevant fields Province. It is expected that this Vanithabhimana 2021 too will be can apply. programme will provide held throughout the year • Provincial Sector workshops, seminars, lectures as culminating in a grand awards The Sri Lanka Vanithabhimana well as valuable market ceremony. Provincial Competition will be opportunities for female This year’s programme will be held to recognise courageous entrepreneurs. held in two stages- one for the women who excel at rural level. These activities are being corporate sector and the other will The competition which was carried out with the full support be a provincial competition. held in eight categories in the of the Department of Manpower Applications are accepted for the previous year is scheduled to be and Employment. programme for a period of one held in 10 categories with two • Women’s Summit month from 5 August onwards. new categories added this year. A key feature of this year’s Sri • Corporate Sector 1. Entrepreneurship (Small Lanka Vanithabhimana The professional category of the Scale) 2. Entrepreneurship programme is the convening of a (from left) Singer Sales Manager Nandana Wijesundara, Singer Senior Product Manager Sri Lanka Vanithabhimana this year Hiranya Hewanayake, Singer Director Marketing Shanil Perera, Singer Chief Executive (Micro Scale) 3. Entrepreneurship women’s summit with the Officer Mahesh Wijewardene with HNB Head of Personal Financial Services Kanchana will be held under 10 categories. (Emerging) 4. Youth Leadership participation of 500 women from Karunagama, HNB Head of Micro- Finance Vinodh Fernando, HNB Head of Leasing These categories are 01. Human 5. Environmental Management 6. various walks of life. Niluka Amarasinghe, HNB Assistant Manager- Leasing Roshan de Silva and HNB Executive- Business Development (Leasing) Mahesh Ratnayake at the ceremony news friday 6 august 2021 Ceylon Ft b13 Empowering SMEs to Support Economy

In the spirit of empowering support SMEs and local Sri Lanka, Daraz believes in manufacturers. The products supporting small and medium showcased via the Ceylon enterprises (SMEs) by going the Market are 100% produced in extra mile to understand the Sri Lanka and handmade. key challenges they face such Ranging from clothes to shoes as financial access, to furniture to herbal remedies. technological aptitude and This platform has something access to markets. With over for everyone and highlights Jetwing Hotels launches 50,000 SMEs currently active local entrepreneurs. on Daraz, they have taken When the pandemic forced food platform numerous steps to facilitate thousands of SMEs across the their growth and ease of country to close their doors Jetwing Hotels launched menus offer quick bites, operations. and quarantine last year, Plated by Jetwing, its latest individual plates, as well as Daraz, through its resulting in the loss of online, culinary experience, generous family combos and partnership with the investment and business, bringing mouth-watering sawans of biriyani and kottu, Department of Samurdhi Daraz also initiated their seller dishes from around the world perfect for your family and Development, to enhance the stimulus programme under the to your home table. With a friends. The menus are 500 entrepreneurs were theme ‘Eksathwa wide selection ranging from curated using the freshest, trained, initiated into the world Shakthimathwa’, which offered traditional Sri Lankan most healthy ingredients and of digital commerce and were SMEs financial and business favourites to iconic dishes also provides a wide array of facilitated access to over 1.5 incentives as well as marketing, from the Orient, India, and vegetarian dishes to suit your million customers. By facilitating the navigation of the West, Plated by Jetwing preferences. providing them with a means of The Daraz firmly encourages online, Daraz gives them the online sales for SMEs in Sri offers you the freedom to take Your health and safety are showcasing their products, the empowerment of women exposure of being a part of a Lanka. The platform invited a day off cooking and enjoy the primary consideration of selling them effectively and entrepreneurs and therefore nearly 1-million strong product local sellers to bring their delicious meals from the Jetwing Hotels, and each dish connecting them directly to has facilitated free training, base and visited online by businesses online where Daraz comfort and safety of your is prepared with the highest consumers nationwide, Daraz free product photoshoots and nearly 250,000 people every then provided a subsidy worth home. safety protocols in place and ensures that no potential seller free packaging materials to day. thirty million rupees. This latest venture delivers delivered right to your is limited by where they are increase their earnings. By Furthermore, Daraz from two of the chain’s doorstep by the hotels’ fleet of located. encouraging their trading developed the Ceylon Market to pioneering properties – vehicles and associates, Jetwing Colombo Seven and ensuring you can enjoy your Jetwing Blue – covering meals with peace of mind and selected areas in and around a touch of Jetwing’s legendary Colombo and Negombo. Both hospitality. With contributions to Nuwara Eliya medical institutions

MillenniumIT ESP Unilever SL continues to repositions as Complete Enterprise Solutions Provider support healthcare sector Millennium IT ESP completed 25 years early this year. MillenniumIT ESP has aware that we could be of repackaged their core assistance, we had no technology expertise to hesitation in rendering reposition itself as a complete whatever aid we could. We are Enterprise Solutions Provider. humbled to suppor tour fellow Transitioning from the image countrymen in the Nuwara of being a leading Systems Eliya region and hope our Integrator, a significant Unique contributions will further Selling Point for the technology strengthen the quality of leader during their past two- healthcare services in the and-a-half decades of area.” operation, has been the result Unilever has contributed over of the vision Millennium IT Rs 70 million towards COVID- ESP’s leadership team has in 19 relief efforts since March heading the company into the Shevan Goonetilleke 2020, with several of its brands future. This decision has been at the forefront of public further supported by key infrastructure, IT operations, education and safety; The insights the company has cloud solutions, security, company recently donated 32 received from the industry and enterprise applications, data, oxygen concentrators worth Rs. business landscapes they and emerging technologies at 10 million to the Ministry of operate in as well as the the heart of it all,” said Health;Its hygiene brand plethora of experience, skills Director/CEO, Shevan Lifebuoy has set up 100 and industry knowledge Goonetilleke. Unilever Sri Lanka’s Ceytea institutes are responsible for Lanka said, “Ever since we Lifebuoy handwashing stations MillenniumIT ESP has Along with the company’s Tea Factory, in treating thousands of people in commenced our manufacturing across the island and has been accumulated over the years. refreshed focus on the above- Agarapathana,recently donated the area but are short of certain operations at Ceyteaalmost 60 constantly engaging with From being a typical Systems mentioned seven technology much needed medical essential diagnostic technology years ago, we have built strong members of the community to Integrator has resulted in expertise areas, Millennium IT equipment worth two million and day to day personal and lasting bonds with the create awareness on hygiene repackaging their business and ESP is also increasing its rupees to medical institutes in protective equipment. Having Nuwara Eliya community and sanitation; Unilever’s restructuring themselves to industry outreach, expanding the Nuwara Eliya region. The identified this need, Ceytea through several sustainability efforts also include donating ensure they focus on relevant from being heavily invested institutes include the District stepped in to donate several programmes and community funds to the COVID-19 technologies that makes only in the General Hospital in Nuwara items including a Centrifuge building projects. As such, we Healthcare and Social Security MillenniumIT ESP a complete Telecommunications and Eliya, Divisional Hospital in machine for PCR testing, a consider it our duty to support Fund and providing Personal Enterprise Solutions Provider. Banking sectors. Going Agarapathana, Divisional generator,a suction machine, them during this time of need Protective Equipment (PPE), The company will focus on the forward, the company’s Hospital in Lindulaand the waste bins, KN 95 masks, as the country combats the ventilators, masks and following seven core technology Telecommunications sector Lindula MOH office, as the surgical masks, face shields, prevailing pandemic.” essential Unilever products to areas. “We have made will also focus on Media country continues its battle boots, bed covers and warmers. Adding her thoughts, Anusha Government and related bodies commendable progress over companies due to the against the prevailing Speaking about the donation, Kotalawala, Ceytea Factory working towards preventing these last 25 years and it has technological synergies pandemic. Gerard Irudayaraj, Supply Manager, Unilever Sri Lanka and controlling the pandemic. indeed been a monumental between these sectors. The The aforementioned medical Chain Director, Unilever Sri said, “When we were made journey. We’ve learned to Banking and Finance sector is identify and understand new expanded to include banks, requirements and technologies non-banking financial and worked effortlessly to companies, insurance achieve the desired results to companies, and capital provide our loyal customer markets. Equally, Eric Rajapakse Opticians expands network base with optimum solutions MillenniumIT ESP is also going to drive their enterprises to to focus on the Manufacturing Eric Rajapakse Opticians Opens branch in Kiribathgoda number of homes and new realms and territories. and Retail industry as well as opened its brand new branch businesses. We are offering Strongly believing in our the Public Sector with a focus located at No. 22, Kandy Road, authorities. Rajeev Rajapakse stated, our world-class products and tagline ‘Reimagine Today and on key government projects. Kiribathgoda recently. By venturing outside the “We are well-established in the services to the residents of the Reinvent Tomorrow’, we scaled The company’s newly added The branch was declared City of Colombo, Eric Colombo city area and area so that they don’t have to to heights and dimensions that Commercial Sector will focus open by Rajeev Rajapakse, Rajapakse Opticians is now therefore decided to take our travel all the way to Colombo have helped to revolutionize on several industries such as Managing Director of Eric able to provide their products services to the suburbs of the to access top quality businesses making them healthcare, education, logistics Rajapakse Opticians, while and services to customers city. Kiribathgoda is a town spectacles, sunglasses, future ready. The world is and transportation, leisure, IT adhering to the health based in and around the that we have been eyeing for a frames, contact lenses and moving at a rapid pace of and BPO companies and other guidelines given by the Kiribathgoda area. while as it has a growing hearing aids.” development with IT conglomerates.

Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd. Samsung Knox that ensures kicked off its latest brand Samsung’s ‘Why Galaxy’ campaign end-to-end security, 5G campaign to break barriers and compatibility and cameras with make the latest mobile pro-level features. All Galaxy innovations available for Charters new territory ‘Openness’ in smartphone innovation devices have been crafted using smartphone users across the high-quality materials to sustain globe by charting a new territory need. The unique brand journey equally by breaking that’s why Galaxy exists: to ‘Why Galaxy’ also highlights against water, heat, and drops around ‘Openness’. Titled ‘Why campaign highlights how Galaxy many shackles around make the latest innovations several innovative features that and dust. Galaxy’, Samsung recently devices have been created to be numerous social barriers. available to all and invite the latest Samsung devices Samsung Electronics is poised unveiled a new brand film for open as its users to make Kevin Sungsu you, Managing everyone to experience them. bring, including Super-Fast and ready to unveil innovative, Galaxy, driven by the idea that impossible innovations possible Director, Samsung Sri Lanka, Galaxy unites you with the Charging and wireless charging, purposeful mobile technology for smartphone users should be and connect devices, brands said: “We are all born into this people and devices you love Wireless PowerShare, advanced a better world. On 11 August, the able to do what they want with and people without limits. ‘Why world with openness. With that while connecting to the things AP and RAM that deliver company will unleash its latest their mobile device, making the Galaxy’ further iterates that all quality instilled within us, we you already have. Because the amazing processing power for and greatest Galaxy Z series mobile experience truly ‘their Samsung Galaxy devices are are compatible with anything fewer boundaries the world has, streaming, gaming or during its ‘Galaxy Unpacked’ own’ — make it look the way open to everyone so that every and receptive to everything. the farther we all can go. That is downloading at incredible event to reshape the smartphone they want, act the way a user smartphone user can push Openness is what pushes us why life truly opens up with speeds. The new devices also category and completely likes and perform the way they forward to go further in their forward and sets us free. And Galaxy”. come with ample storage, reimagine your experiences. A14 FRIDAY 6 AUGUST 2021 SPORTS MCA ‘G’ Division final on 7 August MCA cricket springs back into action after a lull period of 3 months, with the 10th Stafford Motor Co. sponsored/’Honda’ Trophy – MCA ‘G’ Division 25 Over League Tournament Final 20/21 between Pyramid Wilmer and Abans Group on 7 August (Saturday) at the MCA Grounds, commencing 10:00 a.m. Originally the final was all set up for 2 May, but was forced to be put on hold due to the COVID-19 third wave. The match will be played strictly adhering to Government Health Ministry COVID-19 health prevention regulations, and with a limited number of spectators allowed into the ground. Perhaps, the two teams are a little rusty at the moment having played Abans Group Pyramid Wilmer their semi-finals way back on 24 April. Pyramid Wilmer created a huge Malintha Peiris (6 innings, 163 runs, (WK), Tharuka Jeewantha, Suboda upset, eliminating the unbeaten and including 2 half centuries), Umedha Lakmal, Shanaka Fernando, Nalin tournament favourites Hayleys Group Madushan (9 /81 runs), Tharanga, Udara Atapattu, Udesh ‘B’ by 2 wickets, whilst Abans Group Lakmal Fernando (8 wickets/131 Nishan, Dinuka Jayakody, Umeda comprehensively beat Zillion Systems runs) and Nishan Perera (07 Madushan, Supun Sandeepa, Asanka by 46 runs. wickets/131 runs) Sameera, Chandana Bandara, Upul Pyramid Wilmer’s path to the Abans Group path to the Final: Anthony, Dilupa Sanjaya Final: League Stage: lost to A. Baur & Co. Abans Group (from): W.B. League Stage: Lost to VS by 11 runs, beat Orient Finance by 25 Dhanushka (), Lakshitha de Information by 9 wickets, beat Ship runs, beat ACL Cables by 44 runs; Silva, Isuru Hashan, O. Nimrodha, Xpress by 116 runs, beat CIC Group Knock-out Stage: beat M.D. Dilan Sanjeeva, Dushan by 05 wickets; Knock out Stage: beat Gunasena by 124 runs (Pre-quarter Hettiarachchi, N. Dayabaran, D. Singer ‘B’ by 6 wickets (Pre-quarter finals), beat Aitken Spence by 13 runs Rangana, I. Jayaranga, Nalaka final), beat Orient Finance by 50 runs (Quarter–final) and Zillion Systems by Gunawardena, Harshan (Quarter-final) and beat Hayleys ‘B’ by 46 runs (Semi-final) Hettiarachchi (6 innings/173 runs and Hasaranga Perera (7 wickets for Dahanayake, S.H. Tyron, Lahiru 2 wickets (Semi-final). Abans Group top performers: inclusive of 1 half century); Isuru 131 runs) Perera, T. Ranaweera, G. Pyramid Wilmer’s top performers: Rangana Kaushalya (6 innings/173 Jayaranga (6 innings/155 runs & 10 The Teams Chathuranga) Lasith Fernando (6 innings/190 runs inclusive of 1 half century and wickets for 123 runs), Sanjaya Pyramid Wilmer (from): Lasith The MCA appointed Match Referee runs, including 2 half centuries), 10 wickets for 105 runs); Maduranga Muthuthanthri (9 wkts for 91 runs) Fernando (Captain), Malitha Peiris cum Adjudicator is Manoj Perera.

India win bronze after dramatic victory India won the bronze medal in "It's a dream come true," After Simranjeet equalised with a hockey after a thrilling 5-4 victory Simranjeet said. "We've made 1.3 backhand shot for India, Germany over Germany at the Tokyo Games billion Indians proud by finishing on kept their cool, scoring two goals to on Thursday, giving the country its the podium." take a 3-1 lead in the second first Olympic medal in the sport in The goal-rich match was not an quarter. more than forty years. easy one for the eight-time Olympic But India pulled level late in that India forward Simranjeet Singh champions. Germany took an early quarter thanks to goals by Hardik stood out from the other players by lead through a second-minute goal Singh and Harmanpreet Singh, scoring two goals for India, including by Timur Oruz, and posed a threat making it 3-3 at the halftime break. the winning goal of the match. to India in the first quarter. (Reuters) sports friday 6 august 2021 A15 Giants Fall, Crouser Sets Record, Swimmers Navigate Elbows and Fish

US men continued to sputter on the athletics track at the Tokyo Olympics U.S. men fail to make 4x100m Lisa Carrington most decorated on Thursday, while kayaker Lisa Carrington became New Zealand's most decorated Olympian and relay final, no individual gold New Zealand Olympian American Ryan Crouser broke his own shot put world record three times. Skateboarders soar Mayor's medal-biting Jamaica's Hansle Parchment stunned viewers and himself with an in Tokyo heat grosses out Japan upset win over the overwhelming favourite, Grant Holloway from the and silver medallist Joe Kovacs, Germ Medal United States, in the 110 metres draped in the Stars and Stripes. hurdles. The Americans individually Crouser, from a family of throwers, Skateboarding continued to wow at remain bereft of a running gold - a held up a card reading ‘Grandpa, we its maiden Games, as the skaters prize they have won every time they did it, 2020 Olympic champion’. sweated through temperatures of 32 have entered since the inaugural At the Sea Forest Waterway in degrees Celsius (89 degrees 1896 Games. A bedraggled US 4x100 Tokyo Bay, Carrington's gold in the Fahrenheit) in the final runs, before metres performance added to the women's kayak single 500 metres taking selfies. American woe. brought her overall medals haul at the Australian Keegan Palmer glided to Elsewhere in the Games, which end Olympics to six, including a bronze in gold at Ariake Urban Sports Park in on Sunday, skateboarders soared in 2016. what looked like an effortlessly the Tokyo heat, open-water swimmers She is now New Zealand's most smooth ride packed with tricks in the had to navigate elbows as well as fish, successful Olympian. Fellow kayakers men's park event. Brazil's Pedro and a Japanese mayor grossed out Ian Ferguson and Paul MacDonald, Barros grabbed silver for his lightning the nation and prompted a rebuke and equestrian athlete Mark Todd fast run through the concrete bowl. from automaker Toyota for biting a each have five medals. "It's something Less hip, Nagoya Mayor Takashi softball player's gold medal. I never thought I'd be able to do," she Kawamura suffered an online US men, who once dominated the said. "It's amazing." backlash for having feted softball 4x100 metres, failed to qualify for the At nearby Odaiba Marine Park, pitcher Miu Goto the day before by final despite having two individual however, the waters were more pulling down his mask and putting 100m finalists on the team. A ragged turbulent. Marathon swimmer Hector her gold medal between his teeth. run, with poor changeovers and a add a gold medal to his London gold in the 200m to a groaning Thomas Cheal Pardoe of Britain got It did not help that he was standing shocking second handover, dragged Olympic bronze in one of the biggest collection of minor medals, while elbowed in the eye on the last lap, in front of a backdrop urging people to them to a desultory sixth in their athletics shocks of the Games. Kenya went one-two in the men's sustaining a cut and losing his take proper COVID-19 precautions in semi-final. "The greatest feeling, the greatest 800m and Peruth Chemutai made goggles. a country looking to expand pandemic Carl Lewis, the superstar sprinter of feeling, I've worked so hard," the history for Uganda. "I couldn't see anything, I thought states of emergency as infections the 1980s and '90s, called his Jamaican said. "It's unbelievable that my eye had fallen out in the water," he soar. The hashtag #GermMedal was compatriots' performance "a total I caught this guy." Elbow And Fish said in an interview after leaving the trending on Japanese social media - embarrassment, and completely Sydney McLaughlin notched a huge Crouser, wearing shades and a hat race. "I was going up to the lifeguard the words for germ and gold sound unacceptable". world record in the women's 400m with the US flag on it, broke his own saying, 'My eye! My eye! Is it OK?'." the same in the language. China were the surprise heat hurdles, besting fellow American record in the shot put three times - Australia's Kareena Lee was hit on Hometown giant Toyota Motor Corp winners, while Jamaica took the other Dalilah Muhammad as the super-fast only the third time that has happened the chest by a fish the day before, called the mayor's stunt ‘unfortunate’ semi. track and new shoe technology - to grab gold with a mark of 23.30 after taking bronze in the women's and ‘extremely regrettable’, a criticism In the 110m hurdles, world continue to make a mockery of metres. marathon swim. to which his office did not immediately champion Holloway looked set to win historical comparisons. He donned a cowboy hat afterward "I didn't know what it was at first respond. until Parchment surged past him to Canada's Andre De Grasse added and celebrated with his countryman and I was like 'woah'," she said. (Reuters)

Tokyo Games Sharing videos on social media not allowed: IOC Sharing videos from the back into the Games and in Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games supporting sports and on social media is not athletes. The biggest single allowed, even for athletes, chunk of that money comes the International Olympic from US broadcaster NBC Committee (IOC) said on Universal - which has paid Thursday as it looked to $7.65 billion to extend its protect broadcasters' US broadcast rights for the rights. Jamaican double Olympics through 2032. gold medallist sprinter Adams said that 90% of Elaine Thompson-Herah the income from was blocked briefly from broadcasters that the IOC Instagram on Wednesday gets is redistributed. "That Closing ceremony after she had posted videos money comes to the IOC. of her victorious 100 and We have to protect their As times 200 metres races to her rights, and therefore the Jacobs named 310,000 followers, violating income, which we can broadcast rights for the redistribute to athletes Games. A Facebook and sports." shrink, shoe spokesperson later said Social media has Italy flag bearer that while the content from increasingly become a key Facebook-owned Instagram way for audiences to engage Italy's 100 metres Olympic champion Lamont Marcell was removed, the with the Games. Jacobs has been named as his country's flag bearer for the debate grows suspension was wrongly This year, athletes have Tokyo 2020 closing ceremony on Sunday, the Italian Olympic applied. "We encourage posted viral TikToks from Committee (CONI) announced on Thursday. As athletics records continue record for the event stood for people, we encourage behind the scenes, The 26-year-old became the first Italian to win athletics' to fall at the Olympics, 29 years until Karsten everybody, to share still including jumping on their showcase event on Sunday, setting a new European record adulation and incredulity at Warholm chipped a piece off it pictures of performances, much-discussed cardboard with a stunning 9.80 second sprint. such extreme examples of last month. On Monday he but the video obviously beds to debunk claims the "The 100 metres gold medallist will fly the tricolour flag in human endeavour are being clocked an astonishing 45.94 belongs to the rights- beds were not strong the Olympic Stadium where he made history on 1 Aug., followed by more sober seconds. Runner up Rai holding broadcasters," IOC enough to withstand thanks to his success in the queen of athletics events, reflection as fans try to Benjamin was also half a spokesman Mark Adams vigorous activity and were embellished by a European record time," said a note on the quantify the impact of carbon second inside the old record as said. The IOC will receive therefore ‘anti-sex’. CONI website. shoe technology and the Tokyo six of the first seven finishers more than $4 billion in But there are copyright Jacobs' superb Games continued on Thursday, when he track. set national or continental broadcasting rights for the and other restrictions on helped Italy post a national record time of 37.95 seconds as Endurance athletes on the records. The next day in the period, including the 2018 the kinds of online content they advanced to the final of the 4x100 metres relay. road have spent the last few women's event American duo Pyeongchang winter that can be posted from the The closing ceremony takes place at 8.00 p.m. local time years insisting that it is their Sydney McLaughlin and Olympics and the Tokyo Games. (1100 GMT) on Sunday 8 Aug. training and dedication, not Dalilah Muhammad blew away Games, much of which goes (Reuters) (Reuters) their carbon-plated, thick- the record that McLaughlin set soled shoes, that are the key only a few weeks ago, while factors in a series of amazing dozens of other athletes set records, and now it is the turn national records across the full of track athletes over the range of sprint distances. shorter distances. Warholm wore a pair of Italy's Stano wins 20km race walk And, as previously custom-made Puma spikes, Italy's Massimo Stano won the Olympic men's reporters. "It's unbelievable. I haven't woken up unimaginable chunks are with a carbon plate but a 20km race walk on Thursday, pulling ahead of the now; it's like a dream." Stano made a thumb- ripped from marks that have notably thinner insole than the pack in the final stages to claim his country's third sucking gesture on the winner's podium, in stood for decades, there is even Nike model worn by Benjamin gold medal in the event. reference to his six-month-old daughter to whom he some sort of civil war between and many others, which is at Japan's Koki Ikeda secured the silver medal and dedicated his victory. He also exclaimed in Japanese the lead protagonists arguing the limit of World Athletics' compatriot Toshikazu Yamanishi claimed bronze, as he crossed the finish line, "Watashi wa Olympic about whose new regulations. Warholm, the first Olympic medals for Japan in the 20km race champion desu!" (I am Olympic champion), noting ‘performance-enhancing’ shoes nevertheless, criticised walk. Stano had never won a major international he had begun studying the language because of his are the fairer. Benjamin for having ‘those race so the fact the victory came on the world's love for Japanese anime. Ikeda said he was spurred The two 400 metres hurdles things in his shoes, which I biggest sporting stage made it all the sweeter for the on to capture Japan's first medal in the event. races in Tokyo this week have hate.’ "I don’t see why you 29-year-old. "The fact that this was in my own country was a given the most dramatic should put anything beneath a "It's beautiful to cross the finish line first. In my big source of encouragement and I kept a sense of indication that ‘something odd sprinting shoe,” the Norwegian life, in international races, never first. Fourth, third, pride. I had pressure but this pressure worked well is going on.’ said. sixth, never first. But in the best race, in the for me," he said. Kevin Young's 46.78-second (Reuters) Olympic Games, I'm first. It's the best," he told (Reuters) A16 FRIDAY 6 AUGUST 2021 SPORTS Our Athletes lack discipline By Gagani Weerakoon and Methmalie Dissanayake just a trip. That was why they could not even reach their personal best records,” he alleged. Sports Minister Namal Rajapaksa criticized He said only three athletes out of the team the conduct of certain athletes who competed that represented Sri Lanka had qualified for at the Tokyo Olympic Games, claiming there this year’s games, while the others had – Namal were serious concerns about their discipline. participated as wildcard entries. The Minister further said In response to a question posed by SJB MP Speaking further, Rajapaksa said that a that Sri Lanka requires at Chaminda Wijesiri during the Oral Question report has been called from National Olympic least a 15-year plan to win an Round, Rajapaksa claimed that an athlete Committee for its failure to provide Olympic Olympic medal. The Sports had forgotten her sports shoes when kits for athletes with the national flag on it. Ministry will introduce a travelling to Japan. “We heard that some athletes had said they long-term plan to achieve “It is the athlete’s responsibility to take want to wear worn jersey’s they are this goal, he added. shoes, not ours. Do we need to remind them comfortable with when participating in their He also said that a Code of to bring their shoes too? If they have good respective events. However, we have called for Conduct for athletes will be discipline and winning mentality, such things a report from the National Olympic presented to Parliament in cannot happen. For some athletes, this was Committee on this matter.” January 2022.

‘Army Commander’s League’ T20 2021 - 2nd Edition Gardiner takes 400m Northern and Western gold on night of firsts Steven Gardiner of the Bahamas won the 400 metres on Warriors clash in final today Thursday, becoming the first athlete to win Olympic gold in an Super Fashion Northern 17 n.o., Shihan de Silva 1/18) individual men's event in his Warriors and Event TV Western Batsman.com Eastern country's history, after a Warriors entered the final of Warriors: 96/8 (12) (Himasha carefully balanced race shut out the Army Commander’s League Liyanage 39, Harshajith the Americans over a distance T20 Cricket tournament Virendra 16, they once dominated. conducted by Sports 16, Rathnaraja Thenutharan Anthony Zambrano of Committee and Cricket 2/13, Dishan Fernando 2/19, Colombia took silver, becoming Committee of Sri Lanka Army Janaka Sampath 2/22) the first male athlete from the at the Army grounds Man of the match - South American nation to win an Dombagoda yesterday, as the Seekkuge Prasanna (Super Olympic medal in athletics. Steven Gardine top two teams on the points Fashions Northern Warriors) Kirani James of Grenada table at the end of Day Six. Super Fashion Northern grabbed bronze, his third medal "I'm just happy to be back on Northern Warriors recorded 5 Warriors: Seekkuge Prasanna in the event and his country's the podium, happy competing wins to top the points table, (Captain - SLAOC), Milinda first of the Games, after winning against these guys, they are so while Western Warriors Siriwardene, Ramesh Mendis, gold in 2012 and silver in 2016. good," James said. "I lost my recorded 3 wins and ended in Ashan Priyanjan (Invitation He is the first athlete to win three mother in 2019, so obviously this second place. Last year’s Seekkuge Prasanna players), Ashan Randika Olympic medals in the men's was kind of like a goal. I wish she champion Dimo Southern (SLASC), Heshan Hettiarachchi 400m. would have been here to see me Warriors recorded only 2 wins wickets in 12 overs. Skipper Eastern Warriors scored 161 (SLE), Retnaraja Thenujan Gardiner, who sat on the track be back." and Batsman.com Eastern Seekkuge Prasanna scored 40 runs for a 32.20 average. (SLAGSC), Rashmika holding the palms of his hands Zambrano, who went into the Warriors recorded only one. runs in 19 balls with 5 Seekkuge Prasanna, skipper Siriwardane (SLE), Nilusha together after winning in a race wearing gold earrings saying The match between Event TV boundaries and 2 sixes. and right arm leg spinner of Dilshan (SLE), Arunothayam season's best time of 43.85 ‘400’, dedicated his silver medal Western Warriors and Dimo Milinda Siriwardene (22*), Southern Warriors was the Anchanya (SLA), Pathum seconds, stumbled out of the to his mother. Southern Warriors ended in a Ashan Randika (19), Janaka leading bowler in the first Kumara (SLLI - U23), Janaka blocks and trailed midway "I am very happy to win this no result due to rain in the Sampath (19) and Ashan round. He took 11 wickets for Sampath (SLA), Raveen Perera through the race. medal and I want to dedicate this morning session yesterday. Priyanjan (17*) helped to build 135 runs in 6 matches. He (SLLI), Dilan Madusanka "I recovered, I kept it moving to my family, my country. But Western Warriors scored 93 their innings. maintained an 11.27 average. (SLASC), Gayan Chandraboos and with 200m to go, I started to more importantly, to my mother runs for 2 wickets in 9 overs Batsman.com Eastern Dinesh Perera, right arm off (SLCMP), Shehan Fernando push a little bit," he said. "And because it is her birthday today," with openers Dilshan Warriors could manage only 96 break of Dimo Southern (GR-U23), Dilshan Madusanka (with) 100m to go, I gave it all I've he said. "I want to show to the Munaweera (44) and Upul runs for 8 wickets in 12 overs. Warriors claimed 10 wickets for (SLAOC-U23), Cpt. Ajantha got. "I came across the line and world that Colombia belongs on Tharanga (40) putting on 87 Himasha Liyanage (39), 139 runs with a 13.90 average. Mendis (Head Coach), Melani saw my name on the big screen the athletics stage." runs for the first . Harshajith Virendra (16), Rajinda Punchihewa, right arm Abeysinghe (Asst. Coach), Maj. and I was in first place," he told American Michael Cherry Munaweera scored his 44 runs Tharindu Kaushal (16) and medium paceman of Batsman. I.M. Suranga (Manager) reporters. "I'm cherishing this finished a disappointing fourth in 26 balls with 6 boundaries Sandun Weerakkody (11) were com Eastern Warriors claimed Event TV Western moment. Olympic champion." ahead of his compatriot Michael and 2 sixes, while Tharanga the main contributors. 9 wickets for 133 runs with a Warriors: Thisara Perera James said he was happy Norman to continue the scored 40 runs in 26 balls with Rathnaraja Thenutharan, 14.78 average. (Captain-GR), Upul Tharanga, being a part of the elite of his country's poor run in the event. 3 boundaries and 2 sixes. Dishan Fernando and Janaka DAY SIX RESULTS , Dilshan sport after securing bronze. (Reuters) Janith de Silva took 2 wickets Sampath claimed 2 wickets Match No 11 - No result Munaweera (Invitation players), for 18 runs. each. Event TV Western Warriors: Yashodha Mendis (SLAOC), Dimo Southern Warriors had Upul Tharanga, left hand 93/2 (9) (Dilshan Munaweera Mahesh Theekshana (GR), scored 46 runs for 1 wicket in opener of Event TV Western 44, Upul Tharanga 40, Janith Lakshan Gamage (SLA), Gihan 2.5 overs when the match was Warriors, was the leading de Silva 2/18) Koralage (SLA), Vinod Perera halted due to rain. Skipper batsman after the first round. Dimo Southern Warriors: (SLSR), Malka Madusanka Warner breaks scored an He scored 258 runs in 5 46/1 (2.5) (Dinesh Chandimal (SLA), Ruchira Silva (GW), unbeaten 39 runs in 12 balls matches with an unbeaten 39 n.o., Maheesh Theekshana Kavish Kumara (SLAOC), with 3 boundaries and 4 sixes. century and unbeaten half 1/5) Omesh Vidyarathne (SLE), Games record on way Super Fashion North century. He maintained an Match No 12 Iresh Chamara (SLAGCSC), Warriors beat Batsman.com average of 86.00. Dinesh Super Fashion North Nimesh Eranga (SLASC), Ujitha to decathlon gold Eastern Warriors by 24 runs in Chandimal, skipper and right- Warriors won by 24 runs Maduranga (SLSR), Shehada the last match of the first hand batsman of Dimo Super Fashion North Zoysa (SLLI-U23), Bishan Canadian Damian Warner led round in the evening yesterday. Southern Warriors scored 201 Warriors: 120/3 (12) Mendis (SLA-U23), Nawantha from start to finish to win the Match was restricted to 12 runs with a half century and (Seekkuge Prasanna 40, Rathnayake (Head Coach), men's decathlon gold at the Tokyo overs per side due to bad finished an average of 50.25. Milinda Siriwardene 22 n.o., S.L.S.R. Jayawickrame (Asst. Olympics on Thursday with a new weather conditions. North Himasha Liyanage, left hand Ashan Randika 19, Janaka Coach), Maj. Ruwan Herath Games record score of 9,018 Warriors scored 120 runs for 3 batsman of Batsman.com Sampath 19, Ashan Priyanjan (Manager) (IR) points. Frenchman Kevin Mayer, who holds the world record in decathlon with 9,126 points, took his second successive Olympic silver medal after finishing on Afif Hossain steers FB mistakenly 8,726 points. Australian 21-year-old Ash blocks Thompson- Moloney, the world Under-20 chase as Bangladesh champion, won bronze with Damian Warner Herah from Instagram 8,649. "That's crazy," an go 2-0 up emotional Warner said, still disappointed that I didn't get on Facebook Inc mistakenly looking relatively fresh after top," he said. "So I used that Bangladesh stumbled but After struggling in the blocked gold medallist competing in hot an humid experience from 2016 to eventually found composure Powerplay, Australia had sprinter Elaine Thompson- conditions over two days. accomplish the performance that in their chase to take a 2-0 given themselves a foundation Herah, the fastest woman "When I was in grade six I I've had over the last two days." lead in Dhaka with Afif to launch in the closing overs in the world, from wrote in a school project that I'd The 31-year-old could not have Hossain and with a stand of 57 between Instagram, the company be in the Olympics one day, and hoped for a better start to his guiding them home with eight Mitchell Marsh and Moises said on Wednesday. who would have known that I Tokyo campaign in the all-round balls to spare. Henriques, and with a fair The Jamaican sprinter would be an Olympic gold test, which covers 10 disciplines The pitch - a new one - was wind 140 would have been had tweeted that she had medallist." spread over two days to determine again slow, although looked achievable. However, the been blocked for posting Elaine Thompson-Herah Warner arrived in Tokyo as the the best overall athlete at the rather less slow when Mitchell innings almost went into videos of her victorious 100 leading decathlete in the world Games. Starc was racing in with the reverse after Shakib Al and 200 metres races distances in Tokyo, making in 2021 after scoring 8,995 Results new ball after Australia's Hasan removed Henriques, because she ‘did not own it four Olympic gold medals points at a meet in May - the 100M- 10.12 sec batting had laboured to post and when Marsh edged the right to do so.’ However, from two Games. But her fifth highest total in history. LJ- 8.24M 121, in which Mustafizur behind it meant there wasn't a Facebook spokesperson attempt to share her Tokyo He finished in the top five at SP-14.80 sec Rahman was outstanding. At a set batter for the final later said that while the competitions with her the past six outdoor global HJ- 2.02 M 67 for 5 the chase was push. The last five overs content was removed, the 310,000 followers on championships, picked up an 400M- 47.48 sec wobbling significantly but with brought 31 for 4. suspension was wrongly Facebook-owned Instagram Olympic bronze in 2016 as well 110M Hur- 13.46 sec such a small target, the Score applied. appeared to have backfired. as world silver in 2015 and DT- 48.67M required rate was never an Australia 121 for 7 (Marsh Thompson-Herah She later posted on her world bronze in 2013 and 2019. PV- 4.90M issue and the sixth-wicket pair 45, Mustafizur 3-23) defended her Olympic titles Instagram Stories that the "In Rio 2016, when I finished JT- 63.44M managed to show a calmness Bangladesh 123 for 5 (Afif from the Rio de Janeiro block had been cleared with third, while I was happy to be on 1500M- 4:31.08 sec that had eluded a few others. 37*) 2016 Olympics over the two smiling emojis. (Reuters) the podium I was also (Reuters)

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