SRI LANKA’S NATIONAL NEWSPAPER I SINCE 1918 SATURDAY JULY 24, 2021 I 20 PAGES I VOLUME - 103 - NO 174 I RS. 30.00 I REGISTERED AS A NEWSPAPER IN SRI LANKA I LATE CITY ★ IN WAKE OF CASES OF CHILD ABUSE AND EXPLOITATION Adequate AstraZeneca vaccine stocks available for second dose - DGHS Country to get 1.4 m doses of vaccine by month’s end

Director General of Health Ser- vices (DGHS) Dr. Asela Guna- AMENDMENT TO PREVENT EMPLOYMENT OF CHILDREN UNDER 18 YEARS wardena said that the AstraZeneca vaccine stocks which were in short NCPA, LABOUR DEPT. TO DRAFT RELEVANT AMENDMENT BILL supply for the second dose have already been found. CHAMEERA ELLADENIYA ing and exploiting children who Children Act of 1956 in a bid Amendment in Parliament within The Government earlier this He said that a stock of 1.4 mil- The Government has paid were employed as domestic work- to prevent employment of chil- two months. year increased the minimum age lion doses of the AstraZeneca vac- attention to introducing new laws ers. dren under 18 years, especially as The Chairman further said that of employment from 14 to 16 cine would be received in the coun- to increase the minimum age of National Child Protection domestic workers. it has been proposed to increase years by amending the same Act. try by the end of this month. employment from 16 years to 18 Authority (NCPA) Chairman He said the relevant Amend- the jobs coming under hazardous Under that Amendment, the defi- There is a shortage of approximately 600,000 doses years. Prof. Muditha Vidanapathirana ment Bill would be drafted by the category from 52 to 76 with the nition of a ‘young person’ was of the AstraZeneca vaccine for those who received its This decision has been taken said an Amendment would be NCPA together with the Labour aim of preventing children from amended to be a person who first dose. TO PAGE 02 considering the recent incidents brought to the Employment of Department. He added that the being employed in such risky has attained the age of 16, but is reported in the country of abus- Women, Young Persons, and Government hopes to present the jobs. under the age of 18. TO PAGE 02 Death of domestic: NMRA to track down Rishad’s wife, two unregistered medicines SUBHASHINI SENANAYAKE others arrested The National Medicines Regulatory Author- ity (NMRA) has commenced an extensive search for medicines available in the market which have not been registered in this country. The NMRA said that this step was taken since infor- mation was received that approximately seven types The wife of Samagi Jana Bal- of medicines which have not been registered with the awegaya (SJB) MP Rishad Bathiu- NMRA are being sold illegally in the market. TO PAGE 02 deen (46), his Father-in-Law (70), and another person (64) from Day- agama, were arrested by the Police yesterday in connection with the death of a 16-year old girl, who had been a domestic servant at the resi- Limited inter-provincial dence of the ex-Minister. They have been arrested for the offences of human trafficking and public transport services cruelty to children. The suspect from Dayagama had been the broker, who brought the from next month girl to the ex-Minister’s residence in A limited number of buses and trains will operate Colombo. across the provinces from next month, Vehicle Regu- The Borella Police Children and lation, Bus Transport Services and Train Compart- Women’s Bureau and the Colombo ments and Motor Car Industry State Minister Dilum South Divisional Crime Detective Amunugama said. Bureau are conducting further inves- He said limited inter-provincial public transport tigations into the case. The Police The 32nd Summer Olympics Games were declared open in Tokyo yesterday, amidst restrictions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Here services would commence next month irrespective of had recorded about 20 statements as performers at the opening ceremony gather around the five interlocking rings of the Olympics Movement to symbolise the spirit of unity whether travel restrictions would be further relaxed or and brotherhood at the Games. of yesterday. TO PAGE 02 remain unchanged. TO PAGE 02 Rishad’s Brother-in-Law arrested US eyes SL as economic base A Brother-in-Law of Samagi Jana Bal- 2019. She had told the Police that she was a awegaya (SJB) MP Rishad Bathiudeen was victim of rape at the residence of ex-Minister arrested by the Police yesterday the charge Bathiudeen.Accordingly, the Police have in broader Indo-Pacific Region of sexual abuse as per the provisions of the commenced a separate investigation on the Penal Code, Police Spokesman SDIG Ajith statement given by the 22-year old woman. DINESH PERERA lion last year and cumulatively stands ic growth in the world and noted that Rohana said. She is also from Dayagama and had been The United States has signalled its at US$ 274 million is low compared to more US investment could be located The suspect (44) is a resident of Medawach- brought to Colombo by the same broker, now willingness to assist Sri Lanka eco- international peers. in Sri Lanka, if there was a stronger chiya. The suspect was to be produced before arrested in connection with the death of a nomically with the hopes of capturing The Ambassador was speaking at the transparent rule-based framework for the Colombo Magistrate yesterday. 16-year old girl. the future growth in the Indo-Pacific 5th AGM of the Sri Lanka-US Business operating. Teplitz also signalled US The arrest was based on a statement by a The Police said that a statement was region through the island. Outgoing Council held at the Royal Colombo Golf willingness through the International 22-year old woman, who served as a domes- recorded from another female (32) from Day- US Ambassador to Sri Lanka Alaina Club on July 22. Monetary Fund (IMF) to step in to help tic servant at the residence of ex-Minister agama, who previously served as a domestic B. Teplitz noted that US investment Ambassador Teplitz characterized Sri Lanka with its current foreign cur- Bathiudeen during the period from 2015- servant at the ex-Minister’s residence. into Sri Lanka which was US$ 13 mil- the Indo-Pacific as the heart of econom- rency shortfall. TO PAGE 02 Don’t delay probe into 16-year-old Violators of wedding Govt. should make stance clear health guidelines to be on KDU issue- Dr. Nalinda girl’s death - Imitiaz The Government should clearly sity, former JVP Parliamentarian state whether it plans to continue Dr.Nalinda Jayatissa said. The authorities must not allow He was addressing a press con- prosecuted - Rohana the Defence University status of He was addressing a press confer- any delays in the investigations ference at the SJB Headquarters Legal action will be instituted the Kotelawala National Defence ence at the JVP Headquarters in into the death of the 16-year-old in Ethul Kotte. against those who violate health University (KDU) or whether it Battaramulla. He pointed out that the girl, who worked at ex-Minister He pointed out that those guidelines during wedding cer- will be converted to a civil univer- Government has decided TO PAGE 02 Rishad Bathiudeen’s residence, who committed offences in emonies, Public Health Inspec- due to political reasons, Samagi this case must be expeditiously tors’ Union President Upul Jana Balawegaya (SJB) MP Imi- investigated and revealed to the Rohana said. tiaz Bakeer Markar said. public. TO PAGE 02 He said the PHIs started strictly monitoring wedding cer- emonies from yesterday. He said court cases would be filed at the Magistrates’ Courts against the organisers of wedding ceremo- nies and the owners of the venues, if they were Dehiwela Zoo to reopen from Monday found to be violating health guidelines. TO PAGE 02 ANANDA KANNANGARA vent the spread of COVID-19 State Minister Dissanay- The National Zoologi- will be opened while adher- ake, after inquiring about cal Garden, Dehiwala will ing to all COVID-19 health the health conditions of reopen to the public from guidelines. these animals, directed the July 26 (Monday), Wildlife According to the Zoologi- authorities to open the Zoo Two arrested with Protection, Adoption of cal Department, the Zoo was on July 26 for the public. Safety Measures Including to be opened for the public The 11-year old Lion the Construction of Elec- last week, but had to be ‘Thor’, which was brought trical Fences and Trenches delayed after two Chimpan- to Sri Lanka from the Seoul heroin and ‘ICE’ and Reforestation and For- zees and two Orang-utans Zoo in South Korea in 2013, UPALI KARUNARATNE and RAKSHANA SRIYANTHA est Resource Development were taken ill. The infected was the first animal at the The Special Task Force (STF) arrested two State Minister Wimalaweera Chimpanzees and Orang- Dehiwala Zoological Gar- suspects with 1 kilogramme and 235 grams of Dissanayaka said. utans were immediately dens to test positive for Heroin and the ‘ICE’ drug in their possession The Zoo which was closed isolated from other animals COVID-19 and was thereaf- at Attidiya and Ratmalana on Thursday, Police The Sri Lanka Army (SLA) manufactured “Agri Shredder PP1” machine which could be for nearly two months to pre- following several PCR tests. ter treated. TO PAGE 02 Media Spokesman Senior DIG Ajith Rohana said. used to pulverize tree leaves and branches to produce organic fertilizer was launched The street value of the drugs is said to be more recently. The Army said the machine was invented by troops of 4 Sri Lanka Army Electrical than Rs.12,350,000. The suspects were handed and Mechanical Engineers (SLEME) and 5 Corps of Engineer Service (CES). The machine over to the Police Narcotic Bureau. could be used to pulverize 3.5 metric tons per hour following the cutting of bushes into 10 One suspect (32) was taken into custody with mm particles. The market value of this type of machine exceeds Rs. 750,000, whereas 400 grams of Heroin and Rs. 94,040 cash in his SLEME and CES manufactured it spending about Rs 150,000. possession TO PAGE 02 Picture Courtesy Army Media Division DN page 2 NEWS SATURDAY, JULY 24, 2021 LKI launches Ambassador Forum discussion series Cooperation, only viable means to combat COVID scourge - Foreign Minister

The Lakshman Kadirgamar Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, istry of Regional Cooperation, omies and despite prevailing Islam, the High Commissioner sary measures countries in action, remains crucial to pre- Institute of International Rela- the Maldives and Sri Lanka. A. Senanayake, noted that uncertainties, there lies sub- of the Republic of India Gopal South Asia needed to adopt in vent the further spread of the tions and Strategic Studies The Actg. Director General COVID-19 poses an existential stantial opportunity for deeper Baglay, the High Commissioner relation to the economic, politi- virus and sustain economies. In (LKI) launched the Ambassa- of the LKI, Ms. Savitri threat to the region and beyond cooperation to foster economic of the Republic of Maldives cal and social realities of the his vote of thanks, Director of dor Forum discussion series on Panabokke in her welcome and that cooperation between growth and development in Omar Abdul Razzak and the new normal. They reiterated the LKI Chathuka Senanayake Thursday, July 15. remarks, highlighted that the countries and regions remains South Asia. Acting High Commissioner of the substantial opportunities thanked the participants for The inaugural event, which webinar seeks to explore how the only viable means to com- Panellists at the Forum the Islamic Republic of Paki- present for expanding coopera- ensuring a stimulating and was held virtually, focused on South Asia has adapted to the bat this scourge and to revive included Foreign Secretary stan Tanvir Ahmad. The dis- tion to foster economic growth informative discussion. “South Asia’s Approach to the New Normal and could benefit flagging economies. State Min- Admiral Professor Jayanath cussion was moderated by and development in South The event was also attended New Normal in the Post by sharing best practices and ister Tharaka Balasuriya, dur- Colombage, Ambassador of the George Cooke, Diplomatic His- Asia, as well as to strengthen virtually by leading policymak- COVID-19 World.” The webi- experiences in responding to ing the introductory remarks, Islamic Republic of Afghani- torian and Initiator of Aware- existing diplomatic relations. ers and experts, and senior nar provided a rare opportunity the pandemic. stated that the pandemic has stan Mohammed Ashraf Haid- logue Initiative. They also evaluated each coun- officers of the Foreign Ministry to bring together high level Foreign Minister Dinesh forced countries to consider ari, the High Commissioner of With the pandemic progress- try’s best practices, concluding of Sri Lanka. The panel discus- panelists from the South Asia Gunawardena’s message, read adopting a more sustainable the People’s Republic of Bang- ing into its second year, the that the rapid fusion of new sion was followed by a Q & A region including Afghanistan, by Secretary to the State Min- approach to support their econ- ladesh Tareq Mohammed Ariful discussion focused the neces- knowledge into preventive session. Strong winds, rough Opening of China-South Asia Emergency Supplies Reserve in Chengdu seas expected Ambassador Kohona thanks Fairly strong gusty winds up to extending from Puttalam to Trin- (40-50) kmph are likely across comalee via Mannar and Kankas- China for COVID-19 assistance the island today due to active anturai can be very rough at South-West Monsoon conditions, times. Naval and fishing commu- Sri Lanka’s Ambassador to Ambassador Dr. Kohona ble the reserve to dispatch great response mechanism the Meteorology Department nities are requested to be vigilant China Dr. Palitha Kohona was speaking at the opening emergency supplies with the and an asset. With climate Natural Hazards Early Warning in this regard,” the Department thanked China for so gener- of the China-South Asia Emer- least delay. Today the mobili- change increasingly causing Centre advised. said. ously coming to Sri Lanka’s gency Supplies Reserve in sation of emergency supplies climate related emergencies “Strong gusty winds up to 60 “Showers or thundershowers assistance with vaccines when Chengdu on July 9. The Emer- takes too long. with unpredictable and unusu- kmph can be expected in the will occur at times in Western, the COVID-19 situation was gency Reserve was the result Vice Foreign Minister Wu al weather, the creation of the western slope of central hills, Sabaragamuwa and Central prov- threatening to slip out of con- of a zoom meeting convened Jianghao, a former Ambassa- emergency reserve was timely. Northern, North-Central, North- inces and in Galle and Matara trol. He also said that Sri by Chinese Foreign Minister dor to Colombo, presided over Dr. Kohona said President Western and Southern provinces districts. Lanka had a well mobilised Wang Yi in April and attended the ceremony. The Vice Gov- Xi Jinping has committed and in Trincomalee district. Peo- Fairly heavy showers of about public health care sector by the Foreign Ministers of ernor of Sichuan and the China to be carbon neutral by ple who are living in the above 75 mm can be expected at some which bore the brunt of the Afghanistan, Nepal, Pakistan, Mayor of Chengdu attended 2060 and was leading the mentioned areas are requested to places in Sabaragamuwa prov- national COVID-19 response. Bangladesh and Sri Lanka. the event. world’s response to climate Sri Lanka’s Ambassador to be vigilant in this regard,” the ince and in Nuwara-Eliya, Galle It was a resource that Sri Given the regularity with Ambassador Dr. Kohona in change by example. China was China Dr. Palitha Kohona weather advisory said. and Matara districts. Few show- Lanka would be able to share which natural disasters seem his remarks said that South an example to the world. The speaking at the opening of “The sea areas extending from ers will occur in North-Western with the world when the pan- to afflict the South Asian Asia suffered regularly from leadership provided by the the China-South Asia Emer- Galle to Pottuvil via Matara and Province,” the weather bulletin demic comes under adequate region, the creation of the natural calamities and the Communist Party of China gency Supplies Reserve in Hambantota and in the sea areas said. control in Sri Lanka. emergency reserve would ena- emergency reserve would be a was exemplary. Chengdu on July 9. Pakistan, a steadfast friend of Sri Lanka - High Commissioner MOHAMMED RASOOLDEEN ation to promote bilateral rela- in forging economic ties with Working Groups (JWGs) to He also speculated that the Pakistan is a treasure house of Pakistan’s High Commission- tions to new heights and contin- other countries. address technical impediments export of Ceylon tea to Paki- Buddhist archaeological sites, er Maj.Gen (Rtd) Muhammad ue to help each other for the According to the Stimson to bilateral trade and effective- stan has dropped due to lack of and that there are many sites Saad Khattak said on Tuesday progress of the two nations,” he Centre, bilateral trade between ly implement the FTA. competitiveness among the beyond Swat. But there is more that his country would be stead- said. Pakistan and Sri Lanka grew During the press briefing, Lankan tea traders. “Tea and to Pakistan than its Buddhist fast in its friendly relations with The High Commissioner only marginally from US$ 180 the diplomat announced that a coffee depends on the taste of sites, he added. Sri Lanka in all facets of life. recalled that trade and invest- million in 2004 to US$ 460 mil- high-level delegation from the these beverages and it is upto There are mountains, lakes, The Envoy was addressing a ment were important areas dis- lion in 2018. Rawalpindi Chamber of Com- the marketing personnel to deserts and beaches, all in one press conference at his mission cussed when the Prime Minis- The removal of harmful merce and Industry in Pakistan change the quality as well as country. Sri Lanka-Pakistan Pakistan’s High Commissioner in Colombo recently. ter Imran Khan visited Colom- trade barriers could take the is to visit Sri Lanka in two their sales strategies. tourism is an area that is yet to to Sri Lanka Maj. Gen (Rtd) “Following the visit of Paki- bo in April this year. As per the bilateral trade up to US$ 2.7 weeks’ time for discussions He also said that Pakistan be exploited. Muhammad Saad Khattak stan Prime Minister Imran wishes of the Prime Minister, billion, the Center said. with the captains of Sri Lan- has granted hundreds of schol- Press Counselor Kalsoom addressing a press conference Khan’s visit to the island recent- Pakistan is now guided by geo- In February 2021, the Com- kan commerce and industry arships to Lankan youths. Jilani and the Deputy Chief of at his mission in Colombo on ly, the two countries have economics rather more than merce Secretaries from both aimed at boosting bilateral eco- The High Commissioner Mission Tanwir Ahamed were Tuesday. Picture by Ashraff A. opened up new areas of cooper- geo-strategy and is interested sides agreed to revive the Joint nomic ties. drew attention to the fact that also present. Samad

Death of domestic: Rishad’s... From page 01 Adequate AstraZeneca vaccine... From page 01 Limited inter-provincial public... From page 01 “The investigation team collected Providing the first dose of Astra- He said the Special Committee vices in a limited way.He was speak- scientific, circumstantial and techni- Zeneca commenced last January overseeing the COVID-19 mitigation ing to the media in Matara. Currently, cal evidence. and ended in April. The number of activities gave approval to commence inter-provincial travel was prohibited The team also considered the persons who have obtained the first inter-provincial public transport ser- to contain the spread of COVID-19. post-mortem report,” Police Spokes- dose of the AstraZeneca vaccine is man SDIG Ajith Rohana said. Procedure Code. The Police were 925,242. Out of them, only 385,885 The suspects were to be produced seeking to obtain a 72-hour deten- persons have been given the second before the Colombo Magistrate’s tion order on them for further inves- dose as of now. Govt. moots new laws... From page 01 Court yesterday under the Criminal tigations. The Director General also said that 90,000 doses of the Pfizer vac- To facilitate that revision, the child under 16 years is not prevent- cine are due to arrive in the island Shop and Office Employees (Regula- ed from getting involved in agri- on Monday (26) and that those tion of Employment and Remunera- business activities or in any busi- Govt. should make stance... From page 01 would be given as the second dose tion) Act of 1954, Factories Ordi- ness activity organized for educa- to people in the Puttalam and Man- nance (Chapter 128) of 1942 and tional or charitable purposes provid- to take up the vote of the ty or a university belonging nar Districts. Minimum Wages (Indian Labour) ed that such partaking is done only KDU Bill in Parliament on to civil students. The Govern- He said further that another 1.6 Ordinance of 1947 were also amend- before or after the commencement August 6. ment should not mix up million doses of the Sinopharm ed. This law has an exception that a of school. He added that the recent defence personnel and civil Vaccine would reach the country on Amendment to the Universi- students. We are not against Monday as a donation. ties Act of 1978 does not giving higher education for Dr. Gunawardena said that since remove the controversial Cadet Officers of the Tri-Forc- different types of vaccines are try, a proper system would be US eyes SL as economic base... From page 01 provisions of the KDU Bill, es, but then it should be a being recommended for individuals introduced for this purpose in the which the JVP has objected defence university. The KDU going for jobs abroad by each coun- near future. “The US as a signal of to succeed and a recon- to. He stated that the mili- Bill ruins the academic free- goodwill has recently allo- ciled Sri Lanka that over- tary structure and involvement of dom and independence of the State cated 1.5 million Moderna comes community and the KDU remains even after the pro- university system. The decisions vaccines and 500,000 rapid achieves broad-based equi- posed Amendment. “The President pertaining to higher education must testing kits to the Sri Lan- table economic growth has to clearly mention whether it be taken carefully after a broad dis- From page 01 kan Government through will emerge as a more will continue as a Defence Universi- cussion,” he commented. Don’t delay probe into... their COVAX initiative,” developed and more she said. secure partner for the “Justice delayed is justice denied. Do not drag the Teplitz will be replaced United States.” investigations unnecessarily and make it a political by Julie Chung who will She said, “(Sri Lanka From page 01 game. Do not let this incident lead to racial issues by take up the appointment as will be a) fulcrum of peace Dehiwela Zoo to reopen... delaying investigations. Reveal the truth,” he comment- the new US Ambassador. Teplitz and stability in the Indo-Pacific ed. characterized Sri Lanka as sharing region and probably most impor- Sri Lanka’s only laboratory to blood samples of the infected ani- He asked the investigating bodies and law enforce- in US ideals of democracy and tantly a deliverer of prosperity and examine animal diseases and mals to this Faculty. Sri Lanka Vet- ment authorities not to give into any political pressure noted, “national reconciliation will calm. Sri Lanka is a magnificent viruses is housed at the Faculty of erinary Surgeons Association during the investigations. require an institutional framework country with huge potential.” Veterinary Medicine and Animal (SLVSA) Chairman Dr. Erandika Science at the University of Perad- Gunawardana said, according to eniya. investigations, the COVID-19 virus The Dehiwala Zoo authorities could spread to animals from NMRA to track... From page 01 Two arrested... From page 01 were taking measures to send the humans. Chief Food and Medicines Inspector of at Attidiya together with a individual from Kandana. He the NMRA Amith Perera said that raids of mobile phone and two bundles was arrested when a vehicle ARIYAWANSA - C.M. (Retired Director pharmacies across the island have been of paper used for wrapping was inspected at Narammala of Education,​ Kalutara,​ Kegalle and launched by inspectors in search of these the drugs. The Police Spokes- and 30 grams of Heroin and the National Institute of Education, ​ unregistered medicines.“Among these medi- man said the other person was 805 grams of the drug ‘ICE’ Maharagama). Loving husband of Shanthi cines not registered with the NMRA is a identified as a 39-year-old were discovered. Ariyawansa (nee Wanasinghe),​ retired medicine that is commonly given to those principal of Kotte Sri Jayawardenepura infected with the Coronavirus as well as a Girls’ School,​ beloved father of Dr Hiran type of Vitamin,” he said.He mentioned fur- (Australia) and Inoka (Australia - Attorney- From page 01 ther that when a warehouse located in Dehi- Violators of wedding... at-Law),​ father-in-law of Indranath wela belonging to an individual who Dassanayake (Australia),​ grandfather of imports pharmaceuticals to this country He said the Union had received a large Navindu and Ridma (Australia),​ passed was inspected, a large stock of medicines number of complaints and photos of wedding away peacefully at the age of 92 years. which had been brought into the country ceremonies that broke the health guidelines Remains lie at Jayaratne Funeral Parlour,​ illegally without being registered at the in the last few days.Under the relaxed health Borella from July 24th, ​8 a.m. to 4 p.m. NMRA, had been discovered.Accordingly, guidelines issued on July 10, weddings are Cremation at 5 p.m. on 24th July,​ 2021. legal action has been taken against persons allowed with 25 per cent seating capacity of 046726 who imported the relevant pharmaceuticals. the venue or a maximum of 150 guests. SATURDAY, JULY 24, 2021 NEWS page 3 DN World Drowning Prevention Day to be observed on July 25 Nearly two thirds of global drowning deaths occur in Asia Pacific

Since the launch of WHO's Samoa, the Commonwealth of the Global report on drowning pre- Northern Mariana Islands, and venting a leading killer in 2014 Guam), Vanuatu, and Viet Nam. and the follow-up resource Pre- In 2019, over 144 000 people venting drowning: an implementa- drowned in the Asia Pacific tion guide in 2017, WHO has been region, accounting for 61% of working to scale up advocacy and global drowning deaths, according action for the prevention of drown- to the first World Health Organisa- ing. tion (WHO) regional assessments The World Drowning Prevention on drowning prevention released Day will be observed for the first today ahead of World Drowning time on July 25, 2021, following Prevention Day. Drowning claimed the adoption on April 28, 2021 of the lives of an estimated 70 000 Regional Director for South-East skills training in Bangladesh, the first-ever United Nations Gen- and 74 000 people in the WHO Asia. “We need to work across all India, Nepal, Sri Lanka and Thai- eral Assembly resolution on global South-East Asia and Western sectors to develop national water land; community-based day care/ drowning prevention. Pacific regions, respectively. safety plans and policies and creches for young children in The 11 countries of the WHO The two WHO reports, Regional implement tested and low-cost Bangladesh, India and Thailand; South-East Asia Region: Bangla- Status Report on Drowning in the water safety interventions to pre- and improved information systems desh, Bhutan, the Democratic Peo- Western Pacific and Regional Sta- vent drowning and save lives. No and public awareness campaigns ple’s Republic of Korea, India, tus Report on Drowning in South- child or adult should lose their life focused on behaviour change in Indonesia, Maldives, Myanmar, East Asia, also warn that climate to drowning.” Thailand. Nepal, Sri Lanka, Thailand and change, to which the Asia Pacific Of the 70, 000 drowning deaths In the Western Pacific Region, Timor-Leste. region is particularly vulnerable, in the WHO South-East Asia males and people aged 65 and The 37 countries and areas of places already vulnerable commu- Region in 2019, more than 33% older at greatest risk of drowning. the WHO Western Pacific Region: nities and individuals at increased were among children aged under Older people accounted for 34% Australia, Brunei Darussalam, drowning risk. More frequent and 15 years. On average, men were of drowning deaths in the WHO Cambodia, China, Cook Islands, extreme weather events can lead three to four times more likely to Western Pacific Region in 2019. Fiji, France (which has responsibil- to more regular and intense floods, drown than women. Men are at higher risk than ity for French Polynesia, New Cal- increasing populations’ exposure There have been pockets of suc- women– in 2019, 66% of drowning edonia, and Wallis and Futuna), to potentially hazardous interac- cess towards reducing drowning in deaths in the Region were among Hong Kong SAR (China), Japan, tions with water. countries of the Region. Among men. Kiribati, the Lao People’s Demo- Non-fatal drowning – where the 10 out of 11 coun- cratic Republic, Macao SAR individuals are rescued and/or tries in the Region that (China), Malaysia, the Marshall resuscitated – also results in a sub- contributed to the Islands, Micronesia (Federated stantial number of hospitalizations report, four reported States of), Mongolia, Nauru, New in the two WHO regions, and can having national or sub- Zealand, Niue, Palau, Papua New cause severe brain damage that national strategies, poli- Guinea, the Philippines, the may result in long-term disabilities cies or plans to reduce Republic of Korea, Samoa, Singa- such as memory problems, learn- drowning. Yet, only pore, Solomon Islands, Tokelau, ing disabilities and permanent loss Thailand has set tar- Tonga, Tuvalu, the United King- of basic function. gets to measure pro- The majestic caparisoned elephant bearing the Sacred Relics parades the Devalaya dom of Great Britain and Northern “Despite many lives being lost gress towards its goals. grounds during the final night of the Kataragama Esala Perahera last night. Lake Ireland (which has responsibility each year, drowning remains a Efforts, especially for House is the print media sponsor of the Kataragama Esala Festival this year. for Pitcairn Islands), the United largely unrecognized threat to at-risk groups such as Picture by Kataragama Special Correspondent States of America (which has health and well-being,” said Dr. children, include: sur- responsibility for American Poonam Khetrapal Singh, WHO vival swim and water Sri Lankans in Doha boost “ITUKAMA–COVID-19 Fund”, donate 85 Oxygen Cylinders

With a view to ameliorating the efforts of the Government of Sri Lanka to battle against the COVID-19 pandemic, the Embassy of Sri Lanka in Doha donated 85 Medical Oxygen Cylinders to the health sector. This was the fourth air shipment of medical assistance facilitated by the Embassy. The consignment of Oxygen Cylinders was delivered to the Foreign Ministry of Sri Lanka, and is expected to be distributed among the Government hospitals to reinforce the capacity of the health sector. The Sri Lankan expatriate community based in Doha along with other well-wishers came into the forefront of assistance and made this generous donation. This initiative was mooted after an urgent request made by the Ambassa- dor of Sri Lanka to the State of Qatar M. Mafaz Mohideen. In this context, over 20 Sri Lankan Sri Lankans donors in Doha, Qatar come forward to provide urgent medical assistance to fellow Sri formal and informal Associations based in Lankans in their hour of need. Doha as well some of local well-wishers like LULU Group and Watad Group of Qatar came to the forefront to render their support for Sri Lankan citizens, under the guidance of the Sri Lankan Embassy. With their fruitful efforts, the Embassy was able to deliver altogether 460 Oxygen Cylin- ders, 22 Pulse Oximeters and 10 Oxygen Regu- lators to the Sri Lankan health sector and QAR. 5000 to the “ITUKAMA –COVID-19 Health- care and Social Security Fund”. The Embassy of Sri Lanka in Doha wishes to express sincere appreciation to all the donors who contributed to help the fellow Sri Lankans at this hour of need, Sri Lankan Airlines, who rendered a commendable assistance to airlift the cargo on gratis basis, Foreign Ministry Sri Lanka, Ministry of Health, Sri Lanka for the excellent support given towards this noble cause. Korean Ambassador, Def. Sec. discuss matters of bilateral importance

Ambassador of the Republic of Korea in Sri Lanka Woonjin Jeong pledged his country's full- est support to safeguard Sri Lankans in Korea during the pandemic. Ambassador Woonjin Jeong was speaking while paying a courtesy call on Defence Secre- tary Gen. Kamal Gunaratne (Retd) at the Defence Headquarters Complex, Sri Jayawarde- nepura, Kotte on Thursday (22). Following a warm reception, the Defence Secretary held a cordial discussion with the South Korean Ambassador on matters of bilat- eral importance and mutual relevance which also included the expansion of military coordi- nation between the two countries as well as trade investment. Ambassador Woonjin Jeong and Defence Secretary Gen. Gunaratne also exchanged views on matters pertaining to the COVID-19 situation in both countries. Following the meeting, mementoes were exchanged to mark the occasion. The meeting was held in keeping with the healthcare proce- dures to contain the spread of COVID-19. The Defence Ministry’s Military Liaison Officer Brig. Dinesh Nanayakkara was also present at the bilateral discussion.

Ambassador of the Republic of Korea in Sri Lanka Woonjin Jeong paid a courtesy call on Defence Secretary Gen.Kamal Gunaratne (Retd) at the Defence Headquarters Complex, Sri Jayawardenepura, Kotte on Thursday (22). DN page 4 EDITORIAL SATURDAY, JULY 24, 2021

SATURDAY, JULY 24, 2021 Coming to terms with reality ot many Government politicians are given to coming out with unpleasant facts be it in respect of the state of the economy or the N inner dealings of the administration lest the regime becomes unpopular with the public. Trade Minister Dr. Bandula Gunawardena, known for call- ing a spade a spade, has now put things in perspec- tive in response to the demands by the Teachers and Principals for pay hikes. Addressing a Media conference in Colombo, the Min- ister stated that salary increases to Government servants cannot probably be given, considering the present state of the country’s economy. Giving pay hikes to any segment of public servants would nec- Police officers cordon off the scene of the explosion in which Maldives Speaker and former President Mohammed ‘Anni’ Nasheed was injured. essarily mean heaping additional tax burdens on the public already reeling under financial difficulties. He said it was also not feasible to tax businesses and commercial enterprises to raise additional funds to pay the salary increases. The Minister said the pan- demic had badly hit the developed, middle income and poor countries across the world alike and over MALDIVES: THE CALL TO END four million people have already died. While hunger, poverty and malnutrition have increased, it is not an easy task to maintain public finance management for any Government. We are clearly not an exception. It is not clear if Minister Dr. Gunawardena was made use of as a lightning rod to reveal the true economic picture of the country, but the Minister is only being EXTREMISTS’ DOMINANCE realistic. Some may ask why the Government which N. SATHIYA MOORTHY A divided moderate is accused of printing money by the Opposition could n what could be surmised as a constituency, including not adopt the same method to offer the salary belated yet welcome first step, increase to the teachers, if that indeed was the case. Maldivian Speaker Mohammed existing and new But it must be borne in mind that there are around I ‘Anni’ Nasheed has conceded political parties, can 250,000 teachers in Government schools and the that all political parties in the country weaken them salary increase will not be a once and for all pay- have depended on ‘extremist votes’ in the past to come to power. By exten- collectively vis-à-vis a ment but will stretch on till the time the teachers sion, he indicated that his recent call united extremist retire and they will also be liable for pensions com- to work with jailed former President puted on the last salary received. Hence the theory Abdulla Yameen’s rival Progressive alliance. It will be worse of paying the salaries by resorting to printing money Party of Maldives–People’s National still if the MDP remains won’t hold water. Congress (PPM-PNC) combine was divided. In the interim, The Government also has to be mindful of the domino aimed at all moderate elements unit- effect this will have on the rest of the public sector, ing to render the extremists irrele- it can give fresh life to vant in the nation’s electoral politics. Yameen’s PPM-PNC with some of the major Unions already girding their Nasheed charged the incumbent loins to do battle like the teachers. With the economy Government of President Ibrahim combine. The blame for in a dire situation as hinted by Minister Dr. Guna- ‘Ibu’ Solih of the Maldivian Demo- it all, starting with MDP wardena, the Government, no doubt, would not want cratic Party (MDP), led by him, of Maldives President Maldives Speaker and former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih Mohammed ‘Anni’ Nasheed losing power and to open the floodgates by favouring only one seg- allowing the religion-centric Adhaal- ment of the public service. ath Party (AP) to ‘monopolise the popularity despite a Government.’ He blamed the Solih two-thirds majority in Some 30 Teacher Trade Unions took to the streets on leadership for withdrawing support Thursday demanding what they claim to be their to the Government-sponsored ‘hate- the current Parliament, delayed pay hike and had withdrawn from all online crime’ bill, succumbing to pressures could lie at the classes until their demands are met. A meeting the from extremists, from within and teachers’ TUs had with Minister Prof. G. L. Peiris on outside. doorsteps of the Wednesday had ended in a stalemate. In this context, Nasheed said the Solih-Nasheed combo. It is unfortunate indeed that teachers who hold the Government should prove its mettle by backing the bill when it comes up latest, not necessarily the last, weap- future of the young generation in their hands have for vote in Parliament. In a tweet, in on in his hand, after corruption and decided to turn their back on the very children who the name of ‘Alex Ahmed,’ his known demand for a Parliamentary scheme. depend not only on their tutelage but also their guid- alias, Nasheed, who is recuperating in According to them, Nasheed’s tar- ance and counsel to make them responsible citi- the United Kingdom after medical geting of the AP should have waited zens, sullying in the process what one likes to think treatment for the blast injuries in until he had given a semblance of a as being a noble profession. Malé and Germany, also found fault united MDP to cadres and the voters The striking teachers should understand that their with the police investigations into the alike. His seeking Yameen’s help May 6 targeted bomb blast against should have come much later. By own children will also be victims of their irresponsible him. His view in this regard is shared seeking out Yameen’s help for his action. They who should know better and lead the by many others. Former Maldives President Former Maldives President twin-projects of sidelining extremists way as shining examples to the community had even Nasheed said that leadership is not Maumoon Abdul Gayoom Abdulla Yameen and introducing a Parliamentary deigned to act in complete defiance of the prevailing only about ‘diplomacy and compro- scheme before taking his party-led health protocols, making the spread of the latest mise.’ It is even more about ‘strength port’ for the Government, of which he support for Solih.’ Moosa Manik, now Government, President Solih and deadly Delta variant of the Coronavirus a very real and steadfastness.’ He implied that is a partner. The fourth coalition not in the party, went further to claim even the MDP General Council into the incumbent lacked them all. As has partner, namely, the Jumhooree Party that ‘Nasheed has lost control over confidence has weakened the party possibility. been his wont ever since Nasheed (JP) of businessman-politician Gasim the MDP.’ A minister, Mohamed and his own position within, they say. There is no gainsaying that the teaching profession began targeting his leadership and Ibrahim, too, has since reaffirmed Maleeh Jamal, who was sacked at By putting them all on their head, had suffered moral decline and a crisis of con- Government, President Solih has support to the Solih leadership, Nasheed’s instance and who left the and presenting them to Yameen, science over the years and lost for it the honour and maintained a stoic silence in this case though two of five party MPs, includ- JP ally earlier, has now returned to instead of his own party first, prestige it was once invested with. Gone are the too. ing former Defence Minister, Col the PPM fold and said that there was Nasheed, they say, has weakened the days when the Iskoley Mahaththaya/Nona (teacher The Speaker, who is also the Ahmed Nazim (retd), quit recently to ‘no democracy’ in the MDP. party and its Presidential Poll pros- or principal) was a much sought after figure in towns nation’s first ‘democracy President,’ float a new party. It did not say how, when, or who pects without the former having to do elected in 2008, said electoral alli- The JP has polled decisive vote amongst them could take the initia- anything. It is independent of Yameen and villages for his/her guidance and counsel. ances vitiated the spirit of the Consti- shares in the past (15–25 per cent), tive or play the role of mediator. The obtaining an acquittal from the On the contrary today we have school principals tution, passed at the time. It is unclear and the three allies of the MDP can current MDP structure does not Supreme Court in the multi-million- being caught taking bribes and involved in other acts if that was the reason for him as the upset the Presidential expectations of allow for one from within, unless a dollar ‘MMPRC scam,’ for which the of corruption. The halo that was donned by the party chief, to shun junior allies who others in a closely-fought contest group of youthful leaders from the lower courts have handed down a teaching profession is no more. It has been reduced had served the MDP’s purposes in the without being a challenger. Col two camps join hands to ‘save the five-year jail term. If not acquitted, to just another “public service” with teachers merely presidential elections of 2008, ’13, Nazim’s new party is yet to be regis- party.’ Yameen cannot contest the elections and ’18 in the subsequent Parliamen- going through the motions in their classrooms. If not, tered, and its support-base is yet to be Also, even in the theoretical possi- and field another. tary Polls on all three occasions. tested. Possibilities of the kind had bility of Solih taking the AP out of the Independent observers submit that how could one explain the mushrooming private tui- forced the MDP, under Nasheed’s Government, as he had sacked other Nasheed’s call to Yameen did not tion classes all over the country? If the teachers Allies back Solih command, to seek them out after ministers at Nasheed’s instance, it mean that they should become elec- were up to the mark, as in the past, there would be being elected, rather than the other may only serve a limited purpose for toral allies or contest on the same no need for such ‘schools’ out of schools so to speak. According to MDP insiders, the way out. re-uniting the MDP. So could any pos- side of the political divide. Instead, he It is also a negation of the much vaunted free educa- allies have felt used by the Nasheed- sible re-assurance from him to back only meant to have the ‘extremists’ at tion concept. led MDP, making it imperative now From drift to rift? the hate-crime bill in Parliament and bay. Granted that all ‘moderate politi- for President Solih not to lose them. outside. The problem flows from the cal parties’, including Yameen’s PPM- This is not to say that the teachers are without griev- The AP, whose leader Sheikh Imran Over the past months, MDP affairs fact that the majority of the MDP is PNC combine, keep ‘extremists’ away, ances. One has to admit that their salaries are well Abdullah is the Home Minister, in its have been moving from a clear drift unwilling to call a monthly meeting of there is the other likelihood of all below par given the nature of their profession. After rebuttal has dubbed Nasheed, ‘selfish’ towards a possible rift. Solih’s silence the Coordination Committee of the conservative and radical groups com- all, they are an educated breed. They surely would and denied allegations against the may have contributed to the crisis, ruling coalition, where issues could ing together and challenging the have been rankled by the recent news that some party. The AP, or religious scholars centred on Nasheed’s outpourings. be discussed and decisions arrived at. moderates in the Presidential Polls Government officials had been receiving over Rs. 2 who formed the party after the 2008 His supporters claim that Solih’s Despite the resolve to meet at least a with a common candidate. million monthly pay. Such glaring anomalies should Constitution legitimised political par- silence (alone) has helped to keep the month, no such meeting has been A divided moderate constituency, ties, was first to raise its voice against MDP ship afloat and the alliance held to discuss the hate-crime bill, including existing and new political be rectified. the then well-entrenched President intact. But they too are now con- after the one earlier in the year, which parties, can weaken them collectively However, this is hardly the time for demands to be met Maumoon Abdul Gayoom (1978- cerned that Nasheed is pushing the itself was only the second meeting vis-à-vis a united extremist alliance. It from whatever quarter that would push the economy 2008). Having branded Gayoom as an party to a point of no return. after Solih came to power in Novem- will be worse still if the MDP remains further down the abyss. What is needed is patience early extremist in the eyes of the less- Nasheed also assured recently that ber 2018. divided. In the interim, it can give until the situation improves so that the teachers and knowledgeable sections of the inter- he will not allow the party to split. In fresh life to Yameen’s PPM-PNC com- Government could at least meet halfway vis-a-vis national community, the MDP in its a statement, the MDP too said that Altruist, but… bine. The blame for it all, starting with the salary demands. formative years and even earlier, the issues between the “Big Two” ‘can MDP losing power and popularity could not but join hands with the AP be resolved.’ However, individual Nasheed’s supporters, both within despite a two-thirds majority (65/87) and other minor parties, to deny the voices from within the party and out- the MDP and outside, attest to what in the current Parliament, could lie at former, during the re-election in side have begun coming out in Solih’s they say is his altruist intentions on the doorsteps of the Solih-Nasheed THOUGHT FOR THE DAY 2008. favour. The list includes former MDP keeping the extremists at bay, begin- combo. A weakened MDP in such a Now heading the Maumoon Chairpersons, Dr. Ibrahim Didi and ning with electoral politics, which scenario — and a democratic polity, Reforms Movement (MRM), after Moosa Manik. alone gives them the clout and stay- by extension — could well take a long, The art of teaching is the art of assisting losing his PPM title, cadre and voters Though they do not command ing power outside of religious dis- long time to revive, even if democracy discovery. - Mark Van Doren to estranged half-brother Yameen, much support, Didi said that courses. His critics in the party are itself survives the onslaught. Gayoom has since declared ‘full sup- Nasheed’s actions have ‘increased not convinced. To them, this is the - Observer Research Foundation SATURDAY, JULY 24, 2021 OPINION page 5 DN ON MY WATCH BY LUCIEN RAJAKARUNANAYAKE

he huge floods that have affected China this week and several coun- tries in Europe the previous week, T and wildfires spreading in other parts of the globe, have raised global con- cerns about Climate Change. The deluge in China this week saw more than 35 killed and more heavy rain threaten- ing surrounding regions, and more than 200,000 people moved to safer areas. An unprecedented downpour dumped a year’s rain in just three hours on the city of Zheng- zhou, instantly overwhelming drains and sending torrents of muddy, swirling water through streets, road tunnels and the subway system. Hundreds of thousands of people in the surrounding area have been affected by the flood, as farmland was inundated and road and rail links severed. In worst-hit Zheng- zhou, grim images of the horror inside the subway system were shown over social media, with water rising during Tuesday’s rush hour from the ankles of passengers to their necks. Questions turned to how China’s bulging cities could be better prepared for freak weather events like Tuesday’s storm, which experts say are happening with increased Buildings and farmlands are seen partially submerged in floodwaters following heavy rainfall in Poyang county of Jiangxi Province, China on July 17, 2020. frequency and intensity due to climate change. Judge Piet Koen said on Tuesday, a day Henan Province like much of China is stri- after Zuma appeared virtually in the Pieter- ated by rivers, dams and reservoirs many maritzburg High Court, that the trial would constructed decades ago to manage the flow be adjourned until “August 10 or 13”. of floodwater and irrigate the agricultural Zuma faces 16 charges of fraud, corruption region. The changing climate is also making and racketeering related to the 1999 purchase these extreme weather events more common RISING GLOBAL CONCERN of fighter jets, patrol boats and military gear as the world continues to heat up, with catas- from five European arms firms when he was trophes seen across the world. deputy president. Chancellor Angela Merkel visited flood- He is accused of taking bribes from one of ravaged areas of Germany on Sunday to the firms, French defence giant Thales, which survey the damage and meet survivors after has been charged with corruption and money days of extreme rainfall in Western Europe laundering. left at least 190 people dead and dozens OVER CLIMATE CHANGE As the trial, which began in May, faced missing. repeated delays, the former president was The chancellor said she was overwhelmed found guilty on June 29 for Contempt of by the “surreal, eerie” devastation she had Court for disobeying a Constitutional Court seen. “It is shocking – I can almost say that order to testify before a judicial panel con- the German language doesn’t have words for ducting a separate probe of corruption during the destruction that has been unleashed,” his presidency. she told reporters. His resulting imprisonment sparked days Merkel also pledged that a short-term of protests, looting and arson, predominantly relief programme would be launched by the in his home province of KwaZulu-Natal, as government on Wednesday and said the well as nearby Gauteng Province. The unrest devastation underscored the importance of left at least 200 people dead. combating climate change, saying: We “must Zuma’s legal team cited the unrest, as well hurry”. as the ravages of the coronavirus pandemic, At least 31 people have also lost their lives as they petitioned for the delay. They argued in neighbouring Belgium, officials said Sun- the defendant had a right to appear in person day. Peru’s President-elect South African President Former South African President Afghanistan President during the trial. Rescue crews in both countries were sift- Pedro Castillo Cyril Ramaphosa Jacob Zuma Ashraf Ghani Zuma, a veteran of the struggle against ing through rubble to find victims, often in white minority rule who served as South dangerous conditions. Africa’s President from 2009 to 2018 before The historic downpours also battered Amid growing concerns over the apparent was reported by The Washington Post,The The team is headed by Israel’s National resigning under pressure from his party, had Switzerland, Luxembourg and the Nether- abuse of NSOs powerful phone-hacking soft- Guardian, Le Monde and other news outlets Security Council, which answers to Prime previously appeared in court during the open- lands. ware, the Pegasus project, a consortium of who collaborated on an investigation into a Minister Naftali Bennett and has broader ing of the trial to proclaim his innocence. In Austria, emergency workers in the Salz- media outlets, has revealed that this has data leak. areas of expertise than the Defence Ministry, There were fears the latest court appear- burg and Tyrol regions were on high alert for been used in Mexico, India, Rwanda, Hun- According to The Post, more than 1,000 which oversees exports of NSO Group’s ance could lead to a flare-up of violent pro- flooding. The historic town centre of Hal- gary, Morocco, Iraq and many other coun- phone numbers in India appeared on the Pegasus software, the source told Reuters. tests from his support base, prompting heavy lein, near the German frontier, was under tries to obtain information from phones of surveillance list while hundreds were from “This event is beyond the Defence Minis- security at the court. However, there were no water. “Heavy rains and storms are unfortu- political or national opponents. Pakistan, including the one PM Imran once try purview,” the source said, referring to major incidents by the time the adjournment nately causing severe damage in several The cell phones of French President used. However, The Post did not specify potential diplomatic blowback after promi- was announced on Tuesday. places in Austria,” Chancellor Sebastian Emmanuel Macron and 15 members of the whether the surveillance attempt on PM nent media reports this week of suspected The former president’s foundation immedi- Kurz said on Twitter. French government may have been among Imran’s number was successful. abuses of Pegasus in France, Mexico, India, ately lauded the decision to postpone the European Commission President Ursula potential targets in 2019 of surveillance by Indian investigative news website The Morocco and Iraq. trial, tweeting: “The Constitution has pre- von der Leyen and Belgian Prime Minister spyware made by the Israel-based NSO Wire reported that 300 mobile phone num- vailed at last!” Alexander de Croo visited the flooded areas Group. bers used in India — including those of Peru - New Leader “There can be no virtual criminal proceed- of Rochefort and Pepinster together on Sat- The Paris prosecutor’s office announced it government ministers, Opposition politi- ings in the absence of an accused person who urday. is investigating the suspected widespread cians, journalists, scientists and rights activ- Pedro Castillo, a rural teacher turned is unable to consult with his lawyers,” it said. “Europe is with you,” von der Leyen use of the Pegasus spyware to target journal- ists — were on the list. political novice, has become the winner of tweeted afterwards. “We are with you in ists, human rights activists and politicians in Meanwhile, the revelations about possible Peru’s Presidential Election after the coun- Afghan situation mourning and we will be with you in rebuild- multiple countries. political espionage have prompted a back- try’s longest electoral count in 40 years. ing.” Daily French newspaper Le Monde report- lash in many countries. In his first comments as President-elect, Rockets hit the Afghan capital on Tuesday, The intensity and scale of the floods in ed that the phone numbers for Macron and European leaders also voiced anxiety he called for national unity. “I ask for effort landing near the presidential palace during Germany this week have shocked climate the then-government members were identi- about the deployment of NSO in Europe, and sacrifice in the struggle to make this a prayers for the Muslim festival of Eid al-Adha, scientists, who did not expect records to be fied among thousands allegedly selected by with a call for the European Parliament to just and sovereign country,” he said. but President Ashraf Ghani and many others broken this much, over such a wide area or NSO clients for potential surveillance. In hold its own inquiry. Castillo, whose supporters included Peru’s calmly continued praying at an outdoor gath- this soon. this case, the client was an unidentified European Commission chief Ursula von poor and rural citizens, defeated right-wing ering. After the deadly heat wave in the US and Moroccan security service, according to Le der Leyen, said “Freedom of the press is a politician Keiko Fujimori by just 44,000 Three rockets landed outside the palace, Canada, where temperatures rose above Monde. core value of the European Union”, and if the votes. Electoral authorities released the final said Interior Ministry spokesperson Mirwais 49.6C two weeks ago, the deluge in central India’s leading opposition politician Rahul said allegations were true “it is completely official result, more than a month after the Stanekzai, adding that there were no immedi- Europe, and the current floods in China, Gandhi of the Congress Party, has been unacceptable”. runoff election took place in the South ate reports of injuries. have raised fears that human-caused climate twice selected as a potential target in leaked The Washington Post has reported that American nation. Taliban insurgents denied they were disruption is making extreme weather even phone number data, raising questions about the affected phones were “on a list of more Castillo is set to take office on July 28 for involved in the attack on the heavily fortified worse than predicted. the policies of Prime Minister Narendra than 50,000 numbers that are concentrated a five-year term as leader of the world’s sec- palace. Spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid Climate scientists have long predicted that Modi. in countries known to engage in surveillance ond largest copper-producing nation. told Reuters in a voice message the fighters human emissions would cause more floods, Allegations that hundreds of numbers in of their citizens” and are known to be clients A 51-year-old former school teacher and were in a “state of defence” during the Eid heatwaves, droughts, storms and other India were potential targets of Pegasus spy- of the company, NSO Group, whose Pegasus the son of peasant farmers, Castillo has religious holiday. Unlike some previous years, forms of extreme weather, but the latest ware supplied to several governments world- spyware is ostensibly licensed to track ter- pledged to redraft the constitution and raise the Taliban have not officially declared a spikes have surpassed many expectations. wide will be taken up by the parliamentary rorists and major criminals. taxes on mining firms, but has in recent ceasefire for Eid this week. In Russia, the extraordinary forest fires, panel on IT headed by Congress MP Shashi The newspaper reported that through the weeks softened his rhetoric and hinted at a Television images showed President Ghani which have already burned through 1.5m Tharoor on July 28. investigation, which was also conducted more moderate, market-friendly approach. and dozens of others kneeling for prayer as hectares (3.7m acres) of land in north-east The Standing Committee will discuss “cit- with the help of Amnesty International and The shortfalls of the public health services the first explosion was heard. Most continued Siberia have released choking smog across izens’ data security and privacy,” said a Forbidden Stories, a Paris-based journalism have contributed to the country’s pandemic to pray as security guards could be seen in the Russia’s Yakutia region, where officials have statement, adding that representatives of the nonprofit, the outlets “were able to identify crisis, leaving it with the highest global per background hurrying toward the sound of the described this summer’s weather as the dri- Ministry of Electronics and IT, the Home more than 1,000 people spanning more than capita death rate. Castillo has promised to blasts. est in the past 150 years. And that follows Ministry and Ministry of Communications 50 countries through research and inter- use the revenues from the mining sector to Insecurity has been growing in Afghani- five years of hot summers, which have, will be called and asked on the subject. views on four continents: several Arab royal improve public services, including education stan in recent weeks, largely spurred by fight- according to villagers, turned the surround- India’s Parliament - Lok Sabha - was dis- family members, at least 65 business execu- and health, whose inadequacies were high- ing in its provinces as the U.S.-led foreign ing forests and fields into a tinderbox. rupted frequently this week over reports that tives, 85 human rights activists, 189 journal- lighted by the pandemic. troops complete their withdrawal and the In the United States, as hot, dry weather Israeli-made Pegasus spyware - sold only to ists, and more than 600 politicians and gov- Historians say he is the first peasant to Taliban launch major offensives, taking dis- conditions continue to fuel wildfires across governments - was used to snoop on journal- ernment officials -- including Cabinet minis- become president of Peru, where until now, tricts and border crossings. much of the country, the Bootleg Fire in ists, activists and politicians. ters, diplomats, and military and security Indigenous people almost always have On Monday, 15 diplomatic missions and Oregon has become so intense that it’s creat- At least one number once used by Paki- officers. The numbers of several Heads of received the worst of the deficient public the NATO representative in Kabul urged the ing its own weather. stani Prime Minister Imran Khan was on the State and Prime Ministers also appeared on services even though the nation boasted of Taliban to halt offensives, just hours after the The fire has scorched more than 606 India list, according to an investigation by 17 the list.” being the economic star of Latin America in insurgents and the Afghan government failed square miles -- an area larger than Los Ange- media organisations. The phone numbers of reporters working the first two decades of the century. to agree on a ceasefire at talks in Doha. les and about half the size of Rhode Island. It The Wire, Washington Post and other overseas for CNN, The Associated Press, Earlier, right-wing presidential candidate Meanwhile, Russia views Taliban gains in grew to more than 388,350 acres overnight media partners in the “Pegasus project” have Voice of America, The New York Times, The Fujimori admitted she was headed for defeat northern Afghanistan as having a security from Monday to Tuesday and is 30% con- revealed that the numbers of Congress lead- Wall Street Journal, Bloomberg News, in last month’s election, but accused Castillo upside because the group is hostile to what tained, according to data from the InciWeb er Rahul Gandhi, other opposition politi- France’s Le Monde, the UK’s Financial Times of winning in an “illegitimate” manner and Moscow regards as more dangerous Islamist interagency website. cians, and some 40 journalists were selected and Qatar’s Al Jazeera are among the num- pledged to mobilise her supporters. Fujimori extremists, a senior Russian diplomat said on It’s one of at least eight large fires burning as potential targets of snooping. There is no bers that appear on the list, which dates to said on Monday she was bound by law to Tuesday, according to the Interfax news in Oregon and one of at least 83 burning evidence that all numbers found on a leaked 2016, according to the Post. The newspaper recognise the official election result. She is agency. across 13 states, according to the National database were hacked. did not name the reporters in its story. The the daughter of jailed former president Taliban fighters have made major advances Interagency Fire Centre. The climate crisis The Indian government has denied any Post reported that “the list does not identify Alberto Fujimori. as U.S. forces pull out after 20 years of war, a has made deadlier and more destructive role in snooping. There is no substance to who put the numbers on it, or why, and it is The Organisation of American States, security headache for Moscow which fears wildfires the new normal. the reports of spying, said new IT Minister unknown how many of the phones were tar- European Union and Britain have all said the refugees may be pushed into its Central Asian “There’s absolutely no question that cli- Ashwini Vaishnaw in Parliament, hours geted or surveilled.” election was fair. The US called the election backyard and destabilise its southern defen- mate change is playing out before our eyes,” before he was revealed to be one of the The NSO Group has strongly denied the a “model of democracy” for the region. sive flank. Oregon Gov. Kate Brown said at a news potential targets. investigation’s findings, saying in part that it But Zamir Kabulov, President Vladimir conference. In Hungary, where President Viktor sells its “technologies solely to law enforce- South Africa Putin’s special representative on Afghanistan, Orban’s government stands accused of using ment and intelligence agencies of vetted was cited by Interfax on Tuesday as saying Pegasus spying network NSO’s hacking software against journalists, governments for the sole purpose of saving Much of the violence in South Africa has the Taliban’s progress in northern Afghani- Opposition MPs said they would convene an lives through preventing crime and terror come down after President Ramaphosa stan also had security advantages for Russia’s Revelations about the use of spying tools extraordinary meeting of Parliament’s acts.” brought in more than 10,000 troops to com- allies in Central Asia like Tajikistan and sold to governments by the NSO Group in national security committee to consider the Israel has now set up a senior inter-minis- bat the situation, which came after the Uzbekistan. Israel, has sparked furious political rows allegations. terial team to look into growing allegations imprisonment of former president Jacob However, Russia has expressed alarm over across the world, after evidence showed the At least 50 people close to Mexico’s Presi- that spyware sold by an Israeli cyber firm has Zuma. what it has described as the growing strength surveillance firm’s clients may have sought dent, Lopez Obrador, his wife, children, been abused on a global scale, news agency The long-running corruption case of Jacob of Islamic State elements in northern Afghan- to target their political opponents. This is aides and doctor, were among possible tar- Reuters reported quoting an unnamed Israeli Zuma, currently serving a 15-month prison istan, and Kabulov was quoted as saying the likely to lead to serious non-diplomatic quar- gets when he was an Opposition politician. source today. The source said a review of the term related to a separate charge, has again Taliban would at least try to take on and rels between countries. The extent of the spyware – Pegasus – use export of the spyware, Pegasus, is unlikely. been postponed. defeat those elements. DN page 6 FEATURE SATURDAY, JULY 24, 2021

COMBAT TRAINING SCHOOL - DIYATALAWA THE CRADLE OF THE SRI LANKA AIR FORCE DISHAN JOSEPH he salubrious green hills of Diyatalawa are embellished with natural beauty. For decades, this hill station has been a garrison town, first discovered and established by the Royal Army in 1859, and subsequently enhanced by the T Royal Air Force. The pioneer British military officers who appreciated the significance of this area, bestowed with diverse terrain, realised its strategic impor- tance for ground combat training. Diyatalawa has an amazing terrain layout including ridges, valleys, ravines, hills and waterways. The Combat Training School (CTS) of the Sri Lanka Air Force has a beautiful and inspiring history.

The British Army had fought the Dutch in South Africa in 1900. The land area in Diyatalawa would soon be used as a prisoner-of-war camp during the Boer War, where nearly 5,000 prisoners were held on the instructions of the then Governor General of Ceylon Sir Ridge- way. The British Army had surveyed this area and the Public Works Department (PWD) was tasked with building a mas- sive camp to facilitate the Boer prison- Our basic courses last six months. ers. The first batch of prisoners arrived Officer Cadets then transfer to the SLAF on August 9, 1900. Later on, the Royal Army extended the camp during the Academy at China Bay, Trincomalee to period of the Second World War when pursue the rest of their training. We German prisoners were also held here. maintain emphasis on physical training When Ceylon gained Independence in and leadership skills. We always try to 1948, the British handed over their camp to the Ceylon Army. The Army released build a spirit of teamwork. a part of this large base to the Royal Ceylon Air Force, and this section was known as Stable Hill. The horses used by the Army were once kept here. The Royal Ceylon Air Force (RCYAF) estab- lished a detachment at Stable Hill on October 15, 1952. In May 1952, the first intake of Ceylonese recruits of the Royal Ceylon Air Force commenced their train- ing at the RCYAF Katunayake. Subse- quently, Flight Lieutenant J.V. Howard was assigned as the first Commanding Officer of Diyatalawa. During the early days, training was confined to drill, fit- ness and weapons handling. The cross country “map marches” were conducted for recruits covering Gurutalawa, Weli- mada and Black Pool, sometimes con- tinuing to the Ambewela Railway Sta- tion. It is recorded that in 1959, Squadron Leader P.D. Lee had introduced a sys- tematic training process during his ten- Air Marshal Wing Commander Nirosha Senadheera Air Commodore Suresh Fernando ure as Commanding Officer. Flight Ser- Sudarshana Pathirana (Officer Commanding Training – Combat (Commanding Officer - Combat geant Anderson had built the agility and Air Force Commander Training School Diyathalawa) Training School Diyathalawa) assault course. The training of officers and airmen was planned by them and carried out by the Chief Instructor. Offic- er intakes consisted of three categories - begin their careers. In recognition of the ably their visual role model who mani- horses, which was a very pleasant sur- direct entry, cadet entry and professional great service rendered by this training fests an immaculate uniform, rigid pos- prise. All SLAF recruits begin their day entry. New recruits wore a khaki uniform school, the President’s Colour was ture, brisk walk and unblemished disci- at 4 am and assemble for morning PT at and boots, and this uniform is worn to bestowed on the CTS on April 2, 2018. pline. As I looked upon these rows of 5 am. They engage in an assortment of date. The first Officer Cadets course In addition to the basic training cours- energetic young men, marching in close lessons and military field craft. Each day commenced on February 19, 1953. Later, es, the CTS Diyatalawa conducts refresh- formation, I realised that in 30 years, one ends at 10 pm. The strict Drill Instruc- the Training Wing was restructured and er courses for junior and senior officers, of them will surely rise to become the tors used to inspect each billet and main- an officer was appointed as OCT- Officer drill instructors course, gunner instruc- Air Force Commander. A few minutes tain high standards. Commanding Training. tors course, PT advanced course for later, a section of airwomen under train- Commanding Officer Air Commodore I visited the Combat Training School, instructors, advanced regiment officer ing moved past us carrying their T-56 Suresh Fernando said, “This is the pre- along with Squadron Leader Amila course, and basic information technology weapons, engaging in some form of field mier training establishment of the SLAF. Wijesuriya to gain an insight into this course. The airfield defence and ground exercise. At present, training is con- Our motto is Combat discipline through magnificent training establishment, ven- combat course is conducted for officers ducted under four squadrons namely - Training. Our basic courses last six erated by all officers as the “Cradle of the and airmen of the Bangladesh Air Force. officer training squadron, advanced months. Officer Cadets then transfer to Air Force”. The present Commanding We drove along the winding roads which training squadron, officer cadet training the SLAF Academy at China Bay, Trinco- Officer is Air Commodore Suresh Fer- were flanked by hills. The cool breeze squadron and recruit training squadron. malee to pursue the rest of their training. nando. This premier training school is drifted through the rows of tall pine This massive responsibility is executed We maintain emphasis on physical train- where all the aspiring officers and air- trees. A squadron of officer cadets, were by the OCT. The incumbent OCT in ing and leadership skills. We always try men get their first taste of air force life, going through their drill process at the Diyatalawa is Wing Commander Nirosha to build a spirit of teamwork. Recruits do experience basic combat training and famous Bentley Parade Ground, under Senadheera, a dynamic officer. a long walk to Pattipola - a distance of 28 the watchful eyes of two Drill Instructors This 90-acre training complex has kilometres. This includes staying over- (DI). One of the DIs was wearing a white accommodation units (known as billets), night for three days. Each recruit must cross belt, which denoted his advanced a mess for cadets, library and swimming carry a 25Kg pack and march through training followed in London. His sharp pool. A firing range teaches all officers various terrains. The walk begins at first clear voice resonated among the green and other ranks to shoot accurately from light around 5.30 am. This is a challenge hills. For all aspiring officer cadets and the standing, kneeling and prone posi- but they complete this exercise. In addi- airmen, the DI is the “mentor” and prob- tions. Officers of the SLAF Regiment tion, they do a nine-mile march, with gain advanced training in their rucksacks. Towards the end of their weapons, as they progress training course, they engage in a 48-mile in their trade of Force long walk, which usually must be done Protection. The CTS within eight hours. The recruits walk Diyatalawa has another from Stable Hill to Bandarawela, Weli- refreshing unit - a fully mada, Boralanda and return via Kirinda fledged riding school with to the base. This tests their endurance robust horses. The majes- and teamwork. At the end of the basic tic horses from Pakistan training, all SLAF personnel take part in encourage the new riders a passing out parade that is full of cere- to build confidence. The monial military traditions”. Our visit to horses are duly groomed Stable Hill was most rewarding. The and exercised each day, Combat Training School in Diyatalawa under the supervision of a does a sterling job of moulding disci- veterinary officer. I had plined and courageous men and women, the privilege of riding one who become the patriotic guardians of of these amazingly strong our nation’s skies. SATURDAY, JULY 24, 2021 NEWS page 7 DN FAO Head urges G20 Vaccine inequity undermining global economic recovery: UN Report

Vaccine inequity is undermin- for vaccines "could put a huge dreds of deaths a day in a country countries to invest ing a "truly global economic strain on fragile health systems", that has a vaccination rate of less recovery" from COVID-19, affect routine immunizations and than 6%. In Thailand and Myan- according to data released Thurs- essential health services, and mar, and across much of the con- day by the United Nations Devel- cause spikes in diseases like mea- tinent, cases and deaths have also opment Program (UNDP), the sles, pneumonia and diarrhea. surged in recent weeks. in sustainable living World Health Organization The Dashboard, which uses data CNN data shows dozens of (WHO), and the University of from multipleorganizations lower-income countries have Oxford. including the International Mone- administered fewer than 10 vac- The head of the UN food relief to drive the sustainable transforma- The organizations said vaccine tary Fund, the World Bank, the cine doses per 100 people, includ- agency called on the world’s richest tion of agri-food systems to end inequity would have a "lasting United Nations Children's Fund ing Kenya, Bangladesh, and nations on Thursday to invest more world hunger. and profound impact" on the (UNICEF) and the vaccine alli- Uganda. Some countries have run in sustainable living, to feed the The WFF Startup Innovation recovery in low and lower-middle ance Gavi, shows richer countries out or come close to running out world’s growing population. In his Awards will be presented on October income countries unless urgent are projected to vaccinate quicker of doses. appeal to G20 environment minis- 2 to the successful contestants who actionis taken to ensure every and recover economically faster. The joint call to action from ters, the Director-General of the UN have built companies aligned to the country had sufficient supplies Meanwhile, poorer countries, the three organizations comes a Food and Agriculture Organization “four betters”. “The Extreme ‘Tech and adequate access. some of which have not even day after Pfizer announced an (FAO), Qu Dongyu, highlighted the Challenge AgTech, Food, and Water’ "At a time when richer coun- been able to vaccinate their agreement to produce its highly challenge of having to produce more competition category directly tries have paid trillions in stimu- health workers and most at-risk effective vaccine in South Africa, food while reducing greenhouse gas addresses FAO’s mission to defeat lus to prop up flagging econo- populations, "may not achieve a move that could significantly emissions. hunger worldwide and to achieve mies, now is the moment to pre-COVID-19 levels of growth increase access to vaccines across “Today, humanity faces a triple high-quality food security for all,” ensure vaccine doses are shared until 2024". the continent. Most poorer planetary crisis of biodiversity loss, to $1.4 trillion per year. The recently said FAO Deputy Director-General quickly, all barriers to increasing As rich countries with high nations are currently reliant on climate crisis, and the impact of the launched UN Decade on Ecosystem Beth Bechdol. vaccine manufacturing are vaccination rates like the US and the COVAX global vaccine distri- pandemic. To have healthy food, we Restoration, led by FAO and the UN “We are thrilled to join XTC in removed and financing support is the UK are beginning to open up, bution initiative, but it has been need a healthy environment,” he Environment Programme (UNEP), this partnership and to leverage their secured so vaccines are distribut- Delta and other coronavirus vari- plagued by supply issues follow- said. The FAO chief spoke of the provides an “excellent opportunity extraordinary pool of transformative ed equitably and a truly global ants are forcing some countries ing the suspension of exports need to address water scarcity, which to mobilize our collective efforts,” he startups to make a material impact economic recovery can take to reinstate public health meas- from the Serum Institute of India, affects more than a billion people, by said. in both of our organizations’ sus- place," they said in a statement. ures. Africa is currently facing its which is producing a large num- increasing efficiency and sustainable The FAO is calling for urgent tained efforts to tackle this global If vaccine manufacturing had worst phase of the pandemic, and ber of the doses. management. action to reverse the alarming rate of challenge,” she added. been increased, enough doses in South Africa hospitals have "Vaccine inequity is the world's Almost a billion hectares of rain- biodiversity loss, recommending Meanwhile, the Food Systems Pre- were shared with poorer coun- been overwhelmed with patients. biggest obstacle to ending this fed cropland and pastureland are also scaled up mitigation approaches and Summit is gearing to run from Mon- tries and they had similar vacci- "This is worsening the social, pandemic and recovering from severely affected by recurring actions across the food and agricul- day to Wednesday next week, ahead nation rates to high-income coun- economic and health impact, COVID-19," said WHO Director- drought. Qu argued that water-relat- tural sectors. of the major Summit itself, due to tries, $38 billion could have been especially for the most vulnerable General Tedros Adhanom Ghe- ed challenges could be addressed Qu emphasized the UN agency’s take place later this year. Journalists added to those nations' 2021 and marginalized people," the breyesus in the statement. "Eco- through digital innovation, as well as work was guided by the need to who have yet to register for next GDP forecasts, according to the statement from the UNDP, WHO, nomically, epidemiologically and better oversight and investment. make agri-food systems more effi- week’s virtual event, are being data, which was compiled under and University of Oxford said. morally, it is in all countries' best He also called for stepping up bio- cient, resilient, inclusive, and sus- encouraged to do so here. It is being the “Global Dashboard for In Asia, Indonesia has taken interest to use the latest available diversity-friendly approaches, includ- tainable—all with the aim of achiev- convened as part of the Decade of COVID-19 Vaccine Equity”. over from India as the new epi- data to make lifesaving vaccines ing more investments in related ing the so-called “four betters”: bet- Action to achieve the Sustainable The statement said a high price center of the pandemic, with hun- available to all," he added. (CNN) actions and slowing down biodiversi- ter production, nutrition, environ- Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030. ty loss. “Current levels of investment ment and life, leaving no one behind. The aim of the high-level meeting are highly insufficient,” said the FAO The World Food Forum (WFF), is to bring together key players from Director-General. created for and led by the Food and the worlds of science, business, poli- He stressed that reversing defor- Agriculture’s (FAO) Youth Commit- cy, healthcare, academia and others estation “will help mitigate against tee, announced on Thursday the to launch bold actions towards pro- climate change” and prevent disease launch of an international competi- gress on all 17 SDGs—each of which outbreaks passing from animals to tion in partnership with the non- relies to some degree on healthier, humans, adding that the economic profit Extreme Tech Challenge more sustainable and equitable food benefits of halting biodiversity loss (XTC) to support and showcase systems. and land degradation, could amount entrepreneurs harnessing technology (UN News) CEYLON PETROLEUM CORPORATION TENDER NOTICE Two Pfizer, AstraZeneca doses TENDER FOR THE SALE effective against COVID-19 (EXPORT) OF NAPHTHA Ceylon Petroleum Corporation Delta Variant: Study (CEYPETCO) invites  rm offers for the sale (export) of 110,000 Barrels Two doses of Pfizer-BioNTech or doses of Pfizer-BioNTech's shot was Tech's shot against symptomatic dis- plus/minus 5 pct. of Naphtha on FOB AstraZeneca's Covid-19 vaccine are 88% effective at preventing sympto- ease, although protection against Colombo basis for loading during nearly as effective against the highly matic disease from the Delta variant, severe disease remains high. The transmissible Delta coronavirus vari- compared with 93.7% against the Public Health England had previously laycan 02-03/09/2021 Ex Dolphin ant as they are against the previously Alpha variant, broadly the same as said that a first dose of either vaccine Tanker Berth (DTB), Colombo. dominant Alpha variant, a study pub- previously reported. was around 33% effective against lished on Wednesday showed. Two shots of AstraZeneca vaccine symptomatic disease from the Delta Tender documents could be obtained Officials say vaccines are highly were 67% effective against the Delta variant. from the undersigned between 9.00 effective against the Delta variant, variant, up from 60% originally The full study published on a.m. and 3.00 p.m. on any working now the dominant variant worldwide, reported, and 74.5% effective against Wednesday found that one dose of though the study reiterated that one the Alpha variant, compared with an Pfizer-BioNTech's shot was 36% day from 15th July 2021 to 26th July shot of the vaccines is not enough for original estimate of 66% effective- effective, and one dose of AstraZene- 2021 or could be downloaded from high protection. ness. ca's vaccine was around 30% effec- the CEYPETCO of cial website: The study, published in the New "Only modest differences in vac- tive. England Journal of Medicine, con- cine effectiveness were noted with "Our finding of reduced effective- www.ceypetco.gov.lk firms headline findings given by Pub- the Delta variant as compared with ness after the first dose would sup- Offers should reach the Chairman, lic Health England in May about the the Alpha variant after the receipt of port efforts to maximise vaccine efficacy of COVID-19 vaccines made two vaccine doses," Public Health uptake with two doses among vulner- Special Standing Cabinet Appointed by Pfizer-BioNTech and Oxford- England researchers wrote in the able groups in the context of circula- Procurement Committee (SSCAPC), AstraZeneca, based on real-world study. tion of the Delta variant," the authors Ceylon Petroleum Corporation, 3rd data. Data from Israel has estimated of the study said. Wednesday's study found that two lower effectiveness of Pfizer-BioN- (Agencies) Floor, No. 609, Dr. Danister De Silva Mawatha, Colombo 09 at or before 1200 hrs. on 27th July 2021. ‘New COVID-19 variant PROCUREMENT NOTICE COMMERCIAL MANAGER, COMMERCIAL FUNCTION, likely to emerge NATIONAL EYE HOSPITAL 7TH FLOOR, COLOMBO 10 CEYLON PETROLEUM during winter’ CORPORATION, NO. 609, DR. DANISTER DE SILVA The French government's top adviser on Selection of a Contractor for COVID-19 has warned that a new variant of MAWATHA, the disease would "probably" emerge in the Electrical maintenance and COLOMBO 09. winter months this year. The country is cur- TELE : 011 5455115/011 5666338 rently battling an unprecedented spike in new servicing work cases caused by the more infectious Delta vari- E-MAIL : [email protected]/ ant, which was first recorded in India. [email protected] "We will probably have another variant Quotations are invited for entering into an agreement for arrive during the winter," Dr Jean-Francois electrical maintenance and servicing work for the year Delfraissy, head of the French government's 2021/2022 scientific council, told the BFM news channel. He said that he could not predict the conse- Qualifi cation requirements quences, or whether it would be more danger- 01. Possess ICTAD registration under EM 05 category as a ous, adding that COVID-19 had "relatively lim- contractor for electrical maintenance and servicing work ited" capacities to mutate. The infectious diseases specialist urged 02. Possess experience of not less than 03 years in electrical French people to return to social distancing maintenance work in another hospital or in a similar and mask-wearing, and said a "return to nor- institution. mal" would probably be in 2022 or 2023. "The 03. Is bound to provide in-house services throughout twenty big challenge for the next couple of years will four (24) hours of the day. be how are we going to co-exist, with two worlds: countries that are vaccinated and 04. Should possess own transport facilities and required those that are not," he said. implements. The government's strategy to contain the Procurement documents could be obtained only on current fourth wave of cases is based on the working days of the week up to 2.00 p.m. on 06.08.2021 introduction of a "health pass" system that from the Administration Section at this hospital's Offi ce requires people to show proof of vaccination or a negative test when entering public ven- after payment of Rs. 1,500.00. Bid guarantee is Rs. ues. Since Wednesday, cinemas, museums, 30,000.00. swimming pools, and sports venues have been Procurement documents prepared in two (02) copies, required to ask patrons for their health creden- as original copy and duplicate copy should be sent by tials, leading to criticism from some that it registered post to receive before 10.00 a.m. on 10.08.2021 restricts the freedoms of the non-vaccinated. The Lower House of Parliament approved a or should be inserted in the Tender Box kept at the draft law early Friday morning that will extend Accounts Division. Telephone No. 011-2693911 - 15. the system to cafes and restaurants from next The decision of the Regional Procurement Committee is month, and make vaccinations mandatory for deemed fi nal. health and social care workers from Septem- ber. Director, The legislation will now be examined dur- Regional Procurement Committee, ing an emergency session by the upper house senate, with the government hoping for Colombo 10. approval by the end of the weekend. (Agencies) DN page 8 NEWS SATURDAY, JULY 24, 2021

Over 6,700 residents of Ududumbara M.O.H.Division were vaccinated with the first dose of Moderna vaccine against COVID-19 at Ududumbara Secondary School and Wimaladharma Secondary School. The programme was completed under the supervision of the Kandy District Medical Office with the support of Divisional Secretary of Udadumbara, Medical Officers of Health, Public Health Officers, Midwives Police Officers, Government Officers in Finance Minister Basil Rajapaksa met the Office Bearers of the Government Medical Officers’ Association (GMOA) to discuss the current situation of the area and the Sri Lanka Army. Some Government servants below the age of 30 were also COVID-19 prevention activities and other issues relevant to the medical field. vaccinated yesterday. Picture by Ajith Gangoda, Udadumbara Group Correspondent

Sri Lanka - Slovakia to Newly established expand ties in a multitude Sri Lanka Buddhist of areas - Ambassador Jayesinghe IOM, ILO and Japan Vihara opened in Norway

Sri Lanka's Ambassador to the Slovak Republic Majintha Jayesinghe recalled the progressive expan- support reintegration sion and strengthening of the special relations nur- tured between Sri Lanka and Slovakia covering a mul- titude of areas. In order to translate the vast potential in expanding and further enriching bilateral relations, it was reiterated that Sri Lanka hopes to promote eco- of migrant workers nomic, trade, investments, and tourism sectors advanc- ing relations to higher vistas of cooperation and collab- oration for mutual benefit. The Japanese Government in Advancement for Family Empow- munity infrastructure develop- Ambassador Majintha Jayesinghe was speaking after collaboration with the UN organs erment (SAFE) Foundation Chair- ment, livelihood development, presenting the Letters of Credence to the President of International Organisation for man Harsha Jayarathna said. financial literacy and skills devel- the Slovak Republic Zuzana Caputová at the Presiden- Migration (IOM) and the Interna- “The proposed project will be opment will be looked at. tial Palace in Bratislava on July 7, 2021, accrediting as tional Labour Organisation (ILO) continuing for two years. It con- The officials will be trained on the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of has launched a programme sup- tributes towards the sustainable providing effective mental health- Sri Lanka's Ambassador to Norway Godfrey Cooray Sri Lanka to Slovakia. porting the socio-economic reinte- socio-economic reintegration of care and social support services. ligting the oil lamp at the opening ceremony. Bishop Atle The credential ceremony entailed a Guard of Hon- gration of Sri Lankan migrant returnee migrant workers. The Awareness programmes on safe Sommerfeldt, Diocese of Borg was also present. our by the Slovakian Armed Forces and presentation workers, who have returned to the IOM and ILO have collaborated migration will be conducted. In of the Letters of Credence to the President of the Slo- country owing to the COVID-19 with the Government of Japan to the Anuradhapura district, 160 The newly established Sri Lanka Buddhist Vihara in vak Republic Zuzana Caputová. The Slovakian Presi- outbreak. support the returnee migrant young members belonging to the Hurdal, Norway was jointly declared open on July 3, dent was assisted by senior officials. The programme is in progress workers and their dependents," he selected category are given voca- 2021 by the Ven. Marathugoda Manirathana Thera, Six Ambassadors of Bangladesh, Nigeria, Pakistan, in eight Provinces, Social said. Under the programme, com- tional training. Chief Incumbents of the Sri Lanka Buddhist Vihara Paraguay, South Africa, and Uruguay presented Let- and Ven. Unapane Pemananda Thera in collaboration ters of Credence to the President of Slovakia on the with Tisarana Sri Lanka Buddhist Association in Nor- same day. The Ambassador was accompanied by way. Counsellor and Head of Chancery of the Embassy The Ambassador of Sri Lanka to Norway Godfrey Charitha Weerasinghe and Honorary Consul of Sri Cooray, Bishop Atle Sommerfeldt, Diocese of Borg, Lanka in Slovakia Peter Gabalec. Mayor of Hurdal, Paul Johan Moltzau, Secretary Gen- Ambassador Majintha Jayesinghe conveyed greet- eral Buddhist Federation of Norway Egil Lothe, acting ings from President Gotabaya Rajapaksa, Prime Minis- Parish priest in Hurdal Karin Krissly, members and ter Mahinda Rajapaksa and the People of Sri Lanka to friends of Tisarana Buddhist Association, Sri Lanka the President of the Slovak Republic and the People of Buddhist Vihara in Norway and residents of Hurdal Slovakia. attended the opening ceremony. The programme supporting the socio-economic reintegration of Sri Lankan migrant workers who have returned to On the sidelines of presentation of credentials, meet- The Oslo Buddhist Vihara was founded in 2011 by the country owing to the COVID-19 outbreak was launched under the auspices of International Organization for ings were held with Chief of Protocol/Director, Diplo- Migration and the International Labour Organization recently with the collaboration of the Government of Japan the Tisarana Sri Lanka Buddhist association with the matic Protocol Roman Hloben, Director General of and the SAFE Foundation. support of the Buddhist Federation of Norway. Ven. Political Directorate General Roman Buzek and Direc- Marathugoda Manirathana Thera was appointed as tor of the Department of United Nations Ondrej Gava- Chief Monk of the Oslo Buddhist Vihara while Ven. lec of the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs. Unapane Pemananda Thera is the religious and spirit- Discussions were also held with Chairman of the ual leader. Supervisory Board of the Slovak Agriculture and Food The Sri Lanka Buddhist Vihara in Oslo moved to a Chamber Peter Bencurik, and Chairman of the Board new location on a three-acre property with a large of Directors, PALMA company Martin Varga, explor- COVID-19 jabs for Sri Lankans building complex in Hurdal Municipality with even ing new opportunities to promote trade, investment greater ambitions of serving the people of Norway. and tourism in the new normal. The newly established temple was inaugurated accord- Ambassador Majintha Jayesinghe joined the Sri seeking foreign employment ing to Buddhist traditions. The main theme of the Lanka Foreign Service in 1998 and was Ambassador opening ceremony was 'unity and interreligious dia- in the United Arab Emirates, prior to the appointment Labour Minister kan workers who have The selected workers will travel logue'. in Austria. The diplomatic career entailed serving as Nimal Siripala de Silva been granted work per- to Dubai, Bahrain, Jordan, Consul General in Shanghai, People’s Republic of says that a special pro- mits and visas in about Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman, Qatar, China and Deputy High Commissioner in Malaysia. gramme will be imple- 15 countries are Saudi Arabia, Seychelles, Singa- Ambassador Majintha Jayesinghe is a graduate of mented to provide expected to receive the pore, South Korea, Maldives, the University of Birmingham, United Kingdom and a COVID-19 vaccines for COVID-19 vaccines, Malaysia, Israel and Cyprus for past pupil of St. Joseph’s College and Royal College. Sri Lankans who are which are accepted by employment. aspiring to go abroad those countries. Accordingly, the focus is on giving for employment. The Minister the first dose of the vaccine to all of The Minister said revealed this following them at a centre in Colombo next those going abroad a discussion with week and giving them the second will be provided with the vaccines Health Ministry officials, including dose as scheduled and facilitating approved by the respective countries. Health Minister Pavithra Wanniar- them to go abroad within the next At present, nearly 8,000 Sri Lan- achchi. two months. The Sri Lanka Buddhist Vihara in Oslo.

Bandaragama youth in indigenous tree planting programme Kalutara Central Special Corr. hope to plant ten thousand indigenous H.L. SUNIL SHANTHA plants throughout the country. Fifty different indigenous plants were Due to the prevailing COVID-19 pan- planted by the Youth Force Sri Lanka at a demic in the country we cannot get Tree Planting Programme at the together in big numbers to carry out this Bandaragama Sarvodaya Higher Educa- programme, but we spread awareness on tional Institute premises close to the Bol- it through social media. Apart from this Ambassador Majintha Jayesinghe who has been accred- goda Reservoir yesterday (23), to mark programme, we also give our generous ited as the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotenti- the Esala Poya Day. and kind hands in flood relief programmes ary of Sri Lanka to Slovakia presenting his Letters of The programme is aimed at planting and beach cleaning programmes etc,” Credence to the President of the Slovak Republic Zuzana 10,000 indigenous plants including ba throughout the island. The programme "This is a battle against deforestation in Chairman and Chief Organiser of Tree Caputová at the Presidential Palace in Bratislava on July Nadun, Na, Cloves, Nutmeg, Tamarind, supports environmental conservation and our country. This is the first stage of our Planting Programme Niven Ganegama 7, 2021. Uguressa, Hora, Sal, Halmilla and Kohom- protection. tree planting programme in which we told the media. Navy seizes over Rs.32 m Seventeen Monks New Police Stations opened in from same temple Sainthamaruthu and Karaitivu worth Kerala cannabis infected with Text and pix by A.B.ABDUL GAFOOR, Ampara District Group Correspondent The Navy managed to seize about COVID-19 Two new Police Stations were declared open 107Kg and 840g of Kerala cannabis and yesterday (23) in Sainthamaruthu and Karaitivu apprehend a suspect, during a foot patrol in Ampara by Eastern Province Senior Deputy conducted in the beach area of Kadeikadu, Inspector General of Police Kamal Silva. MAHINDA P. LIYANAGE, Vettalakeni on July 22, 2021. The new Police Stations were opened with the Galle Central Special Corr. Accordingly, the Naval Detachment of aim of providing efficient service to the public. Vettalakeni in the Northern Naval Com- Seventeen Monks of the Thalpe Puli- The Police Stations are being opened on a mand was able to apprehend a suspect nathalarama Temple in the Habaraduwa concept of President Gotabaya Rajapaksa's who had attempted to escape the scene, M.O.H. Division have been diagnosed National Policy Framework, “Vistas of Prosperity during the foot patrol in the Kadeikadu with COVID-19, Habaraduwa Medical and Splendour” . beach area. The suspect had 16 parcels of Officer of Health Dr. Pramoda Siriwarde- The Police Station for the Karaitivu Divisional Kerala cannabis in his possession when na said. Secretariat is located on Beach Road and the the apprehension was made. After further The stock of Kerala cannabis seized by the The Chief Incumbent of the temple Police Station for Sainthamaruthu is located in interrogation from him, the Navy also Navy along with the arrested suspect. had been first tested positive for COVID- front of Al-Jalal Vidyalaya. managed to recover 24 more sacks of Ker- 19. Subsequently, the associates of the The event was attended by District and ala cannabis hidden near a house in the The operation was carried out adhering Chief Incumbent had been subjected to Regional Police Chiefs, Divisional Secretaries, area. As such, the Navy recovered 40 to the COVID-19 protocols in place due to PCR tests and 16 Monks were confirmed Police Station Officers-in-Charge, Chief Inspec- Eastern Province Senior Deputy Inspector General of Police Kamal Silva unveiling the nameboard to packages in total and these packages con- pandemic concerns and the accused held to be infected with the virus, Dr. Siri- tors of Police, Heads of Mosques, Temple open the Karaitivu Police Station. tained about 107Kg and 840g of Kerala in the operation was identified as a resi- wardana said. Administrators, Clergy, and Grama Niladhari cannabis. dent of Mulliyan area, aged 33. The sus- The Monks who tested positive were Officers. Meanwhile, the street value of the pect along with the stock of Kerala canna- sent to Boossa Corona COVID Treat- The Police Stations were opened with the memorate the occasion. SDIG Kamal Silva seized stock of Kerala cannabis is believed bis was handed over to the Marudankeni ment Centre. blessings of Buddhist, Islamic and Hindu clergy- signed the log entry of those Stations. to be over Rs. 32 million. Police for legal action. men. Trees were planted by the guests to com- SATURDAY, JULY 24, 2021 FEATURE page 9 DN

The signing of the Indo-Lanka Peace Accord in July 1987 Rajiv Gandhi with Indian Forces personnel Moments before the assassination of former Indian PM Rajiv Gandhi Reminiscences of an IPKF Peacekeeper THE FAILURE OF THE INDO-SRI LANKA PEACE ACCORD COST INDIA THE LIVES OF OVER 1,200 OFFICERS AND SOLDIERS

Lt Gen A.S. KALKAT (Retd) he story of Operation Pawan (Indian Peace Keeping Force, IPKF) is T the story of the Indo-Sri Lanka Peace Accord of 1987, to Nearly 1,200 Indian Army personnel were killed in IPKF operations, as depicted support which the Force had been at the Memorial created. I was on a sabbatical in London, United Kingdom for a fellowship with the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) when I received a message from Brigadier (now Lt Gen) Satish Nambiar, the Military Attaché in London to call the Army Headquarters. I did so from his office and was informed by the Military Secretary that the Chief of the Army Staff (COAS), Gen K. Sundarji wanted to speak to me. I was put through to the COAS who asked as to how much longer Time Magazine cover on the Indo- my fellowship was, as he needed Lanka Peace Accord me. When I asked as to when he needed me, typically he responded, from its Westminster model to a “like yesterday”. I told him that I federal structure. would terminate my fellowship The impracticable nature of the with immediate effect and return, Peace Accord is obvious from the The IPKF Memorial in Battaramulla which I did. That was the begin- demographic implications of the ning of my odyssey with the IPKF Accord which forced the Sri Lan- HQ. I immediately called our PMO 1, orders for further advance will be and Sri Lanka. kan Government to give the minor- and told Ronen Sen, the PM’s advi- issued later (implying Colombo). I At the time, the Indian High ity Tamils (around 1/5 the popula- sor, about this and asked for guid- was concerned about air-cover, so I Commission in Sri Lanka was tion) as much as one third of the ance. I often used to get calls from rang our Air Chief, ACM “Polly” staffed by some of India’s “best and total land area of the country and him about Sri Lanka’s situation. He Mehra, who was my senior school- mate and requested him to have the the brightest”. The High Commis- that too its most fertile part. The Former President Former Indian PM said, “Bossman is away on election- sioner, M.N. Dixit was to become Accord was thus doomed to fail. Ranasinghe Premadasa V. P. Singh eering and he couldn’t say any- airfields in Trincomalee and Jaffna the NSA later, Political Consular thing.” I told him, “In that case, I (IPKF jurisdiction) “buzzed”, Head Hardip Singh Puri is now a as “Tri-service Forces Command” IPKF, ordering it to continue to will do what I have to do.” which he very graciously obliged Union Minister, and the First Sec- INDIA’S COMMITMENT by the Chiefs of Staff Committee, help the Provincial Government to I was at the airport to receive the with Canberra and Hunter aircraft. retary, Dr. S. Jaishankar is now the The Accord was hailed in India the support from the Navy and the “establish firm roots”. The conse- President’s messenger and saw Lt The Sri Lanka LO suddenly disap- Foreign Minister. as a masterstroke of Indian diplo- Air Force was limited, though both quences of the failure of the Accord Gen Hamilton Wanasinghe, Sri peared. Later I discovered he was macy. On its part, India was did contribute to the effort—the cost India the lives of over 1,200 Lanka’s Army Chief emerging from frantically talking to Colombo. required to make available a mili- Navy hired commercial shipping at officers and soldiers. the aircraft. We were good friends Nothing further was heard from the INDO-SRI LANKA tary force to the President of Sri times with the Air Force carrying and warmly shook hands. Gen Sri Lankan President. Lanka to keep the peace while the out several other roles as well. Wanasinghe then suggested we At the same time, results of the ACCORD 1987 Accord was implemented. It is for Functionally, the IPKF was directly IPKF ‘MUCH ON ITS OWN’ take a walk at the airfield. He then General Election in India came out With a 74 percent Sinhalese pop- this purpose that the Indian Peace under Army HQ for operations, Initially, we were fully supported said that he wanted my advice; his and the opposition party coalition ulation, Sri Lanka had by the mid- Keeping Force (IPKF) was created. intelligence and civil affairs and by the Sri Lankan Government and President had ordered him to issue led by V.P. Singh won and he was 1980s effectively become a Sinhala Many question why we were under Southern Command for operations were going well. How- me an ultimatum to confine my sworn in as the PM. His election Buddhist state. The 18 percent fighting when it was a peace-keep- logistics. ever, in Sri Lanka’s General Elec- troops to our barracks and to take manifesto had included the “with- Tamil minority, which was the dom- ing role. From the strength of one division tions, on January 2, 1988, R. Pre- over the area which was under drawal of the IPKF”. inant community in the Northern To ask a soldier why we were in 1987, the IPKF built up to five madasa was elected President and IPKF jurisdiction (North-Eastern Soon thereafter he ordered the and Eastern provinces were getting fighting in Sri Lanka takes my divisions’ size by March 1988, hav- he was against the Accord from the Province). What should he do? I IPKF to withdraw and on March politically marginalised and sup- mind back to the Balaklava 1853 ing an operational strength of beginning and wanted the IPKF to answered that if I were him I would 24, 1990, I was the last person to pressed. The Government of India, Crimean War. The British General, almost 75,000 troops. The IPKF be withdrawn. He even refused to obey the orders of my President. step off the shores of Sri Lanka and then headed by Prime Minister when ordered by Queen Victoria carried out the process of creating give time to the Indian High Com- He then asked in that case what I embark on the ship waiting to carry Rajiv Gandhi was facing political the seemingly impossible task of a secure environment for carrying missioner (HC) to present his cre- would do. I replied that I would the last contingent of soldiers pressure to intervene. attacking the Russian Forces and out elections in the Northern and dentials, which is essential when a fight to keep my mandate. He there- home. India coerced the Government of capturing Crimea, told his men, Eastern Provinces at a cost of over new President is installed. The HC, after left without delivering the let- Sri Lanka headed by President “Ours is not to question why, ours 1,200 soldiers. The provincial elec- therefore, had to be changed and ter from the President. Junius Richard Jayewardene into is to but do and die”. It succeeded tions that were the prerequisite for Dixit was recalled and replaced by a The word about this had been LESSONS signing the Indo-Sri Lanka Peace and is enshrined in the annals of the merger of the two provinces new HC. Thus, the IPKF was left to leaked to the media in Colombo by It is not important how a conflict Accord literally at gunpoint. The world history as “The Charge of the were duly conducted and on the “mercy” of the President. Nev- the President’s Office. Mark Tully, starts; it is important how it ends. Air Force’s “Op Poomalai” of drop- Light Brigade”. Decisions are taken December 10, 1988, the elected ertheless, I continued with my task the BBC correspondent, had got a In securing the Accord, the MEA ping humanitarian aid over Jaffna in Delhi, the soldiers just obey Chief Minister of North Eastern since the mission assigned to me whiff of what was happening. He had overlooked the first principle of was an effective power projection. them. Provinces was sworn in by the was to implement the Accord. The chartered a plane and was at my intervention in civil unrests—that Operations to keep the peace President of Sri Lanka. On the Indian Government was “mum” as HQ by the time I reached my office. most conflicts have a political were incongruous because there same day, as the Force Commander, far as IPKF was concerned. I was in a quandary; however, I dynamic and ultimately require a SRI LANKA’S COMMITMENT was an ongoing civil war raging I intimated the Indian Government, One day I got a call from the new was clear that I would not let my political resolution. It is only the The Accord committed the Gov- between Tamils and the Sinhalese “Mission Accomplished; await fur- HC that the President was sending National Flag to be disgraced or my Government of a country that can ernment of Sri Lanka to merge the supported by the Sri Lankan gov- ther orders”. me a letter with all the legalese of soldiers or equipment harmed. I give a political dispensation to its Tamil majority Northern and East- ernment forces. The immediate The political dealings between “whereby”, “thereby” and “here- also knew that I had enough troops citizens and not an outside power. ern Provinces of Sri Lanka (com- task of the IPKF thus became to the Governments of India and Sri by”, asking me to confine my to take on the Sri Lanka Army. I felt Before intervening in such con- prising 17,000 Sq km out of the conduct military operations to Lanka were dealt with by the Exter- troops to the “barracks” and leave the time had come to call a spade a flicts, the intervening country must total 65,600 Sq km of the country). achieve peace and security for all nal Affairs Ministry (MEA). At this the shores of Sri Lanka in 24 hours. spade. At my HQ, within the hear- ensure that the commitments are Importantly, these two provinces communities. Therefore, the IPKF stage, there was a twist to the tale, He offered no advice. Simultane- ing of the Sri Lankan liaison officer guaranteed by the host Govern- are also the most fertile part of the had to first fight for peace. Ulti- as the MEA failed to obtain the ously, I got a call from the Presi- with the IPKF and also Mark Tully, ment. If the host Government country. mately, the IPKF had to enable the political dispensation for the North- dent’s Office that he was sending a I dictated my operation order. In thereafter reneges its commitments Thereafter the newly­-formed conduct of elections in the North- Eastern Province from the Sri Lan- letter to me by messenger. I replied essence it said that if we were the only alternative left would be to North-Eastern Province was to be ern and Eastern Provinces which kan Government. Seeing the failure that I would make myself present at attacked by the Sri Lankan Forces, resort to “regime change”. devolved power by changing the was a prerequisite for their merger. of the Accord, the Indian Govern- the airport in Trincomalee to the IPKF would launch operations The exit plan must be ready political structure of Sri Lanka Though authorised and projected ment passed on the “baby” to the receive him. Trincomalee was my to capture Anuradhapura in Phase before you go in. The Indian For- eign Secretary was summarily dis- missed. The then Prime Minister of India Rajiv Gandhi was assassinat- ed a few years later. LAST WORD The famous German Chancellor Otto Von Bismarck, the first Chan- cellor of Germany had a board fixed above his desk which read: “Most people learn by experience, I learn by others’ experience”. Regrettably, great countries have disregarded this wise counsel and paid the price for it—Afghanistan and Iraq being the more contempo- rary examples. (Sunday Guardian) (Lt Gen A.S. Kalkat (Retd), SYSM, PVSM, AVSM, VSM is a former IPKF An IPKF operation in the North Indian IPKF soldiers board an IAF helicopter in the North Commander.) DN page 10 FEATURES SATURDAY, JULY 24, 2021

CLAIRE TURRELL t was in 2010 when the interior designer Dean Sharpe first glimpsed the crumbling man- sion on the Sri Lankan hillside near the town of Weligama. In its glory days, Halala Kanda — known as Firefly Hill to locals — played host to guests such as Ethiopian Emperor I Haile Selassie and the legendary Australian cricketer Keith Miller. The son of a wealthy plantation owner built the mansion in 1912 to woo his bride.

But when Sharpe first saw it, the as possible, they considered every Modern additions tired relic with its crumbling plaster piece of the home carefully before looked as if it had been lost to the scrapping it: “We didn’t do a big bon- Previously, the well in the garden jungle. The coral and stone walls had fire and burn everything,” Sharpe had been the villa’s only source of collapsed, bats were roosting in the said. “Each window frame and roof water, but the friends arranged for it rafters, the windows were boarded joist was carefully removed and to be connected to the local mains. up, and a tree was growing through stacked.” They also installed air conditioning, Then Now the roof of the entryway. There were certain parts of the plumbing, and electrical systems. By “It was a ruin of what it once was,” villa they couldn’t hold onto. The 2014, the house was in livable condi- Sharpe told Insider. “But we walked grand entrance was crumbling, and tion, though work was ongoing. Surprises at every turn Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United “Every now and again you stumble in and fell in love with it.” the tiled roof of the kitchen wing Logie’s plans for the house fol- Arab Emirates, to make the sofas and onto something truly special. That’s In 2011, he bought the crumbling, had caved in. Termites had attacked lowed the original footprint of the “When we cut back the jungle four-poster beds for the mansion. the perfect way to describe Halala 100-year-old villa and two acres of the plaster, which meant the build- house, but they made the internal undergrowth we found a cashew The antique-sourcing trips gave Kanda,” Dyer told Insider. “It’s archi- land for US$430,000 along with his ers had to scrape the walls back to rooms more functional. Logie created grove, mango orchard, and coconut rise to the Room of Curiosities next tecturally interesting and luxurious, friends Jenny Lewis, Richard Bleas- the original coral and stone struc- sight lines in the house that gave trees,” Sharpe said. “It was like we’d to the entrance of the house. “It fea- without being clinical and stark. Eve- dale, and Bentley de Beyer. ture. every room a vista. He also installed discovered a secret garden.” The tures buys we’ve collected and items rywhere you sit in the house just feels Sharpe was tasked with creating “The demolition took four months a 23-metre-long saltwater pool in the friends also planted coffee and tea that people have left for us,” Sharpe right.” the look of the villa, which wrapped to complete,” Sharpe said. “The garden, an art nouveau-style folly, bushes, pineapple and citrus groves, said. “The idea is that it gets added While the Coronavirus pandemic around an open-air courtyard. The builders were concerned as they and built staff quarters into the hill- and pepper and cinnamon vines. to. Curios include a hexagonal wood put a stop to international tourism, group commissioned the architect needed to get the tarpaulin on the side. In the 1950s, the mansion featured table inlaid with tropical woods families from Sri Lanka were able to Ross Logie to bring their dreams to roof to protect it from the monsoon Logie told Insider the biggest chal- pastel-coloured walls, but Sharpe found in Sri Lanka, as well as chess enjoy the villa. The sustainable tea reality. season.” He declined to share how lenge was ensuring the qualities of decided to let the architecture shine sets, street puppets, and books. plantation on the property also Work began in December 2012, a much they spent on renovating the the original were not lost through with a simple monochrome theme. “The Room of Curiosities is my helped cover some of the costs of full 100 years after the structure was property. renovations. He chose not to paint over the wood- favourite place in the house. I like to keeping the villa running. built. “We wanted it to look as Sharpe replaced the roof with “I think we achieved this goal by en rafters, as was fashionable before, sit and read or listen to music and While they still want to make authentic as possible,” Sharpe said. white corrugated iron to reflect the matching the spirit of the existing instead leaving them bare so the art- hear the buzz of the house — from changes to the house, such as creat- “But we didn’t want to create a pas- heat and give the home a contempo- villa with harmonious, yet contempo- istry could be on display. the people in the pool, to the clatter ing a new family suite, it has already tiche of what went before.” rary look. It also helped monkey- rary, additions,” he said. “For exam- When it came to decorating, in the kitchen.” given them a lot of pleasure, Sharpe proof the roof: “The tiles had been ple, the swimming pool and pool Sharpe scoured the Sri Lankan coun- The friends now rent the villa to said. Even before they finished the Maintaining the bones replaced in the 1950s, so they pavilion are clearly designed for tryside for antiques and had others guests for US$1,300 a night. The TV renovation, it played host to de Bey- weren’t turn of the century,” Sharpe modern living, yet the pool pavilion made by local artisans. He commis- host Jaala Dyer from New Zealand er’s 40th birthday party. “There have Because the friends wanted to said. “We needed to protect it, as it’s shares a fluid style of early-20th-cen- sioned a carpenter who had recently rented the villa in 2018 with friends been lots of wonderful little keep as much of the original building a bit of a monkey freeway. tury art nouveau.” returned from working on hotels in from Singapore. moments,” Sharpe said. (Insider)

Kandalama Hotel interior DEFYING COLONIAL NORMS TO CREATE A NEW ARCHITECTURAL STYLE Kandalama Hotel exterior With local materials, indoor-outdoor connectivity, and indigenous traditions, Sri Lankan architect Geoffrey Bawa created the style now known as Tropical Modernism

DEMI PERERA formal architectural language that lake. The building complex with a ropical Modernism is an received national patronage, from copper roof was built on the elevated architectural style of wide local acumen, is possibly his greatest island. The ancient capital of Anurad- open spaces connected to legacy. hapura (in North Central Sri Lanka) T sprawling outdoors that is “In Sri Lanka, the British had built inspired much of the interiors and unique to the Indian Ocean island of introspective bungalows that were outside, beyond the lake is a vast Sri Lanka. At its core is a focus on sealed off from what was perceived as green space for the use of the public. local resources and knowledge of an alien environment,” says author It is one of Sri Lanka’s most admired indigenous builders. The style differs David Robson in his book In Search modern buildings. greatly from the more widely known of Bawa—Master Architect of Sri Other notable projects, in Sri and contemporary International Style, Lanka. Bawa simply removed this bar- Lanka, include the astounding Ruhuna which embraces minimalism and takes rier. In 40 years as an architect, he University in Matara, which sits a methodical approach to buildings created buildings with deep, open Parliament of Sri Lanka across a 300,000 square metre site of through a logical use of new materials verandas that connected to outdoor three hills overlooking the ocean, and and asymmetrical compositions where courtyards, overhanging roofs and creatives upholding the Sri Lankan emerge to an open lounge and a stag- the abandoned Ceylon Steel Corpora- form shapes function. wild gardens; drawing inspiration form of modernism. Jayawardene feels gering view of an ancient reservoir tion Offices and Housing in Oruwala - Although he himself never used the from classical Sri Lankan building that, through the combination of these and the UNESCO World Heritage Site a three-storeyed building with a term, the birth of Tropical Modernism forms and techniques. He learnt from circumstances, Bawa may have inher- Sigiriya in the distance. Robson says facade of precast concrete cells which is attributed to Geoffrey Bawa, argua- workmen on his projects and empha- ited a quiet resistance and imagina- of Kandalama, “The hotel disappears ventilate the interiors and fills the bly Sri Lanka’s most famous architect. sised roofs characterized by inexpen- tion outside the patterns of colonial into the surrounding jungle. Its archi- space with light, both being remarka- Geoffrey Bawa Bawa’s contribution to Sri Lankan sive traditional clay tiles used by the thought that went on to shape his tecture is stark and understated, sup- ble examples of what is now recog- architecture was not that he was masses. Lanka with his mother, visiting work. porting the notion that this is not a nised in style as Tropical Modernism. inspired by indigenous traditions but Bawa was born to a unique genera- ancient sites, lakes and caves. The Kandalama Hotel, commis- building to look at but a building to Geoffrey Manning Bawa passed that he raised them out of the degrad- tion that experienced both colonial Jayawardene, who also studied at sioned in 1992, is an exceptional look out of.” away in 2003, aged 70 years old. But ed status attributed to them in the and post-independent Sri Lanka. A the Architectural Association on example of Bawa’s extraordinary mas- One of Bawa’s most recognised he lives on in the architectural lan- colonial era. Cambridge-educated lawyer, he Bawa’s recommendation, says that his tery of establishing a relationship buildings in Sri Lanka is the new Par- guage of Tropical Modernism. That it Ioma Shanti Jayawardene, author of returned to Britain later in life to knowledge of indigenous architecture between nature and architecture. Visi- liament in the Diyawanna Oya, com- has persisted into the 21st century Geoffrey Manning Bawa: Decoloniz- study at the Architectural Association. was therefore very personal. Through tors arrive along jungle tracks to an missioned in 1979 (and opened in and continues to inspire the next gen- ing Architecture, says that of the In 1957, aged 38 years, he found a his older brother Bevis, it is likely that entrance shaped as a narrow cave 1982). The site was a marshland eration of architects is surely the many things which made Bawa’s work resounding expression. A young Bawa Bawa was also exposed to the 43 mouth. It then curves along a corridor which was drained to create an elevat- greatest testament to Sri Lanka’s most important, that he was able to create a had travelled extensively around Sri Group, an elite group of multicultural through a rock out of which visitors ed island in the middle of an artificial famous architect. (House Beautiful) SATURDAY, JULY 24, 2021 APPRECIATIONS page 11 DN S.B. Wimalasena de Silva He stood for justice

The sudden death of retired Senior because some of the junior officers of Asia Crime Prevention Foundation, SBW would even make us to Silva showed his prowess In 2009, the Parliament of Sri Superintendent of Police S.B. his were promoted to the rank of Industrial Security Foundation, Sri inspect and examine every inch of in crime investigation, Lanka recognized the RSPOA and Wimalasena de Silva, who is fondly DIG above him, despite his excellent Lanka Institute of Training and the scene of crime, as well as the sur- was incorporated by an Act of Par- remembered as “SBW” in the Police career in the Police Department. Development, and the Retired Senior rounding areas to look for and dis- training and liament. I being the President at Department, was an unexpected and Normally, all Police Officers retire Police Officers Association (RSPOA). cover any piece of evidence relating administration, and that time of the RSPOA, was over- great shock to most of the Officers only when they reach the age of 60. Silva showed his prowess in crime to the commitment of the crime. He general police work. He whelmingly supported by the late who associated with him and many When SBW retired, he had nine years investigation, training and adminis- would organize tables and benches SBW and late G.B. Dissanayake in members of the professional associa- ahead of him to legitimately climb up tration, and general police work. He for us to sit and conduct the investi- was one of the best formulating the necessary rules and tions in which he held high positions. to the rank of Inspector General of was one of the best Trainers the Sri gation then and there and write our Trainers the Sri Lanka regulations, which were incorporat- I had been with him at a meeting Police, but he chose to forego his Lanka Police ever had. He attained notes at the scene of crime, and even Police ever had. He ed in the Act of Parliament. SBW is of a professional body on the June future and prestigious position in the the pinnacle of his career through to recording the statements of wit- the only Officer who has been a 21, 2021. After the meeting, I Police Department, mainly due to his sheer dint of hard work and commit- nesses at the scene of crime and not attained the pinnacle of member of the RSPOA for a record dropped him at his home at Welikad- principle of respecting the line of ment, and was never known to crave after having returnrd to the Police his career through sheer number of years, who was also once awatte about 8:00 p.m. or so. On the seniority in the Police Department. It the indulgence of political patron- Station. His notes or the notes made dint of hard work and the President of the RSPOA. He 25th morning, whilst I was some- is also regrettable that none of the age—a trait which caused him his by us on his instructions at the scene commitment, and was was the most senior member of the where in the Narahenpita area, his senior Officers (IGP), made any promotions. His contribution to the of crime, were greatly helpful in prov- three member Trustees of the daughter phoned me and informed efforts to rectify the wrong done to Police Department, as well as his ing a case against the accused in never known to crave the RSPOA, elected by the body of the me of the shocking news of the col- him and to persuade him from retir- achievements during his service and courts. indulgence of political RSPOA to monitor its financial lapse of her father. ing from the Police Department. after retirement,, are so vast that it His prowess in his notes and patronage… His transactions. I went to the Police Hospital to see During his service in the Police will not be possible to re-produce in observations at the scene of crime, as Due to the present pandemic con- if I could arrange for an Ambulance, Department, he had held very pres- an article like this. well as recording of evidence of wit- contribution to the Police dition, the RSPOA could not organ- but unfortunately, as he had already tigious positions; both in the field, as In 1960, while I was a Sub-Inspec- nesses and giving evidence in a Department, as well as his ize a fitting farewell of a ceremonial passed away, I could not obtain help well as in specialized units such as tor at the Harbour Police, I was Court of law, was amply demonstrat- achievements during his funeral, which he deserved as grati- from the Police Hospital. Subse- Training Institutions, the Criminal transferred to be attached to the ed in the Kalattawa murder case in tude from the Police Department quently, his body was taken by the Investigation Department, Special Crime Branch of the Pettah Police Anuradhapura, where he headed a service and after and the RSPOA. His body was laid undertakers to the police mortuary, Branch, Sri Lanka Police College, Station. SBW, though not in charge team of investigators who finally retirement, are so vast that in a funeral parlour in Borella. On where PCR tests and other formali- and many other Branches of the of the Crime Branch as there was a were able to gather evidence and it will not be possible to June 27, many members of the ties were conducted. Before his Police Department. senior Officer who was OIC Crime place before the Court of Law to re-produce in an article ExCo of the RSPOA led by the Pres- death, he had informed the members When Silva was an Inspector, he Branch, all investigation work was obtain conviction in a sensational ident and many senior retired Police of his family to hand over his body to was nominated by the Police Depart- handled by SBW. He became my case. like this. Officers paid their last respects the Medico-Legal Association, where ment to undergo training on criminal Teacher, Mentor and Guide, as to Coming to court proceedings, a observations at the scene of crime before his body was taken to the he was once the President. investigation at the Central Detective how to conduct investigations and few days were allocated to each and how to gather evidence and pros- Medico-Legal Association according Silva was a native of Kottegoda in Training School in Calcutta, India. prosecutions. He was scrupulously Police Station known as Court Days ecute in cases before the Magistrates to the wish of the late SBW. the Matara District. He received his This course was attended by many honest; he would not make any false in the Magistrate Court of Colombo. Courts. S.B. Wimalasena de Silva was a primary and secondary education at senior Police Officers from the Asian entries and never taught me to con- The Pettah Police had two Court Silva was a friendly person but had devout Buddhist and lived a very Mahinda College in Galle. He was a region. At the conclusion of the coct evidence or make false entries days and as a member of the Crime a high standard in the choice of his simple life according to the teach- Regimental Sergeant Major at the course, he was judged the best stu- during the course of an investigation. Branch, he would attend Courts and friends. The politicians had a sort of ings of Lord Buddha. The Police Ceylon Cadet Corps and a Senior dent in the particular training course. He was a practical policeman. personally prosecute in cases. He “love/hate” relationship with him. Department lost a brilliant Police Prefect of the Hostel and the School. He attended another training course Whenever a serious crime case was also made certain that I too followed They loved him because he was hon- Officer when he retired prematurely He was also an able debater and was on General Police work at the Metro- reported, he would first go to the the same procedure and to prosecute est, efficient and impartial, but hated in the year 1984. The RSPOA has a member of the English and Sinhala politan Police Training School in scene of crime to conduct the investi- cases on court days. The magistrates him because they could not get any- suffered an irreparable loss by his debating teams, as well as also a Hendon, London. At the conclusion gation. He used to have a brief case and senior lawyers had a high regard thing illegal done through him. After death. He leaves behind his beloved member of the English and Sinhala of this course as well, he was judged consisting of a measuring tape, a foot and respect for SBW. retirement, Silva was a much sought wife Dharma; three daughters Ris- Drama teams. the best student. He had attended a ruler, magnifying glass, chalk, mark- If he got into the box to give evi- after lecturer both by the Police hanthi, Dilum, and Anoopa; as well He joined the Police Department few other training courses conducted ers, and a few more articles which dence, nobody disputed it, and many Department and other professional as a son-in-law and a grandson. as a Probationary Sub-Inspector of by the British Police on Criminal were necessary to survey the scene a lawyer refrained from cross-examin- bodies. He became a member of the We, the members of the RSPOA, Police in January 1956. In 1984, Investigation and Police work. of crime and to draw a map of the ing him. The Judges respected him RSPOA and was an active member. mourn his death and extend our when he was holding the rank of Sen- He held several prestigious posi- scene of crime. Whenever we went and never doubted his evidence in He was mostly responsible for the deepest sympathies to his wife and ior Superintendent of Police, he tions and was a member of many for an investigation to a scene of courts. SBW wanted the young offic- drawing up of the Constitution of the his three daughters. May he attain decided to throw in the towel and professional organizations, such as crime, he would teach us how to ers, some of them senior sergeants, RSPOA, Rules and Regulations of the the Supreme Bliss of Nibbana! retire prematurely from the Police the Medico-Legal Society of Sri make our observations carefully at to learn how to conduct investiga- RSPOA, and the administrative pro- B. ANTON JEYANATHAN, Department at the age of 51 years, Lanka, Executive Committee of the the scene of crime. tions, how to write notes on their cedures of the RSPOA. Retired Police DIG

Prof. Godwin Fernando Nirangani Perera A steadfast man An inspiration to many The seventh death anniversary of was an arduous task for Prof. Fernan- The Professor was a person of integri- late Professor Fernando coincides do who spearheaded the project. It ty and decency, confident enough to It is said that some people are have wanted to be dependent on ly, the team still stays in touch, with the unprecedented public health encompassed systematic planning, be humble and both tough and kind. angels sent from heaven to make anyone under any circumstances. despite being spread across differ- crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic well articulated and phased out enti- He was transparent and aware that we our lives amazing. To make us But I believe, if Nira was here to ent parts of the world. reaching its peak, offering the contem- ties, primarily to address the health all were seeking meaningful work. He strong, honourable, and decent interpret, she’d have said ‘it is what Etched in my mind are the porary readers a larger context to help manpower trainingneeds of the coun- was strong, sound and well structured. human beings. They care about us I had to go through to earn the moments she used to storm into appreciate the life and legacy of an try effectively and more efficiently. It He had a natural gift for leadership and possess the inexplicable knack rewards that await me in heaven’. my cubicle to caution me from inspirational public health figure. was still more challenging for him to and carried out his duties with can- of being able to lift us up, reminding Such was her faith. smoking within (every time I had Prof. Fernando dedicated his entire receive health ministry acceptance and dour. After retiring from public ser- us of the best even when we are I recall her admonishing my con- a cup of tea, which were many and life towards spectacular achievements national Cabinet approval for the pro- vice in 1985, Prof. Fernando joined going through the worst. They show duct whenever I erred on the harm- frequent). Nonstop guidance in the public health landscape of our ject. In this endeavour, Prof. Fernando Colombo North Medical College as us the importance of loving our- ful or incorrect path. Both on the flowed on matters like which country, and by being in the vanguard and his team had to navigatea period Pioneer Professor of the Department selves, loving life, and appreciating job and in my personal life, she’d agents I should trust or not, what I of a radical change that is unique viz: of volatility overshadowed with of Community Medicine for ten years, what we have been blessed with. pulled me out of situations which should or shouldn’t have said or be the establishment of the National moments of anxieties, uncertainties, followed by an eight year period at the They inspire in us the virtues of would have led to dire consequences saying in different circumstances, Institute of Health Sciences (NIHS) and unforeseen events. Kelaniya campus as Course Director discipline, sincerity, fairness, and or serious damage to my reputation how careful I should be when rid- Kalutara in the year 1979. He was for- He had the will power, strength and MSc. Nutrition Programme. He was friendship. Nirangani Perera, also and social standing. At work, she ing/driving, how important it was tunate to be its first Director. skills to digest whatever that came on an ardent catholic and spent the rest known as ‘Nira’ to all of us, was one was the glue that held the team to go for the novena at Fatima The identity and remarkable career its way and no longer fearing their of his senior years in humanitarian such angel. She was undeniably together. She understood the Church nearby, et al. of Prof. Fernando is interlinked and return to deal with them believing that and spiritual initiatives. I also offer my influential in making the many who strengths/weaknesses and the sensi- For me, who I’m today and the interconnected with the NIHS that it was something that he had to work appreciations to Prof. Fernando’s wife, worked with me at Delmege Market- tivities of each one and, was able to good place I’m at today are partly came into being after nearly five dec- on. He further viewed that change was a caring lady predeceased him by two ing the wholesome human beings guide/charm us to work together as due to the care and guidance of ades of the establishment of the first always associated with hard work, tri- weeks. we are today. We were all sisters/ the cordial and most productive Nira; and my colleagues will say health unitin Kalutara in the year umph, surprise, and optimism and It was my good fortune that Prof. brothers to her, and she felt respon- team/family we eventually became. the same. She will be sorely 1926. However, it was not until the that uncertainty was a new potential Fernando was like a moving father. sible and accountable for our wellbe- Nira was fearless and commanded missed by all of us, but we mid-70s that beginning of a major for future. The applicable Latin prov- The greatest tribute I would pay to his ing, as an elder sister would feel and the respect of the whole team; from acknowledge we have to let her go; transformation was discernible, partic- erb if I may quote is “Si vis pacem, memory is to try my best to fulfil the do. our genial boss Nihal Wijeratne that is life. Our hearts broke with ularly in the training of frontline para bellum” (If you want peace, pre- hopes and aspirations he had for those Perhaps heaven needed more down to the Peon/Messenger. Even sadness when she left us, but we health workers.Notably, the turning pare for war). of us, the likeminded. His status as a angels and God sent for Nira. She Wijeratne was not spared from her know she’s gone to a better place. point sparked off with Prof. Fernando Prof. Fernando’s biggest challenge major public health figure is now was plucked from us in the most opinions and recommendations. She We take comfort in knowing that assuming office as Chief Medical was to organise a campaign where he beyond doubt. Such a stature as his shocking manner. Most of us who was mostly instrumental in creating we’d soon meet her. For now, we Officer of Health Kalutara. The Insti- had to persuade, convince, defend, will never grow old—it will never be knew her would insist that what she one of the most pleasant and cheer- hold her in our hearts and cherish tute of Hygiene, the predecessor to and compromise bolstering extraordi- superseded. The wonderful memories had to endure before passing was ful working environments I have the memories of her in our minds. the NIHS, came under the jurisdiction nary resilience to take a devoted we share are priceless. We wish he not merited, especially for this won- experienced in my long career; I May God grant her eternal rest of late Prof. Fernando as well. approach to the pursuit of a national were still with us. derful human being. She was strong miss those times and the colleagues and bliss. The transformation process, by far, interest. He was an ethical leader too. A.K. SENEVIRATNE and independent and would not of that time to this day, though glad- SUNIL LAKSHMANASINGHE Dahami Muthucumarana Man of responsibility

Well-dressed, nicely combed, and air-force. With Dahami’s Dahami’s father passed away when he was 7 years old. During du, wife Kanchana and loving clean-shaven and smart-looking service-oriented feelings he that time Dahami’s elder sister and elder brother were busy with grandson Nethum. In 1976 he Palavinnahge Dahami Muthucu- selected the Civil Service other accepted a position at the marana is no more with us. For than forces. their higher education and seeking suitable employment and National Gem and Jewellery the word of Dahami, there are Although he migrated to Dahami’s two younger sisters were school girls. Under these Authority (NGJA). In the early few meanings such as honoura- Colombo, he was holding office circumstances as a widower his mother had chosen him as her 1980s, he was posted to Lunu- ble, decent, virtuous and prin- bearer ships in Rahula Old helping hand for day-to-day family matters as well as to visit gala in Badulla District. That cipled. He maintained through- Boys Association (OBA) in was a period where gem min- out his lifespan a vibrant per- Colombo. I can still remember relations living away from Matara. As a result, Dahami was the ing intensity was very high. sonality and service-oriented the day that they had the year- focal point among relations. This was the reason Dahami’s mother The management of NGJA behaviour. end OBA meeting at Mount totally depended on him until her death. decided to post Dahami to As his parents were in Mata- Lavinia Hotel. regularize the process of min- career he enjoyed his work ra Dahami attended Rahula His parents’ profound knowl- employment and Dahami’s two there were no contacts for me Sinhala Society and World ing. Throughout his working environment to his utmost sat- College one of the leading Bud- edge of the Sinhala language younger sisters were school with Nupe and Walgama fami- University Services under Prof. isfaction. He did most of his dhist schools in Southern Prov- and it was trickled down to girls. Under these circumstanc- lies. When I stayed at Dahami’s Lakshman S. Persia. During his work in Ratnapura and Eheliya- ince. He did not hang only on Dahami. As a result, he too was es as a widower his mother had parental home he made university tenure the most goda in later sears. to studies. He was an obedient good in his languages. For chosen him as her helping hand arrangements for me to visit important incident was that During the last few years, and scholarly student. With the example, Dahami’s mother was for day-to-day family matters as my parental families in Nape Dahami met Padmi as his he was busy with a great mem- blessings of students and teach- a Sinhala language and litera- well as to visit relations living and Walgama. Further, he intro- life partner. She was one bership drive as Executive ers Dahami was elected as a ture teacher in St. Thomas’ away from Matara. As a result, duced his set of friends from year junior to Dahami Committee Member of Alumni College Prefect. As a Prefect he Girls’ High School, Matara. Her Dahami was the focal point Matara to Tissamaharama. and she too was in the Unity of Nineteen Sixties of gained a good name among few students in Winnipeg (Can- among relations. This was the Dahami therefore was my Light Faculty of Arts. University of Ceylon, Colom- teachers and students due to ada) are still admiring their reason Dahami’s mother totally House and search-engine for He took unbelieva- bo. It is rather difficult to his service-oriented attitude. teacher’s capabilities. depended on him until her my Southern contacts. ble pride and pleasure locate batch mates all over His well-built and strong Dahami’s father passed death. Dahami joined the Universi- in his son Kalindu and the world but Dahami took a body influenced him to hand- away when he was 7 years old. Dahami’s parental home was ty of Colombo Faculty of Arts daughter Hasini. He was keen interest to locate them. pick Rahula Cadets. In my During that time Dahami’s in Pamburana. My paternal to complete his BA degree. very privileged that his May Dahami attain the school Nalanda, Colombo most elder sister and elder brother ancestral home was in Nupe During university studies he health permitted him to Supreme Bliss of Nibbana. of our school Cadets ended up were busy with their higher and the maternal ancestral took part in extracurricular travel several times to Perth SENAKA SAMARASINGHE, with forces such as army, navy education and seeking suitable home was in Walgama. But activities namely University in Australia to be with Kalin- Winnipeg, Canada DN page 12 SATURDAY, JULY 24, 2021

SWITZERLAND: The The Delta variant is highly contagious Delta wreaking havoc across variant of Sars-Cov-2 has the globe and now been identified in 124 accounts for more than countries and is expect- 75% of coronavirus dis- ed to become the domi- ease (COVID-19) cases in nant strain worldwide several countries includ- COVID Delta within months, the World ing India, Bangladesh, Health Organization Australia, South Africa, (WHO) said on Wednes- Britain, Singapore, Indo- day. The rapid transmis- nesia, Russia, and China sion of the 'variant of among others, as per the variant concern' first detected in report. The US health India appears to be driv- officials said on Tuesday en by multiple factors, that the variant of con- Deputy Head of the NHC Zeng Yixin addressing a press conference on the novel coronavirus including relaxation of cern accounts for about origin-tracing work held by the State Council Information Office in Beijing on Thursday. social distancing meas- 83% of cases in the Unit- - XINHUA ures and inequitable vac- ed States, threatening identified in cine distribution around the gains made through the world, the WHO said. the massive vaccination “It is expected that it drive. will rapidly outcompete Over the past week, other variants and Indonesia reported the China urges tracing COVID-19 become the dominant highest number of new 124 countries, circulating lineage over COVID-19 cases, fol- the coming months,” the lowed by Britain, Brazil, UN health agency said in India, and the US. its weekly epidemiologi- Despite a worrying rise origin in multiple countries cal update. in coronavirus cases per capita, the UK has CHINA: China hopes that the World Chinese Academy of Sciences. The team says removed virtually all Health Organization (WHO) will treat the conducted extensive exchanges with local restrictions, prompting novel coronavirus origin-tracing work as a medical workers, lab researchers, scien- experts to warn the scientific issue, get rid of political interfer- tists, and market managers. They also country about the ence, and actively and prudently promote interviewed social workers, community impending threat. tracing work continuously in multiple workers, residents, and patients who had The WHO report said countries and regions around the globe, recovered, Zeng said. that the Delta variant said a senior official of the National Among the outcomes of the joint study, may be able to replicate Health Commission (NHC) Thursday. a coronavirus highly similar to the novel faster and be more infec- What was done in the first stage of ori- coronavirus in gene sequences was found WHO tious during the early gin tracing, especially by those that have in bats and pangolins. But the similarity is stages of infection. reached a clear conclusion, should not be not enough to make it a direct ancestor of - HINDUSTAN TIMES repeated, said Deputy Head of the NHC the novel coronavirus. Zeng Yixin. Zeng made the remarks at a The experts identified four hypotheses press conference on the novel coronavirus for the source of transmission of the novel origin-tracing work held by the State coronavirus to the human population, Council Information Office in Beijing. including a direct zoonotic spillover, cold- What should be carried out is the origin chain food, an intermediary host species, tracing of early cases, molecular epidemi- and a laboratory-related incident. ology, and intermediary hosts in multiple The joint study said that a laboratory countries and regions based on extensive incident is "extremely unlikely" as the consultations among WHO member cause of COVID-19. states, Zeng said. It said introduction through an interme- According to an agreement between diary host species is "the most likely" Australian PM says 'sorry’ W O R L D China and the WHO in July 2020, a WHO passway. team comprising international experts If any country needs further study on arrived in Wuhan on Jan. 14. They formed laboratory-related sources, Chinese a joint body with Chinese experts for the experts suggest going to nations with for slow vaccine rollout Chinese part of the global study on the labs similar to the one in Wuhan, which origins of the novel coronavirus, he said. haven't been investigated. This way, AUSTRALIA: Australian Prime Minis- which houses Australia’s largest city Syd- The team studied a massive amount of they could learn more about possible ter Scott Morrison on Thursday apolo- ney, recorded 110 new cases – up from 78 epidemic-related data and visited nine leakage problems, said Liang Wannian, gised to his country for the slow rollout on the preceding day - Victoria clocked 22 facilities, including Wuhan Jinyintan Hos- the team leader from the Chinese side of of COVID-19 vaccination campaign, even fresh cases. Sydney was put under lock- pital, Huanan seafood market, and the the group. as cases due to the virus outbreak contin- down on June 26, and the same will Wuhan Institute of Virology, under the - XINHUA ue to see a spike amid lockdown. remain enforced until at least July 30. Talking to reporters, Morrison said, Meanwhile, Victoria is staring at an “I’m sorry that we haven’t been able to almost two-week lockdown. achieve the marks that we had hoped for The Australian government has said at the beginning of this year.” that it will meet its target of vaccinating The country has been inoculating less its adult population by the end of 2021 as Over half of Europe's adult population than 150,000 COVID-19 vaccine jabs a millions of COVID-19 vaccine doses from day – much behind other developed coun- Moderna and Pfizer are expected to tries. arrive in the coming weeks. Two of the country’s largest states – Meanwhile, a third state – South Aus- 'fully vaccinated' - European Union New South Wales (NSW) and Victoria - tralia - began its first day of a week-long logged sharp increases in the daily infec- lockdown on Wednesday. Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison tion rates on Wednesday. While NSW, - INDIA TODAY Gang arrested for 'selling' Taliban takeover not aforegone conclusion COVID ICU beds in Peru - US General

US: The top US mili- tary leader on Wednesday expressed doubts if a Tali- ban victory is imminent in Afghanistan, contrary to a reported intelligence A warning about the COVID-19 ‘Variant of Concern’ spreading fast around the world. assessment. “There are a range of possible outcomes in BELGIUM: The European Union Meanwhile, the ECDC’s Covid-19 Afghanistan,” General on Thursday said that over 200 million vaccine tracker showed that People are treated at a specialised facility for COVID-19 patients in Arequipa, Mark Milley, Chairman of Europeans have been fully vaccinated 437,842,446 doses have been distribut- Peru on Wednesday. the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Chairman of the US Joint against the coronavirus disease (Covid- ed to the member states of the bloc. Of said at a Pentagon news Chiefs of Staff General Mark 19), which is more than 50% of the these, 371,127,468 doses have been PERU: Nine people, including 82,000 soles (some $20,500) to bump conference with Secretary of Milley speaking at a Pentagon adult population. However, the EU was administered by the EU states. public hospital staff, have been arrest- her loved one up on the waiting list Defence Lloyd Austin. “A news conference on Thursday. still short of the 70% vaccination tar- The data also showed that ed in Peru accused of "selling" inten- for an intensive care bed at the Guill- negative outcome, a Taliban get it had set for the summer this year. 212,732,730 adults (above the age of sive care beds to desperate coronavi- ermo Almenara hospital in Lima. automatic military takeover, Dana Spinant, spokesperson for the 18) have received at least one dose of rus patients for thousands of dollars Peru was very hard hit by the coro- is not a foregone conclusion,” he said. European Commission, said, “As many the vaccine while 167,310,628 adults apiece, police and prosecutors said navirus epidemic which earlier this “The Afghan Security Forces have the capacity to suffi- as 54.7% of the adult population is have been fully immunised against the Thursday. year saw its hospitals under extreme ciently fight and defend their country, and we will continue fully vaccinated with either both doses coronavirus disease in the EU. The nine, which also included the pressure, and oxygen supplies run- to support them where necessary in accordance with the or the single dose — in the case of the Earlier this month, President of the directors of a patient care NGO, were ning low. guidance from the president and the secretary of defence,” Johnson and Johnson vaccine,” citing European Commission (EC) Ursula arrested Wednesday and appeared in In April, the country had a record Milley said. Asked why the Taliban with 75,000 military the latest data from the European Cen- von der Leyen said that enough vac- court the following day. 15,547 coronavirus patients in hospi- personnel appear to be winning against the Afghan military tre for Disease Prevention and Control cine doses have been delivered to the Prosecutor Reynaldo Abia told tal at one point, down to about 7,000 of 300,000 with 20 years of US training and support, Milley (ECDC), news agency AFP reported. EU countries to achieve the target of reporters an investigation was today. said “warfare is not just about numbers” but also about “We have 68.4% of adults in the EU fully inoculating 70% adults by the end opened after a complaint from a With some two million infections “will and leadership” to fight and prevail. who have already received their first of July. woman who had a family member and nearly 200,000 deaths, Peru is Milley said roughly 212 district centres are under Tali- dose,” Spinant further said. - HINDUSTAN TIMES with Covid-19 and paid for a bed for the country in the world with the ban control. “That’s half of the 419 in all. And the Taliban them. highest coronavirus mortality rate. haven’t captured yet any of the 34 provincial capitals. The gang allegedly asked her for - NDTV - HINDUSTAN TIMES

Macron changes phone and number after spyware claims

FRANCE: Hungary, Isra- alleged targets -- ordered "a phone and harvest its data -- The widening scandal is Hungarian prosecutors el and Algeria on Thursday strengthening of all security is at the centre of a growing drawing in countries from said on Thursday they had probed allegations that protocols" following a spe- storm after a list of about Saudi Arabia and the Unit- opened a probe "to establish Israeli-made spyware was cially convened meeting of 50,000 potential surveillance ed Arab Emirates to Moroc- the facts and to determine used on journalists, rights the nation's Defence Coun- targets was leaked to rights co, India and a host of whether and, if so, what activists and 14 Heads of cil, his office said. groups. Amnesty Interna- other mostly emerging crime has taken place", the State, as French President Macron "has himself tional and French media economies. Budapest Regional Investi- Emmanuel Macron ordered changed his phone and num- nonprofit Forbidden Stories Hungary was the only EU gation Prosecutor's Office tighter security and changed ber for certain exchanges", collaborated with a clutch of country listed as a potential said. his phone over espionage it said. media companies, including user of the spyware, with The Israeli Government concerns. The NSO Group's Pegasus the Washington Post, the hundreds of targets includ- said it has set up a commis- President Macron -- software -- able to switch on Guardian and Le Monde, to ing journalists, lawyers and sion to review the software. whose name was on a list of a phone's camera or micro- analyse and publish the list. other public figures. - YAHOO NEWS French President Emmanuel Macron SATURDAY, JULY 24, 2021 BUSINESS 13 NEWS SLT-MOBITEL donates PCR Machine to Matale District Hospital SLT-MOBITEL has taken steps to donate PCR machines to several selected hospitals island wide aligned to its CSR project ‘Sabandiyawe Sathkaraya’ demonstrating its Ride4Ceylon’s Dr. Shamil Appathurai, Nishantha Abeywardena and Frank commitment to Safeguard Vedamanikkam are presenting the donation to the two Ministers - Sports Communities from COVID- Minister Namal Rajapaksa and Health Minister, Pavithra Wanniarachchi 19. The second PCR machine in this project, valued at Rs. 5 million, was donated to the Ride for Ceylon donates ICU beds District General Hospital, M. H. YAKEEM Ride for Ceylon, together with Friends Matale recently. The first PCR Ride for Ceylon (R4C) along with their of Manipay Hospital, have also engaged in machine was earlier handed partners Manipay Hospital came forward to several other initiatives in helping Sri Lan- over to the Base Hospital, donate ICU beds to the Health Ministry kan people in their battle against the Karawanella in Kegalle Dis- and the sponsorship in this regard was Covid-19 virus. trict. SLT-MOBITEL will made to Minister Namal Rajapaksa, (who A brainchild of a group of Old Boys of donate a PCR machine each to is also a member for R4C) and Health S. Thomas’ College Mount Lavinia, R4C the Base Hospital, Moneragala Minister, Pavithra Wanniarachchi to be dis- also aims to rebuild lives and communities and the Kotalawela Defence Mohan Weerakoon, PC – Director, SLT handing over the PCR machine to Dr. Asela K. Dissanayake, Director- tributed to Hospitals in need at Temple devastated by three decades of civil war in University Hospital in due District General Hospital, Matale. Rohana Dissanayake, M.P., Dr. S. J. Rathnayake, Deputy Director- District Trees recently. Manipay area. Ride for Ceylon will host course. General Hospital, Matale, and officials from SLT-MOBITEL look on R4C began in 2017 as ‘Riders for Chari- their 2021 race soon starting from Colom- ty’ sponsoring a charity cycle ride through bo and finishing in Manipay. Sri Lanka known as the ’the pearl of the Sports Minister Namal Rajapaksa offered Indian Ocean’ to raise funds to redevelop his backing to the R4C project and also and expand the historic Green Memorial pledged logistical assistance for the cycle SANASA Life and General Insurance partner to help frontlines Hospital, Manipay. event. Through ‘Mawbima Surakimu COVID Paradamu’ initiative Japanese Nagoya Group donates SANASA Life Insurance Compa- ny, a leading Life Insurance provider in Sri Lanka, has partnered with SANASA General Insurance Com- smartphones to students pany to support frontlines of the Police and Colombo Municipal The Japanese Wa Council as part of their ‘Mawbima Wa Wa No Nagoya Surakimu - COVID Paradamu’ initi- Group, in a unique ative where 1,000 face shields were CSR initiative distributed to help protect Police towards helping the personnel and municipal workers online education of when carrying out their duties during School children the COVID-19 pandemic. donated smart- A simple ceremony to hand over phones and books the face shields was held in the pres- for 28 students of ence of SANASA Life Insurance low income families Chief Executive Officer Indika Kiri- in Matara. wandeniya, SANASA General Insur- High ranking ance Chief Executive Officer Wasan- their financial struggles caused by officials of Wa Wa tha Perera, members of the Police as the COVID-19 pandemic. SANASA Wa No Nagoya well as officials of the Colombo Life Insurance stepped forward to Group and Director Municipal Council. help these policyholders by allocat- of the Children’s SANASA Life Insurance Chief ing several million rupees to settle Foundation Sunil Executive Officer Indika Kiriwan- their duties through these difficult forward to help protect the people all pending premiums. Gamage, from deniya said, “At SANASA Life, we times.” and minimize the spread of the As a result, these customers’ life which this donation have always deeply appreciated the SANASA General Insurance Chief virus.” insurance policies are now reactivat- was made also par- tireless efforts of the frontline heroes Executive Officer Wasantha Perera Earlier this year, SANASA Life ed and they have the necessary pro- ticipated in the such as the healthcare workers, said, “We are happy to tie up with Insurance Company made history by tection to move forward with their event. The group Police, Armed Forces, and municipal our parent company SANASA Life becoming Sri Lanka’s first-ever lives and businesses as the country also conducted sim- council workers in the battle against Insurance to make this a successful company to reinstate the life insur- gradually emerges from the pandem- ilar CSR initiatives the pandemic. That is why we’re initiative by helping those who are ance policies of over 21,000 policy- ic situation. targeting children in giving them the equipment to help risking their lives to protect us from holders. These life insurance policies SANASA Life Insurance has been the Southern Prov- High ranking officials of Wa Wa Wa No Nagoya Group them to stay safe as they carry out this pandemic. As a responsible cor- had lapsed as the policyholders were in the field of insurance in Sri Lanka ince last year as Director of the Children’s Foundation Sunil Gamage and porate citizen, we are ready to step unable to pay their premiums due to for nearly 30 years. well. some of the recipient students and at the event Rotary Club of Wattala sponsors Elasto Group’s Textrip donates AVRO2 to Nagoda Hospital Elasto Group, a premier Achiever, National Produc- manufacturer and exporter of tivity and SILK Sports Rotaract Club of Kadawatha natural latex Progressive awards. Textrip is dominat- Resistance Bands reaffirmed ing the local market with Rotary Club of Wattala got yet another its humanitarian responsibili- over 80 to 85 % share in the Rotaract Club into their ranks by sponsor- ty towards Sri Lankans by sports exercise products cat- ing Rotaract Club of Kadawatha. donating a much-needed egory with the TEX- The Charter Installation Ceremony of Optiflow Oxygen Delivering STRETCH brand. Rotaract Club of Kadawatha was held System - Adult (AVRO2) to Consultant Surgeon of recently at the ‘Olympic House’ – Colom- General Hospital Nagoda. Nagoda General Hospital Dr. bo amidst of a small gathering owing to Kalutara. D. C. Rajapakse, and Deputy strict health restrictions and guidelines. This gesture was made Director Dr. Nilantha Karas- This was held recently prior to the lock- after Minister Namal Raja- inghe said that the hospital down was enforced. paksa made a request and it was in dire need of an Opti- President of Rotary Club of Wattala was coordinated by his flow Oxygen Delivering Rtn. PHF. Prabath Kumaresh was the Coordinating Secretary, System. Major General Chief Guest. Rtr. Adeesha Dharmakeerthi Mahinda Bandara. This Rohana Bandara who was was installed as the President of Rotaract donation costs over one mil- also present, said that the Club of Kadawatha. Other Office Bearers lion rupees and the purchase hospital system needs more too were installed. Secretary/Editor/Direc- was made by Chairman and Minister Namal Rajapaksa’s Coordinating Secretary, Mahinda Bandara, , Deputy donations of this nature. tor, Youth Service of Rotary Club of Wat- Managing Director of the Director of Nagoda Hospital, Dr. Nilantha Karasinghe, COO, Textrip Pvt Ltd,P. A. Business Development Man- tala Rtn. Dr. Dilhan Sampath Jayatilleke Elasto Group and Textrip Nandasena, Major General Rohana Bandara, Consultant Surgeon of Nagoda ager of Textrip, Dilshan was instrumental in inaugurating the Rot- (Pvt) Ltd, Mangala Hospital Dr. D. C. Rajapakse. Lokuenderage and Sales aract Club of Kadawatha. Rotary Club of Charter President of Rotaract Club of Gunasekera as one of their Representative cum Demon- Wattala further sponsors the Rotaract Kadawatha Rtr. Adeesha Dharmakeerthi CSR events. over 30 countries and sup- with ISO-9001, ISO-14001, SMETA guidelines as well. strator, Vimukthi Wickrama- Clubs of Wattala, Academy of Design and handing over a token of appreciation to Textrip exports Progres- ports over 100 top global COC, REACH, CAL- The company has already nayake were also present at Peace City, Hatton. Dr. Dilhan Sampath Jayatilleke. sive Resistance Bands to brands proudly accredited PROP-65 and following won NCE Exports, CNIC the event. Wipro to invest US$1 b in cloud business in India Wipro, India’s fourth- been in the cloud space, largest IT services company, including its multi-year on Tuesday announced its technology transforma- plan to invest $1 billion tion deal with German over the next three years in retailer Metro AG building capabilities around which has a revenue cloud technologies, includ- potential of $1 billion, ing for acquisitions and Wipro’s largest ever. partnerships in the space. “Cloud adoption and The company also innovation are an essen- announced the launch of tial part of our IT strate- ‘Wipro FullStride Cloud gy. For a company like Services’, a portfolio of ser- METRO that operates vices that will help it offer in 25 countries, quickly comprehensive cloud trans- migrating to the cloud formation capabilities to its enables decentraliza- customers, Wipro NSE 2.64 plify, orchestrate and accelerate the tion, agility, speed and % said. cloud journey for our clients,” flexibility in engineering and flexibil- The new building of the Samurdhi Community Bank in Ata- “Today, cloud adoption is at the Delaporte added. ity in engineering and development,” lugampura Dehiowita was opened last week. Samurdhi Sipdora core of any IT transformation initia- The company said the commitment said Timo Salzsieder, CIO, METRO Childrens Scholarships scheme, providing documents for tive, and our clients have been turn- is in line with the consistent growth AG. recipients of the Samurdhi Housing Programs also took place ing to Wipro for help with this,” said it has seen in its cloud business, Wipro added that its FullStride during this opening. Governor of Sabaragamuwa Province Thierry Delaporte, managing director which today employs around 79,000 Cloud Services is a collaboration Tikiri Kobbekaduwa, State Minister, Company Estate Reforms, and CEO at Wipro. people of which more than 10,000 between the company’s Chief Growth Tea Estates related Crops, Tea Factories Modernization and Tea “With our $1 billion investment in are certified by leading cloud service Officer and existing global business Export Promotion Kanaka Herath, State Minister of Samurdhi, cloud capabilities, and the launch of providers. lines, and that it will announce a new Household Economy, Micro Finance, Self-Employment, Busi- Wipro FullStride Cloud Services, we It added that some of its large deal leader for the business soon. (www. ness Development,Shehan Semasinghe and several other are in a far stronger position to sim- wins over the last 12 months have indiatimes.com) Samurdhi Department officials also participated. DN page 14 SPORTS SATURDAY, JULY 24, 2021

HIGHLIGHTS : Between the 1948 Olympic Duncan White became The rst women to Susanthika Jayasinghe After missing the 2004 1. Games in London and the 2. the rst athlete from 3. represent Sri Lanka did so 4. nished third in the 5. Games in Athens, 1972 Games in Munich, Sri Sri Lanka to win an in 1988, with Dipika women's 200m in athletics Jayasinghe competed Lanka competed at the Olympic medal. He Chanmuggan swimming at Sydney 2000 and in her third Olympics at Games under its former achieved that feat at the 100m-200m subsequently had her the 2008 Games in name of Ceylon. After the NOC's rst breaststroke double and bronze medal upgraded to Beijing, this time missing the 1976 Games, participation, in 1948, the 200m individual silver when Marion Jones placing 13th in the the NOC has competed at taking silver in the medley, and Tilaka Jinadasa was stripped of her Olympic 200m. every edition since 1980. men's 400m hurdles. entering the 100m hurdles. title for doping oences. Sri Lankan competitors at 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games Sri Lanka will eld a nine-member contingent for the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games which will be worked o until August 8. Judoka Chamara Dharmawardana and artistic gymnast Milka Gehani de Silva were Sri Lanka's ag-bearers at the opening ceremony, which was held on Friday. The rest of the competitors are Niluka Karunaratne (badminton), Nimali Liyanarachchi (800m), Yupun Abeykoon (100m), Matthew Abeysinghe (100m freestyle), Aniqah Gaoor (100m buttery), Mathilda Karlsson (equestrian) and Tehani Egodawela (10m air rie). MatthewNimali AGE Yupun AGE LiyanarachchiAbeysinghe 3125 Abeykoon 26 Aniqah AGE Sat, 31 Jul Yupun Abeykoon Mudiyansalage Gaoor 17 also simply known as Yupun Abeyko- Women’s 800m Round 1 - Heat 1 on also referred as Yupun Priyadarshana Sat, 24 Jul was born 31 December 1994 is an Italian Women's 100-metre buttery - Heat 1 Nimali Waliwarsha Konda based Sri Liyanarachchi was born Lankan 19 September 1989 is a Sri track and eld She was born in 2004. While she was at school at Lankan 800 m runner. She athlete and a the United World College Thailand her training has won gold medals at national record holder in men's schedule started at 4:30 in the morning on the 2016 Asian Games 100m and in men's indoor 60m. He currently every day but Sundays. and 2017 Asian Champi- resides in Italy as he went on a scholarship to In 2019, she represented Sri Lanka at the onships, placing third in Sat, 31 Jul Italy in 2015. 2019 World Aquatics Championships held 2015 and fourth in 2013. Men’s 100m Round 1 - Heat 1 On 8 September 2020, he shattered the South in Gwangju, South Korea. She competed Nimali holds the Sri Asian record as well as national record held in the women's 50 metre buttery and Lankan national record in by Himasha Eashan in men's 100m event women's 100 metre buttery events. In the 800 m event. At the with a timing of 10.16 seconds after the same year, she also won one silver 2017 Asian Champion- Tokyo Tatsumi ships she nished second, winning an athletic competition International medal and one bronze medal at the 2019 which was held in Dessau, Germany. but the winning Swimming Center South Asian Games. athlete was On 13 May 2021, he renewed his is a swimming In 2021 it was announced that she would be disquali ed after own personal as well as the venue in Koto, going to the postponed 2020 Summer Olympics Liyanarachchi national record for men's Tokyo, Japan. The in Tokyo. argued that she 100m event by clocking swimming centre   The Japan National Stadium Matthew Abeysinghe was born 19 had been unfairly   at 10.15 seconds which has hosted formerly known as New March 1996 is a Sri Lankan swimmer jostled in the he set during the several Japanese sprint for National Stadium, o cially who has represented his country at named National Stadium, is a Meeting di Savona swimming the line. Championship championships. numerous international competi- multi-purpose stadium used tions. Abeysinghe trained mostly for association football in Italy. in Kasumigaoka, Shinjuku, under his coach and father, Tokyo, Japan. The stadium will Manoj Abeysinghe, with serve as the main stadium for Killer Whale Aquatics, the opening and closing until his departure for ceremonies, as well as the higher education, where venue for track and eld he resumed his training athletics events at the 2020    at The Ohio State Summer Olympics and   University in the USA.   Paralympics in 2021. In 2014, at the 2014 Summer Youth Olympics, Abeysinghe competed in the 100m Freestyle. Niluka Karunaratne was born 13 February 1985 is a Sri Lankan Matthew AGE Olympic badminton player who 25 has competed at the Olympics in   Abeysinghe 2012 and 2016. He is currently      Tue, 27 Jul regarded as the number one Nippon Budokan, often shortened to  –  premiere badminton player in simply Budokan, is an indoor arena located   Men's 100 m freestyle - Heat 1 Sri Lanka and Sri Lanka's most in Chiyoda, Tokyo, Japan. Budokan was   decorated badminton player originally built for the judo competition in Ariake Gymnastics Centre, AGE  with a record 21 medals to his the 1964 Summer Olympics, hence its one of the main venues of Milka name at international events name, which translates in English as the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Gehani 18 The Musashino Forest Sports Plaza including 9 gold medals. Martial Arts Hall. and Paralympic Games. is a multi-sport venue located in He reached his higher career The 12,000-capacity arena Sun, 25 Jul Chōfu, Tokyo, Japan. It will serve singles ranking of 34 in June will host artistic, rhythmic as one of the venues for the 2020 and trampoline 2013, which is also the Chamara Repiyallage also known as Summer Olympics. The Musashino personal best ranking by gymnastics events during MilkaMilka Gehani Gehani Elpitiya Elpitiya Badalge Badalge Dona Dona also Forest Sports Plaza will host the Chamara Dharmawardana was born 10 the Games, as well as a Sri Lankan badminton knownknown as Milkaas Milka Gehani Gehani de Silva de Silva wasborn wasborn 24 April 24 badminton, fencing competitions May 1992 is a Sri Lankan judoka. He being used for boccia and wheelchair basketball games player. He has also 2003 is a Sri Lankan artistic gymnast who emerged as national competed at the 2016 Summer Olympics during the Paralympic April 2003 is a Sri Lankan artistic gymnast who 2020 Summer Paralympics. Games. representedrepresented her her country country at at the the 2018 2018 Summer Summer badminton champion in the men's 73 kg event, in which he was for record 17 times, the Youth Olympics and the 2019 World Champion- eliminated in the third Youth Olympics and the 2019 World Champi- most by a Sri Lankan ships. She earned a continental quota spot to round by Lasha onships. She earned a continental quota badminton player. the 2020 Summer Olympics alongside Shavdatuashvili. spot to the 2020 Summer Olympics Despite his achievements India’salongside Pranati India’s Nayak Pranati after the Nayak cancella after- in the sport, he was also the cancellationtion of of the the 20212021 sidelined for disciplinary AsianAsian Championships. Championships. issues on few occasions.

Born in Sri Lanka and adopted by Swedish parents and living in Germany, the showjumping rider had decided to compete for her birth country Sri Lanka. AGE AGE Chamara Karlsson is the rst quali er for Niluka Nuwan 2521 the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games Karunaratne 2536 from Sri Lanka as well as the rst Mon, 26 Jul equestrian representing Sri 3 - 24 Jul Men -73 kg Elimination Round of 64 Lanka in an Olympic Event. MathildaMatthew AGE Group Play Stage - Group F - Match 105 In February last year it was 25 announced that Mathilda AbeysingheKarlsson Karlsson lost her Olympic Sat, 31 Jul Chamara Tehani AGE quali cation as the FEI decided Individual jumping to cancel the obtained Longines RepiyallageEgodawela 2535 Ranking points of the competi- Mon, 26 Jul tions in Villeneuve -Loubet organized at the end of 2019. Equestrian Park O cials: Women's air rie 0.177 This 1964 Olympic legacy Gamini Jayasinghe (Chef-de-Mission), Tehani Egodawela also spelt as M. G. T. U. E. Egodawela venue hosted the Wing Commander (rtd) Chadana Liyanage (Press Attache), equestrian competitions at was born 19 April 1986 is a Sri Lankan sports shooter and a Dr. Himan Shashidara de Silva (Covid-19 Liaison O cer), current national record holder in shooting. the Tokyo 1964 Games. The   park currently serves as a Dinuka Karunaratne (Badminton Coach cum Manager), She was selected as the best shooter at national level for a main centre for the Camp Asaka is a record seven times, representing National Pool since 2012. In promotion of horse riding Manoj Abeysinghe (Swimming Coach), base of the Japan 2013, she was recognized as the best women's rie shooter at and equestrian Ground Self-De- Pradeep Chinthaka Edirisinghe (Manager cum coach of shooting), the Sri Lankan Navy Open Shooting Championships. competitions. fense Force. It lies Suranjith Abeysekera (Equestrian Manager), in four She was awarded the bronze medal in municipalities: the women's 50m rie 3×20 event Sujith Nilantha (Athletic Manager cum Coach), Nerima, Tokyo; representing Sri Lanka Navy at the Claudio Littiardello (Athletic Coach), Asaka, Saitama; 2016 National Shooting Sports Amal Ratnayake (Judo Manager), Wako, Saitama; Federation. and Niiza, Ranjana Tharanga (Gymnastics Coach), Saitama. It serves as the headquar- Kapila Jeevantha Rupasinghe (Gymnastics Manager), ters of the Eastern Hansika Wijayagunasekara (Games Operations – NOC). Army.

Radha graphic SATURDAY, JULY 24, 2021 SPORT page 15 DN SPORTS MINISTRY GRANTS RS 46.2 MILLION TO SRI LANKAN OLYMPIC ATHLETES DHAMMIKA RATNAWEERA time such financial assis- Describing the cost and The Sports Ministry is tance has been received by facilities provided to Sri providing Rs. 46.2 million, the Olympians. Lankan athletes represent- the largest amount in histo- In addition the Ministry ing the country at Olympic ry, for the Sri Lankan team has provided $ 5,000 each Games, Amal Edirisuriya of athletes who qualified for to six coaches of qualified the Director General of the 2020 Olympic Games in athletes and provided busi- Sport Ministry said that the Tokyo, Japan and the coach- ness class flight facilities for Minister Namal Rajapaksa es.Accordingly, the allow- all participating athletes for had taken the initiative to ances and facilities provid- the first time in the history. give them the highest grant ed to the athletes participat- Also they will be provid- in the history of Sri Lanka. ing in the 2020 Tokyo ing a daily allowance of $ He was speaking at the Olympic Games and their 40 for all athletes and Sports Development coaches are $ 15,000 each coaches for the duration of Department, where he was to three athletes who the tournament. In addition due to hand over the cash directly qualified for the prior to participating in the cheque recommended by competition and $ 10,000 tournament, all athletes the National Sports Council each to six athletes who and coaches were kept in a and the High Talent Com- qualified for the competi- bio-bubble at the Cinnamon mittee on the instructions tion on a different basis Grand, a leading star class of the Minister of Youth (bipartite/tripartite and tourist hotel, to facilitate and Sports Namal Raja- Nimali Liyanarachchi the 800m athlete who got Olympic qualification last minute with wild card basis receiving cash cheque from the Sport Director others) and this is the first re-quarantine activities. paksa. General Amal Edirisooriya and (on right) Sujith Abeysekera the coach of Nimali Liyanarachchi receiving his cash cheque. Tamara Padmini was a top class athlete

Sithum Umesh Dilshan the volleyball UPANANDA JAYASUNDERA School,Kandy and she rep- no sports training in her mental in producing indi- -Kandy Sprts Special Corr. resented Sri Lanka in a school Alawwa Central. vidual athletes who gained Tamara Padmini Wickre- Marathon held in Singa- After leaving School she much from her coaching masinghe, who was pore in the year 1985 and joined the Department of and one of them was a and athletic star from Nattandiya attached to the Push- on the track she won the Education and she joined member of the Sri Lanka padana Balika Girls 800 and 1500 metres races Mahamaya Girls Women’s 4 x 400 metres DILWIN MENIDS School,Kandy as a Physical for three consecutive years School,Kandy as a Physical Relay team who participat- - Moratuwa Sports Special Corr. Training Instructor was a at the National games. To Training Instructor and ed at the Olympic Games Eighteen year old vol- top class Athlete who was cap it all she was awarded she was able to bring out in the year 2000. leyball player and athlete an old girl of Alawwa Cen- the Best Womens’ perfor- Champion Athletes from After her service at Garumuni Devage tral College and from her mance award in all three the year 1992 to 2000 at Mahamaya Tamara got a Sithum Umesh Dilshan younger days she was years and Tamara won the the Provincial level. transfer to Pushpadana who hails from Nattandi- involved in athletics and 1500, 3000 and 5000 metre She was attached to Girls’ School and she start- Tamara Padmini ya was born on 31st Jan- she has won the Womens’ events representing Sri Mahamaya for 20 long ed producing talented Ath- ning an Athletic Academy uary 2003 and he was first Marathon Race in the Lanka at the Veteran Ath- years and one of her best letes in that School too for in Kandy for athletes and admitted to Dhamissara year 1982 recording a tim- letic Meet of 35 years age products was Shalika more than eight years. She her future intention is to National School in 2009 ing of three hours 21 min- group held in Malaysia in Ranasinghe who represent- has not lost her touch in produce outstanding ath- to the grade one when utes in a 26 mile 385 yards 1997 and in Japan in 1998 ed Sri Lanka at athletics as she has partici- letes to represent Sri R.K.W.Gunasekara was distance. It was her natural talent several International pated at the Teachers’ Lanka at Olympics and she at the helm of the school Before coming to Push- which kept her going-on in Meets. Sports meets every year will continue training the and his first class teacher padana she was the PTI of athletics during her com- During her training since 2000. athletes as long as she is fit was Mrs.Pathmaseeli. Mahamaya Girls petitive days as there were period Tamara was instru- At present she is run- to do so. From his smaller days he showed an interest in sports and when he was in the second standard at the Inter House Athletic Meet he participated in Training for table tennis players the 50 and 75 metre races and came second The Table Tennis Asso- and in the next year he ciation of Sri came first in both the Lanka(TTASL) will com- above events and at the mence training for junior Divisional Meet came (under 19 and Under 15) third and in the follow- and Senior ranked players ing year he did 75 and in the provinces of 100 and came first and at Ambalangoda, Colombo, the Divisional meet he Kandy and Jaffna from was third. July 24 th onwards. When he was in the The training is funded grade five he did 100 and by the Asian Table Tennis 200 metres and came Union(ATTU) under the second and he took part programme in the sports meets up to “AIM FOR THE grade ten but he did not STARS”. The TTASL take any interest to to hopes to continue these (From Left) Earandi Warusawithna, Jithara Warnakulasuriya and Nirmala Jayasinghe take part in higher sessions for a period of meets. five months from the grant from the latest ranking list Colombo (Mahamaya BV), Kavindi (Dharmasoka College), When he was in grade allotted by the ATTU. of 2021. Girls: Jithara Warnaku- Sahabandu (Fontera Maneesha Shalindi (Dhar- six he took part in the The Secretary of the Details of 20 players (10 lasuriya (Ladies College), Brands), Chameesha Thu- masoka College), Nadithi inter house kiddies vol- TTASL Reza Latiff said Girls, 10 boys) from Jaffna Ayala Chitty (Ladies Col- shadi (Kegalu B), Navindi Rehansa (Prajapathi BMV), leyball tournament in Training was to com- are to be provided by the lege), Chamathsara Fer- Senevirathna (Kegalu B), Heshi Nirmi (Prajapathi 2014 and his team were mence in last April , a Provincial Association. nando (Uni/Moratuwa), Sadunya Eshmini (Kegalu BMV), D H Kolambage victorious. week after the Sinhala and The unfortunate delays Oneli Lehansa (Musaeus B) (Dharmasoka College), Min- Then his parents G.D Tamil New year but was were unavoidable and only College), Tharindi Perera Boys: B N B Jayasinghe duli Dihansa (Dharmasoka Jayarathne and Yasa- Sithum Umesh kept on hold due to glad that the programme (V Devi/Kiri’goda), Minna (MAS), Prasad De Silva College), Lesanya Sethum- wathie Sajeeva encour- increased COVID cases can commence in the Hasim (Ladies College), (RDA), Chandupa Alaha- dee (Dharmasoka College), aged him to proceed process they were the in the all island tourna- reported in the country. selected venues within the Shenali Mendis (Musaeus koon (Kingswood Col- Divya Darani (Dharmasoka with volleyball and in All Island DSI third ment and in the under Due to the lockdown in four provinces mentioned. College), Sandinthi Jayas- lege), Dhanushka Wijesin- College), Tamadhi Kavindya the following year he placed team and in the 19 age group once again May, the programme was The programme has inghe (Musaeus College), ghe (Kingswood College), (Devananda College) played for the school vol- following year at the they were the fourth in postponed indefinitely to received its blessings from Shamalsha Dewmi (Holly Yasiru Meleesha (Vidyar- Boys: Supuna leyball team under the Inter Schools National the DSI and in 2020 at commence once it would the TTASL Executive Cross/G). tha College), Hasitha Warusavithana (Uni Mor- coach and Master in Championship they were the National Meet they be safe to conduct sports Committee headed by Boys: Nimesh Rancha- Udara (Kingswood Col- atuwa), Imantha Udanjaya Charge was Keerthi the Runners up and at were the champions. activities again, as per the Kanaka Herath, the presi- goda (Royal College), lege), Matheesha Wickra- (Army), Chanul Dulsen Jayasekera. the DSI they could not He was selected for guidance of the Ministry dent of the TTASL. The Thisas Ranchagoda (Royal manayaka (Dharmaraja (Dharmasoka College), Then in the following win a place the 20 member sqnad for of Health. training will be handled by College), Vinuka Guna- College), Akeshe Diman- Hiruna Warusawithana year they won the under In the following year the youth tour of Bah- A total of 70 players ITTF qualified coaches of wardena (Royal College), tha (Vidyartha College), (Ananda College), Vihan- 14 lower tournaments at the North Western rain. His coach and Mas- will benefit from these 4 Level 3 and above. Janith Batugedara (Royal Saifulla Akram (Hill Coun- du Randina (Dharmasoka and they could not come Inter Schools under 17 ter in Charge was training camps. 16 players This is an initiative of College) Dewmeth Weera- try In) College), Gesandu Peiris up to expectations at the tournament they lost to Keerthi Jayasekera and (9 Girls, 7 Boys) will train the Coaching and Develop- sena (Lyceum Internation- Ambalangoda (Dharmasoka College), Provincial Tournament. St.Xaviers College the Principal Anil Push- in Colombo, 14 players (5 ment Committee of the al), Kakeru Hennayaka Girls: Erandhi Hasira Dinusara (Dhar- In the following year Marawila and in the next pakumara helped him in Girls, 9 Boys) in Kandy TTASL headed by Ms. (Ananda College), Thisum Warusavithana (Raigam masoka College), Senash going through the same year they were the fourth many ways. and 20 players (11 Girls, 9 Namal Gunasekera.(D.R) Gamage (Ananda College) PL), Kavishka Kavindi Parinda (Dharmasoka Col- Boys) in Ambalangoda. Names of the players are Kandy (Dharmasoka College), lege), Hareen Nimdinu These players are selected as follows; Girls: Thanushi Rodrigo Sanduni Prabuddhika (Dharmasoka College).

HAFIZ MARIKAR Bogambara Stadium renovation should be expedited, says sports lovers cricket, football, rugby, hockey and ground was done in a manner that Sports like rugby, football, hockey Samarakoon, who initiated the reno- Bodhi Liyanage to the late present athletics. didn’t become an issue to those who and athletics can cause injuries and vation with the support coming R. Premadasa, who got the removed Bogambara grounds in Kandy is Bogambara Stadium was not only made the reservations, as whatever the children were the victims. from people like E.L. Senanayake, running track of the Sugathadasa steeped in historical significance used for traditional sports, it was the problem it was sorted out among At present the Bogambara ground Noel Wimalasena, Shelton Ranaraja stadium which was laid at this but its poor state saddens sports also used for village games like elle, them and the g round fee was rea- is out for sports due to redevelop- and Tilak Ratnayake all politicians ground with a big hand coming from fans in particular. A multi-purpose bahu, thattu and gudu apart from sonable and was affordable. Once ment, which has taken many and the others who helped were Mayor of that time Edmund Pathi- ground and one of the oldest in the cricket, rugby, football, hockey, ath- this was vested with the Sugathada- months. This is the oldest ground in E.W. Balasuriya who assisted in rane and Chief Minister W.M.P. country, it was in 1897 the ground letics, netball, basketball and soft- sa Complex the entire management the country. donations, Chandra Wijanayake, Dr. Disanayake. was converted from a lake to a play- ball. changed and the facilities were only Some time back there was a pro- C.D.L. Fernando, A.M.I.N. Marikar, Then in 1997 the stadium was ing field. At one time it was the site The Bogambara grounds which is confined to sports but on the con- posal to name the grounds as Dun- M. Shanmugam SSP CP. M.E. Mari- upgraded due to the support of late for carnivals, circuses and gymkha- within walking distance of the city trary the demand annually became can White Stadium, in recognition kar all of them are no more. Their Anurudha Ratwatte, to do the reno- na activities and even an execution and has served all sports since it greater with more schools and less of the great athlete who brought good work was, put up the terraces vation the Sports Ministry took over ground during the British occupa- was founded in 1897. It has under- venues resulting in excessive use of honour to our country at the Olym- round the ground, re-developed the the stadium and forgot to return it tion. gone numerous renovations. In 2019 the Bogambara with no mainte- pics. It was at this grounds he playing area,the Municipal Council back to the municipal council and A number of sporting clubs August they started to renovate, but nance at all. trained while at Trinity College. gave their best support. There were today sportsmen and women are including Kandy Sports Club, Young still it is not completed. This is the Only the office building was The Sports loving public and in many donors the names of them suffering. Stars SC, Young Wanders SC, Green only public playground in Kandy, upgraded with facilities. The stadi- particular the schools have frequent- were displayed in front of the pavil- At present sports in Kandy need a Field SC and schools including St. housed in the heart of the city which um problem became a major threat ly appealed to consider the issue ion, but today all those boards are ground mainly for football, hockey, Anthony’s, Trinity College, Sri has for over several decades been to the school children as they are very important and address it as a no more. rugby and cricket, hoping for sup- Rahula College, St. Paul’s (now used for all sports particularly by all exposed to poor ground conditions top priority. Then in 1990’s when a request port from the present sports minis- known as Sri Sumangala College), schools and clubs. that led to major injuries or perma- This ground became a stadium in was made by H. Marikar who was ter Namal Rajapaksa and the Mayor Dharmaraja College and Kingswood When it was under the Kandy nent disabilities. Several requests 1972, due to the efforts of then the Sports Committee Chairman of of Kandy Kesara Senanayake who is College used the venue to conduct Municipal Council the allocation of were made to upgrade the stadium. Municipal Commissioner M.B. the Municipal Counil and DIG B.M. all out to give his best. DN page 16 ADVERTISEMENTS SATURDAY, JULY 24, 2021 I do hereby notify PROCUREMENT NOTICE the Government and the General Public of the Democratic REGISTRATION OF CONSTRUCTION CONTRACTORS Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka that National Hospital for Respiratory Diseases I - Akthar Hussein The Country’s Asger Ally, holder Welisara Breaking largest For of NIC 730273690V Tenders are invited by the Regional Tender Committee of the National Hospital for Respiratory Diseases, boundaries recruitment jobseekers of 121 1/2, Malay Welisara from Contractors registered at the Institute for Construction, Training and Development of Sri Lanka for database Street, Colombo 2 maintenance work of this hospital as mentioned in the schedule below. will hereby change my name to Akthar Hussein Asgerally Last date Non- refundable www.observerjobs.lk Musajee. Serial and time for Item Eligibility Tender No. accepting form fee Tenders 01 Registration of Maintenance Contractors for C10 (EM5 or Rs. 2000.00 13.08.2021 the hospital for year 2021. above according at 10.00 a.m. (Contracts not exceeding Rs. 300,000.00) to amended registration NATIONAL HOSPITAL FOR RESPIRATORY procedure DISEASES - WELISARA 01. Interested bidders could obtain a set of bid documents from 24.07.2021 up to 13.08.2021 between 9.00 a.m. and 3.00 pm. after paying a non refundable fee of Rs. 2000.00 and submitting a letter of request to the National Hospital for Respiratory Diseases, Welisara. PROCUREMENT NOTICE 02. Bids will be opened immediately after closing of accepting bids in the Accountants Offi ce at the above address and bidders or their authorized representatives could be present on this occasion. Tenders are invited by the Regional Tender Committee of the National Hospital for Respiratory Chairman, Diseases, Welisara from contractors registered at the Institute for Construction, Training and Regional Procurement Committee, Development of Sri Lanka for maintenance work of the Sewerage System of this hospital as mentioned National Hospital for Respiratory Diseases - Welisara in the schedule below. Telephone No. - 011 295 8271 (112) Fax No. - 011 295 8272 Last Date Serial Bid Guarantee and Time for Item Eligibility No. Amount Accepting Tenders 01 Registration of Should be a person possessing a Rs. 10,000.00 13.08.2021 Sewerage System certifi cate regarding maintenance of at 10.00 a.m. maintenance a Sewerage System and possessing contractors for a minimum period of 02 years in PROCUREMENT NOTICE the year 2021 maintenance of a Sewerage System 02. Tender documents for this contract could be obtained during offi ce hours from 24.07.2021 up to 3.00 p.m. on 13.08.2021 by submitting the copy of the Business Registration Certifi cate to the Chief Accountant of this hospital along with the Receipt Gen. 172 obtained after paying a non- Chief Secretariat refundable fee of Rs. 1,000.00 to the Shroff of this hospital. NORTH CENTRAL PROVINCE 03. A Bid Guarantee obtained from any bank certifi ed by the Central Bank, similar to the value mentioned in Column 04 above or the Receipt Gen. 172 obtained after paying a similar amount 01. Sealed bids are invited by me as the Chief Secretary and Chairman of the Procurement Committee to the Shroff of this hospital should be submitted along with the bids. appointed by the Governor of the North Central Province from qualified bidders for the following 04. Sealed bids should be addressed to the Chairman, Regional Procurement Committee, National projects that are to be implemented by the North Central Provincial Department of Health Services. Hospital for Respiratory Diseases, Welisara and sent by registered post to receive before 10.00 Estimated Value of Validity a.m. on 13.08.2021 or could be inserted in the Tender Box kept in the Chief Directors Room, at Non CIDA Amount Contract Bid Period of the same address. The relevant name of the contract should be marked on the top left-hand corner Project Refundable Registration Rs. Period Security Bid of the envelope containing the bid. Bid Fee Rs. Limit Millions (Rs.) Security 05. Tenders will be opened at 10.00 a.m. on 13.08.2021 and the tenderers or their authorized 1. Construction of Doctors’ 38.4 210 days 384,000.00 11,000.00 C 4 and C 5 119 days representatives could be present on this occasion. Quarters Complex at (Buildings) (13.08.2021 Padaviya Base Hospital to Chairman (Stage 1) 09.12.2021) Regional Procurement Committee, 2. Construction of Doctors’ 38 210 days 380,000.00 11,000.00 C 4 and C 5 119 days National Hospital for Respiratory Diseases - Welisara Quarters Complex at (Buildings) (13.08.2021 Telephone No.: 0112958271 (112) Kekirawa Base Hospital to Fax No. 011-2958272 (Stage 1) 09.12.2021) 3. C onstruction of Doctors’ 38 210 days 380,000.00 11,000.00 C 4 and C 5 119 days Quarters Complex at (Buildings) (13.08.2021 Kahatagasdigiliya Base to Hospital (Stage 1) 09.12.2021) 4. Construction of Doctors’ 39 210 days 390,000.00 12,000.00 C 4 and C 5 119 days PROCUREMENT NOTICE Quarters Complex at (Buildings) (13.08.2021 Tambuttegama Base to Hospital (Stage 1) 09.12.2021) NIYAGAMA PRADESHIYA SABHA 5. Construction of Office of 42.4 224 days 425,000.00 12,000.00 C 4 and C 5 119 days the Medical Officer of (Buildings) (13.08.2021 Construction of the Head Offi ce Building of the Health, Tambuttegama to 09.12.2021) Niyagama Pradeshiya Sabha 6. Construction of Office of 37.4 210 days 375,000.00 10,000.00 C 4 and C 5 119 days (1st Stage - Ground Floor) the Medical Officer of (Buildings) (13.08.2021 Health, Thirappane to th 09.12.2021) Closing date of Bids - 06 August 2021 7. Construction of Doctors’ 41 224 days 410,000.00 12,000.00 C 4 and C 5 119 days Sealed bids will be received by the Chairman, Procurement Committee, of the Niyagama Pradeshiya Sabha, Quarters Complex at (Buildings) (13.08.2021 for the following subject of works, upto 10.00 a.m. on 06.08.2021, and bids thus received will be opened Medawachchiya Base to immediately thereafter, at 10.00 a.m. on 06.08.2021, in the presence of the tenderers at the same offi ce. Hospital (Stage 1) 09.12.2021) Required Registration (CIDA) 8. Construction of Office of 37.3 210 days 375,000.00 10,000.00 C 4 and C 5 119 days (as per the Public Finance Validity the Medical Officer of (Buildings) (13.08.2021 Circular No. 04/2016 (iii) dated Bid Security or Tender form period Health, Naachchaduwa to Description 18.02.2021 (Section 3.3) and as Cash Deposit fee of the per the Public Finance Circular (Rs.) (Rs.) 09.12.2021) Bid Security No. 03/2020 (Section 3) dated 02. Bids will be conducted through National Competitive Bidding Procedure. Since the total estimated 09.10.2020) cost of this procurement is less than Rs. 50 million, regional preference and CIDA Grade preference 01. Construction of the head Grade C5 Bid Security Up to Rs. 3,000.00 shall apply as per Provincial Treasury Circular No. 2016/13(i). offi ce building of the or C6 only Rs. 250,000.00 03.12.2021 Niyagama Pradeshiya (for Buildings) or Cash Deposit 03. Bid forms may be obtained by bidders who fulfill the qualifications and are not blacklisted between Sabha (Stage 1 - Ground Rs. 125,000.00 9.00 a.m. and 3.00 p.m. on working days from 22.07.2021 until 12.08.2021 from the Office of the Floor) North Central Provincial Director of Health Services / Office of the Regional Director of Health SP/G/NGPS/2021/001) Services, Polonnaruwa on submission of the receipt obtained upon payment of the abovementioned non refundable fee in cash to the North Central Provincial Director of Health Services / Regional 02. Bidding documents could be obtained from the offi ce of the Niyagama Pradeshiya Sabha, upto 2.00 p.m. on Director of Health Services, Polonnaruwa. 05.08.2021. 03. This contract will be assigned to the Contractors, registered with the Construction Industry Development 04. Bids perfected as per the bid conditions may either be sent by registered post addressed to “Chief Authority (CIDA) for grade C5 or C6 for Buildings. Secretary / Chairman, Procurement Committee appointed by the Governor, Chief Secretariat, Fourth 04. Bidding will be conducted through National Competitive Bidding (NCB), since the estimated value of work Floor, Provincial Council Administrative Building Complex, Harischandra Mawatha, Anuradhapura” to be performed under this procurement (excluding VAT and other taxes) is below Rs. 50 million, regional or deposited in the Procurement Box kept at that office to receive before 11.00 a.m. on 13.08.2021. preference and CIDA grade preference shall apply as stipulated in Public Finance Circular No. 04/2016 (iii). 05. Further details regarding this procurement could be obtained during normal offi ce hours, on working days of 05. All bids should be accompanied by an unconditional bid security issued in favour of the ”North the week from the offi ce of the Niyagama Pradeshiya Sabha. Central Provincial Director of Health Services” valid as mentioned in the table above obtained from 06. All bids shall be accompanied by a bid security or cash deposit as described in the table above, if in case a commercial bank registered with the Central Bank of Sri Lanka or from the Construction Guarantee of a bank guarantee, it should be from a bank approved by the Central Bank of Sri Lanka and shall be an Fund. 'Unconditional' and 'encashable on demand' bank guarantee bond. This security bond should be in the form 06. Bids should be in duplicate marked as “Original” and “Duplicate” in sealed separate covers and mentioned in the section 09 of the bidding document. If in case, a Cash deposit, the receipt for the cash both covers should be reinserted in a sealed single cover and submitted. Name of the Project should payment, made to and deposited in the Niyagama Pradeshiya Sabha, should be submitted along with the bid. 07. The name of the work should be indicated on the top left hand corner of the envelope, enclosing the bids. be mentioned on the left hand top corner of the envelope. Bids in duplicate, enclosed in two separate covers, marked as the 'Original' and the 'Duplicate' and both 07. Bids will be opened immediately after closing of bids at 11.00 a.m. on 13.08.2021. Bidder or his covers, should be enclosed in one single cover, should be hand delivered or sent by registered post, to be authorized representative may be present at the time of opening of bids. received at or before 10.00 a.m. on 06th August 2021, to the following address. Bidder or his authorized agent, is allowed to be present on this occasion of opening of Bids. 08. Decision of the Procurement Committee appointed by the Governor of the North Central Province 08. Bids should be valid up to a period of 90 days. regarding this procurement is final. 09. Pre bid meeting will be held at 10.00 a.m. on 30.07.2021, at the offi ce of the Niyagama Pradeshiya Sabha. 09. Please note that In case, travel restrictions or emergency is imposed and the state institutions are 10. The decision of the Chairman, Procurement Board, will be the fi nal. closed on the opening date of bids, 13.08.2021, bids would be opened at 11.00 a.m. on the first day Telephone :- 091-4944231 offices would be opened. Fax :- 091-2296518 email :- [email protected] Chief Secretary/Chairman Procurement Committee appointed by the Governor Chairman, Niyagama Pradeshiya Sabha, Chief Secretariat, Chairman, Procurement Committee, North Central Province Niyagama Pradeshiya Sabha, Niyagama. 20.07.2021 24.07.2021. SATURDAY, JULY 24, 2021 ADVERTISEMENTS page 17 DN Ministry of Plantations Sri Lanka State Plantations Corporation (SLSPC) Construction of Proposed Rural Bank, Co-op City and Reception Hall - Goomera Estate Tea Factory, Thawalantanne Kudawella for Beliatta Multi Purpose Co-operative Society Ltd 1. The Chairman, Beliatta Multi Purpose Co-operative Society Ltd. invites sealed Bids for the above construction works. Bids Tender No. SLSPC/PL/Factory Mod. - Goomera/T-111/2021 will be closed on 16th August, 2021 at 10.00 a.m. Late bids will be rejected. Bids will be opened soon after closing in the presence of the bidders Representatives who choose to attend at the bid opening at the address given below for submission Chairman, Procurement Committee (Minor) of SLSPC invites sealed bids from of Bids. Engineering Firms / Individual Personnel competent in following repairs / modifi cations for the Goomera Tea Factory of SLSPC. Required Required Bid Total Cost Non- Item ICTAD/ Required Bid Security valid 01. Conveyorizing / automating rolling room operation with modifi ed Project Estimate (In refundable Bid No. CIDA Grade Security (Rs.) period in rollers and roll breakers suitably re-cited with necessary power supply Rs. Million) -Fee (Rs) cash Buildings calendar days arrangement. Construction of 02. Install Humidifi cation system for the rolling and fermentation area. Proposed Rural Bank, 119 Calendar Co-op City and Reception Rs. 36M days after the 03. Service the existing 6’ 3 stage ECP drier and fi rewood fi red heat exchanger. 01 C5 or above Rs. 10,000.00 Rs. 360,000.00 Hall - Kudawella for (Exc. VAT) deadline for Tender document including detailed specifi cations / conditions / Bid forms for Beliatta Multi Purpose Bid Submission the above Tender can be obtained by payment of Rs. 2000/= for each item from Co-operative Society Ltd SLSPC Head Offi ce, 21, Meeraniya Street, Colombo 12 or SLSPC Regional Offi ce, Galphille, Panwila from 26th July 2021 to 17th August 2021 between 9.00 a.m. 2. Bidding will be conducted through National Competitive Bidding procedure. and 1.00 p.m. 3. Contractors with valid registration for building construction contractors with required grading or above indicated in above Refundable deposit of Rs. 28,000/= either be credited to Account Number 046 schedule under the scheme of National Registration and Grading of Construction Contractors developed by the institute for 1002 40000 933, People’s Bank, 1st City Branch in favor of Sri Lanka State Construction Training and Development (ICTAD) / (CIDA) and update for year 2021 are eligible to bid for this procurement. Plantations Corporation or Bid Bond value of Rs. 28,000/= valid for 01 year 4. Bidding document could be examined free of charge the offi ce hours on working days at the following address of Beliatta issued by a State Bank should be submitted with the Bid documents. Sealed bids Multi Purpose Co-operative Society Ltd. should be forwarded to The Chairman, Procurement Committee, Sri Lanka State Plantations Corporation, 21, Meeraniya Street, Colombo 12, written the Tender 5. A complete set of Bidding Documents in English language may be purchased by interested bidders from 26 July 2021 to 16 Name on top left-hand corner of each envelope to reach on or before 18th August August, 2021 from 9.00 a.m. to 3.00 p.m. from the Offi ce of the Chairman, Beliatta Multi Purpose Co-operative Society Ltd. 2021. Bids will be opened on the same day at 1.30 p.m. at SLSPC Head Offi ce and No. 64, Dickwella Road, Beliatta upon submission of the receipt obtained after paying the non-refundable fee in cash and the all bidders can be present at the time of opening. Contractor’s Record Book with the written request on the letterhead. 6. Bidding documents should be in duplicate and enclosed in separate envelope for each item, sealed and marked The Procurement Committee reserves the right to acknowledge or cancel “CONSTRUCTION OF PROPOSED RURAL BANK, CO-OP CITY AND RECEPTION HALL - KUDAWELLA FOR BELIATTA the entire or part of the tender. MULTI PURPOSE CO-OPERATIVE SOCIETY LTD on the top left-hand corner of the envelope to reach The Chairman, Beliatta Multi Purpose Co-coperative Society Ltd., No. 64, Dickwella Road, Beliatta before 10.00 a.m. on 16th August, The Chairman, 2021 by registered post or placed in the bid box which shall be kept at the same address. Bids must be accompanied by a Procurement Committee, “Bid Security” of amount shown in the above schedule. Sri Lanka State Plantations Corporation, 21, Meeraniya Street, 7. The Chairman, Beliatta Multi Purpose Co-operative Society Ltd. will not be responsible for any costs or expenses incurred Colombo 12. or any delays by Bidders for the preparation or delivery of Bids. 21.07.2021 8. Any further particulars could be obtained from The Chairman, Beliatta Multi Purpose Co-operative Society Ltd.. until 10.00 a.m. on 16th August 2021. Telephone No.: 047-2243210.

The Chairman, Beliatta Multi Purpose Co-operative Society Ltd., No. 64, Dickwella Road, Beliatta.

PROCUREMENT NOTICE PROVINCIAL DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION – NORTH CENTRAL PROVINCE PROVINCIAL DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION NORTH CENTRAL PROVINCE PROCUREMENT NOTICE Sealed quotations are invited by the Chairman, Procurement Committee of the North Central Provincial Sealed quotations are invited by the Chairman, Procurement Committee of the North Central Provincial Department of Education for the following projects performed under the Provincial Council Grants. Department of Education for the following projects performed under the grants received from the Line Ministry of Education.

Value of Bid Non Refundable Contract Ser. Registered Value of Description Security Fee Period - Non- Contract No. Grade Ser. Bid Registered (SL Rs.) (SL.Rs.) Days Description Refundable Period - No. Security Grade Fee (SL.Rs.) Days 01 Renovation of Educational Resource 30,000.00 3,000.00 105 Days C08 & C07 (SL Rs.) Centre, Anurdahapura Repairing the Advanced Level Laboratory 01 85,000.00 4,000.00 105 Days C07 & C06 Building at Po/Minneriya National School 1. Bids will be conducted through National Competitive Bidding Procedure. As the total estimated cost of Repairing Principals Quarters No. 02 of this procurement is below Rs. 50 Million, regional preference and CIDA Grade preference will be 02 23,000.00 2,000.00 90 Days C09 & C08 applicable as per Public Finance Circular No. 2016/13 (ii). Po/ Medirigiriya National School Repairing the 68’x25’ Two Storey Building 2. All bidders who submit bids should be contractors registered with the Construction Industry 03 24,000.00 2,000.00 90 Days C09 & C08 Development Authority (CIDA) and should not have been blacklisted. of Po/ Minneriya National School 3. All bid documents relevant to the construction contracts may be inspected at the offices of the Additional Provincial Director of Education (Finance) of the North Central Provincial Department of 1. Bids will be conducted through National Competitive Bidding Procedure. As the total estimated cost of this Education, Anuradhapura (Telephone No. 025-2222432, Fax No. 025-2222432 and email: ncpedpro@ procurement is below Rs. 50 Million, regional preference and CIDA Grade preference will be applicable as gmail.com) and at the Office of the Accountant (Tel. 027-2226982) of the Zonal Education Office, per Public Finance Circular No. 2016/13 (ii). Polonnaruwa (between 9.00 a.m. and 3.00 p.m.) until 16.08.2021. 2. All bidders who submit bids should be contractors registered with the Construction Industry Development 4. All work details and information regarding plans relevant to the construction contracts may be obtained Authority (CIDA) and should not have been blacklisted. from the Engineer, School Buildings, North Central Provincial Department of Education, Anuradhapura and the contract details of that office are given below. Telephone No. 025-2234394, Fax No. 025- 3. All bid documents relevant to the construction contracts may be inspected at the offi ces of the Additional 2234837 email: [email protected] Provincial Director of Education (Finance) of the North Central Provincial Department of Education, Anuradhapura (Telephone No. 025-2222432, Fax No. 020-2222432 and email [email protected]) and 5. Qualified bidders may purchase bid documents prepared in English language on submission of a at the Offi ce of the Accountant (Tel. 027-2226982) of the Zonal Education Offi ce, Polonnaruwa (between written request to the Chief Accountant of the North Central Provincial Department of Education, 9.00 a.m. and 3.00 p.m.) until 16.08.2021. Anuradhapura and on submission of a written request to the Accountant, of the Zonal Education Office, Polonnaruwa and the bid documents will be issued between 9.00 a.m. and 3.00 p.m. from 27th July 4. All work details and information regarding plans relevant to the construction contracts may be obtained 2021 until 16thth August 2021. from the Engineer, School Buildings, North Central Provincial Department of Education, Anuradhapura and the contract details of that offi ce are given below. Telephone No. 025-2234394, Fax No. 025-2234837 6. Bids should be prepared in duplicate as “Original” and ”Duplicate” and inserted in separate covers, email: [email protected] sealed and the Name of the project and Contract and Number should be mentioned on the left hand top corner of the envelopes and both envelopes containing the Original and Duplicate should be 5. Qualifi ed bidders may purchase bid documents prepared in English language on submission of a written reinserted in a single envelope and may either be sent by registered post addressed to “Chairman, request to the Chief Accountant of the North Central Provincial Department of Education, Anuradhapura Procurement Committee, Provincial Department of Education, North Central Province, and on submission of a written request to the Accountant, of the Zonal Education Offi ce, Polonnaruwa and Anuradhapura” or deposited in the tender box kept at the official room of the Additional Provincial the bid documents will be issued between 9.00 and 3.00 p.m. from 27th July 2021 until 16thth August 2021. Director of Education (Finance) to receive before the specified time and date. 6. Bids should prepared in duplicate as “Original” and ”Duplicate” and inserted in separate covers, sealed 7. Bid validity period, qualifications and other relevant conditions and instructions are given in the bid and the Name of the project and Contract Number should be mentioned on the left hand top corner of documents. the envelopes and both envelopes containing the Original and Duplicate should be reinserted in a single 8. Bids will be closed at 2.00 p.m. on 17th August 2021 and the unconditional bid security should be as envelope and may either sent by registered post addressed to “Chairman, Procurement Committee, per the forms mentioned in the bid documents and should be from a commercial bank recognized by Provincial Department of Education, North Central Province, Anuradhapura” or deposited in the the Central Bank or from the Construction Guarantee Fund. Or else may be paid in cash. Bid security tender box kept at the offi cial room of the Additional Provincial Director of Education (Finance) to receive should be valid until the date mentioned in the bid documents and should be an cashable in this before the specifi ed time and date. country. Bids will be opened immediately after closing of bids and the bidder or his authorized representative may be present at the time of opening of bids. 7. Bid validity period, qualifi cations and other relevant conditions and instructions are given in the bid documents. 9. Departmental Procurement Committee reserves the right to accept or reject one or all bids prior to the award of contract without any liability to the bidder / bidders affected by that without any binding to 8. Bids will be closed at 2.00 p.m. on 17th August 2021 and the unconditional bid security should be as per the inform them regarding the grounds to take such a decision. forms mentioned in the bid documents and should be from a commercial bank recognized by the Central Bank or from the Construction Guarantee Fund. Or else may be paid in cash. Bid security should be valid Chairman / Provincial Director of Education until the date mentioned in the bid documents and should be cashable in this country. Bids will be opened Departmental Procurement Committee immediately after closing of bids and the bidder or his authorized representative may be present at the Provincial Department of Education time of opening of bids. North Central Province 9. Departmental Procurement Committee reserves the right to accept or reject one or all bids prior to the Anuradhapura award of contract without any liability to the bidder / bidders affected by that without any binding to inform them regarding the grounds to take such a decision. Date: 27.07.2021 Chairman / Provincial Director of Education Departmental Procurement Committee Provincial Department of Education North Central Province Anuradhapura. Date: 27.07.2021 DN page 18 ADVERTISEMENTS SATURDAY, JULY 24, 2021 MINISTRY OF DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIES AND INTERNATIONAL TRADE DEPARTMENT OF AGRARIAN DEVELOPMENT BOARD OF INVESTMENT OF SRI LANKA KANDY INVITATION FOR BIDS (IFB) INVITATION FOR BIDS Sealed bids are invited by the District Procurement Committee Chairman on behalf of the Deputy SUPPLYING AND INSTALLATION OF Commissioner of Agrarian Development, Kandy from eligible persons in this fi eld for the work mentioned below. 20 NUMBERS INVERTER TYPE AIR CONDITIONERS IN 02. Bidding will be conducted according to National Competitive Bidding procedure. BOI BUILDINGS 03. Bidders should not have been blacklisted to qualify for awarding of bids and should possess valid AT KATUNAYAKE EXPORT PROCESSING ZONE registration with the Construction Industry Development Authority (CIDA) in the Building Construction fi eld. BOI/INF/KEPZ/2020/01.05.033 (a) 04. Interested bidders could inspect bid documents prepared in English at the District Offi ce of the 1. The Chairman. Department Procurement Committee on behalf of the Board of Investment of Sri Lanka now invites sealed bids from eligible and qualifi ed bidders for supplying and installation of 20 numbers Air Department of Agrarian Development located at No. 60, Getambe, Peradeniya from 26.07.2021 conditioners. up to 12.08.2021 during offi ce days between 9.00 a.m. and 3.00 p.m. and a complete set of these bid forms could be purchased during this period. To be eligible to submit bids and consider for award of contract: 1. Bidder should have previous experience in the fi eld of Air conditioning during last 05 years. 05. Sealed bids should be sent by registered post or may be handdelivered to receive before 2.00 p.m. on 12.08.2021. Bids received late will be rejected. Bids will be opened immediately after closing 2. Manufacturer should be a renowned company specialized in manufacture of Air conditioners with of accepting bids in the presence of bidders or their representatives who wish to be present. minimum of 10 years documented experience (locally or internationally) The supply and installation period is 60 days. Required Validity Registration Bid Non- 2. Bidding will be conducted through National Competitive Bidding Procedure. Contract Period Details of Work Grade Security refundable 3. Interested eligible bidders may obtain further information from Senior Deputy Director (Engineering Services), Period of Bid Required Amount Fee (Rs) Board of Investment of Sri Lanka, Katunayake Export Processing Zone, Katunayake. (Tel No. 0112254493 Security and Fax No. 0112254493 and inspect the Bidding Documents at the said address during offi ce hours between (Rs.) 09.00 hrs and 14.00 hrs. Repairing the Menikdiwela Agrarian 90 Days C-7 / C-8 22,500.00 10.11.2021 2,000.00 4. A complete set of Bidding Documents in English language may be purchased by interested bidders on the Services Centre submission of a written application on a business letterhead to the address given in Section 3 above and upon payment of a non-refundable fee of Rs. 3,500/= + 08% VAT up to 11.08.2021. The method of payment will be by cash. Procurement Committee Chairman, 5. Bids shall be valid up to 09.11.2021. District Offi ce of Agrarian Development, 6. Sealed Bids shall be delivered to reach the address below at or before 14.00 hrs on 12.08.2021. Late bids No. 60, Getambe, Peradeniya. will be rejected. Bids will be opened in the presence of the bidders representatives who choose to attend in person at the address below at 14.00 hrs on 12.08.2021. All bids must be accompanied by a Bid Security of Rs. 125,000.00 and validity period of the Bid Security shall be until 07.12.2021. 7. Pre Bid Meeting will be held at 10.00 hrs on 03.08.2021 at the offi ce of the Senior Deputy Director (Engineering Services), Katunayake Export Processing Zone, Katunayake. 8. The address referred to above is: Chairman Procurement Committee II, C/o Senior Deputy Director (Engineering Services), Finance Department, Plaza Unit 05, Board of Investment of Sri Lanka, Katunayake Export Processing Zone, Katunayake. Chairman, Board of Investment of Sri Lanka Procurement Notice NATIONAL LIVESTOCK DEVELOPMENT BOARD Bids for Supplying and Handing Over of Required Equipment of 12.8 Km BOARD OF INVESTMENT OF SRI LANKA Electric Fences at Polonnaruwa Farm of National Livestock Development Board INVITATION FOR BIDS (NLDB) Under Silage Baling Project Contract No - 928/Electric Fence/ 2021 - Closing Date: 13/08/2021 at 2.30 p.m. Chairman of National Livestock Development Board, No. 40, Nawala Road, Narahenpita, Colombo 05 is inviting to CONSTRUCTION OF ACCESS ROAD TO WATER TREATMENT PLANT submit sealed bids from the registered local suppliers & their accredited agents for Supplying and Handing over of below mentioned equipment for the establishment of 12.8 Km Electric Fences at Polonnaruwa Farm of National AT KATUNAYAKE EXPORT PROCESSING ZONE Livestock Development Board (NLDB) under Silage Baling Project.

CONTRACT NO.: BOI/INF/KEPZ/2021/01.01.021 Bid Security Item Description Unit Qty Capacity (Rs.) 1. The Chairman, Department Procurement Committee, on behalf of the Board of Investment of Sri Lanka invites sealed bids from eligible and qualifi ed bidders for Construction of Access Road to Water 1 Energizer (with complete set of Spares. See No. 02 of spec) 18J 4 21,000 Treatment Plant at Katunayake Export Processing Zone. 2 Solar Array (135w) Num 3 2,970 The Works consists of reconstruction by laying asphalt concrete on existing tar road with road widening 3 Galvanized Array Frame Kit Num 3 323 the part of road and extends the existing internal road up to the bowser point of Water Resorvoir-02 etc. 4 Charge Controller Num 3 2,079 as described under the Bill of Quantities. The contract period is 90 days. 5 Fence Cut-out switches Num 6 384 2. Bidding will be conducted through National Competitive Bidding procedure. 6 Spring Gates Num 15 1,103 3. To be eligible for contract award, the successful bidder shall not have been blacklisted and shall meet 7 Joint Clamps Num 348 1,044 the following requirements: 8 Fence Tension Spring Num 198 12,613 Required Construction Industry Development Authority (CIDA) Registration 9 Wire Tighteners Num 198 2,851 Specialty : Highway Construction 10 2.5 mm Lead Out Cable M 470 2,914 Grade : C7 or above 11 Porcelain Reel Insulator Num 1400 3,080 4. Qualifi cation requirements to qualify for contract award include: Experience as a main contractor for at 12 Porcelain Bull Nose Strain Insulator Num 348 1,288 least one contract of a similar nature equivalent to the proposed works over the period of last 5 years. 13 Lightning Diverter Num 6 693 5. Interested bidders may obtain further information from the Senior Deputy Director (Engineering 14 Digital Volt Meter Num 3 1,725 Services), Engineering Services Department, Board of Investment of Sri Lanka, Katunayake Export 15 Wire Tightener Handle Num 3 379 Processing Zone, Katunayake (Tele/Fax No. 011- 2254493 or 0777864052) and inspect the Bidding 16 Wire Cutting Plier Num 3 1,185 Documents at the same address between 09.00 hrs and 15.00 hrs during working days. 17 Spanner Num 3 As mentioned in 105 6. A complete set of Bidding Documents in English language may be purchased by interested Bidders 18 Wire Dispenser Num 3 the specifi cation 2,064 on the submission of a written application to the Senior Deputy Director (Engineering Services), 19 Fence Voltage Alarm with Siren & Flash Light Num 3 9,750 Engineering Services Department, Board of Investment of Sri Lanka, Katunayake Export Processing Zone, Katunayake from 2021.07.26 until 2021.08.09 between 09:00 hrs and 15:00 hrs. upon payment 20 High Tensile Galvanized Wire M 36100 13,104 of a non-refundable fee of Rs. 3,500.00 +VAT. The method of payment will be by cash. 21 12V-90 Ah Batteries Num 6 4,389 7. Sealed Bids shall be delivered in duplicate to the Chairman, Procurement Committee II, C/o Senior 22 Battery Inter Connector Set Num 12 228 Deputy Director (Engineering Services) Finance Department, Plaza Unit 05, Board of Investment of 23 Anchor Clip for Earth Wire Num 716 501 Sri Lanka, Katunayake Export Processing Zone, Katunayake at or before 15:00 hours on 2021.08.10. 24 2.5 mm - core Flexible Wire M 60 198 Late bids will be rejected. Bids will be opened soon after closing in the presence of the Bidders' 25 Galvanized Earth Stake with Clamp Num 77 4,851 representatives who choose to attend. 26 1/2” Dia. P.V.C. Pipe M 440 616 8. Bids shall be valid up to 2021.11.10. 27 1/2” Dia. P.V.C. Bend Num 132 66 9. All bids shall be accompanied by a Bid Security of Rs. 75,000.00. Bid Security shall be valid up to 28 Fence Warning Signs Num 48 576 2021.12.08. 2’-6’’ Iron Bracket according to drawing and 1/2” x 8” nut & 29 Num 1572 17,921 10. Pre bid meeting will be held at 10:00 hrs on 2021.08.04 at the Engineering Services Department, Board bot with 1/2” dia 02 washer of Investment of Sri Lanka, Katunayake Export Processing Zone, Katunayake. 30 Anchor Clip Short Num 1720 1,204

CHAIRMAN, 31 Line Post (3” GI Details Estimate Annex) Num 660 70,752 BOARD OF INVESTMENT OF SRI LANKA 32 Coner Post (Teak Timber, L-2.8m, Girth-19”-22”) Num 76 14,881 33 Supporting Post (Teak Timber, L-3.0m, Girth-19”-22”) Num 152 25,582 Total 222,417 Bidding documents could be obtained during normal working hours of the week up to 3.00 p.m. on 12/08/2021 from the Supplies Division of the National Livestock Development Board at No. 40, Narahenpita, Nawala Road, Colombo 05 won producing a request letter. A non-refundable fee of Rs. 3,000.00 should be paid per set of bidding document to the Manager - Finance of NLDB. Bids will be closed at 2.30 p.m. on 13/08/2021, and will be opened immediately thereafter, at the National Livestock Development Board, No. 40, Nawala Road, Narahenpita, Colombo 05 in the presence of the Bidders or their accredited representatives who are allowed to attend by confi rming their identity. Sealed bids should be sent by registered post to the following address or deposited in the tender box kept at the NLDB Head Offi ce, to reach the below mentioned address on or before the above closing time. The top of the left hand corner of the envelope in which bids are closed should be mentioned “Supplying and Handing over of Required Equipment for Establishment of 12.8 Km Electric Fences at Polonnaruwa Farm”. A Pre-Bidding meeting for the suppliers will be held on 02/08/2021 at the NLDB Head Offi ce. For any clarifi cation in this regard, please contact the Supplies Manager of National Livestock Development Board. Chairman, National Livestock Development Board, No. 40, Nawala Road, Narahenpita, Colombo 05. Tel: 011-2501701/2, 011-5746308 SATURDAY, JULY 24, 2021 SPORT/PICTORIAL page 19 DN Olympic Games opening ceremony - a truly Asian treat

DINESH WEERAWANSA Thus, the world entirely necessary to call it a truly reporting from Japan depends on live television Asian treat made to an TOKYO, JULY 23 – coverage for action at this international recipe. Japan beat all challenges Olympiad. The opening ceremony posed by the COVID-19 However, sports crazy was designed to bring pandemic as the XXX11nd Japanese found places out- fresh hope and encourage- modern summer Olympic side the stadium, at least ment to people around the Games finally got under- to feel the atmosphere and world through the active way with a spectacular catch the lovely fireworks appearance of sportsmen opening ceremony at the display. and women here in Tokyo. and female competitors President Thomas Bach Olympic Stadium in Tokyo Japan’s Emperor Naruhi- As the Olympic officials were picked as overall cap- was a happy man to see today. to was among 1,000 VIPs said last year when the tains to be flag-bearers. the grand opening last But for the first time in and delegates who attend- 207-nation event was post- Accordingly, Sri Lanka’s night. the 125-year-old history of ed the opening ceremony. poned, the Olympic flame Lion flag was carried by "I am happy to see the modern Olympics from Both the Olympic and ultimately became the light judoka Chamara Dharma- moment of joy and relief Athens in 1896, the Paralympics ceremonies at the end of the tunnel. wardana and gymnast after a long struggle. world’s most prestigious are linked by the concept Even the teams taking Milka Gehani de Silva. When entering the stadi- sporting event will be of "Moving Forward", a part at last night’s open- The COVID-19 pandem- um, it was a moment of staged without spectators, reference to recovering ing ceremony had to ic is still troubling world- joy, in particular for the except for the Internation- from the COVID-19 pan- curtail the number of wide. The metaphorical athletes, because I know al Olympic Committee demic. team players taking part tunnel is still being tra- how much they are strug- (IOC) family members, Last night’s colourful in the parade. versed, but last night's gled to earn this glorious competitors, officials, and opening ceremony had all For the first time in mega opener offered a moment," the IOC Chief The Sri Lankan contingent preparing for the parade Pic by Prince Gunasekera. the media. the ingredients that were Olympic history, both male glimmer of that light. IOC said. TOKYO OLYMPICS - AN OPENING CEREMONY LIKE NO OTHER

fter a year’s delay, the open- ing ceremony A of the Tokyo 2020 Olympics finally got underway at the National Sta- dium in Tokyo, Japan yesterday. The expectation and anticipa- tion was greater than ever as bil- lions of people around the world watched the proceedings of the big- gest sporting event on the planet live on television. Although there were no spectators at the stadium, Tokyo produced a spectacular opening ceremony with an artistic display soon after the lighting of the Olympic cauldron took place. The Olympics opening ceremony took place under the theme of ‘Unit- ed by Emotion’ because the Games will be held in the face of the COVID- 19 pandemic. SATURDAY, JULY 24, 2021 page 20

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First ODI win in nine years

(July 24) FOREIGN EVENTS CRICKET SRI LANKA CRUISE Ireland vs South Africa (3rd T20I) at Belfast West Indies vs Austral- ia (3rd ODI) at Bridge- town FORMULA ONE TO CONSOLATION Hungarian Grand Prix (third practice and quali- Avishka Fernando in action fying) at the Hungaror- ing (July 24 and 25) FOREIGN EVENTS GAMES WIN AGAINST INDIA 32nd Olympics in Tokyo, Japan already conceded the series 0-2 to their oppo- in the side. Akila Dananjaya took up the SCORECARD CHESS nents produced an improved performance in challenge to open the bowling against FIDE World Cup in both batting and bowling departments. the strong Indian batting line-up and INDIA Jayawickrama 10-0-59-3, D. Moscow, Russia P. Shaw Shanaka 8-0-33-1, R. Mendis After bowling out India for a modest 225 ended up with the best figures of three lbw b Shanaka . . . . . 49 1-0-8-0 (July 25) runs, the Sri Lankan batsmen came out with for 44. LOCAL EVENTS S. Dhawan SRI LANKA their best batting performance in the series to One of his key dismissals was the c Bhanuka b Chameera . 13 A. Fernando CRICKET reach their target with three wickets and eight scalp of middle order batsman Suryaku- S. Samson c Shaw b Chahar . . . . 76 Sri Lanka vs India (1st c Fernando b Jayawickrama 46 M. Bhanuka T20I) at R. Premadasa overs to spare. mar Yadav, who was threatening to take M. Pandey c Sakariya b Gowtham . . 07 Stadium Sri Lanka’s run chase was spearheaded by control of the situation following a rain c Bhanuka b Jayawickrama 11 B. Rajapakse interruption. S. Yadav c Gowtham b Sakariya . . 65 FOREIGN EVENTS dashing opener Avishka Fernando and number lbw b Dananjaya . . . . 40 D. de Silva FORMULA ONE three Bhanuka Rajapakse who were associated The match was halted after 23 overs H. Pandya c and b Sakariya . . . . 02 Hungarian Grand Prix in a match winning second-wicket stand of 109 due to a heavy downpour and India lbw b Jayawickrama . . . 19 C. Asalanka runs in 17 overs. were cruising along at that stage having N. Rana lbw b Pandya . . . . . 24 at the Hungaroring c Bhanuka b Dananjaya . 07 D. Shanaka CRICKET Left-hander Rajapakse was the more aggres- reached a commanding 147 for three. K. Gowtham c Pandey b Chahar . . . 00 Zimbabwe vs Bangla- sive as he took on the Indian bowlers and struck However, after the resumption Sri lbw b Dananjaya . . . . 02 R. Mendis desh (3rd T20I) at Harare Bhanuka Rajapakse plays a shot a dozen boundaries during an entertaining 65 Lanka got their act together well and R. Chahar not out ...... 15 Pix courtesy SLC c and b Karunaratne . . . . . 13 C. Karunaratne from 56 deliveries. put the Indian middle order under tre- N. Saini st Samson b Chahar . . . 03 CHRIS DHAMBARAGE However, Fernando carried his bat almost mendous pressure through some accu- c Fernando b Chameera . 15 A. Dananjaya until the end and ensured Sri Lanka would over- rate bowling. C. Sakariya not out ...... 05 Sri Lanka denied India of making a clean not out ...... 00 Extras: (b4, lb6, nb5, w15) 30 sweep as they clinched the rain-hit third and take India’s score despite losing Dhananjaya de In fact, the visitors lost their last five Extras: (lb1, w9) . . . . 10 Total: (7 wickets, 39 overs) 227 final One Day International (ODI) by three Silva and Skipper Dasun Shanaka cheaply. wickets for the addition of just 46 runs TOTAL: (all out, 43.1 overs) 225 Fall: 1-35, 2-144, 3-151, 4-194, Earlier, some accurate bowling from the spin- with debutant Praveen Jayawickrama Fall: 1-28, 2-102, 3-118, 4-157, 5-195, 6-214, 7-220 wickets on the Duckworth and Lewis scoring 5-179, 6-190, 7-194, 8-195, Bowling: N. Saini 5-0-27-0, C. method at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colom- ners helped Sri Lanka to contain their oppo- also claiming a three-wicket haul after 9-224 Sakariya 8-0-34-2, R. Chahar Miller blitz bo yesterday. nents to 225 in 43.1 overs after India had Shanaka had removed the top scorer BOWLING: D. Chameera 8.1-0- 10-0-54-3, K. Gowtham 8-0-49- elected to bat first having named five debutants Prithvi Shaw for a run-a-ball 49. 55-2, A. Dananjaya 10-0-44-3, 1, H. Pandya 5-0-43-1, N. Rana lifts South Sri Lanka who came into this game having C. Karunaratne 6-0-25-1, P. 3-0-10-0 Africa to series win Richarlison scores hat-trick as Brazil beat Germany at Olympics DINESH WEERAWANSA A counter-attacking 75 not reporting from Japan out from David Miller saved Striker Richarlison scored a first half hat-trick as Brazil South Africa from batting chaos launched their Olympic Gold Medal campaign with a 4-2 win in Stormont, with the tourists over Germany in a key Men’s tournament match on Thursday. eventually winning the second In a repeat of the 2016 Olympic Gold-Medal match in Rio, the T20I by 42 runs to claim the defending champions raced into a commanding lead despite series over Ireland on Thurs- Matheus Cunha having a penalty saved. day. But Richarlison scored on the rebound inside seven minutes. Miller entered with the tour- He scored his second and third goals inside the 30 minutes. ists reeling at 58 for five at the Germany fought back after the half time as goals from Nadiem halfway mark of the innings, Amiri and Ragnar Ache reduced the gap to 2-3. though looked unfazed under But Brazil scored their fourth goal through striker Paulinho to pressure, combining with put the game beyond the Germans’ reach. Wiaan Mulder (36) and the tail Meanwhile, midfielder Franck Kessie scored in Ivory Coast's to add 101 runs from overs 11 2-1 win over Saudi Arabia. In addition, Spain were held to a to 20. scoreless draw by Egypt in the opening game. Richarlison celebrates his hat-trick Needing eight runs an over in response, Ireland struggled to deal with the spin of Bjorn For- tuin (3/16) and Tabraiz Shamsi Tehani Egodawela (3/14), who picked up three Twelve new wickets each. David Miller plays a shot Chief scores COVID-19 cases South Africa: 159/7 in 20 overs (David Miller 75 n.o, Paul Stirling 2/12) Ireland: 117 in 19.3 overs (Tabraiz Shamsi 3/14). (ICC) at Tokyo Games

Aniqah Gaffoor Twelve new COVID-19 cases were detected last night Three Sri Lankan competitors in action today DINESH WEERAWANSA reporting from Japan DINESH WEERAWANSA reporting from Japan afternoon session to determine the first Gold Three Sri Lankan competitors will be seen in Medal in shooting at the Tokyo Olympics. Twelve new COVID-19 cases action at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics today (24). Meanwhile, Gaffoor will swim in lane five of were detected by last night, They are Niluka Karunaratne in badminton heat one of Women’s 100m butterfly qualifying bringing the total number of Men’s Singles first round, Tehani Egodawela in round to be worked off at 7.30 p.m. (4.00 p.m. SL Coronavirus cases related to shooting Women’s 10m air rifle, and Aniqah Gaf- time). the Tokyo Games personnel to foor in Women’s swimming 100m butterfly event. The third Sri Lankan to be seen in action on the 87. Out of all nine Sri Lankans taking part at Tokyo same day will be shuttler Niluka Karunaratne in There have been eight posi- Olympics, Egodawela will be the first to be seen in the first round of Men’s Singles. tive cases directly among the action on Saturday morning, firing in the Wom- Playing in his third Olympics, he will meet Tsz- competitors. en's 10m air rifle event qualification round from Wei Wang of Chinese Taipei in court three of the Six British competitors had 8.30 a.m. local time, 5.00 a.m. Sri Lanka time. Musashino Forest Sport Plaza at 8.00 p.m. (4.30 to isolate themselves in their There are 56 competitors taking part in the first p.m. SL time). There are over 11,300 athletes Athletes’ Games rooms after round with Egodawela to take firing point number from 207 countries who will compete over the being identified as close con- Zimbabwe were due to visit Ireland in August seven. next couple of weeks in Tokyo. tacts of someone on their flight Final round of this event will take place in the who later tested positive for COVID-19. The US tennis player Coco Zimbabwe's tour of Ireland postponed Gauff was forced to abandoned Zimbabwe's tour of Ireland, which the tour in Belfast with the opening her hopes and pulled out from was scheduled to start on August 6, ODI. the Games after testing posi- has been rescheduled, Cricket Ire- The teams were to move to North- tive before arriving in Tokyo, land announced on Thursday. The ern Ireland part for the next two while Great Britain’s Dan Evans visitors were to play three One Day ODIs before returning to Belfast for and Johanna Konta and world Internationals (ODIs) and five the final leg for the tour. Cricket number one shooter Amber T20Is in Belfast and Northern Ire- Ireland, however, stressed the tour is Hill also withdrew from the land. likely to go ahead later next month. games due the COVID-19 pan- Zimbabwe, after their home series (Agencies) demic. against Bangladesh, were to start Niluka Karunaratne

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