Iran warns of ‘severe’ response in wake of Trump’s new strikes threat

Iran has promised to respond harshly to any aggression after United States President Donald Trump threatened further military action, should Tehran attempt to rebuild its nuclear programme or missile capabilities.

Probe launched into inappropriate content in Grade 6 English module

An investigation has been initiated following the discovery of an inappropriate term referenced in the introduction of a Grade 6 English module, Education Ministey Secretary Nalaka Kaluwewa said.

CEB updates on Lakvijaya Power Plant generators: Maintenance underway

The Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) has provided an update on the status of generators at the Lakvijaya (Norochcholai) Coal-fired Power Plant.

Nearly Rs. 5 billion paid to paddy farmers affected by Cyclone Ditwah

Agriculture and Livestock Deputy Minister Namal Karunaratne announced that Rs. 4,983 million has been paid as compensation to 67,460 paddy farmers whose farmlands were destroyed by Cyclone Ditwah.

Market surges on strong buying

The Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE) delivered a strong performance on Tuesday, with both key indices posting significant gains amid heightened trading volumes and improved turnover levels.

Sajith meets UNP seniors to discuss challenges facing Sri Lanka

Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa today met UNP seniors to discuss the challenges facing the nation.

Malinga returns as Sri Lanka’s fast bowling consultant

Former Sri Lanka pace spearhead Lasith Malinga has been appointed as the Consultant – Fast Bowling Coach for the National Men’s Team, the Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) said.

Govt. approves procurement of medicines and medical supplies from local manufacturers

The Cabinet Ministers has approved the procurement of essential medicines and other medical supplies from the State Pharmaceuticals Corporation (SPC) and local manufacturers for the year 2026.

Four automatic passenger clearance gates to install at BIA departure terminal

The government has approved the installation of four automatic passenger clearance gates at the departure terminal of Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) as part of ongoing efforts to upgrade airport facilities to international standards.

Tax relief approved for imported dates for free distribution during Ramadan

The Cabinet approval has been granted for the proposal to grant tax relief on imported dates intended for free distribution during the Ramadan fasting festival.

Colombo–Kandy road temporarily closed at Kiribathgoda due to fire

The Colombo–Kandy main road has been temporarily closed at Kiribathgoda following the fire that broke out at a shop in Kiribathgoda town, police said.

Douglas Devananda admitted to Mahara Prison Hospital

Former Minister Douglas Devananda, who was recently arrested and remanded, has been admitted to the Mahara Prison Hospital.

Fire erupts at textile shop in Kiribathgoda

A fire broke out today at a leadig textile shop in Kiribathgoda town.

Sri Lanka Scout Association provides relief to Ditwah Cyclone victims

The Sri Lanka Scout Association (SLSA) has stepped up to support communities affected by the recent Ditwah cyclone, distributing school books to 1,400 Scouts, shoes to 1,000 Scouts, and providing financial assistance to 21 Scout Leaders for home repairs and electricity restoration. Immediately after the cyclone, over 15,000 families received essential items, including dry rations, cleaning supplies, sanitary products, clothing, and blankets.

CAA warns public over ‘Hair Miracle’ product sold online

The Consumer Affairs Authority (CAA) has taken legal action against a hair care product marketed as Hair Miracle (250g), which was widely sold to consumers through online platforms, citing misleading information provided to the public.

Sri Lankan born Professor knighted in 2026 King’s New Year Honours

Sri Lankan born Professor Nishan Canagarajah, President and Vice-Chancellor of University of Leicester has been knighted in the 2026 King’s New Year Honours for his inestimable contribution to higher education, particularly in championing inclusion.

Johnston’s son Johann Fernando arrested

Johan Fernando, the son of former Minister Johnston Fernando, was arrested by the Financial Crimes Investigation Division (FCID), police said.

Former Sri Lanka U-19 cricketer Akshu Fernando passes away

Former Sri Lanka Under-19 cricketer Akshu Fernando passed away today, after being in a coma for several years following a tragic railway accident.

Kandy lawyer files FR against President, Cabinet over Ditwah disaster management

A lawyer practicing and residing in Kandy has filed a Fundamental Rights petition before the Supreme Court, alleging failures by the President, the Cabinet of Ministers and several state authorities to take timely and coordinated action to mitigate the impact of Cyclonic Storm ‘Ditwah’ despite having prior notice of the impending disaster.

Communist Party of China donates RMB 1 million to Sri Lanka

The International Department of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee will provide relief supplies worth RMB 1 million to Sri Lanka, the Chinese Embassy in Sri Lanka said.

Police unveil special New Year’s Eve traffic plan in Colombo

A special traffic and security plan to be enforced in Colombo on December 31, ahead of New Year 2026 celebrations, with large crowds expected, particularly around the Galle Face Green area, police said.

Re-route Colombo-Kandy rail line, SLSTL tells Govt.

Sri Lanka Society of Transport and Logistics (SLSTL) called for the development of an alternate rail route from Colombo to Kandy in the wake of Cyclone Ditwah which caused extensive damage to the current line.

Beware of Dengue-like Influenza! warns expert

Amid the widespread circulation of seasonal Influenza A and B, medical experts warn that influenza can be mistaken for dengue, as blood count findings may appear similar.

68 per cent landmass of Badulla District prone to landslides

A recent survey carried out by the National Building and Research Organisation (NBRO) has revealed that 68 per cent of the total land area of the Badulla District is vulnerable to any state of landslide.

Bhutan bowler takes 8 for 7 in T20 record

A bowler from Bhutan has become the first cricketer to take eight wickets in a T20 international.

Sri Lanka not healthy enough, falls into bottom 40 healthiest countries in the world

Sri Lanka is ranked as 158 and in the bottom 40 healthiest countries in the world for 2025 with a global health index of 54.55 which is considered below average and unhealthy according to the CEO World Global Health Index 2025.

Corruption allegations galore ahead of CMC budget to be presented second time

Allegations have surfaced that the ruling National People’s Power (NPP) has offered monetary incentives to opposition members of the Colombo Municipal Council (CMC) to ensure their absence at council sessions scheduled for Wednesday, December 31, when the budget is to be presented for the second time.

Ukraine denies drone attack on Putin’s residence

President Volodymyr Zelensky has denied allegations by Russia that Ukraine launched a drone attack on one of President Vladimir Putin’s residences, and accused Moscow of trying to derail peace talks.

Two generators at Norochcholai Coal Power Plant out of service; No power disruption

Two of the three generators at the Norochcholai Coal Power Plant are currently out of service, resulting in a temporary loss of 600 megawatts to the national power grid.

Six ministers under bribery probe over their assets

The Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption has initiated an investigation into the alleged assets of six ministers of the current NPP government under the Money Laundering Act, according to a letter from it.