Technology vs. Geography: The new doctrine of national survival

The military conflict that erupted on February 28, between the United States-Israel alliance and Iran has fundamentally challenged the traditional dogmas of modern warfare. On one side stands a superpower with a defence budget nearing one trillion US Dollars, equipped with the pinnacle of technological military hardware - stealthy fighter jets, carrier strike groups, and sophisticated AWACS. On the other is a nation with a fraction of that budget

For health stand with science

On this World Health Day (7 April), we are reminded of a simple yet powerful truth: health is not static, and neither are the challenges we face. This year’s theme, ‘Together for Health. Stand with Science’ calls on us not just to trust science, but to actively use it to navigate an increasingly complex world.

Clearance at Heen Ela sanctuary: An urban marshland in peril

Residents living near the Heen Ela sanctuary in Nawala have raised concerns regarding development activities happening in its surroundings.

From Nationals to Global Stage: SL Young Innovators Lead in Robotics

A new generation of digital pioneers is rising from the classrooms of Sri Lanka as the nation’s robotics scene hits warp speed. The 2026 National World Robot Olympiad has witnessed an unprecedented surge in interest, with participation figures more than doubling as over 500 young innovators descended on Colombo to showcase their mechanical mastery.

Passion play explores Jesus’ predictions of his own death

As the world commemorates Easter Sunday, Manushya Puththraya (Marcan Jesus: Passion Play) offers a profound reflection on one of the most striking yet often overlooked aspects of Jesus’ journey—his repeated predictions of his own death and the disciples’ consistent failure to understand them.

Goodbye Manel: A Tribute to Manel Eriyagama

On 18th January, 2026 I bade Goodbye to one of my dearest friends -- Manel Eriyagama. Our friendship of over sixty years, begun as youthful undergraduates, ripened and progressed steadily through different stages and ages -- and finally moved gracefully into old age.

Remembering Mahes Vivekananda Rajah

There are more colors on the palette of memories. There is laughter and joy in the sweetness of remembrances. Our friendship with Mahes was entwined with our sister-in-law Rukmani, the younger sister of Mahes.

The Silent Cross: Why suffering befalls the innocent!

On this Good Friday, as millions observe the anniversary of a Roman execution two millennia ago, a haunting question hangs over the church pews and the city streets alike: If God is good, why do the innocent suffer? It is the oldest wound in the human psyche. We can almost wrap our heads around ‘poetic justice’ – the idea that bad actions lead to bad outcomes. But when a child falls ill, when a natural disaster levels a village, or when the kind

Environmental effects of substandard coal

Doctors’ Trade Union Alliance for Medical and Civil Rights (DTUAMCR) has warned of the dangers of rising mercury level in fish in the sea and the lagoons due to the environmental effects of the combustion of substandard coal and the possible health hazard of eating fish with increased mercury level.

That First Good Friday - “He came to that which was His own but His own did not receive Him.” John 1: 11

A fresh Lament...where my tears flow unashamedly [Written on Oct.10th 2023] If I cannot weep for my “neighbour” who is the ‘other’ I must look deep into my heart I know Where “consciously or unconsciously” I choose to prefer One, above the other. Yet, in God’s eyes He has no favourites For it was the Samaritan who helped the fallen man said He O God give each of us hearts of deep love & compassion for the Muslim, the Hindu, the Buddhist & yes th

After Ditwah, the Malaiyaha community struggles to start life from zero

Three months after Ditwah, K. Malarvizhi from Agarathenna, Badulla lives in a tea shed converted into a temporary shelter, shared with dozens others who were displaced following the devastating cyclone. Initially, around 48 families were cramped into this tea shed, where men and women living there were separated by a small space in the middle. The conditions they live in are so dire that they cannot imagine returning to normalcy anytime soon. Whi

Chinese Foreign Minister’s visit is an opportunity for Socialists!

The impending visit of Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi is being hailed as a historical homecoming, drawing parallels to the protection offered by Admiral Zheng He centuries before Western boots touched Lankan soil. As the island grapples with a volatile exchange rate and looming 2028 loan repayments, analysts suggest that “Socialist China” offers more than just a diplomatic handshake—it offers a blueprint for transformation. By leveraging the Be

Double Sunrise at 85: Remembering a Shared Aviation Milestone

Eighty-five years ago, the skies over the Indian Ocean bore witness to a feat of aviation so daring it felt more like science fiction than wartime logistics. Between 1943 and 1945, the “Double Sunrise” flights—the longest non-stop commercial journeys of their era—tethered Western Australia to the southern shores of Ceylon. In a world fractured by conflict, these Consolidated PBY Catalina flying boats became a vital umbilical cord, navigating 5,50

RUSSIA PREFERS LONG TERM ENERGY COOPERATION, NOT SPOT TRADE ON OIL, GAS - DEPUTY RUSSIAN FM

International dynamics keep changing in the present climax. The countries’ roles fast evolve. Sri Lanka is making fresh approaches in its engagements, particularly for energy security. Against the backdrop, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Andrey Rudenko is visiting Sri Lanka for a five-day diplomatic trip.

US eyes Sri Lanka, as the UK wavers over Diego Garcia

The shifting tides of the Indian Ocean have placed Sri Lanka at the heart of a high-stakes geopolitical gambit. As Iran’s intermediate-range ballistic missiles successfully challenge the perceived invulnerability of the UK-US base at Diego Garcia, the Pentagon faces a crisis of geography and diplomacy.

C190 to save Lankan workers from gender based violence

Violence and harassment faced by workers is a widespread and persistent challenge that needs to be addressed. The International Labour Organization (ILO) Convention No. 190 (C190) is the first international treaty to address violence and harassment in the world of work.

A Buddhist perspective on ageing and decay

Buddhism is renowned for its profound insights into ageing and decay, known as jara in Pali. Through its teachings and practices, Buddhism cultivates the wisdom and mental clarity necessary to accept and prepare for the inevitability of ageing.

Taking the ‘smoke’ out of smoking

For decades, Governments around the world have tried to reduce smoking by fighting it on every possible front - higher taxes, advertising bans, packaging restrictions, public-place prohibitions and increasingly strict regulation of nicotine products themselves.

The turmoil in the Middle East = Sri Lanka in economic trouble

If there was one thing that was sure to happen as an external factor that would affect the economy of Sri Lanka, it was the turmoil in the Middle East. This has been a constant since 1948 when Israel was established. All governments and organizations that have existed in this country have either had to deal with a war or some kind of disruption in the Middle East. Historically most of them have completely and utterly failed to deal with this issu

Exemplary combination of ability, discipline and integrity

Asoka Sriwickrama Abeywardene qualified as a Chartered Accountant in 1968, at a time when the profession was highly selective and recognised for its rigorous standards. Admission to the profession during that era was reserved for individuals who combined intellectual ability, professional discipline, personal integrity, and refined communication skills. Asoka exemplified these qualities in abundance, possessing a strong intellect, sound strategic

Iran’s fighting several wars as Lebanon and Gaza suffer

Iran gained much worldwide sympathy since the US and Israel began their ferocious and indiscriminate bombing raids on Iran, even killing schoolchildren. But Iran’s brutal war against its own people continues unabated. While the Iranian Government has gained respect, if not sympathy, for the way it has stood up to massive bullying by the US and Israel, its own dark side is now conveniently sidelined.

Good Shepherd sisters mark 82 years in Montessori Method

As the world marked 120 years of opening of the first preschool for children, “Casa Dei Bambini” or ‘House of Children’ by legendary Dr. Maria Montessori in Rome, Italy marked on January 6, Sri Lanka celebrated the 82nd anniversary of initiating the same education method with our children and teachers.

Next Generation National STEM Technology Innovation Hubs

Sri Lanka stands today at a critical turning point in its national development. Across the world, economies are being reshaped by rapid advances in artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, mechatronics, automation, advanced manufacturing, Internet of Things (IoT) technologies, cyber physical systems, and next generation digital infrastructures such as 5G communication networks.

Dr. Thilanga Sumathipala launches “An Island of Balance”

An Island of Balance, a compelling new research publication authored by Dr. Thilanga Sumathipala was officially launched during a ceremony held on March 12 at the Prof. Lakshman Dissanayake Auditorium at the University of Colombo.

‘The J.R. I Did Not Like’: A book that helps readers grasp the complexities of politics

The official launch of the book “Maa Akamathiwa siti J.R.” (The J.R. I Disliked), based on the J.R. Jayewardene Memorial Lecture delivered by former Parliamentarian Imthiaz Bakeer Markar, along with its Tamil and English translations, will be held on March 30 (Monday) at 4:15 PM at the J.R. Jayewardene Centre (191, Dharmapala Mawatha, Colombo 07). Speakers in the likes of Dr. Ranga Kalansooriya (Regional Advisor (Asia), International Media Suppor

The Inland Revenue Department marks its 94th Anniversary on 2nd April TAX PAYERS’ SERVICES: A Pathway to enhance compliance

As the Inland Revenue Department celebrates 94 years of service, taxation remains the bedrock of Sri Lanka’s fiscal stability and social progress. In an era of rapid globalisation, the department is pivoting toward a digital-first, taxpayer-friendly culture to foster public trust and voluntary compliance. By integrating virtual assistants and AI-driven solutions, we are streamlining the tax experience, ensuring quality standards that meet modern

Robotics Takes Centre Stage as WRO National Selections Return to Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka’s technological landscape reaches a new milestone as the World Robot Olympiad (WRO) National Selections 2026 return to Burhani Serendib School. With participation nearly tripling to 66 teams, the event highlights a surging national interest in STEM education. Under the theme “Robots Meet Culture,” over 500 attendees will witness young innovators blending tradition with cutting-edge engineering. Supported by government and diplomatic dig

Indispensable in Commerce, but Invisible in Conflict: How a Small State Survives a Big War

History rarely announces its turning points with clarity. It prefers ambiguity, miscalculation and often the quiet arrogance of great powers. The present crisis surrounding Iran, Israel, U.S and the GCC carries all three. What appears for now as a regional conflict threatens to metastasize into something far larger perhaps even systemic. For small states, especially those perched along vital arteries of global trade, the question is not who wi

Trinity College London in Sri Lanka: Top Scorers’ of 2025 examinations to be celebrated this Saturday

The Trinity College London in Sri Lanka Top scorers’ concert and awards ceremony is a much anticipated event in the country’s speech, drama and performance arts calendar. This year, over 350 students will receive prizes at the awards ceremony followed by a showcase of their winning performances. One of the main objectives of having this concert annually is to provide a platform for students to showcase their talents to a wider audience.

Grave situation on lawyers’ safety; needs international intervention: Politicians of Opposition

Several politicians of the Sri Lankan Opposition, write to international organisations of legal professionals seeking their “suitable intervention” to address the grave threats to the life and safety of lawyers working in the country.