Illegal sand mining, mineral extraction, and large wind power plants are perceived as a danger to the delicate biodiversity of the island. Many do not see these projects as development, but rather as causing even greater damage than war.
Controversy is raging in the country over the different treatment by authorities and institutions. The authorities promise investigations and punishment for those who violate the laws. Domestic tourism is essential to sustain the economy after the Easter massacres and Covid. AsiaNews reports on local people being denied entry, especially during the high season.
On the day that marks the arrival of Arahant Mahinda Thero in Sri Lanka, Christians and Tamils also organised special "dansala", free food, to celebrate the festival. One group made a significant step by handing out coconut saplings, which will bear fruit over the years.
The discovery was made thanks to the work of the Rubber Research Institute of Sri Lanka (RRISL). The global problem affects plants by delaying the production of the nutrients they need, impacting latex output. With the disease, yields drop by up to 40 per cent. The problem could get worse in the future.
Several civil society groups have presented an appeal to the Ministry of Justice after it announced new legislation. They want the government to immediately and unconditionally scrap the existing law. But for Justice Minister Nanayakkara, it is “essential”. Adopted in 1982, the PTA has been used to silence critical voices and oppress minorities, such as Tamils and Muslims. Critics demand that ordinary, not special laws, be used, and that those convicted be provided compensation as well as physical and mental health care.
A student who took her own life at Wayamba National College of Education has sparked student protests and prompted the Ministry of Education to launch an investigation. For Father Gamunu Dias, National Director of Catholic Education, no one can be indifferent. This should never happen again while young people and future teachers must be protected.
