http://www.defence.lk MOD News - www.defence.lk - 24/7 en-us Copyright (c) 2006 Ministry of Defence - SriLanka March 10 Thursday 2010, 03:31:30 March 10 Tuesday 2010, 03:31:30 webinfo@defence.lk http://www.defence.lk/mashd.gif http://www.defence.lk 11/03/2010 14:10:12 On recommendations of the Commander of the Army Lieutenant General Jagath Jayasuriya, His Excellency, the President Mahinda Rajapaksa, has appointed two Courts Martial to try former Chief of Defence Staff and Commander of the Army General Sarath Fonseka... http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100311_14 11/03/2010 11:40:12 Troops uncovered war materials while continuing clearing operations in liberated area to ensure the security of the civilians, a report received from the Army HQ said. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100311_13 11/03/2010 08:20:12 As to provide effective service for civilians in the North, Northern Provincial Council (NPC) collaborating with the PEACE project, have distributed motorbikes among the departments of the NPC recently. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100311_12 11/03/2010 08:20:12 De-mining teams of army and INGOs are continuing their operations to clear the liberated areas in order to provide maximum security for the civilians to be resettled under the government resettlement programs underway. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100311_11 11/03/2010 05:29:00 The USAID yesterday handed over livelihood equipment to help over 550 former LTTE combatants to start new civilian jobs on 09 March 2010. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100311_10 11/03/2010 05:29:00 Around 13,000 hygiene packs have been handed over to the regional director of health services by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and another 12,000 packs will be distributed soon for the benefit of the IDP women and girls. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100311_09 11/03/2010 05:29:00 The Government has released and resettled a total number of 182,005 IDPs as at March 4, 2010, stated the Ministry of Disaster Management and Human Rights in its latest report. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100311_08 11/03/2010 05:29:00 A passport office will be opened soon in Jaffna for the benefit of the people of Northern Province, Controller General of Immigration and Emigration, P. B. Abeykoon said. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100311_07 11/03/2010 05:29:00 The number of tourist arrivals in Sri Lanka went up 67.7 % to 57,300 in the month of February 2010, compared to February 2009 which was only 34,169, according to the latest figures released by the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100311_06 11/03/2010 05:29:00 At a ceremony held at the Divisional Secretariat Office in Adampan on 05 March 2010, attended by a large gathering of people of the area, 50 Sewing Machines were distributed to recipients. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100311_05 11/03/2010 05:29:00 The Director General of the Media Center for National Security (MCNS), Mr. Lakshman Hulugalle stated at a media briefing on Tuesday (09th March) that at a time when there is intense political interest generated as a result of representatives of political parties struggling to secure preferential votes to represent their electorates at the forthcoming elections a series of conferences under the direction of Secretary Defense will be held island wide to ensure national security. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100311_04 11/03/2010 07:51:35 Moves are underway to establish 10 large scale coconut oil manufacturing plants in the Northern Province, Plantation Industries Minister D.M. Jayaratne said. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100311_03 11/03/2010 07:51:35 General Sir John Kotalawala Defence University (KDU) Vice Chancellor Major General Milinda Peiris yesterday stated that the Aeronautic Engineering Faculty of KDU is open from this year for the civil students who are qualified for university entrance. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100311_02 11/03/2010 07:51:35 National Integration and Reconciliation Minister Vinayagamurthi Muralitharan presided a distribution of material to reconstruct the war ravaged Kiran and Vakarai. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100311_01 10/03/2010 07:51:35 The period of terrorism prevailed in last three decade was a gloomy period not only to the innocent people lived in the North and East but also to all people throughout the country. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100310_14 10/03/2010 07:51:35 A distribution ceremony was organized by the PEACE Project and held on 09th March 2010 at Governor's Secretariat, Northern Province, Trincomalee under the chairmanship of Hon. Governor, Northern Province Major General GA Chandrasiri. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100310_13 10/03/2010 07:51:35 The water plant Hyacinth (Eichhornia) are spreaded on the surface area of the reservoir and causes loss of water due to evapotranspiration. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100310_12 10/03/2010 07:51:35 Sri Lankan Army Troops engaging search and clearing operations in liberated areas yesterday also (09 March) recovered some warlike items hidden by LTTE terrorists. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100310_11 10/03/2010 07:51:35 Indonesian Defence Attach‚ calls on the CDS The new Defence Attach‚ of the Republic of Indonesia, Colonel (Navy) I Putu Arya Angga Suardika paid a visit to Air Force Head Quarters yesterday morning (09 March 2010) to pay a traditional call of courtesy to Acting Chief of Defence Staff and the Commander of the Sri Lanka Air Force Air Chief Marshal Roshan Goonetileke. He was accompanied by the Indonesian Ambassador to Sri Lanka Dlafar Husein. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100310_10 10/03/2010 07:51:35 While the shift of focus is fast changing, Sri Lanka Army is earnestly determined to do its maximum by bringing about the reconciliation between Jaffna people and Security Forces serving the Jaffna peninsula. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100310_09 10/03/2010 07:51:35 General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University (KDU) Vice Chancellor invited university qualified sporty and healthy youth to join the KDU and intelligent, highly capable and motivated graduates to be officers of the Armed Forces of Sri Lanka. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100310_08 10/03/2010 07:51:35 Sri Lanka's High Commissioner to London Justice Nihal Jayasinghe in a letter to Member of the House of Commons William Hague (Conservative) referring to the latter's speech at the Global Tamil Forum (GTF) wherein he mentions that the resourcefulness and energy of the Tamil diaspora would be crucial to the success of the GTF, says that this was a legitimation of separation in Sri Lanka. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100310_07 10/03/2010 07:51:35 The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) extends support for the health and safety of displaced women and girls who are returning, particularly those who are pregnant. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100310_06 10/03/2010 07:51:35 Fishermen are now allowed deep sea fishing during the whole day and to the full extent of the country's territorial waters. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100310_05 10/03/2010 07:51:35 The Asian Development Bank (ADB) is providing additional financial assistance for the rehabilitation of conflict-affected areas in the Northern Province, particularly to assist the return and resettlement of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs). http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100310_04 10/03/2010 07:51:35 The prospects for Sri Lanka's economy is bright and optimistic with much potential for massive scale growth and development, as revealed by various independent economic observations. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100310_03 10/03/2010 07:51:35 The police investigating covert LTTE operations in the city and its suburbs have arrested two Customs officers for their alleged involvement with LTTE intelligence chief Shanmugalingam Sivashankar alias Pottu Amman. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100310_02 10/03/2010 07:51:35 Prime Minister Ratnasiri Wickramanayaka told Parliament yesterday that there were international forces unfavourable to us attempting to strengthen the LTTE terrorist organisation abroad. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100310_01 09/03/2010 07:51:35 It was a happy moment for Private Karunarathne and family. A dream come true. Private WMM Karunarathne- a war hero of the Sri Lanka Army Gajaba Regiment (GR) could own a place that he and his beloved family would call 'Home'. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100309_08 09/03/2010 05:39:48 Sri Lanka Navy provided facilities for the annual Feast of St.Anthony's Church at Palaithivu Island, which was held on 6th and 7th of February 2010. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100309_06 09/03/2010 01:55:45 The summary of evidence over charges against retired General Sarath Fonseka, made in compliance with provisions of the Army Act was completed and handed over to the Commander of the Army Lieutenant General Jagath Jayasuriya on the weekend. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100309_05 09/03/2010 01:55:45 Creating a golden opportunity to enter tri forces after obtaining a degree, the KOTHALAWALA Defence University is ready to recruit Officer Cadets for its Intake 28 in the year 2010. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100309_03 09/03/2010 01:55:45 India is considering Sri Lanka's request for additional aid to ensure resettlement of internally displaced persons. External affairs Minister S.M. Krishna said Sri Lanka had conveyed to India that it needs building material to house these IDPs. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100309_02 09/03/2010 01:55:45 A Tourism Development Action Plan for Eastern Province has been implemented by the Tourism Ministry aiming to boost the tourism sector in the province. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100309_01 08/03/2010 07:06:39 Sri Lanka Army Troops engaging the clearing and search operation in liberated areas yesterday (7th March) also recovered some warlike items hidden by the LTTE terrorists in the final phase of the war. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100308_08 08/03/2010 07:06:39 Terrorism was a huge barrier to ensuring women's economic empowerment and guaranteeing their dignity, honour and security. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100308_07 08/03/2010 07:05:39 Under the guidance of the Ministry of Plantation Industries, the Coconut Development Authority is to set up 10 large scale coconut oil production facilities in the North. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100308_06 08/03/2010 07:04:39 India and Sri Lanka are "sister countries", which shared a "model, unique, and time-tested" relationship, stated the Indian Foreign Secretary, Nirupama Rao. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100308_05 08/03/2010 05:15:39 IGP Mahinda Balasuriya said after re- opening the new Pooneryn Police Station another eight police stations would be set up in the Kilinochchi and Mullaitivu Districts. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100308_02 08/03/2010 05:15:39 IGP Mahinda Balasuriya said after re- opening the new Pooneryn Police Station another eight police stations would be set up in the Kilinochchi and Mullaitivu Districts. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100308_02 08/03/2010 02:55:39 The National Library and Documentation Services Board has launched a program to develop all libraries which were destroyed in LTTE terrorists activities in the North. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100308_01 07/03/2010 16:01:39 The Indian Foreign Secretary Shrimathi Nirupama Rao who met President Mahinda Rajapaksa today congratulated the President for... http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100307_07 07/03/2010 15:55:39 The Government is now geared to meet the transmission and communication needs equally of the North as well as the South. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100307_06 07/03/2010 08:10:39 ondoning his elite master cum terror Chief Prabakaran for the perceived 'plight' of certain 'Tamil' interest groups including sections of the esoteric diaspora community, former TNA parliamentarian group leader R. Sampanthan... http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100307_03 07/03/2010 02:37:39 Mount Lavinia Chief Magistrate and Additional District Judge Harsha Sethunga yesterday (March 6) issued an open warrant for the arrest of Parnaliyanage Don Sujeewa Kumara who allegedly provided the money recovered from four vaults at a private bank belonging to Asoka Tillekeratne, mother of Danuna Tillekeratne. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100307_02 07/03/2010 02:35:39 The Ministry of Defence Seva Vanitha Unit(SVU), Friday (March 5), presented deeds for two war heroes who had received houses under the SVU welfare scheme. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100307_01 06/03/2010 09:53:39 President Mahinda Rajapaksa has pointed out that the intention of the UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon to appoint a panel of experts to advice him (i.e. the SG) on Sri Lanka is totally uncalled for and unwarranted. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100306_05 06/03/2010 03:31:30 Sri Lanka's envoy to Pakistan has warned that some LTTE leaders could take refuge in the UK in the guise of asylum seekers. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100306_03 06/03/2010 03:31:30 Mt. Lavinia Magistrate Harsha Setunga yesterday issued an arrest warrant on a suspect wanted in connection with the detection of over Rs. 75 million in the safe lockers of Ms. Ashoka Thilakaratna, mother of Danuna Thilakarana, who is also evading arrest. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100306_02 06/03/2010 03:31:30 German prosecutors said Friday that they have arrested six people suspected of being members of a wing of the Tamil Tiger rebels and of forcing Tamils living in Germany to make donations to the banned group. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100306_01 05/03/2010 12:56:46 "Murungagasyaye Gnanissara Nahimi Foundation" granted scholarships for nine school children of late war heroes under the patronage of Mrs. Iyoma Rajapaksa, Chairwoman of Seva Vanitha Unit of the Ministry of Defence, at the Ministry premises today (05 Mar). http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100305_11 05/03/2010 12:56:46 "Murungagasyaye Gnanissara Nahimi Foundation" granted scholarships for nine school children of late war heroes under the patronage of Mrs. Iyoma Rajapaksa, Chairwoman of Seva Vanitha Unit of the Ministry of Defence, at the Ministry premises today (05 Mar). http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100305_11 05/03/2010 12:56:46 Old Anandians live in UK handed over a sum of Rs. 1,750,000.00 for the welfare of war heroes to Secretary Defence Mr. Gotabaya Rajapaksa at the Ministry, today (05 March). http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100305_10 05/03/2010 12:56:46 Old Anandians live in UK handed over a sum of Rs. 1,750,000.00 for the welfare of war heroes to Secretary Defence Mr. Gotabaya Rajapaksa at the Ministry, today (05 March). http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100305_09 05/03/2010 11:57:41 Governor, Northern Province prods youngsters to follow "Live and let Live" policy and encourages development of Team Spirit in them. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100305_08 05/03/2010 11:57:41 The General Sir John Kotelawela Defence University (KDU), which is the only Defence University in the country, offers many degree programs to suit Science, Arts and Commerce students. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100305_07 05/03/2010 03:06:39 During their unrelenting and risky operations, specifically designed to rid all kinds of buried LTTE mines and unexploded devices (UXOs) from the Wilpattu National Park... http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100305_06 05/03/2010 03:06:39 "Due to the sacrifices of our war heroes- three forces and the police today we are able to reap dividends of peace in our motherland, ending a three decade prolonged scourge of terrorism", said Secretary Defence Mr. Gotabaya Rajapaksa. Mr. Gotabaya Rajapaksa made these views, addressing a large gathering as Chief Guest on the commencement of a war hero welfare project held at Boossa Army camp in Galle, yesterday (March 4). http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100305_05 05/03/2010 03:06:39 President Mahinda Rajapaksa Thursday (March 4) said human smuggling and drug peddling activities could effectively be curbed with the establishment of a Coast Guard Force. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100305_04 05/03/2010 03:06:39 The supply of rice, vegetables, fruits and other local produce from the North and East has increased rapidly with the opening of the A-9 road after 30 years, said Trade, Marketing Development and Consumer Affairs Minister Bandula Goonewardena. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100305_03 04/03/2010 02:55:33 Sri Lanka's Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Dr Palitha Kohona has won the Global Citizenship award presented by the Orphans International Worldwide during a grand reception held at the Webster Hall in New York, USA. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100304_08 04/03/2010 02:55:33 Around 300 farmers in Vavuniya have been beneficiaries of a bountiful harvest received from a pilot corn cultivation project initiated by Plenty Foods a subsidiary of Ceylon Biscuits Limited. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100304_07 04/03/2010 02:55:33 The Information Technology Business Process Outsourcing (IT-BPO) program organised by the Information and Communication Technology Agency of Sri Lanka (ICTA) created huge interest among the student population of the North. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100304_06 04/03/2010 02:55:33 The first ever inaugural Jaffna International Trade Fair 2010(JITF) will be held from April 18 to 20 at the Jaffna Central College. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100304_05 04/03/2010 02:55:33 Media Minister Lakshman Yapa Abeywardena expressing regret over the statement made by retired Chief Justice Sarath N Silva yesterday said the Government has not violated Sarath Fonseka's Fundamental Rights in any way. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100304_03 04/03/2010 02:55:33 The newly constructed Mannar bridge and renovated causeway are ready to be opened after 97 percent of the construction work is complete. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100304_02 04/03/2010 02:55:33 Colombo Fort Magistrate and Additional District Judge Lanka Jayaratne yesterday refused an application for bail of HICORP (Pvt) Limited Director Wellington Dehoedt, who had been remanded in connection with an alleged arms deal and remanded till March 17. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100304_04 03/03/2010 05:37:33 Sri Lanka Army troops continued clearing operation in liberated areas uncovered more LTTE military hardware from Ampara and Velarsinnakulam yesterday (02 March), military sources said. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100303_09 03/03/2010 02:45:28 A new police investigation unit will be set up to inquire into complaints of alleged misconduct of organized groups and individuals who engage in deceiving people by using the names of President Mahinda Rajapaksa, Defence Secretary Gotabaya Rajapaksa and their family members. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100303_04 03/03/2010 02:45:28 Sri Lanka Railways has earned a Rs. 28 million income transporting 300 containers carrying essential goods by rail to the North after a lapse of 20 years. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100303_04 03/03/2010 02:45:28 There have been three million local and foreign visitors to North in the months of January and February. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100303_03 03/03/2010 02:45:28 Kalpitiya provides an ideal location for nature-based tourism. Its strategic location and abundance of natural resources, close proximity to Wilpattu National Park, Cultural Triangle and international airport, makes it an ideal destination for an exotic branded location. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20100303_08