Defence Secretary Attends Press Briefing on the 78th
National Independence Day Celebrations
January 29, 2026
The arrangements and preparations for the upcoming 78th National Independence Day celebrations were outlined at a media briefing held today (29 January) at the Department of Government Information.
The briefing was attended by the Minister of Public Administration, Provincial Councils and Local Government, Hon. Minister A. H. M. H. Abayarathna; the Defence Secretary, Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuyacontha (Retd); the Secretary to the Ministry of Public Administration, Provincial Councils and Local Government, Mr. Aloka Bandara, Tri-Forces Commanders, the Inspector General of Police, and other senior state officials.
Addressing the media, the Defence Secretary revealed details of the Tri-Forces’ participation at the 78th National Independence Day celebrations, scheduled to be held on 04 February 2026 at the Independence Square in Colombo.
He highlighted the extent of Tri-Forces participation, noting that the Sri Lanka Army, Navy and Air Force, along with the National Cadet Corps (NCC), will contribute ceremonial contingents, bands, cultural segments, parade elements and essential support roles during the celebrations.
The Defence Secretary stated that the Sri Lanka Navy will conduct the ceremonial gun salute at Galle Face Green while the Sri Lanka Air Force will perform a fly-past with 412 and 212 helicopters displaying the National Flag.
He further informed that rehearsals will commence from 30 January to 02 February to ensure the smooth and precise execution of the ceremony, including full-dress and timing rehearsals ahead of the main event. The main ceremony will be held under the patronage of His Excellency the President on the morning of 04 February.
In addition to their ceremonial duties, the Tri-Forces will also implement a series of programmes aligned with the “Clean Sri Lanka” concept, reaffirming their commitment to national development, public service and civic responsibility.
