Construction work has commenced on 17 new houses at Mohomadiwatta, Palindanuwara, under a special housing project aimed at providing permanent shelter for families affected by the 2017 natural disaster.

The initiative, valued at Rs. 34 million, is being implemented with the joint contribution of the Health and Media Ministry and the Ministry of Agriculture and Community Infrastructure. 

Of the total, 12 houses will be built under the Agriculture Ministry with oversight by the Divisional Secretariat, while five houses will be constructed through the Indian Housing Assistance Project with the involvement of the National Housing Development Authority.

At the same event, housing assistance cheques worth Rs. 1 million each were distributed to 16 low‑income beneficiaries in the Palindanuwara Divisional Secretariat area under the second phase of the “A Place of Their Own, A Beautiful Life” programme. 

Eight families benefited in the first phase, while 55 have been selected for the third.

Health Minister Nalinda Jayatissa, who presided over the ceremony alongside Deputy Minister Sundaralingam Pradeep, said the project fulfills a long‑awaited dream for disaster‑affected families who have lived without permanent homes for nine years. 

He noted that the Maleyigama community, which settled in Sri Lanka 200 years ago, is now receiving deeds and permanent addresses for the first time under the present Government.

The Minister further announced that Rs. 2000 billion, the largest allocation in history, will be set aside for development projects in the coming year, stressing that funds earmarked for disaster relief must be used solely for that purpose. (Newswire)

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Minister Nalinda Jayatissa has dismissed claims by MP Namal Rajapaksa that attempts are being made to arrest him out of fear of a rally organized in Anuradhapura.

Speaking to reporters on the matter, Jayatissa said measures taken against Rajapaksa are based on court proceedings, adding that the MP is well aware of his own actions. 

He noted that agencies such as the CID, FCID and the Bribery Commission have yet to fully uncover the extent of Rajapaksa’s conduct.

Jayatissa stressed that investigations are aimed at proving wrongdoing through evidence, and that it is natural for someone guilty of misconduct to feel apprehensive. 

He further remarked that if Rajapaksa believed he was facing arrest, he should have held his rally earlier.

The Minister added that anyone found guilty of wrongdoing will be dealt with according to the law, urging Rajapaksa to face legal proceedings without evasion. (Newswire)

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The government expects to conduct the Provincial Council elections at the earliest possible time, Cabinet Spokesperson, Minister Nalinda Jayatissa said today.

Responding to a question at the post-Cabinet media briefing regarding a recent statement by MP Nilanthi Kottahachchi that the elections would not be held, the Minister clarified that the government has already allocated funds for the polls.

He explained that if Parliament enacts the necessary legislation and completes the delimitation process within this year, elections can be conducted.

“The expectation of the government is to hold the Provincial Council elections quickly. There is no idea that the elections will not be held. A committee has already been appointed in Parliament, and the work must proceed through it,” Jayatissa said.

The Minister stressed that elections cannot be held without a legal framework, underscoring the need for Parliament to pass the required law without delay. (Newswire)

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The government will continue the QR system for fuel distribution as Middle East conflicts remain unresolved, Cabinet Spokesperson, Minister Nalinda Jayatissa said today.

Responding to a question at the post-Cabinet media briefing, the Minister said the QR mechanism must remain in place to manage supplies, noting that while consumption has reduced, the impact is limited. 

Minister Jayatissa further explained that instability in the Strait of Hormuz continues to affect global oil prices, with barrel costs fluctuating. “The oil crisis has not yet been resolved. As a country, we are using this system to maintain daily life as much as possible without disruption,” he said.

According to the Minister, diesel consumption has dropped by 10% and petrol by 9% since the QR system was introduced. Supplies are being prioritized for essential sectors. He added that the Ceylon Petroleum Corporation is expected to continue the system for some time. (Newswire)

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A series of renovated units and upgraded infrastructure facilities at the Kalutara Nagoda Teaching Hospital were officially commissioned for patient care services on Sunday (16) under the patronage of Minister of Health Nalinda Jayatissa.

According to the Ministry of Health, it has invested more than Rs. 134 million in the development programme, aimed at delivering more qualitative, efficient, and comfortable health services while strengthening the hospital’s overall capacity.

Among the facilities upgraded were the Out‑Patient Department, main pharmacy, clinics, corridors leading to wards, wards 21 and 22, the health education and public health services building, and the psychiatric treatment ward. 

In addition, doctors’ quarters, nurses’ rest rooms, and junior staff rest rooms were renovated, while a newly constructed minor services administration office was opened. A repaired three‑wheeler was also handed over for hospital use.

Minister Jayatissa told the media that effective management of state funds and prioritization had enabled the recruitment of essential human resources for health services. He added that hospital construction projects previously abandoned are now being resumed, with Rs. 45 billion allocated to complete them within two years.

The Minister further noted that modern medical equipment is being supplied to hospitals, including 16 state‑of‑the‑art cath labs already distributed at a cost of Rs. 3,150 million. CT and MRI machines are also being provided, with a list of equipment needs for the coming year already prepared. (Newswire)

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Minister Nalinda Jayatissa says several causes have been identified for recent clashes in prisons, and that remedies are being applied while investigations continue.

Speaking at today’s Cabinet decisions media briefing, the Minister confirmed that the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) has already launched probes into the incidents.

On the Negombo Prison clash, Jayatissa revealed that statements have been recorded from over 1,500 individuals, including inmates and officials. 

He added that 61 suspects have been named in connection with killings during the unrest, while one person was taken into police custody yesterday (10). Facts relating to the incident have been reported to the Negombo Magistrate’s Court.

Regarding the Mahara Prison incident, statements have been recorded from 925 individuals, while inquiries are also underway into the Kuruwita Prison clash.

The Minister emphasized that individuals connected to the clashes are being identified, and noted that the CID is investigating whether there are interconnections between the incidents as well as possible involvement of external parties. (Newswire)

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Cabinet Spokesman Nalinda Jayatissa clarified today that the government has explained its judicial reform programme to the Chief Prelates of the three Nikayas, following reports of a letter sent to the President opposing the constitutional amendment to extend the retirement age of judges.

Responding to a question at the post- Cabinet media briefing held today, Jayatissa said he and the Minister of Justice met the Chief Prelates of the Asgiriya, Malwathu and Ramanna Nikaya together, and later held discussions with the Chief Prelate of the Amarapura Nikaya.

He explained that the discussions went beyond the retirement age issue, covering the government’s broader judicial reforms aimed at reducing case backlogs, streamlining processes, and improving efficiency. 

Measures outlined included strengthening the Judiciary, Attorney General’s Department, Prisons, Government Analyst’s Department, and Judicial Services Commission; expediting recruitment and filling vacancies; increasing magistrates’ court hearings; establishing new appeal courts; digitalizing institutions; amending laws to address delays; and improving allowances and facilities for judges.

Jayatissa stressed that the extension of retirement age was not targeted at any single individual, but applied across the judiciary from magistrates to Supreme Court judges, covering around 400 judges whose retirement age would be extended by two years.

He added that the Chief Prelates listened to the government’s explanations, acknowledged the reforms, and expressed agreement if the measures would reduce delays and benefit the public. (Newswire)

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The Ministry of Health today handed over another fully equipped mobile drug test bus to the National Transport Medical Institute, strengthening the nationwide program aimed at ensuring safety in public transport.

The bus, bearing number PZA – 0040, was officially presented by Minister of Health Nalinda Jayatissa, who also serves as Chief Organizer of the Government Party in Parliament, to Professor Clifford Perera, Chairman of the National Transport Medical Institute, at a ceremony held at the Ministry premises.

The initiative forms part of the National Road Safety Program launched by the Ministry of Transport, Highways and Urban Development, and is expected to expand further under the medium‑term strategic plan.

The mobile testing program, which checks drivers, conductors, and assistants in public transport for drug use while on duty, is currently operating across five provinces. With resources being gradually developed, the Institute plans to extend the program to other provinces.

Authorities noted that under the national random drug testing program, 7,150 tests have already been conducted. With inter‑ministerial cooperation, short‑, medium‑, and long‑term measures are being implemented to reduce road accidents and protect lives and property.

The event was attended by Deputy Minister of Health Dr. Hansaka Wijemuni, Additional Secretaries Janaka Kitsiri Gunawardena, Dr. Kumara Wickramasinghe, Harshani Sirinama, Director (Transport) Muditha Wimalasena, and M.S.M. Jabil, Medical Officer of Kattankudy Hospital, along with officials representing the Ministry of Health and Media and the National Transport Medical Institute. (Newswire)

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Health and Mass Media Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa said Sri Lanka should transform its long-standing relationship with India into a stronger and more productive economic partnership by expanding cooperation in investment, industry and innovation.

He made the remarks while addressing the opening session of “India Calling,” a business forum organised by the Lanka India Business Association (LIBA) to strengthen Sri Lanka-India economic relations.

The event, held at the Taj Samudra Hotel in Colombo, brings together policymakers, investors, economists and business leaders to discuss investment opportunities, industrial collaboration and regional trade, with a particular focus on expanding opportunities for small and medium-sized enterprises.

The Minister said Sri Lanka is not only recovering from economic challenges but is also building a new economic foundation based on discipline, transparency and productivity.

He said the government’s objective is to move away from a dependency-driven economic model and build a competitive, export-oriented economy driven by value creation and innovation.

Describing India as more than just a neighbouring country, Dr. Jayatissa said it is a key partner linked to Sri Lanka through history, geography and future economic opportunities.

He stressed that bilateral economic ties should go beyond trade volumes by strengthening manufacturing supply chains, industrial cooperation, technology transfer and new investment opportunities.

The Minister also said Sri Lanka’s strategic location in the Indian Ocean positions it to become a regional manufacturing and supply hub.

He identified pharmaceuticals, apparel, food processing, renewable energy and technology as sectors with significant potential for joint ventures and investment between the two countries.

Dr. Jayatissa further said economic growth must benefit all sections of society, highlighting the need to integrate small and medium-sized enterprises into regional and global value chains.

He added that investors seek stability, confidence and a clear policy environment rather than promises, and said creating an ease-of-doing-business environment remains a key responsibility of the government.

The Minister said forums such as “India Calling” should produce tangible outcomes through investments and business partnerships that benefit people, rather than remaining limited to discussions. (Newswire)

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Health and Mass Media Minister Nalinda Jayatissa and Justice and National Integration Minister Harshana Nanayakkara met His Eminence Malcolm Cardinal Ranjith at the Archbishop’s House in Colombo today for a special discussion on judicial and prison reforms.

The meeting aimed to update the Archbishop on the government’s reform agenda and to clarify facts amid what officials described as the spread of misleading information. 

The ministers outlined measures already taken to address challenges in the judicial and prison sectors, strengthen public trust in the courts, and ensure justice is delivered without delay.

Speaking to journalists after the meeting, Minister Jayatissa commented on the proposed amendment to the Anti‑Corruption Act, stressing that the public’s right to know the assets and liabilities of people’s representatives will be safeguarded.

“The assets and liabilities of representatives can be known by the public at any time. That right will not be obstructed,” he said.

He noted, however, that publishing the assets of government and statutory officials could affect their privacy when engaging in state or private service, and therefore amendments would apply only to those sectors.

On constitutional reform, Jayatissa said any amendment requires time and broad discussion both in Parliament and among the public. He emphasized that strengthening the economy, democracy, and the rule of law must precede constitutional changes. 

He added that the government intends to hold all elections on schedule and expects to conduct the Provincial Council elections at the earliest opportunity.

Minister Nanayakkara also expressed views on the planned judicial and prison reforms, underscoring the government’s commitment to strengthening the justice system. (Newswire)

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Cabinet Spokesman Nalinda Jayatissa today said he has not been made aware of any letter reportedly sent by the Chief Prelates of the three Nikayas to President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, opposing the constitutional amendment to extend the retirement age of judges.

Responding to a question at the post- Cabinet media briefing, the Minister explained that he, together with Justice Minister Harshana Nanayakkara, met the Chief Prelates of the Malwattu, Asgiri, and Ramanna Nikayas yesterday (03) to brief them on the 22nd Constitutional Amendment. 

He said the Government’s position and its aim of expediting long‑pending court cases to provide relief to the public were clearly conveyed.

Minister Jayatissa noted that the Chief Prelates did not express opposition during these discussions. 

He stressed that the amendment was not aimed at a single judge but would raise the retirement age of all judges, including those of the Supreme Court, Court of Appeal, and other courts under the Judicial Service Act.

Quoting the Malwatu Chief Prelate, the Minister said even senior monks had acknowledged the delays in cases, some lasting 12 to 20 years, and agreed that reforms to improve judicial efficiency were necessary.

“There is no opposition to judicial reforms to speed up cases, not even from the Chief Prelates,” he said.

The Minister added that he and Justice Minister Nanayakkara are scheduled to meet the Amarapura Nikaya Chief Prelate later today to continue discussions. (Newswire)

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Sri Lanka has officially launched the Investment Case on Alcohol Control and the World Health Organization’s (WHO) SAFER Technical Package, aimed at reducing the health, social and economic harm caused by alcohol consumption.

The initiative was launched on Monday under the patronage of Health Minister Nalinda Jayatissa, together with WHO Representative to Sri Lanka Rajesh Sambhajirao Pandav.

Speaking at the event, Jayatissa said no economic profit or industry interest would be placed above the health of the public, stressing that protecting people’s lives and wellbeing remains the Government’s top priority.

He said alcohol-related harm affects not only public health but also imposes significant social and economic costs on the country, adding that the Government would strengthen regulations, particularly to protect young people and prevent the normalisation of harmful alcohol use.

The newly launched WHO SAFER Technical Package outlines five evidence-based strategies to help countries reduce alcohol-related disease, deaths and social harm, while the Investment Case highlights the health and economic benefits of strengthening alcohol control policies in Sri Lanka.

The programme was organised by the Health Ministry in collaboration with the WHO, Movendi International, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and the UN Interagency Task Force on Non-Communicable Diseases. (Newswire)

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The draft bill to establish the Sri Lanka Chartered Media Professionals’ Institute was presented in Parliament today (22) by Minister of Mass Media, Nalinda Jayatissa.  

According to the Ministry of Mass Media, the proposed legislation is described as a historic step to strengthen professionalism, standardization, and ethical responsibility in the country’s media sector. It seeks to create a formal mechanism to introduce, maintain, and develop professional standards for media practitioners.

The ministry states that the media profession plays a vital role in a democratic society by providing accurate information to the public and shaping opinion. Strengthening knowledge, professional skills, responsibilities, and ethical standards of journalists has therefore become a timely necessity.

The Institute is expected to support professional development, expand training opportunities, encourage knowledge and experience sharing, and foster a media culture aligned with international standards.

The initiative underscores the government’s commitment to elevating the status of media professionals and ensuring that Sri Lanka’s media industry operates with recognized standards and accountability. (Newswire)

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Cabinet Spokesman, Minister Nalinda Jayatissa said not all individuals named in a recent media report on VIP security are currently receiving police protection.

Responding to a question during the weekly post-Cabinet media briefing, Jayatissa said a report submitted by the Senior Deputy Inspector General (DIG) in charge of VIP Security to the Inspector General of Police states that several individuals mentioned in the report are not being provided VIP security.

He named former Speaker Ashoka Ranwala, Mohamed Rizvi Sally, Sarath Kumara, Ajith Shantha Priyadarshana, Ruwan Wijeyweera, Thilanka U. Gamage, Sunil Biyanwila, Dinesh Hemantha, Ranjith Madduma Bandara, H.L. Dharmasena and Galagoda Aththe Gnanasara Thera as individuals who are not currently receiving VIP security.

His comments came after a journalist referred to a newspaper report published last week claiming that 13 politicians and several other individuals continued to receive VIP security despite a reduction in police protection for other VIPs.

Jayatissa said some current and former Members of Parliament, particularly those representing the Northern and Eastern Provinces, continue to receive police protection based on threat assessments conducted by the State Intelligence Service.

He explained that under Police Circular No. 2687/2020, individuals seeking police protection must first submit a request, after which the State Intelligence Service carries out a threat assessment. A committee chaired by the Secretary to the Ministry of Public Security then makes recommendations on whether VIP security should be granted.

The Minister said police protection is provided based on intelligence assessments and established procedures. (Newswire)

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Minister of Health Nalinda Jayatissa has warned that sudden accidents remain the leading cause of hospitalizations in Sri Lanka, with over 1.3 million people admitted to hospitals each year and nearly 3 million more seeking medical treatment. 

He noted that one in every seven citizens faces the risk of requiring medical care annually due to accidents, while 6 to 8 individuals are referred for treatment every minute. 

Accidents account for about 8% of total deaths, with the most affected group being those aged 15 to 44, the country’s productive age category, the Health Minister added. 

Speaking at the launch of the 11th National Accident Prevention Week on Monday (06) at the Ministry of Health, Minister Jayatissa emphasized the urgent need for a continuous, integrated programme to minimize preventable accidents and deaths. 

He said the initiative, first introduced in 2016, has become a vital juncture in Sri Lanka’s public health sector, aiming to safeguard lives and the nation’s future.

The programme, jointly operated by the Ministry’s Non‑Communicable Diseases Unit and the National Committee on Prevention of Injuries (NCPI), will run island‑wide from July 06 to 10, 2026. 

Its objectives include raising public awareness, reducing accidents‑related fatalities, and building a safer social environment.

This year’s themes are Road Accident Prevention (July 06), Workplace Accident Prevention (July 07), Accident Prevention in Homes and Elders’ Residences (July 08), Prevention of Drowning (July 09), and Accident Prevention in Schools, Preschools, and Daycare Centers (July 10). (Newswire)

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Sri Lanka is considering introducing a dengue vaccine and adopting the Wolbachia mosquito control method as part of efforts to curb the spread of dengue, Health Minister Nalinda Jayatissa said.

Speaking at the launch of a dengue control initiative in the Western Province on Monday (06), the Minister said discussions are underway to introduce a World Health Organization-approved dengue vaccine, which is already being used in around 41 countries.

He also said the government is exploring the use of the Wolbachia method, a scientific mosquito control strategy that uses naturally occurring bacteria to reduce the ability of mosquitoes to transmit dengue.

The Minister noted that 52.5% of all dengue cases reported in Sri Lanka are from the Western Province, with Colombo and Gampaha districts accounting for about 20% each.

A special dengue control programme covering 23 high-risk Medical Officer of Health divisions in the Western Province has been underway since Sunday.

Acting Director of the National Dengue Control Unit Dr. Kapila Kannangara said Sri Lanka has recorded 61,060 dengue cases and 39 dengue-related deaths so far in 2026, including five children under the age of five. He added that women account for a higher proportion of the fatalities.

The Health Ministry said eliminating mosquito breeding sites remains the most effective long-term solution, while strengthening hospital preparedness and introducing new control measures to reduce severe cases and deaths. (Newswire)

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The government announced today that Sri Lanka’s state of emergency will not be extended beyond this month, ending the extraordinary measures first enforced in the aftermath of Cyclone Ditwah.

Government Spokesman Minister Nalinda Jayatissa, addressing the post‑Cabinet media briefing, said the decision to implement the state of emergency was initially taken following discussions with opposition parties soon after Cyclone Ditwah.

He noted that while some groups had attempted to create fear by suggesting the emergency law could be misused, the government had implemented it solely to support renovation and development in areas affected by the cyclone. 

“We assured that it would not be used to inconvenience any citizen, journalist, or media institution, and we have worked as promised,” Jayatissa said, reflecting the administration’s commitment to limiting emergency powers.

The spokesman emphasized that the government has no expectation of extending the emergency law further, underscoring that its use was temporary and strictly tied to disaster recovery efforts. (Newswire)

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The Kalubowila Teaching Hospital today (30) unveiled a newly established Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory (Cath Lab), Digital Subtraction Angiography (DSA Unit), and Lithotripsy Unit under a Rs. 555 million investment, marking another milestone in Sri Lanka’s drive to modernize its free healthcare system with advanced technology.

Speaking at the opening, Minister of Health Nalinda Jayatissa said that the government hospital network will expand its Cath Lab capacity to 26 units by the end of this year. 

Currently, 10 units are in operation, with 16 more to be added across major hospitals nationwide. Four new Cath Labs are expected to be commissioned within this week, aimed at reducing waiting lists and providing timely treatment.

The Minister noted that Rs. 3,103 million will be spent to increase Cath Lab facilities, with funding from the Treasury, the Asian Development Bank, and the JICA concessionary loan project. 

Units are planned for Colombo, Kandy, and Galle national hospitals, as well as Batticaloa, Trincomalee, Badulla, Ratnapura, Anuradhapura, Kurunegala, and Jaffna.

Highlighting demographic pressures, Dr. Jayatissa pointed out that Colombo and Gampaha districts together house 4.8 million people, creating a relative shortage of tertiary‑level hospitals compared to demand. 

He stressed the need for additional tertiary hospitals in Colombo under future national plans. (Newswire)

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A massive 16‑storey Heart Treatment Centre with advanced facilities will be established within the premises of the Sri Lanka National Hospital this year at a cost of Rs. 12,000 million, Minister of Health Nalinda Jayatissa announced. 

He said that construction is scheduled to begin this year and is expected to be completed within three years.

The Minister made the announcement while attending the occasion of Specialist Dr. M.K. Sampath Indika Kumara assuming duties as Deputy Director General of the National Hospital.

The Health Minister further said that the responsibility of bringing the new Heart Treatment Centre to construction and operational level will be a special duty entrusted to the new hospital director.

Nalinda Jayatissa went on to note that discussions had been held regarding the commencement of a Stroke Unit, with the possibility of establishing such a facility within the hospital premises now under consideration.

Emphasizing the hospital’s future, the Minister said the National Hospital of Sri Lanka should become the foremost hospital in Asia by further developing its existing facilities, and that a capable leader has now been appointed to provide leadership for this goal. (Newswire)

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Sri Lanka’s health authorities have turned their attention to the Ebola virus spreading globally and the meningitis cases reported locally, Minister of Health Nalinda Jayatissa said today (01).

Speaking to the media, the Minister noted that measures are already underway to control meningitis in the country, and that immediate steps were taken from the first day cases were reported.

“Health authorities are working to control the meningitis disease spreading in the country and expect public cooperation. That is why in recent days at Dansal we advised providing hot drinks like tea, as meningitis could spread in such settings. To some extent, health authorities have managed to control it,” he said, while cautioning against complacency.

He stressed that the disease had particularly affected children and urged continued vigilance.

The Health Minister further said that the Epidemiology Unit has paid special attention to the Ebola virus. 

“It was in several African countries that this first began. Afterwards, the WHO reported this as an emergency situation. From then onwards, the Epidemiology Unit has continuously paid attention to this and provided necessary instructions to our health system,” he explained.

Meanwhile, Consultant Epidemiologist at the Epidemiology Unit of the Ministry of Health, Thushari Dabarera, said Sri Lanka was prepared to address the Ebola virus.

Addressing the media today (01), she explained that the virus spreads both to humans and primates such as monkeys, most commonly through blood or bodily fluids.

“Sri Lanka’s Health Ministry has already conducted a rehearsal on preparedness for an Ebola virus outbreak, based on guidelines issued by the World Health Organization. Instructions have been issued to relevant institutions, especially airports and ports, to quarantine those arriving from African nations such as Congo and Uganda, which are known to be affected,” she said.

Dabarera further noted that the National Institute of Infectious Diseases (IDH) is prepared to treat passengers detected with the Ebola virus. 

Pointing out that the current outbreak is driven by the Bundibugyo strain, she warned: “It is serious, as it carries a 50% fatality rate.” (Newswire)

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