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The Hardware & Software Of Reconciliation-By Jehan Perera Jehan Perera Source:Colombotelegraph President Ranil Wickremesinghe addressing a conference of over 300 members from inter-religious committees from across the country summed up his plan for national reconciliation in less than 20 minutes. The president was clear in his articulation. He spoke with no notes. There were no superfluities in his speech. He noted how racism and bigotry have become convenient tools for politicians to wield power and for religious leaders to maintain their authority. He pointed to lessons learned from prolonged use of these divisive tactics, which ultimately led the country into a devastating conflict. He took two questions from the audience and before the organisers of the conference could even thank him on stage he left the podium for his next meeting. In his speech, the president stated that the country was close to reconciliation. Then proceeded to set out what needed to be done. There ...

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Kumar Sangakkara’s Many Steps towards Reconciliation and Sensible Institutional Governance-by Michael Roberts Source:Thuppahis In July 1983 Chokshanada and Kumari Sangakkara – in step with some Sinhalese, Malay and Burgher and other Sri Lankan families and in implicit opposition to the actions of Sinhalese people of violence –sheltered a number of Tamils who were in severe danger from the assaults on person and property that was a frightening element of the pogrom that occurred then. Many Sinhalese families in the central and southern districts protected their neighbours and/or friends in this manner. In conjectural manner, one can say that humane considerations and cultural traditions of alms-giving and amity informed such actions — a dimension of riots/pogroms in southern Asia that has been sidelined in historical studies of various “riots” in southern Asia. Perhaps inspired thus and perhaps encouraged also by the ecumenical spirit nurtured by his parents as well as Trinity College, Kumar and Yehali Sangakkara have ...

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 SL Income Tax Dept : Notice for all overseas Lankans Source:Newswire Sri Lanka’s Inland Revenue Department (IRD) has issued a notice outlining the requirements for Sri Lankan non-residents concerning the Tax Identification Number (TIN).  According to the IRD, Sri Lankan residents above 18 years of age are chargeable with income tax and are required to obtain registration with the Commissioner General of the IRD. However, Sri Lankan non-residents are not required to obtain the said registration with the Commissioner General of the IRD. Instead, Sri Lankan non-residents will be required to obtain the Tax Identification Number (TIN) for four key activities as proposed in the Budget 2024. The four key activities are as follows; Opening a current account Obtain approval for a building plan Registering a motor vehicle, renewing the revenue licence Registering title deeds on lands The IRD notice the registration requirements for Sri Lankans and non-residents is as ...

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Winners of Study UK Alumni Awards announced in Sri Lanka The ceremony celebrates the achievements of Sri Lankan alumni from UK universities. The winners of the Study UK Alumni Awards 2023-24 in Sri Lanka were announced at a ceremony, hosted by the British Council in Colombo. The ceremony was attended by senior representatives from government, private organisations, and UK alumni. The Award judges selected recipients for the four Award categories: Science and Sustainability, Culture and Creativity, Social Action, and Business and Innovation. The awardees were recognised for their outstanding achievements as business professionals, entrepreneurs, and community leaders, and for their contribution to strengthening ties between the UK and Sri Lanka. The awards were handed out to the winning Alumni by the British High Commissioner to Sri Lanka, Andrew Patrick. Andrew Patrick, the British High Commissioner said: ‘The UK Alumni Awards celebrate the remarkable accomplishments of UK alumni in Sri Lanka. ...

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Exploring the Rich History and Charm of Idalgashinna Railway Station-by Kalani-eLanka The lush greenery of Sri Lanka’s Hill Country, the Idalgashinna Railway Station stands as a testament to the island’s rich colonial heritage and the ingenuity of its engineering feats. Situated along the picturesque Main Line railway, this station holds not only historical significance but also serves as a vital link connecting the heart of the island to its scenic highlands. Let’s embark on a journey to uncover the allure and history of the Idalgashinna Railway Station. The story of Idalgashinna Railway Station intertwines with the narrative of British colonial rule in Ceylon, as Sri Lanka was then known. Constructed during the late 19th century, the railway line itself was a remarkable engineering achievement, carving through rugged terrain and dense forests to connect the coastal plains with the cool uplands. Idalgashinna Station played a pivotal role in this network, serving ...

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Darley News – THE BULLETIN OF THE OLD JOSEPHIANS’ ASSOCIATION OF NSW Joes triumphant in cricket quadrangular After a lapse of four years, The Saints Cricket Quadrangular was staged in NSW. St. Joseph’s, St. Benedict’s, St. Peter’s and St. Anthony’s Colleges battled it out to become the champions on February 11 at Doonside in Western Sydney. The competition was hosted by the Benedictines but a joint organising committee focussed on setting up a T10 format. The Joes managed to beat the Bens and Antonians convincingly but lost to the Peterites in the first round. The Joes’ aggressive play gave them a superior run rate which put them in the finals where they met the Petes again. This was a repeat of the nail biting JoePete match experienced in Sydney few months ago at the same venue. Joes batted first but managed only 77 runs for 9 wickets in their 10 ...

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Exploring Sri Lanka’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites – By Bhanuka – eLanka Sri Lanka, an island nation rich in history and cultural diversity, boasts a collection of UNESCO World Heritage Sites that stand as testaments to its ancient civilizations and architectural prowess. In this exploration, we embark on a captivating journey to discover the cultural marvels that have earned Sri Lanka its esteemed UNESCO recognition. Sigiriya – The Lion Rock Fortress: Nestled in the heart of the cultural triangle, Sigiriya rises majestically, adorned with ancient frescoes and surrounded by landscaped gardens. Explore the engineering brilliance of King Kasyapa’s fortress, its iconic lion’s paw entrance, and the breathtaking views from the summit. Ancient City of Polonnaruwa: Step back in time as we wander through the well-preserved ruins of Polonnaruwa, the second ancient capital of Sri Lanka. Marvel at the intricately carved statues, explore the royal palace complex, and witness the sacred ...

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Unveiling the Rich Tapestry of Sri Lanka’s Traditional Jewelry – By Nadeeka – eLanka Sri Lanka, a nation rich in history and cultural diversity, has long been renowned for its exquisite traditional jewelry. These ornate pieces, ranging from intricately designed necklaces to vibrantly adorned gemstone bracelets, serve as a testament to the island’s deep-rooted heritage. In this exploration, we delve into the allure of Sri Lanka’s traditional jewelry, uncovering the significance, craftsmanship, and cultural stories woven into each piece. The cultural tapestry of Sri Lankan jewelry is a reflection of the island’s diverse ethnic groups. Influenced by Hindu, Buddhist, and indigenous beliefs, these adornments carry symbolic meanings that resonate with the wearer’s spiritual and cultural identity. At the heart of Sri Lankan jewelry lies the nation’s reputation as the “Gem Island.” Ceylon sapphires, renowned worldwide for their quality and brilliance, are a staple in many traditional designs. Rubies, emeralds, pearls, ...

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It’s happening now…what image Source Source:-island Singer Alston Koch, who now resides in Australia, came up with a song, titled ‘Can We Take This Climate Change,’ and that was 16 years ago…in 2008. Elaborating on what made him come up with this ‘climate change’ song, the ‘Disco Lady’ hitmaker said that he noticed that some of the beautiful fruit trees, butterflies, birds, etc., that existed when he was young, were gradually disappearing and that the heat was on the rise. ‘Can We Take This Climate Change’ was created by Alston for a United Nations WTO presentation in London, and that was in 2008. The song was also presented by Geoffrey Lipman, Chairman of International Council of Tourism Partners (ICTP) at the ‘Live the Deal Climate Change’ conference in Copenhagen. Alston Koch was the Goodwill Ambassador for the campaign, and the song was promoted, globally, by ICTP, in their campaign for ...

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Mayor, Biden share a moment President speaks with Arulampalam family from White House By Stephen Underwood Hartford Courant image source:linkedin Before Hartford Mayor Arunan Arulampalam headed to the U.S. Conference of Mayors at the White House last month, he dusted off a beloved wool coat that had belonged to his grandfather to bring a piece of his family with him. The coat sparked an emotional exchange with the president of the United States. “My grandfather bought the coat when we left Sri Lanka and moved to England. When he passed away, my grandmother gave it to me,” Arulampalam said Wednesday. “I was thinking about that when I was in the Blue Room of the White House and started to be overcome with emotions.” Arulampalam’s family fled Sri Lanka in 1983 at the start of the Sri Lankan Civil War and moved to England before settling in Zimbabwe. Arulampalam relocated with ...

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