To appreciate the enlightened leadership of President Mahinda Rajapaksa who gave his might to eradicate terrorism and to mark his oaths taking for his second term of his Presidency the Pooneryn church was reconstructed, Social Service Minister Felix Perera said. He was addressing the inaugural ceremony of the church.
The Government rescued the country from terrorism, to create a peaceful land for all citizens. Not only for Sinhalese people. Now people can live in peace in this country, he said.
Presently Sinhalese, Tamil and Muslim people can conduct their religious activities without any interference. The Northern and Eastern Provinces are developing rapidly.
Along with the physical development there should be spiritual development also, the Minister said. There are about 4,285 families with 14,654 individuals living in this area. This church serves an area of 488 square kilometers. The main livelihood of these people is fishery and agriculture.
Due to the conflict, people of the area lost their religious centre, the Pooneryn Church. Under the direction of Minister Perera the church has been rebuilt in one month.
Brigadier Channa Kodithuwakku coordinated this reconstruction program. The first religious service was conducted by Rev Fr B Brain and Rev Fr Canisins.
Source:http://www.dailynews.lk/2010/11/11/news33.asp
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
Sunday, November 7, 2010
Jaffna News
CACM celebrates 200th anniversary
The Church of American Ceylon Mission celebrated the 200th anniversary of the American Board of Commissioners for Foreign Ministry (ABCFM) at Manipay on November 6. A souvenir titled “Milestones of CACM” was released.
The educational literary and medical assistance heaped on our country by the American missionaries 200 years ago are evidences of the great sacrifices of the missionaries.
More than a thousand local and foreign delegates participated in the anniversary celebrations inspite of rain.
Compensation or alternative lands
Resettlement Minister Milroy Fernando said steps are being taken to pay compensation or alternative lands for those who cannot be given back their lands in the High Security Zone. The Minister said steps are being taken to give back the lands in High Security Zones, but there are certain lands that cannot be given back for security reasons.
Referring to the Sinhalese families living at the Jaffna Railway Station, he said their problems are being looked into. “We have to analyse on what basis they were settled in Jaffna. I have called for a report from the Jaffna Government Agent. “After the Government Agent’s report is received I will have consultation with Minister Douglas Devananda and finally with the President to reach a decision,” he said.
Water purifying centres for Jaffna
Two giant water purifying centres will be installed in Jaffna to provide pure drinking water to Jaffna peninsula. This will be part of the Iranamadu pipe-borne water scheme. The water purifying centres are to be installed at Paranthan and Kilinochchi with Japanese technical assistance. As the purifying centres are to be located between Paranthan and Kilinochchi the water brought from Iranamadu tank will be doubly purified and taken to Jaffna through pipes. This water scheme is to be implemented at a cost of Rs 2.5 m. This scheme is funded by the World Bank and the Government.
The Church of American Ceylon Mission celebrated the 200th anniversary of the American Board of Commissioners for Foreign Ministry (ABCFM) at Manipay on November 6. A souvenir titled “Milestones of CACM” was released.
The educational literary and medical assistance heaped on our country by the American missionaries 200 years ago are evidences of the great sacrifices of the missionaries.
More than a thousand local and foreign delegates participated in the anniversary celebrations inspite of rain.
Compensation or alternative lands
Resettlement Minister Milroy Fernando said steps are being taken to pay compensation or alternative lands for those who cannot be given back their lands in the High Security Zone. The Minister said steps are being taken to give back the lands in High Security Zones, but there are certain lands that cannot be given back for security reasons.
Referring to the Sinhalese families living at the Jaffna Railway Station, he said their problems are being looked into. “We have to analyse on what basis they were settled in Jaffna. I have called for a report from the Jaffna Government Agent. “After the Government Agent’s report is received I will have consultation with Minister Douglas Devananda and finally with the President to reach a decision,” he said.
Water purifying centres for Jaffna
Two giant water purifying centres will be installed in Jaffna to provide pure drinking water to Jaffna peninsula. This will be part of the Iranamadu pipe-borne water scheme. The water purifying centres are to be installed at Paranthan and Kilinochchi with Japanese technical assistance. As the purifying centres are to be located between Paranthan and Kilinochchi the water brought from Iranamadu tank will be doubly purified and taken to Jaffna through pipes. This water scheme is to be implemented at a cost of Rs 2.5 m. This scheme is funded by the World Bank and the Government.
German MPs impressed by Jaffna's unique beauty
The delegation of German MPs currently in Sri Lanka, headed to the North after a meeting with the Northern Province Governor Major General G A Chandrasiri. In the North, they visited the Cheddikulam Hospital which received financial assistance from the German Red Cross (DRK) and Menik Farm, where some of the projects had been funded by the German Organization, Arbeiter-Samariter-Bund ASB.
Their visit besides included the Agromart (WHH) Resettlement project in Punkuditivu to which recovery assistance has been given for resettled families in Northern Sri Lanka by the German Federal Government. The delegates were warmly received by the Archbishop of Jaffna the Most Rev Dr Thomas Savundranayagam and Jaffna Urban Council Mayor Yogeswari Patgunarajah.
Germany on its part spends $ 15 million per year on resettlement and demining in the North.
The delegation in the meantime was very impressed by the unique beauty of the Jaffna peninsula. They noted that Jaffna has a huge potential to become an exciting destination for both Sri Lankan and foreign tourists. A prerequisite for this however is that travel restrictions for foreign tourists to the North must be removed.
Source:http://www.dailynews.lk/2010/11/05/news22.asp
Their visit besides included the Agromart (WHH) Resettlement project in Punkuditivu to which recovery assistance has been given for resettled families in Northern Sri Lanka by the German Federal Government. The delegates were warmly received by the Archbishop of Jaffna the Most Rev Dr Thomas Savundranayagam and Jaffna Urban Council Mayor Yogeswari Patgunarajah.
Germany on its part spends $ 15 million per year on resettlement and demining in the North.
The delegation in the meantime was very impressed by the unique beauty of the Jaffna peninsula. They noted that Jaffna has a huge potential to become an exciting destination for both Sri Lankan and foreign tourists. A prerequisite for this however is that travel restrictions for foreign tourists to the North must be removed.
Source:http://www.dailynews.lk/2010/11/05/news22.asp
PAMP to promote Jaffna produce
The Central Bank, Cargills (Ceylon) PLC together with Bank of Ceylon launched a joint program to create markets for farmers from Jaffna recently. Central Bank Assistant Governor W M Karunaratne said under this Poverty Alleviation Microfinance Project (PAMP) there are around 18,000 families and nearly 3,000 groups.
The Central Bank has allocated Rs 3 billion which is a fund from JICA. They are planning to initiate the program soon in Mullataivu, Killinochchi and Mannar.
“We will first create a vision in these groups so that they will learn to work on a target” he said. They are also trained to save individually and in groups as savings are necessary in doing business.
With a minimum of Rs 100,000 and a maximum of Rs 200,000 personal loans are provided. The loans are given under trust with no guarantors.“However, it is important that the recovery of these loans are 100 percent.
Microfinance is an important segment which should be given more priority. Recognizing the importance the Central Bank is currently working on introducing a Microfinance Act”, he said. Skills, training and financial assistance is provided for traditional sweetmeat makers, palmyra Jarggery products, palmyra baskets, agriculture and also for those who are engaged in fisheries
Source:http://www.dailynews.lk/2010/11/08/bus02.asp
The Central Bank has allocated Rs 3 billion which is a fund from JICA. They are planning to initiate the program soon in Mullataivu, Killinochchi and Mannar.
“We will first create a vision in these groups so that they will learn to work on a target” he said. They are also trained to save individually and in groups as savings are necessary in doing business.
With a minimum of Rs 100,000 and a maximum of Rs 200,000 personal loans are provided. The loans are given under trust with no guarantors.“However, it is important that the recovery of these loans are 100 percent.
Microfinance is an important segment which should be given more priority. Recognizing the importance the Central Bank is currently working on introducing a Microfinance Act”, he said. Skills, training and financial assistance is provided for traditional sweetmeat makers, palmyra Jarggery products, palmyra baskets, agriculture and also for those who are engaged in fisheries
Source:http://www.dailynews.lk/2010/11/08/bus02.asp
Second Jaffna International Trade Fair in January
The second Jaffna International Trade Fair 2011(JITF) is organised by Lanka Exhibition & Conference Services (Pvt) Ltd, a Presidential Award Winning Company in collaboration with the Federation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry of Sri Lanka.
The annual International Trade fair this year is themed as "Open for Business" due to the tremendous growth in Jaffna with the developments being implemented and is now ready for business. JITF is organised in association with the Chamber of Commerce and Industries of Yarlpanam supported by the Sri Lanka Convention Bureau. JITF is scheduled to be held from 21-23 January 2011 at the Durayappah Stadium, Jaffna.
This landmark fair illuminates a turning point in the development of the North with the current re-building of infrastructure. The purpose of holding this fair once again is to strengthen and bridge trade links between the North and the rest of Sri Lanka. With the opening up of the main A9 highway re-linking the North and South, the revival of the Jaffna economy has gradually boomed. Jaffna, rapidly emerging as the major market for all industries, the exhibition will be the most comprehensive gateway for all sectors to come together and witness restructuring that is taking place in the North. JITF ensures the creation of a platform for entrepreneurs and manufacturers to build up their business relationships, by strengthening their connections. Companies can expand their businesses and will have an opportunity to analyse the market first hand. Jaffna is aggressively pursuing partnerships and business plans with the entire world as it is expected to dominate the world trade in the years to come.
Reflecting this optimism, the current trade fair invites a massive number of booths covering an extensive range of products and services across a wide section of industries such as building, construction, interiors, hospitality trade, processed food and agriculture, food and beverages, packaging, machinery, cosmetics and beauty products, electrical appliances, electronics, fabrics and garments, gifts and toys, glassware, handicrafts, hardware and tools, health and hygiene, home appliances, industrial products, sanitary ware, stationery etc. Adyapana-Kalvi Jaffna - Higher Education and Career exhibition series held in Colombo and Kandy has also taken a path to Jaffna. Concurrently held with JITF, Adyapana-Kalvi Jaffna will invite local, international institutes and universities to showcase the scope and demand in the education industry. Like previous years foreign delegation of exhibitors will be seeking maximum possible exposure due to the demand in the 'post war' scenario. The organisers are also planning to work together to have investor forums to develop Jaffna.
The Jaffna public's per capita income is exceptionally high as they are self sufficient in spite of getting a lot of foreign remittances from relatives. Interested in re-investing these funds JITF will best thread together the long awaited trade gap ensuring Jaffna to become a bustling centre for commerce in the country. With the Board of Investment, Sri Lanka Export Development Board, and Banks opening up branches in Jaffna, JITF will be the driving force to re-unite the business community hailing from all parts of the Island. By being a part of JITF 2011, entrepreneurs can reach a large number of proportions of the growing Northern market in a short time span. Previously attracting over 30,000 visitors JITF has drawn in huge players in all industries with over 300 stalls from over 200 companies making it the first and largest exhibition hosted in Jaffna.
This year blue chip companies such as Diesel & Motor Engineering Plc and Ceylon Cold Stores have already come aboard JITF 2011 as valued sponsors. With literally hundreds of industrialists expected from all industries, visitors can see, try and build new business opportunities and fresh trade links expanding their spectrum for future development, all offered under one roof. To help MICE tourism the Sri Lanka Convention Bureau has looked at a convention and exhibition centre which is proposed to be built in Araly to host exhibitions of this magnitude. The organisers surely have proved in the past and are geared to host an exhibition of this magnitude in Jaffna.
This is a tremendous opening for anyone seeking opportunity in the North. Let JITF 2011 be your guide to a great time of trade when Jaffa is now 'Open for Business'
Source:http://www.dailymirror.lk
The annual International Trade fair this year is themed as "Open for Business" due to the tremendous growth in Jaffna with the developments being implemented and is now ready for business. JITF is organised in association with the Chamber of Commerce and Industries of Yarlpanam supported by the Sri Lanka Convention Bureau. JITF is scheduled to be held from 21-23 January 2011 at the Durayappah Stadium, Jaffna.
This landmark fair illuminates a turning point in the development of the North with the current re-building of infrastructure. The purpose of holding this fair once again is to strengthen and bridge trade links between the North and the rest of Sri Lanka. With the opening up of the main A9 highway re-linking the North and South, the revival of the Jaffna economy has gradually boomed. Jaffna, rapidly emerging as the major market for all industries, the exhibition will be the most comprehensive gateway for all sectors to come together and witness restructuring that is taking place in the North. JITF ensures the creation of a platform for entrepreneurs and manufacturers to build up their business relationships, by strengthening their connections. Companies can expand their businesses and will have an opportunity to analyse the market first hand. Jaffna is aggressively pursuing partnerships and business plans with the entire world as it is expected to dominate the world trade in the years to come.
Reflecting this optimism, the current trade fair invites a massive number of booths covering an extensive range of products and services across a wide section of industries such as building, construction, interiors, hospitality trade, processed food and agriculture, food and beverages, packaging, machinery, cosmetics and beauty products, electrical appliances, electronics, fabrics and garments, gifts and toys, glassware, handicrafts, hardware and tools, health and hygiene, home appliances, industrial products, sanitary ware, stationery etc. Adyapana-Kalvi Jaffna - Higher Education and Career exhibition series held in Colombo and Kandy has also taken a path to Jaffna. Concurrently held with JITF, Adyapana-Kalvi Jaffna will invite local, international institutes and universities to showcase the scope and demand in the education industry. Like previous years foreign delegation of exhibitors will be seeking maximum possible exposure due to the demand in the 'post war' scenario. The organisers are also planning to work together to have investor forums to develop Jaffna.
The Jaffna public's per capita income is exceptionally high as they are self sufficient in spite of getting a lot of foreign remittances from relatives. Interested in re-investing these funds JITF will best thread together the long awaited trade gap ensuring Jaffna to become a bustling centre for commerce in the country. With the Board of Investment, Sri Lanka Export Development Board, and Banks opening up branches in Jaffna, JITF will be the driving force to re-unite the business community hailing from all parts of the Island. By being a part of JITF 2011, entrepreneurs can reach a large number of proportions of the growing Northern market in a short time span. Previously attracting over 30,000 visitors JITF has drawn in huge players in all industries with over 300 stalls from over 200 companies making it the first and largest exhibition hosted in Jaffna.
This year blue chip companies such as Diesel & Motor Engineering Plc and Ceylon Cold Stores have already come aboard JITF 2011 as valued sponsors. With literally hundreds of industrialists expected from all industries, visitors can see, try and build new business opportunities and fresh trade links expanding their spectrum for future development, all offered under one roof. To help MICE tourism the Sri Lanka Convention Bureau has looked at a convention and exhibition centre which is proposed to be built in Araly to host exhibitions of this magnitude. The organisers surely have proved in the past and are geared to host an exhibition of this magnitude in Jaffna.
This is a tremendous opening for anyone seeking opportunity in the North. Let JITF 2011 be your guide to a great time of trade when Jaffa is now 'Open for Business'
Source:http://www.dailymirror.lk
Bridge connecting Jaffna to mainland of Sri Lanka to be opened by the end of this year
Sri Lanka government has advised the construction company that is building the Sanguppidi Bridge, that connects Jaffna peninsula in Northern Province to the mainland at Pooneryn in a shortest distance, to hand over the bridge before November 20.
The Deputy Minister of Highways Nirmala Kothalawala said that the government expects to open the bridge for transport before the dawn of the next year.
Construction of the 288-meter long and 7.4-meter wide two-track bridge is 75 percent completed now.
The Pooneryn Bridge that connected the A-32 road from Mannar to Jaffna across the lagoon is the shortest land route to Jaffna from Colombo. The A-32 road is scores of kilometers shorter than the way through the main A-9 Jaffna-Kandy highway.
The Bridge is built at a cost of around Rs. one billion and the British government assists the project.
The Bridge was blasted by the Tamil Tiger rebels decades ago. Before its destruction, thousands of people used the bridge every day.
The Deputy Minister of Highways Nirmala Kothalawala said that the government expects to open the bridge for transport before the dawn of the next year.
Construction of the 288-meter long and 7.4-meter wide two-track bridge is 75 percent completed now.
The Pooneryn Bridge that connected the A-32 road from Mannar to Jaffna across the lagoon is the shortest land route to Jaffna from Colombo. The A-32 road is scores of kilometers shorter than the way through the main A-9 Jaffna-Kandy highway.
The Bridge is built at a cost of around Rs. one billion and the British government assists the project.
The Bridge was blasted by the Tamil Tiger rebels decades ago. Before its destruction, thousands of people used the bridge every day.
Sunday, October 31, 2010
Sinhala students welcomed in Jaffna varsity
Colombo: Endorsing the high standard of education maintained by the Tamil dominated Jaffna university, the post LTTE era has witnessed a large enrolment of Sinhala students for the first time in 30 years.
"For the first time in 30 years, a large number of students are entering the Jaffna University from the South (Sri Lanka). Some of them have even entered from remote areas in the South", Senior Co-ordinator of Civil Affairs in Jaffna, Major Lal Nanayakkara said.
Seventy-two students from the South who gained admission to the University of Jaffna were given a rousing welcome and not ragged by the senior students of the university.
Nanayakkara said the University of Jaffna has an unblemished history with regard to its functions, the state run 'Sunday Observer' said.
Even during the height of the turbulent days in the North, the activities of the University of Jaffna continued uninterrupted, it said.
The students from the South are entering in all Faculties including Medical, Law and Management Faculties of the University.
Senior students of the University have organised a series of programmes to make the freshers from the South comfortable in Jaffna.
A sight-seeing tour has been organised by the Jaffna Law Faculty Students to tour important areas in Jaffna.
A cultural event was also organised by the Faculty of Law students to greet the newcomers.
The students from the South who gained admission to the Jaffna University have been accommodated at the University Hostels.
Sinhala students first entered the University of Jaffna, the newspaper said.
It was opened by the late Prime Minister Sirima Bandaranaike in 1975.
As many as 72 students including Muslims have entered the Jaffna University from the South after peace dawned in the region, Nanayakkara said.
PTI
Source:http://www.zeenews.com/news665093.html
"For the first time in 30 years, a large number of students are entering the Jaffna University from the South (Sri Lanka). Some of them have even entered from remote areas in the South", Senior Co-ordinator of Civil Affairs in Jaffna, Major Lal Nanayakkara said.
Seventy-two students from the South who gained admission to the University of Jaffna were given a rousing welcome and not ragged by the senior students of the university.
Nanayakkara said the University of Jaffna has an unblemished history with regard to its functions, the state run 'Sunday Observer' said.
Even during the height of the turbulent days in the North, the activities of the University of Jaffna continued uninterrupted, it said.
The students from the South are entering in all Faculties including Medical, Law and Management Faculties of the University.
Senior students of the University have organised a series of programmes to make the freshers from the South comfortable in Jaffna.
A sight-seeing tour has been organised by the Jaffna Law Faculty Students to tour important areas in Jaffna.
A cultural event was also organised by the Faculty of Law students to greet the newcomers.
The students from the South who gained admission to the Jaffna University have been accommodated at the University Hostels.
Sinhala students first entered the University of Jaffna, the newspaper said.
It was opened by the late Prime Minister Sirima Bandaranaike in 1975.
As many as 72 students including Muslims have entered the Jaffna University from the South after peace dawned in the region, Nanayakkara said.
PTI
Source:http://www.zeenews.com/news665093.html
Atchchuvely Industrial Zone first major development in Jaffna
The first major industrial development project will kick start in the Jaffna peninsula shortly when the 65 acre Industrial estate in Atchuvely will be developed bilaterally by the Government of Sri Lanka in partnership with the Indian government with the view of entrepreneurs to commence their business ventures and generate economic growth and the livelihood development in the area said the Minister for Traditional Industries and enterprise development Douglas Devananda.
The Estate which is situated at Atchuvely has two access roads one, from the Chankanai and the other from the Navakkiri and is a central to the peninsula's access points such as to Jaffna.It is onlt 10 miles, Palaly Road a 12.20 miles, Palaly Airport 4 miles, Kankesanturai Harbour & station only 8 miles, Point Pedro Harbour 10 miles whilst to the Chunnakam Railway station a just 6 miles making it central to the development agenda of the Small and Medium sector industries of Sri Lanka. The infrastructure facilities will be developed by the Industrial Development Board and Board of Investment. In 1983 there were 745 industrial SMEs in Jaffna but during the war times it reduced to a meager 34 whilst the fisheries sector the daily catch of fish exceeded 40,000 metric tons in the 1990's during war times it receded to just 12000 MT but now one year post liberalization the economy had doubles in value over two hundred company's operate out of Jaffna whilst the fish catch has once again touched the previous highs with relaxation of farming to the 4000 fishermen who's only livelihood was stunted for decades due to the war.
In the first phase of the development template 25 acres will be developed with four large apparel comoany's wanting to operate with an investment of 3 million dollars each.
There after almost 48 Small and Medium Enterprises are very keen to develop their business that includes the famous Nelli crush company Varadha said Minister Devananda.
The industrial zone was operational in 1971 and ceased functioning in 1990 when the war broke out. The total development will include Development of the Infrastructure facilities for 25 acres which would include fencing, construction of guard room, quarters, gate, water supply scheme with treatment plant, electricity and power supply, approach and internal roads, telecommunication facilities, admin buildings.
The total estimated cost for this project is Rs199Mn. The Indian government will provide financial assistance Rs174 Mn to activate this project in 2011 and 2012. Another domestic fund of Rs 25 Mn will be granted by the Government of Sri Lanka said Minister Devananda.
The peninsular has population of approximately 559,619 people as per the 2007 special census that was carried out with those below 18 years being 188, 999 people. In households the number is around a 130,000. The contribution to the national agenda is targeted to be at least 10 percent in the years to come so that per capita income can be realized to be benefitial to the people of Jaffna. After completion of the reactivation of the estate, it is expected to generate 4000 direct employment opportunities in the area.
Source:http://www.dailymirror.lk/print/index.php/business/127-local/25493.html
The Estate which is situated at Atchuvely has two access roads one, from the Chankanai and the other from the Navakkiri and is a central to the peninsula's access points such as to Jaffna.It is onlt 10 miles, Palaly Road a 12.20 miles, Palaly Airport 4 miles, Kankesanturai Harbour & station only 8 miles, Point Pedro Harbour 10 miles whilst to the Chunnakam Railway station a just 6 miles making it central to the development agenda of the Small and Medium sector industries of Sri Lanka. The infrastructure facilities will be developed by the Industrial Development Board and Board of Investment. In 1983 there were 745 industrial SMEs in Jaffna but during the war times it reduced to a meager 34 whilst the fisheries sector the daily catch of fish exceeded 40,000 metric tons in the 1990's during war times it receded to just 12000 MT but now one year post liberalization the economy had doubles in value over two hundred company's operate out of Jaffna whilst the fish catch has once again touched the previous highs with relaxation of farming to the 4000 fishermen who's only livelihood was stunted for decades due to the war.
In the first phase of the development template 25 acres will be developed with four large apparel comoany's wanting to operate with an investment of 3 million dollars each.
There after almost 48 Small and Medium Enterprises are very keen to develop their business that includes the famous Nelli crush company Varadha said Minister Devananda.
The industrial zone was operational in 1971 and ceased functioning in 1990 when the war broke out. The total development will include Development of the Infrastructure facilities for 25 acres which would include fencing, construction of guard room, quarters, gate, water supply scheme with treatment plant, electricity and power supply, approach and internal roads, telecommunication facilities, admin buildings.
The total estimated cost for this project is Rs199Mn. The Indian government will provide financial assistance Rs174 Mn to activate this project in 2011 and 2012. Another domestic fund of Rs 25 Mn will be granted by the Government of Sri Lanka said Minister Devananda.
The peninsular has population of approximately 559,619 people as per the 2007 special census that was carried out with those below 18 years being 188, 999 people. In households the number is around a 130,000. The contribution to the national agenda is targeted to be at least 10 percent in the years to come so that per capita income can be realized to be benefitial to the people of Jaffna. After completion of the reactivation of the estate, it is expected to generate 4000 direct employment opportunities in the area.
Source:http://www.dailymirror.lk/print/index.php/business/127-local/25493.html
AN INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT FOR KILINOCHCHI
In the Kilinochchi District, 8000 acres of land in the Iranamadu area has been earmarked for the Air Force base, including for building of an international airport, in the third stage of its development. Phase one of the project covers site clearance and building administrative, recreational, residential and administrative complexes, which are being carried out presently at an estimated cost of Rs. 70 Million. This base will be commissioned before the end of this year.
Source:http://www.development.lk/news.php?news=885
Source:http://www.development.lk/news.php?news=885
Friday, September 10, 2010
Namal Rajapaksa to open Mihin Lanka Airlines office in Jaffna
Namal Rajapaksa, son of Sri Lanka president and parliamentarian, is expected to open an office of Mihin Lanka Airlines in Jaffna Sunday. Mihin Lanka will begin a special flight service between Katunayake International Airport and Palaali Airport in Jaffna as Sri Lanka Ministry of Defence had given the Airlines permission to operate the local flight service, sources in Jaffna said.
Mihin Lanka which operates flights to limited destinations abroad including Tiruchirappalli (Thiruchchi) in South India is to engage in this local service, the sources added.
Local flights services are operated between Ratmalana Airport in Colombo and Palaali Airport.
Mihin Lanka Airlines will be the first to operate flight service between Katunayake International Airport and Palaali Airport, the sources said.
Source:www.allvoices.com
Mihin Lanka which operates flights to limited destinations abroad including Tiruchirappalli (Thiruchchi) in South India is to engage in this local service, the sources added.
Local flights services are operated between Ratmalana Airport in Colombo and Palaali Airport.
Mihin Lanka Airlines will be the first to operate flight service between Katunayake International Airport and Palaali Airport, the sources said.
Source:www.allvoices.com
Thursday, September 9, 2010
India plans to build airport in Palaly
(August 11, New Delhi, Sri Lanka Guardian) The Airports Authority of India (AAI) plans to build an airport in Sri Lanka, which could be its first foray into the international market in about 30 years. The state-owned operator had earlier built airports in Libya and Yemen.
"We are looking at bidding for an airport at Palaly in Sri Lanka. We have recently done the feasibility study for the airport," said AAI Chairman V P Agarwal.
The airport is near the city of Jaffna and upgrading the airport will include building a runway and the terminal building and the project would be worth Rs 400-500 crore.
AAI has been developing 35 non-metro airports across the country at a cost of around Rs 12,000 crore. The authority is also taking up the city-side development of Kolkata, Visakhapatnam, Bhubaneswar, Lucknow, Indore, Ahmedabad, Amritsar, Guwahati and Jaipur airports through public-private partnerships.- sify.com
"We are looking at bidding for an airport at Palaly in Sri Lanka. We have recently done the feasibility study for the airport," said AAI Chairman V P Agarwal.
The airport is near the city of Jaffna and upgrading the airport will include building a runway and the terminal building and the project would be worth Rs 400-500 crore.
AAI has been developing 35 non-metro airports across the country at a cost of around Rs 12,000 crore. The authority is also taking up the city-side development of Kolkata, Visakhapatnam, Bhubaneswar, Lucknow, Indore, Ahmedabad, Amritsar, Guwahati and Jaipur airports through public-private partnerships.- sify.com
Engineering Faculty for Jaffna University
The Jaffna University will get an Engineering Faculty very soon, and it will be located in Kilinochchi, said Higher Education Minister S.B. Dissanayake yesterday. The Agriculture Science Faculty will also be relocated in Kilinochchi, he said. Mr. Dissanayake laid the foundation stones in Kilinochchi yesterday for the construction of the buildings for the Faculties.
The minister told Daily Mirror yesterday that there was a severe dearth of lecturers at the university, and that he would address the issue soon.
“I noticed that Jaffna students are more enthusiastic than others in pursuing higher studies.
Engineering Faculty for Jaffna Uni.
We will give them opportunities. We informed them that the present Tamil medium courses would be conducted in English from next year onwards. They were very happy,” he said.
He added that house rents and room charges had increased by leaps and bounds in Jaffna due to the influx of tourists from the south. He said this made it impossible for university students to find accommodation at a budgetary rate.
“People can easily get Rs.1,000 for a room per day in Jaffna now. Therefore university students have been asked to vacate their boarding places by the owners. We will build hostels in the university very soon,” he said.
Besides, he said, there were 200 differently-abled students at the university now. Each student, he said, was given Rs. 5,000 for their basic needs.
Source:http://www.dailymirror.lk/print/index.php/news/front-page-news/19961.html
The minister told Daily Mirror yesterday that there was a severe dearth of lecturers at the university, and that he would address the issue soon.
“I noticed that Jaffna students are more enthusiastic than others in pursuing higher studies.
Engineering Faculty for Jaffna Uni.
We will give them opportunities. We informed them that the present Tamil medium courses would be conducted in English from next year onwards. They were very happy,” he said.
He added that house rents and room charges had increased by leaps and bounds in Jaffna due to the influx of tourists from the south. He said this made it impossible for university students to find accommodation at a budgetary rate.
“People can easily get Rs.1,000 for a room per day in Jaffna now. Therefore university students have been asked to vacate their boarding places by the owners. We will build hostels in the university very soon,” he said.
Besides, he said, there were 200 differently-abled students at the university now. Each student, he said, was given Rs. 5,000 for their basic needs.
Source:http://www.dailymirror.lk/print/index.php/news/front-page-news/19961.html
Sri Lankan government to build a prison in Jaffna to accomodate 1,000 detainees
The Sri Lankan government plans to construct a prison complex in Jaffna that could accommodate 1,000 detainees.
The Cabinet yesterday approved the construction following a memorandum submitted by Rehabilitation and Prison Reforms Minister D.E.W. Gunasekara.
The new Prison complex will also include features needed for rehabilitation of detainees.The project is expected to cost an estimated Rs.272 million.
Currently the Jaffna Prison is maintained in four rented houses and need speedy restoration, the government has pointed out.
The government has said that a 2.5 acre land belonging to the Prisons Department, situated in Pannai area in Jaffna, will be used for purpose.
Source:http://www.colombopage.com/archive_10B/Sep09_1284041481JR.php
The Cabinet yesterday approved the construction following a memorandum submitted by Rehabilitation and Prison Reforms Minister D.E.W. Gunasekara.
The new Prison complex will also include features needed for rehabilitation of detainees.The project is expected to cost an estimated Rs.272 million.
Currently the Jaffna Prison is maintained in four rented houses and need speedy restoration, the government has pointed out.
The government has said that a 2.5 acre land belonging to the Prisons Department, situated in Pannai area in Jaffna, will be used for purpose.
Source:http://www.colombopage.com/archive_10B/Sep09_1284041481JR.php
Sri Lanka Jaffna forum discuss path to knowledge economy
Academics and officials in Sri Lanka's northern Jaffna peninsular has debated ways to transform the agrarian and fisheries area to a knowledge-based economy with better education, a think has said.
P Balasundarampillai, a former vice chancellor of the Jaffna University has called for technical colleges and engineering universities to be established in the north to enhance the knowledge of Jaffna youth.
He was a participant in an open forum organized by the Point Pedro Point Pedro Institute of Development, a think tank and Friedrich Ebert Stiftung, a German based foundation.
Balasundarampillai had cited the example of Tamilnadu in India, where tertiary education institutions were mushrooming.
During his tenure at the Jaffna University he had attempted to introduce information technology courses but some of his colleagues had stopped him saying IT should not be taught before starting an engineering course.
Balasundarampillai had Jaffna youths who completed high school enter British universities and do very well, but such human capital could benefit Jaffna it was developed there.
A senior regional government education official had explained that primary and secondary education delivery was being strengthened in the area under a new program.
Niranjan Nadarajah, a credit and risk manager for HSBC for the Asia Pacific region had said that knowledge is a greater wealth creator than any other sector.
He had said that that though Jaffna (North in general) is endowed with limited natural resources ('moola valam)' it is endowed with lot of brain resources ('moolai valam').
Nadarajah had urged educationists to align curricula to the needs of the market rather than expecting the market to absorb the output of schools and universities.
T Mahasivam, general secretary of the Ceylon Tamil Teachers’ Union has said human security was needed in the north and it was vital to have people’s participation in development planning.
A participant who held an opposite view had said too much focus was given to tertiary education and the Indian experience was not appropriate for Sri Lanka. Another had expressed fears about the entry of foreign and private universities to Sri Lanka.
Yet another had warned that business process outsourcing workers in India had suffered verbal abuse. Another participant had said he suspected that the forum was held to promote globalization at the behest of western interests.
The Pont Pedro Institute of Development said around 100 people including, academics, officials, students, businessmen, social activists and members of the civil society had participated.
Source:http://www.lankabusinessonline.com/fullstory.php?nid=1044090306
P Balasundarampillai, a former vice chancellor of the Jaffna University has called for technical colleges and engineering universities to be established in the north to enhance the knowledge of Jaffna youth.
He was a participant in an open forum organized by the Point Pedro Point Pedro Institute of Development, a think tank and Friedrich Ebert Stiftung, a German based foundation.
Balasundarampillai had cited the example of Tamilnadu in India, where tertiary education institutions were mushrooming.
During his tenure at the Jaffna University he had attempted to introduce information technology courses but some of his colleagues had stopped him saying IT should not be taught before starting an engineering course.
Balasundarampillai had Jaffna youths who completed high school enter British universities and do very well, but such human capital could benefit Jaffna it was developed there.
A senior regional government education official had explained that primary and secondary education delivery was being strengthened in the area under a new program.
Niranjan Nadarajah, a credit and risk manager for HSBC for the Asia Pacific region had said that knowledge is a greater wealth creator than any other sector.
He had said that that though Jaffna (North in general) is endowed with limited natural resources ('moola valam)' it is endowed with lot of brain resources ('moolai valam').
Nadarajah had urged educationists to align curricula to the needs of the market rather than expecting the market to absorb the output of schools and universities.
T Mahasivam, general secretary of the Ceylon Tamil Teachers’ Union has said human security was needed in the north and it was vital to have people’s participation in development planning.
A participant who held an opposite view had said too much focus was given to tertiary education and the Indian experience was not appropriate for Sri Lanka. Another had expressed fears about the entry of foreign and private universities to Sri Lanka.
Yet another had warned that business process outsourcing workers in India had suffered verbal abuse. Another participant had said he suspected that the forum was held to promote globalization at the behest of western interests.
The Pont Pedro Institute of Development said around 100 people including, academics, officials, students, businessmen, social activists and members of the civil society had participated.
Source:http://www.lankabusinessonline.com/fullstory.php?nid=1044090306
Monday, August 23, 2010
Jaffna Pooneryn to be promoted as a tourist resort area
A tourism promotion campaign is to be organized in the Jaffna Peninsula with the intention of developing Pooneryn as a tourist destination for the local tourists while developing the boat service between Jaffna and Pooneryn.
This measure was discussed at a meeting held under the Chairmanship of Governor, Northern Province, GA Chandrasiri at the Office of the Regional Assistant Commissioner of Local Government, Jaffna recently.
It was also stated that people who go to Jaffna would then visit Pooneryn on their way. The discussion at the meeting also centered on the Boat Service between Pooneryn and Jaffna, Development and renovation of historical and archeological sites, Sales Centres for local products like Palmyrah products with the assistance of Cooperative Societies.
Present at the discussion were Mr. T. Rasanayagam, Deputy Chief
Secretary – Provincial Public Administration, NP, Mrs. P. Sivalingam,
Regional Commissioner, Jaffna, Mrs. Mathumathi Vasanthakumar, Regional
Assistant Commissioner of Local Government, Jaffna, Mr. P. Vimalanatha
Sarma, Regional Assistant Commissioner of Local Government,
Kilinochchi, Mr. S. Ganesh, Assistant Commissioner of Cooperative
Development, Kilinochchi, Mr. S. Vasanthakumar, Assistant Government
Agent, Pooneryn, Representatives from Cooperative Societies and
Fishermen Societies in the Area.
This measure was discussed at a meeting held under the Chairmanship of Governor, Northern Province, GA Chandrasiri at the Office of the Regional Assistant Commissioner of Local Government, Jaffna recently.
It was also stated that people who go to Jaffna would then visit Pooneryn on their way. The discussion at the meeting also centered on the Boat Service between Pooneryn and Jaffna, Development and renovation of historical and archeological sites, Sales Centres for local products like Palmyrah products with the assistance of Cooperative Societies.
Present at the discussion were Mr. T. Rasanayagam, Deputy Chief
Secretary – Provincial Public Administration, NP, Mrs. P. Sivalingam,
Regional Commissioner, Jaffna, Mrs. Mathumathi Vasanthakumar, Regional
Assistant Commissioner of Local Government, Jaffna, Mr. P. Vimalanatha
Sarma, Regional Assistant Commissioner of Local Government,
Kilinochchi, Mr. S. Ganesh, Assistant Commissioner of Cooperative
Development, Kilinochchi, Mr. S. Vasanthakumar, Assistant Government
Agent, Pooneryn, Representatives from Cooperative Societies and
Fishermen Societies in the Area.
Friday, August 20, 2010
Northern Province school children to go on an educational tour
The Northern Provincial Council will bear the total cost of sending a total of 500 school children in two batches of 250 each from the
Northern Province on an educational tour of Sri Lanka. These children are in the age of 14 to 18 years.
These students who have never been to any other part in Sri Lanka are expected to visit Anuradhapura, Colombo, Galle, Hambantota, Kataragama, Nuwara Eliya, Kandy and Trincomalee. They would be
accompanied by teachers and few parents.
On their return the students are expected to meet the Governor,Northern Province and brief him about the exposure they have had.
Northern Province on an educational tour of Sri Lanka. These children are in the age of 14 to 18 years.
These students who have never been to any other part in Sri Lanka are expected to visit Anuradhapura, Colombo, Galle, Hambantota, Kataragama, Nuwara Eliya, Kandy and Trincomalee. They would be
accompanied by teachers and few parents.
On their return the students are expected to meet the Governor,Northern Province and brief him about the exposure they have had.
Thursday, August 19, 2010
ADB delegation to visit Jaffna
Source - TamilNet
Sri Lanka former war zone economy transformation seen
Aug 20, 2010 (LBO) - Northern Sri Lanka, where education was highly valued before war retarded its growth, has potential to be transformed into a 'knowledge economy' from its traditional agrarian cum fisheries base, a statement said.
An open forum on 'Pathways to Knowledge-based Development' in northern Jaffna is being organised by the Point Pedro Institute of Development (PPID) in partnership with Friedrich Ebert Stiftung (FES).
The event is to be held on September 02, 2010 around the time of the traditional Nallur Hindu festival, the statement from the PPID said.
"The primary objective of this public conclave is to present submissions and debate the ways and means and costs and benefits of transforming the traditional agrarian cum fisheries economy of Jaffna and the north into a modern knowledge-based economy."
The event is purposefully organised during the time of the Nallur temple festival to tap the large number of people from around the country and abroad who visit Jaffna during this festive season.
Sri Lanka's north and east were wracked by ethnic strife for 30 years. The war ended in May 2009 resulting in an economic revival.
An open forum on 'Pathways to Knowledge-based Development' in northern Jaffna is being organised by the Point Pedro Institute of Development (PPID) in partnership with Friedrich Ebert Stiftung (FES).
The event is to be held on September 02, 2010 around the time of the traditional Nallur Hindu festival, the statement from the PPID said.
"The primary objective of this public conclave is to present submissions and debate the ways and means and costs and benefits of transforming the traditional agrarian cum fisheries economy of Jaffna and the north into a modern knowledge-based economy."
The event is purposefully organised during the time of the Nallur temple festival to tap the large number of people from around the country and abroad who visit Jaffna during this festive season.
Sri Lanka's north and east were wracked by ethnic strife for 30 years. The war ended in May 2009 resulting in an economic revival.
Devotees throng at Nallur Kovil in Jaffna
Tens of thousands of devotees had gathered in Jaffna to attend the opening ceremony of the Nallur Sri Kandaswami Temple festival, the biggest religious event in the Jaffna peninsula.
Police sources said that nearly a hundred thousand Hindus had attended the festivities and as hotels Jaffna hotels were unable to cope with the influx, warm-hearted residents of Jaffna from all faiths opened their doors to the pilgrims.
The annual Nallur Temple festival, which commenced on August 15, had in particular drawn devotees as far as from United Kingdom, France, Italy, Canada, India and Australia, most from the Tamil diaspora who were unable to roam freely in the island during the thirty years of bloody civil war.
Hindus pay homage to Lord Murugan by way of offering flowers, burning incenses and coconuts amidst continuous recital of "Haro Haraa".
Nallur festival, lasting for 25 days will conclude with ‘Theertham’ (Water Cutting ceremony) on September 10, followed by the ‘Poonkavanam’ (ceremony of Eternal Bliss) held on the next day. ‘Ther procession’ is to be held on September 9.
- Asian Tribune -
Police sources said that nearly a hundred thousand Hindus had attended the festivities and as hotels Jaffna hotels were unable to cope with the influx, warm-hearted residents of Jaffna from all faiths opened their doors to the pilgrims.
The annual Nallur Temple festival, which commenced on August 15, had in particular drawn devotees as far as from United Kingdom, France, Italy, Canada, India and Australia, most from the Tamil diaspora who were unable to roam freely in the island during the thirty years of bloody civil war.
Hindus pay homage to Lord Murugan by way of offering flowers, burning incenses and coconuts amidst continuous recital of "Haro Haraa".
Nallur festival, lasting for 25 days will conclude with ‘Theertham’ (Water Cutting ceremony) on September 10, followed by the ‘Poonkavanam’ (ceremony of Eternal Bliss) held on the next day. ‘Ther procession’ is to be held on September 9.
- Asian Tribune -
Govt to return civilian lands in Jaffna - Defence Secretary
The civilian lands acquired for security purposes in the Jaffna peninsula would be reduced and would be given to owners while others whose lands have to be kept to maintain certain essential security establishments would be provided either compensation or alternative land, Defence Secretary Gotabhaya Rajapaksa said testifying before the Lessons Learnt and Reconciliation Commission yesterday.
He said that the Government aims for a gradual reduction of its military presence in the former conflict affected North to be replaced by the Police.
However a certain amount of military presence in the area would be required, specially naval deployment, he added. The Defence Secretary also said that in the Vanni region all civilian land had been released and the Security Forces had redeployed certain military establishment. The Government property occupied by the military too have been released to relevant local civilian administrative authorities, he added.
Commenting on increasing the Police presence Secretary Rajapaksa noted that the Government had taken steps to recruit 500 new personnel from the North who were now undergoing training at the Kalutara Police Training School. In addition to increased recruitment Police personnel in the area are being provided with training in spoken Tamil, he added.
Giving a lengthy statement before the commission the Defence Secretary stated that most people today had forgotten that the Government had defeated the most ruthless terrorist organization ever.
"Specifically I want to inform you of the magnitude of the military strength they have acquired over the years. In 2005 when I took over as Secretary of Defence,specially the whole of Vanni area and part of the Eastern Province were under their complete control," he said.
Their weaponary collection was almost on par with the military. They had a naval force and air power in addition to ground troops. And special forces like the black tigers and suicide cadres. This is the LTTE that we defeated. It was not just a group of rebels. That's the extent of the strength of the LTTE.
The Secretary however lamented that some had not understood this true strength of the LTTE and their violent intentions.
The Defence Secretary on the occasion also submitted files containing detailed descriptions of all evidence he presented before the Commission.
Mangala Moonasinghe former Sri Lankan High Commissioner to India and Nihal Rodrigo former Sri Lankas' Ambassador to China gave evidence before the Commission earlier in the day. It would be reconvened today.
Courtesy: Daily News
He said that the Government aims for a gradual reduction of its military presence in the former conflict affected North to be replaced by the Police.
However a certain amount of military presence in the area would be required, specially naval deployment, he added. The Defence Secretary also said that in the Vanni region all civilian land had been released and the Security Forces had redeployed certain military establishment. The Government property occupied by the military too have been released to relevant local civilian administrative authorities, he added.
Commenting on increasing the Police presence Secretary Rajapaksa noted that the Government had taken steps to recruit 500 new personnel from the North who were now undergoing training at the Kalutara Police Training School. In addition to increased recruitment Police personnel in the area are being provided with training in spoken Tamil, he added.
Giving a lengthy statement before the commission the Defence Secretary stated that most people today had forgotten that the Government had defeated the most ruthless terrorist organization ever.
"Specifically I want to inform you of the magnitude of the military strength they have acquired over the years. In 2005 when I took over as Secretary of Defence,specially the whole of Vanni area and part of the Eastern Province were under their complete control," he said.
Their weaponary collection was almost on par with the military. They had a naval force and air power in addition to ground troops. And special forces like the black tigers and suicide cadres. This is the LTTE that we defeated. It was not just a group of rebels. That's the extent of the strength of the LTTE.
The Secretary however lamented that some had not understood this true strength of the LTTE and their violent intentions.
The Defence Secretary on the occasion also submitted files containing detailed descriptions of all evidence he presented before the Commission.
Mangala Moonasinghe former Sri Lankan High Commissioner to India and Nihal Rodrigo former Sri Lankas' Ambassador to China gave evidence before the Commission earlier in the day. It would be reconvened today.
Courtesy: Daily News
Large crowds at Nallur Kandasamy festival
Large crowds at festival
The Nallur Kandasamy Kovil festival has attracted crowds from Jaffna and outstations. Sinhalese pilgrims daily join the local crowds. Scouts and police have made arrangements to control the crowds.
Four hundred policemen are detailed to control the crowd, assist elderly persons regulate vehicles at the temple vehicle parks and prevent anti-social activities.
As devotees to the temple are increasing daily and will reach a climax on the chariot festival day, 600 policemen will be on duty on the Ther, Thirtham and Poonkavanam festivals.
A ban has been imposed on food cooked outside and brought for sale in the vicinity of the temple.
Tamil scholar honoured
Renowned scholar, Saiva preacher, writer and philanthropist, late
Jaffna special correspondent
Thangammah Apppakutty, who built the Tellipallai Drugai Amman Temple has been awarded the Mahara Yarl Award.
This award is given by the Jaffna Municipality Saiva Promotion Society annually to an eminent social worker in the province.
Warm welcome for Namal
Namal Rajapaksa MP was given a warm welcome when he visited Pooneryn Chelliyathivu Tamil School and opened the school name board. He was taken on procession from Pooneryn Junction to the school with nathaswara and drum music. Principal S Ambikaipakan garlanded the Parliamentarian followed by Education Director Kilinochchi and Zonal Assistant Director Dharmaratnam.
Rajapaksa hoisted the National and School Flags amidst the signing of the National and School Anthems. He planted a tree in memory of his first visit. The Principal enumerated the urgent needs of the school. Rajapaksa promised to fulfil the school's needs.
Source:DailyNews
The Nallur Kandasamy Kovil festival has attracted crowds from Jaffna and outstations. Sinhalese pilgrims daily join the local crowds. Scouts and police have made arrangements to control the crowds.
Four hundred policemen are detailed to control the crowd, assist elderly persons regulate vehicles at the temple vehicle parks and prevent anti-social activities.
As devotees to the temple are increasing daily and will reach a climax on the chariot festival day, 600 policemen will be on duty on the Ther, Thirtham and Poonkavanam festivals.
A ban has been imposed on food cooked outside and brought for sale in the vicinity of the temple.
Tamil scholar honoured
Renowned scholar, Saiva preacher, writer and philanthropist, late
Jaffna special correspondent
Thangammah Apppakutty, who built the Tellipallai Drugai Amman Temple has been awarded the Mahara Yarl Award.
This award is given by the Jaffna Municipality Saiva Promotion Society annually to an eminent social worker in the province.
Warm welcome for Namal
Namal Rajapaksa MP was given a warm welcome when he visited Pooneryn Chelliyathivu Tamil School and opened the school name board. He was taken on procession from Pooneryn Junction to the school with nathaswara and drum music. Principal S Ambikaipakan garlanded the Parliamentarian followed by Education Director Kilinochchi and Zonal Assistant Director Dharmaratnam.
Rajapaksa hoisted the National and School Flags amidst the signing of the National and School Anthems. He planted a tree in memory of his first visit. The Principal enumerated the urgent needs of the school. Rajapaksa promised to fulfil the school's needs.
Source:DailyNews
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
Jaffna to get three Vidatha Resource Centres
Jaffna to get three Vidatha Resource Centres
Dinesh DE ALWIS
The Technology and Research Ministry said three new Vidatha Resource Centres (VRC) will be opened in Jaffna Peninsula by the end of this year.
Eight VRCs have been established in Jaffna Peninsula. Over 1,000 youth have obtained computer knowledge through the Resource Centres and the Ministry hopes to double the beneficiaries within this year.
The objective of the VRCs is to transfer Computer Technology to rural villages and create job opportunities at village level to youth and to alleviate rural poverty.
Vidatha Centres also facilitate rural entrepreneurs in Jaffna who do not get proper technical knowledge. Vidatha Resources Centres supply technical assistance to rural entrepreneurs, Ministry sources said.
Ceremony to felicitate Bishop
Jaffna Special corr
Rev. Fr. Victor Gnanapragasam, a native of Passaiyoor, Jaffna who was consecrated as a Bishop in Pakistan is back in his native home. He served in Jaffna for seven years prior to his emigration to Pakistan. He had served as a priest in Pakistan for 37 years.
He is the first Bishop of Quetta.
Jaffna Catholics have arranged a grand function this week to felicitate him.
Ice plant factory in Vadamarachchi
Jaffna Special corr
Social Services and Social Welfare Minister Douglas Devananda opened an ice plant factory at Polygandy, Vadamarachchi.
The production of ice came to a stop in the peninsula during the war.
Vadamarachchi fishermen will be able to send their catch to the Colombo market immediately with the production of ice.
Jaffna district Fisheries Assistant Commissioner, Jaffna and a Fisheries Department official attended the opening.
Source:http://www.dailynews.lk
Dinesh DE ALWIS
The Technology and Research Ministry said three new Vidatha Resource Centres (VRC) will be opened in Jaffna Peninsula by the end of this year.
Eight VRCs have been established in Jaffna Peninsula. Over 1,000 youth have obtained computer knowledge through the Resource Centres and the Ministry hopes to double the beneficiaries within this year.
The objective of the VRCs is to transfer Computer Technology to rural villages and create job opportunities at village level to youth and to alleviate rural poverty.
Vidatha Centres also facilitate rural entrepreneurs in Jaffna who do not get proper technical knowledge. Vidatha Resources Centres supply technical assistance to rural entrepreneurs, Ministry sources said.
Ceremony to felicitate Bishop
Jaffna Special corr
Rev. Fr. Victor Gnanapragasam, a native of Passaiyoor, Jaffna who was consecrated as a Bishop in Pakistan is back in his native home. He served in Jaffna for seven years prior to his emigration to Pakistan. He had served as a priest in Pakistan for 37 years.
He is the first Bishop of Quetta.
Jaffna Catholics have arranged a grand function this week to felicitate him.
Ice plant factory in Vadamarachchi
Jaffna Special corr
Social Services and Social Welfare Minister Douglas Devananda opened an ice plant factory at Polygandy, Vadamarachchi.
The production of ice came to a stop in the peninsula during the war.
Vadamarachchi fishermen will be able to send their catch to the Colombo market immediately with the production of ice.
Jaffna district Fisheries Assistant Commissioner, Jaffna and a Fisheries Department official attended the opening.
Source:http://www.dailynews.lk
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
Egg a day to Jaffna children
A project to ensure at least an egg to a child of families in Jaffna affected by malnutrition will be implemented, Kumudu Wadugedara of the Civil Affairs and Public Relations office of the Jaffna peninsula said yesterday.
He said malnutrition among the students in the peninsula is acute. He added that the Government has given complete access to the people in the Peninsula to have contact with the outside world. State and private telecom companies are operating in the Jaffna district.
The Sri Lanka Telecom has provided more than 27,000 land connections and 150,000 mobile connections to customers in the Jaffna district.
Waduge was of the opinion that the agriculture sector in the peninsula will see an unprecedented development in the coming years with the removal of the ban on fertilizers.
He said the buffer zone has been cleared of mines to enable early resettlement. According to Wadugedara, Security Forces in the Jaffna peninsular have taken an enormous effort to ensure their early resettlement.
The buffer zone which was heavily dotted with landmines and booby traps have been cleared by the Army. He said the Security Forces have initiated a number of measures to uplift the living standards of the people and a backyard poultry project is in progress to eradicate malnutrition among the children in the peninsula.
He is of the opinion that the reintegration of ex LTTE combatants to society following rehabilitation is continuing and the rehabilitation drive will end by end of this year.
Over 132 out of 213 ex-male LTTE cadres underwent extensive rehabilitation and they were released to their parents while 49 out of 67 ex-female combatants were also released by the Security Forces after rehabilitation. He is hopeful that those remaining would be rehabilitated and handed over to their parents by the end of the year.
Source:Dailynews
He said malnutrition among the students in the peninsula is acute. He added that the Government has given complete access to the people in the Peninsula to have contact with the outside world. State and private telecom companies are operating in the Jaffna district.
The Sri Lanka Telecom has provided more than 27,000 land connections and 150,000 mobile connections to customers in the Jaffna district.
Waduge was of the opinion that the agriculture sector in the peninsula will see an unprecedented development in the coming years with the removal of the ban on fertilizers.
He said the buffer zone has been cleared of mines to enable early resettlement. According to Wadugedara, Security Forces in the Jaffna peninsular have taken an enormous effort to ensure their early resettlement.
The buffer zone which was heavily dotted with landmines and booby traps have been cleared by the Army. He said the Security Forces have initiated a number of measures to uplift the living standards of the people and a backyard poultry project is in progress to eradicate malnutrition among the children in the peninsula.
He is of the opinion that the reintegration of ex LTTE combatants to society following rehabilitation is continuing and the rehabilitation drive will end by end of this year.
Over 132 out of 213 ex-male LTTE cadres underwent extensive rehabilitation and they were released to their parents while 49 out of 67 ex-female combatants were also released by the Security Forces after rehabilitation. He is hopeful that those remaining would be rehabilitated and handed over to their parents by the end of the year.
Source:Dailynews
Jaffna red onions in demand
There is an increase in the demand for Jaffna red onions. The number of Jaffna farmers involved in red onion cultivation has increased, Agriculture Extension Deputy Director, Jaffna, S. Sivakumar said.
Around 1,250 hectares have been cultivated with red onions in the Jaffna district. This is increasing gradually. Over 6000 farmers are cultivating red onion in Jaffna, he said.
Sivakumar said with the opening of the A-9 road, Jaffna's red onion harvest is reaching the South. There is a big demand for Jaffna red onions in the South," he said.
Farmers cultivate red onion during two seasons. Government provides assistance to red onion cultivators by providing land and irrigation facilities, the Deputy Director said. He said the local annual demand for red onion is 75,000 tons. The Agriculture Ministry will also produce red onion seeds in Jaffna and Vavuniya and encourage farmers to cultivate them.
Source:Dailynews
Around 1,250 hectares have been cultivated with red onions in the Jaffna district. This is increasing gradually. Over 6000 farmers are cultivating red onion in Jaffna, he said.
Sivakumar said with the opening of the A-9 road, Jaffna's red onion harvest is reaching the South. There is a big demand for Jaffna red onions in the South," he said.
Farmers cultivate red onion during two seasons. Government provides assistance to red onion cultivators by providing land and irrigation facilities, the Deputy Director said. He said the local annual demand for red onion is 75,000 tons. The Agriculture Ministry will also produce red onion seeds in Jaffna and Vavuniya and encourage farmers to cultivate them.
Source:Dailynews
World class hospital in Jaffna soon
A fully fledged, 100-bed hospital of international standard named Northern Central Hospital is being launched in northern Jaffna as a Board of Investment (BOI) approved project, According to Dr. Keerthi Sri Edirisinghe, the consultant engaged in designing of the new venture, this will provide a boost to the medical sector in the region which is slow in moving into the north compared to other service sectors like banks, insuranceand finance companies.
He said the new project is the second stage of the expansion programme of the Central Nursing Home which is already in existence and has enjoyed great reputation from the Northern population for the past 30 years. Internationally trained nursing staff would be engaged on a round-the-clock duty roster at the hospital. The recruitment of trainee nursing staff is already in progress, he said.
Services would include Outpatients Department Service (OPD), Channeling, Cardiology, Neurology & Neurosurgical unit, Rehabilitation unit, Eye, ENT, Dental, Nephrology, Orthopedic, Plastic Surgery & Vascular, Maternity Home and other essentials such as Laboratory, CT scan, Nursing Home for Elders. Ambulance services to transport patients between the hospital and their homes would also be available. The construction of buildings for the new hospital commences this month and is expected to be completed within one year.
Source:http://www.sundaytimes.lk/100815/BusinessTimes/bt50.html
He said the new project is the second stage of the expansion programme of the Central Nursing Home which is already in existence and has enjoyed great reputation from the Northern population for the past 30 years. Internationally trained nursing staff would be engaged on a round-the-clock duty roster at the hospital. The recruitment of trainee nursing staff is already in progress, he said.
Services would include Outpatients Department Service (OPD), Channeling, Cardiology, Neurology & Neurosurgical unit, Rehabilitation unit, Eye, ENT, Dental, Nephrology, Orthopedic, Plastic Surgery & Vascular, Maternity Home and other essentials such as Laboratory, CT scan, Nursing Home for Elders. Ambulance services to transport patients between the hospital and their homes would also be available. The construction of buildings for the new hospital commences this month and is expected to be completed within one year.
Source:http://www.sundaytimes.lk/100815/BusinessTimes/bt50.html
Jaffna Roundup
Drastic drop in reading habit in Jaffna
The Jaffna Library authorities yesterday said that reading habit among the students in the peninsula has seen a drastic drop and less students are seen in the reading and reference sections of the library.
They stressed on a special program for the promotion of their reading habits with special emphasis on the English language.
According to Chief Librarian, Thanabalasingham, there were queues to obtain an opportunity to enter the reference section of the library in the past but that situation is no more there.
He added that the students only focus on tutorials which are related to their studies and get through the examinations. “They are not interested in book reading any more unless it does relate to their subjects in schools”, he added. Thanabalasingham who happened to be the first librarian after the library was reconstructed, added that the schools should be responsible for this pathetic situation. He stated that the teachers are in the habit of discouraging the students in the peninsula who read books which are not related to what they study in the schools.
He said that lack of English knowledge among the people in the Jaffna is an acute problem. Thanabalasingham added that English speaking people left the Jaffna after the war started and they did not return. Thanabalasingham stated that less students read English books now. “The students who read English books or speak in English are few.
The Jaffna Public Library was built in many stages and the major wing was opened by Former Jaffna mayor Alfred Duraiappa who was assassinated by the LTTE in 1976.
He added that the collection of books donated by the widow of former Communist Party stalwart Peter Keuneman to the library is of great importance and it attracts many readers.
Thanabalasingham said the readers pay special attention to these books which have been kept in the lending section of the library.
He is of the view that the IT department of the library needs more facilities and the latest technology should be introduced to it. “The Library needs more books related to technology which is advancing day by day. Thanabalasingham added that they have some books on technology which were printed 10-15 years ago and the library should have their updated versions.
Sixty one Sinhala students for Jaffna university
Measures have been taken to admit 61 Sinhala students to the Jaffna University for the academic year 2009/2010, University Registrar V. Kandeepan told the Daily News. Of them 15 students are for the Law Faculty and 14 for the Medical Faculty, he said. The Jaffna University is a pioneer in the Medicine and Agricultural fields in Sri Lanka over last four decades. About 5000 Tamils, Muslims and Sinhala students are studying in harmony in six faculties.
Novel machine introduced
A novel machine to extract palmyrah fruit juice from the fruits has been introduced at the Palmyrah Development Society Katpakam on Kandy Road, Jaffna. The cost of this machine is Rs one lakh twenty seven thousand.
The palmyrah development society has purchased six machine. At a time it can extract juice from palmyrah fruit weighing thirty kilos in fifteen to twenty minutes.
With the extraction of palmyrah juice palmyrah jam, palmyrah cake and various other food items will be produced in abundance for sale in and out of Jaffna.
Request to rename road
The Old Boys Association of Parameshwara College, Tinnavelly now the University of Jaffna had made a request to the Jaffna Mayor to name the road that leads from Parameswara College junction to Jaffna Kankesanthurai Road as Sir P. Ramanathan road. They say that some of the present generation even the Jaffna University students are unaware that the Jaffna University was the former Parameswara College founded by the philanthrophist Sir P Ramanathan and donated to the university.
The Mayor should take steps to name the road as Sir Ponnambalam Ramanathan Road in honour of the Philanthropist, they say.
Source:DailyNews
The Jaffna Library authorities yesterday said that reading habit among the students in the peninsula has seen a drastic drop and less students are seen in the reading and reference sections of the library.
They stressed on a special program for the promotion of their reading habits with special emphasis on the English language.
According to Chief Librarian, Thanabalasingham, there were queues to obtain an opportunity to enter the reference section of the library in the past but that situation is no more there.
He added that the students only focus on tutorials which are related to their studies and get through the examinations. “They are not interested in book reading any more unless it does relate to their subjects in schools”, he added. Thanabalasingham who happened to be the first librarian after the library was reconstructed, added that the schools should be responsible for this pathetic situation. He stated that the teachers are in the habit of discouraging the students in the peninsula who read books which are not related to what they study in the schools.
He said that lack of English knowledge among the people in the Jaffna is an acute problem. Thanabalasingham added that English speaking people left the Jaffna after the war started and they did not return. Thanabalasingham stated that less students read English books now. “The students who read English books or speak in English are few.
The Jaffna Public Library was built in many stages and the major wing was opened by Former Jaffna mayor Alfred Duraiappa who was assassinated by the LTTE in 1976.
He added that the collection of books donated by the widow of former Communist Party stalwart Peter Keuneman to the library is of great importance and it attracts many readers.
Thanabalasingham said the readers pay special attention to these books which have been kept in the lending section of the library.
He is of the view that the IT department of the library needs more facilities and the latest technology should be introduced to it. “The Library needs more books related to technology which is advancing day by day. Thanabalasingham added that they have some books on technology which were printed 10-15 years ago and the library should have their updated versions.
Sixty one Sinhala students for Jaffna university
Measures have been taken to admit 61 Sinhala students to the Jaffna University for the academic year 2009/2010, University Registrar V. Kandeepan told the Daily News. Of them 15 students are for the Law Faculty and 14 for the Medical Faculty, he said. The Jaffna University is a pioneer in the Medicine and Agricultural fields in Sri Lanka over last four decades. About 5000 Tamils, Muslims and Sinhala students are studying in harmony in six faculties.
Novel machine introduced
A novel machine to extract palmyrah fruit juice from the fruits has been introduced at the Palmyrah Development Society Katpakam on Kandy Road, Jaffna. The cost of this machine is Rs one lakh twenty seven thousand.
The palmyrah development society has purchased six machine. At a time it can extract juice from palmyrah fruit weighing thirty kilos in fifteen to twenty minutes.
With the extraction of palmyrah juice palmyrah jam, palmyrah cake and various other food items will be produced in abundance for sale in and out of Jaffna.
Request to rename road
The Old Boys Association of Parameshwara College, Tinnavelly now the University of Jaffna had made a request to the Jaffna Mayor to name the road that leads from Parameswara College junction to Jaffna Kankesanthurai Road as Sir P. Ramanathan road. They say that some of the present generation even the Jaffna University students are unaware that the Jaffna University was the former Parameswara College founded by the philanthrophist Sir P Ramanathan and donated to the university.
The Mayor should take steps to name the road as Sir Ponnambalam Ramanathan Road in honour of the Philanthropist, they say.
Source:DailyNews
Monday, August 9, 2010
Jaffna Catholics honour priests on their Sacerdotal Silver Jubilee
The Jaffna catholics honoured two of their priests celebrating their Sacerdotal Silver Jubilee last week.
Rev Fr Jero Selvanayagam of Karampon, Kayts and Rev Fr J P Jesuthasan of Soorawatte, Illavalai reached the climax of priesthood and donned the mantle of educational excellence as Rector, St. Patrick's College, Jaffna and St Henry's College, Illavallai respectively.
The students, teachers, old boys and parents congregated at the college hall to participate in religious events to bless Father Jero.
Rev Fr Jero had his secondary education at St Anthony's College Kayts and at St Patrick's College, Jaffna. After a brief pastoral experience he joined St Patrick's as Vice Principal.
Rev Fr Jesuthasan who is now the Rector St Henry's College Illavalai raised St Anthony's College Kayts from the devastation of ethnic war.
The college has been built anew during his rectorship.
The Illavalai Catholic and Hindu community felicitated him at St Henry's College hall at a function presided by Rev Fr Gnanapragasam Emeritus Rector St Henry's college Illavalai and Vicar General Jaffna.
Source:http://www.dailynews.lk/2010/08/10/news51.asp
Rev Fr Jero Selvanayagam of Karampon, Kayts and Rev Fr J P Jesuthasan of Soorawatte, Illavalai reached the climax of priesthood and donned the mantle of educational excellence as Rector, St. Patrick's College, Jaffna and St Henry's College, Illavallai respectively.
The students, teachers, old boys and parents congregated at the college hall to participate in religious events to bless Father Jero.
Rev Fr Jero had his secondary education at St Anthony's College Kayts and at St Patrick's College, Jaffna. After a brief pastoral experience he joined St Patrick's as Vice Principal.
Rev Fr Jesuthasan who is now the Rector St Henry's College Illavalai raised St Anthony's College Kayts from the devastation of ethnic war.
The college has been built anew during his rectorship.
The Illavalai Catholic and Hindu community felicitated him at St Henry's College hall at a function presided by Rev Fr Gnanapragasam Emeritus Rector St Henry's college Illavalai and Vicar General Jaffna.
Source:http://www.dailynews.lk/2010/08/10/news51.asp
More Jaffna farmers take to grape cultivation
A better market have been created for grape farmers in Jaffna, with the opening of the A-9 road, Agriculture (Extension) Deputy Director Jaffna, S.Sivakumar said.
He said there were 52 hectares cultivated with grapes in Jaffna in 2009 and farmers have now cultivated 56 hectares and the cultivated area increases gradually.
Though there are other grapes growing districts in Sri Lanka, Jaffna is the only district growing the fruit on a commercial basis, he said.
There are 400 farmers cultivating grapes in Jaffna and because of the big demand farmers who gave up cultivation have resumed cultivation of grapes, Sivakumar said. "Farmers cultivate grapes during two seasons. The main season is August-September and the other is January-February. Consumers expect the same quality as grapes imported from Australia. Australian grapes are more sweeter and seedless. We have introduced more sweeter grape varieties namely Cardinal and Israel Blue for farmers engaged in grape cultivation in Jaffna," the Deputy Director said.
Source:http://www.dailynews.lk/2010/08/10/news35.asp
He said there were 52 hectares cultivated with grapes in Jaffna in 2009 and farmers have now cultivated 56 hectares and the cultivated area increases gradually.
Though there are other grapes growing districts in Sri Lanka, Jaffna is the only district growing the fruit on a commercial basis, he said.
There are 400 farmers cultivating grapes in Jaffna and because of the big demand farmers who gave up cultivation have resumed cultivation of grapes, Sivakumar said. "Farmers cultivate grapes during two seasons. The main season is August-September and the other is January-February. Consumers expect the same quality as grapes imported from Australia. Australian grapes are more sweeter and seedless. We have introduced more sweeter grape varieties namely Cardinal and Israel Blue for farmers engaged in grape cultivation in Jaffna," the Deputy Director said.
Source:http://www.dailynews.lk/2010/08/10/news35.asp
Saturday, August 7, 2010
Sri Lanka - Boat service from Pooneryn to Jaffna
A public boat service with all facilities from Pooneryn to Jaffna commenced yesterday (Aug 03), under the directive of the Ministry of Traditional Industries and Small Enterprise Development.
Several boats deployed under this project will operate from Pooneryn to Guru Nagar, Maniyathottam. The Transport Board of the Northern Province will take action to start a bus service from Maniyathottam to Jaffna town the same time when boats arrive to at the boat house so that people can travel to Jaffna without any delays.
This project was initiated as a result of a complaint from the people who earlier travelled in the boats which did not have enough facilities. The only alternative they had to reach Jaffna was to travel approximately 100km along the A-35 road which has many obstacles due to terrorist activities. With this boat service people can now travel to Jaffna in one hour without any delay.
Source:http://www.isria.com/pages/4_August_2010_144.php
Several boats deployed under this project will operate from Pooneryn to Guru Nagar, Maniyathottam. The Transport Board of the Northern Province will take action to start a bus service from Maniyathottam to Jaffna town the same time when boats arrive to at the boat house so that people can travel to Jaffna without any delays.
This project was initiated as a result of a complaint from the people who earlier travelled in the boats which did not have enough facilities. The only alternative they had to reach Jaffna was to travel approximately 100km along the A-35 road which has many obstacles due to terrorist activities. With this boat service people can now travel to Jaffna in one hour without any delay.
Source:http://www.isria.com/pages/4_August_2010_144.php
Friday, July 30, 2010
Malwatta Prelate tours Jaffna
The Malwatta Mahanayaka Thera visited the Nallur Kandasamy Temple, Public Library and Jaffna Fort area.
The Prelate also presented educational equipment to 1,500 students at the Vadamarachi and Tenamarachi Educational Zones and also conducted religious ceremony at the Army Officers' quarters.
The Mahanayaka Thera's visit was coordinated by Maj Gen Hathurusinghe.
Thursday, July 29, 2010
Nallur Temple
Historians have found evidence that the original temple was built in 1248 in Kurukkal Valavu in Nallur at the same location of the present temple. Nallur was then the capital of the Jaffna Kingdom. But in 1450, Parakramabahu the 6th of the Kotte Kingdom, in response to the Arya Chakkaravarthi of Jaffna's to extend his rule to the South, sent his son Sapumal Kumara to bring the Jaffna Kingdom down to his rule. Sapumal Kumara defeated King Arya Chakkaravarthi, destroyed his palace and the original Nallur temple. But upon becoming Buvaneka Bahu the 6th , he sought to make amends by building a new temple in 1467 at a nearby location, says Shanmugapriya in Nallur Kanthaswamy: A Spiritual Experience.
Location : Nallur Kandasamy Temple lies about 1.5km from the Jaffna town on the KKS (Kankasanthurai) Road.
Links:http://www.nalluran.com/
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
Arrival of Arhat Sanghamitta in Sri Lanka
Two significant incidents that took place in the 3rd Century B.C. stand out in Sri Lanka's more than 2550 year old history as the ones which brought about a social, religious and a cultural revolution in the country. As a messenger of Emperor Dharmashoka of India, Arhat Mahinda arrived in Lankadeepa on a Poson Full Moon Poya Day with the gift of the Dhamma which was soon embraced by King Devanampiyatissa and his citizens. Arhat Mahinda's historic visit was soon followed by the arrival of Arhat Sanghamitta on an Unduwap Full Moon Poya Day with a sapling of the Southern bough of India's Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi under which the Buddha attained Enlightenment. It was Arhat Sangamitta who pioneered the Order of Bhikkhuni (Bhikkhuni Sasana) in Sri Lanka. Thus Unduwap poya which falls on December 12 is a day of great significance to Sri Lankan Buddhists.
Upon the request of King Devanampiyatissa, his nephew Aritta gave his consent to undertake the tour to India in order to meet Emperor Asoka and make arrangements to bring a Bo Sapling from Sri Maha Bodhi, provided he was permitted to enter the Order on his return. As the mission was a success Arhat Sangamitta and retinue arrived in Dambakola Patuna Port with the Bo Sapling placed in a golden bowl. As the Bo Sapling reached the shores of Sri Lanka, Arhat Mahinda had preached Naga Damana to King Devanampiyatissa who arrived in Dambakola Patuna to receive Arhat Sangamitta and the Bo Sapling.
After performing the necessary rituals, the Bo Sapling was ceremoniously carried to Mahamevuna Uyana in Anuradhapura and was planted at an auspicious time during Rehena Nekatha. Over a thousand men entered the Order on that historic day, reveals Mahavamsa. Maha Mahendra Thera, King Devanampiyatissa, and Arhat Sanghamitta participated in the historic ceremony along with Kshatriyas of Kataragama, Chandana Grama and Thiwakka, and Brahmins. The seeds of the tree which was given to the King by Maha Mahendra Thera was sown on his advice. Later the eight saplings were planted in areas like Thawakka Bamunugama, Kataragama, Chandanagrama, Thuparama, Isurumuni Vihara, Palamu Sa Maluwa and Sagiri Aramage. Thirty two saplings from those trees were planted all over. The Sacred Bo Tree remains there to this day not only as the oldest tree in the world, but also as the only tree in the world which has an authentic history, attracting thousands of devout Buddhists.
Along with Arhat Sanghamitta, eleven Bhikkunis and people of higher castes who are skilled in eighteen different working spheres such as architecture, masonry, jewellery industry, irrigation, engineering also arrived in the country, pushing the country forward in every respect. The people who came to the country for the protection of the Bo Tree performed necessary rituals to the tree inspired the citizens, directing the country in a new path. Literary activities too developed. In short the cultural practices and skilled labour brought about a remarkable change in the social and religious life of the country. Massive constructions such as Mahavihara, Chethiyagiri, Thuparama, Isurumuni, Vessagiri bespeak the creativity of that era.
Rituals associated with the Bo Tree were initially performed by the various categories of people who arrived in the country with Sanghamitta Theri. In fact each of those rituals were performed by the people of eight villages who settled down in Anuradhapura. The names of these villages usually started with the word 'Vihara'. The bathing of the Bodhi with milk, making offerings of robes and special ceremonies were often conducted by Bikkhus and Bhikkunis.
Arrival of Arhat Sangamitta at Dambakola Patuna
The Order of Nuns
Under the auspices of the King, twelve palaces were constructed, three of which were used to keep parts of the Ship which carried Arhat Sangamitta and the Bo Sapling. Arhat Sangamitta dwelled in Haththalhaka Vihara along with other Bhikkunis who entered the Order as the Bhikkuni sasana was established.
Being ordained by Arhat Sangamitta, Queen Anula became the first to enter the Order of Bhikkunis. In fact it was Queen Anula along with 500 attendant ladies who expressed her willingness to enter the Order of Nuns.
Arhat Mahinda who was of the opinion that it was not proper for him to inaugurate that task, advised the King to send envoys to Emperor Asoka. It was as a result of this that the king's nephew Aritta was sent. Queen Anula and the group who had attained the first of the four stages that leads to Arhathood (After listening to Dhamma discourses of Arhat Mahinda Thera), could enter the Order successfully.
Gradually women from all walks of life began to enter the Order. After working hard for the emancipation of women in the country, Arhat Sanghamitta passed away at the age of 79.
It was only after her arrival that the women of the country got entire freedom to engage in socio-cultural activities.
Every year Unduwap Full Moon Poya Day will be celebrated with much piety country wide, performing religious activities, also conducting processions and carrying the statues of Arhat Sangamitta.
Source:http://www.sundayobserver.lk/2008/12/07/imp07.asp
Upon the request of King Devanampiyatissa, his nephew Aritta gave his consent to undertake the tour to India in order to meet Emperor Asoka and make arrangements to bring a Bo Sapling from Sri Maha Bodhi, provided he was permitted to enter the Order on his return. As the mission was a success Arhat Sangamitta and retinue arrived in Dambakola Patuna Port with the Bo Sapling placed in a golden bowl. As the Bo Sapling reached the shores of Sri Lanka, Arhat Mahinda had preached Naga Damana to King Devanampiyatissa who arrived in Dambakola Patuna to receive Arhat Sangamitta and the Bo Sapling.
After performing the necessary rituals, the Bo Sapling was ceremoniously carried to Mahamevuna Uyana in Anuradhapura and was planted at an auspicious time during Rehena Nekatha. Over a thousand men entered the Order on that historic day, reveals Mahavamsa. Maha Mahendra Thera, King Devanampiyatissa, and Arhat Sanghamitta participated in the historic ceremony along with Kshatriyas of Kataragama, Chandana Grama and Thiwakka, and Brahmins. The seeds of the tree which was given to the King by Maha Mahendra Thera was sown on his advice. Later the eight saplings were planted in areas like Thawakka Bamunugama, Kataragama, Chandanagrama, Thuparama, Isurumuni Vihara, Palamu Sa Maluwa and Sagiri Aramage. Thirty two saplings from those trees were planted all over. The Sacred Bo Tree remains there to this day not only as the oldest tree in the world, but also as the only tree in the world which has an authentic history, attracting thousands of devout Buddhists.
Along with Arhat Sanghamitta, eleven Bhikkunis and people of higher castes who are skilled in eighteen different working spheres such as architecture, masonry, jewellery industry, irrigation, engineering also arrived in the country, pushing the country forward in every respect. The people who came to the country for the protection of the Bo Tree performed necessary rituals to the tree inspired the citizens, directing the country in a new path. Literary activities too developed. In short the cultural practices and skilled labour brought about a remarkable change in the social and religious life of the country. Massive constructions such as Mahavihara, Chethiyagiri, Thuparama, Isurumuni, Vessagiri bespeak the creativity of that era.
Rituals associated with the Bo Tree were initially performed by the various categories of people who arrived in the country with Sanghamitta Theri. In fact each of those rituals were performed by the people of eight villages who settled down in Anuradhapura. The names of these villages usually started with the word 'Vihara'. The bathing of the Bodhi with milk, making offerings of robes and special ceremonies were often conducted by Bikkhus and Bhikkunis.
Arrival of Arhat Sangamitta at Dambakola Patuna
The Order of Nuns
Under the auspices of the King, twelve palaces were constructed, three of which were used to keep parts of the Ship which carried Arhat Sangamitta and the Bo Sapling. Arhat Sangamitta dwelled in Haththalhaka Vihara along with other Bhikkunis who entered the Order as the Bhikkuni sasana was established.
Being ordained by Arhat Sangamitta, Queen Anula became the first to enter the Order of Bhikkunis. In fact it was Queen Anula along with 500 attendant ladies who expressed her willingness to enter the Order of Nuns.
Arhat Mahinda who was of the opinion that it was not proper for him to inaugurate that task, advised the King to send envoys to Emperor Asoka. It was as a result of this that the king's nephew Aritta was sent. Queen Anula and the group who had attained the first of the four stages that leads to Arhathood (After listening to Dhamma discourses of Arhat Mahinda Thera), could enter the Order successfully.
Gradually women from all walks of life began to enter the Order. After working hard for the emancipation of women in the country, Arhat Sanghamitta passed away at the age of 79.
It was only after her arrival that the women of the country got entire freedom to engage in socio-cultural activities.
Every year Unduwap Full Moon Poya Day will be celebrated with much piety country wide, performing religious activities, also conducting processions and carrying the statues of Arhat Sangamitta.
Source:http://www.sundayobserver.lk/2008/12/07/imp07.asp
Dambakola Patuna
Dambakola Patuna or Jambukola Patuna is an ancient port in the north of Jaffna which was used during pre christian times. After Arahath Mahinda brought Bhuddhism to Sri Lanka in 250BC, his sister, Theri Sanghamitta arrived in Sri Lanka with a Sacred Bo Sapling one year later to this port. The temple Samudda-panasala ( Jambukola Viharaya) was built commemorating the arrival of the Bo sapling by King Devanampriya Tissa (250-210 BC). Later, the same king planted one of the first eight shoots of the Sri Maha Bodhi, on the same place where he kept the original tree before brining it to Anuradhapura. King Vijayabahu I (1070-1110) has restored this site.
How to get there
From Jaffna take the Kankasanthurei road (KKS Rd) and Travel up to Keerimalai Naguleswaran Kovil. The Keerimalai Natural Springs also belongs to this kovil. Between the Kovil and the Natural spring there is a road running parallel to the beach. The temple lies about 9 km from this kovil on this road.
How to get there
From Jaffna take the Kankasanthurei road (KKS Rd) and Travel up to Keerimalai Naguleswaran Kovil. The Keerimalai Natural Springs also belongs to this kovil. Between the Kovil and the Natural spring there is a road running parallel to the beach. The temple lies about 9 km from this kovil on this road.
Jaffna Technical College to be upgraded
The Jaffna Technical College would be upgraded as Colleges of Technology and courses are to commence soon said the Additional Director General D.V.T.Y. Kulathunga.
Currently there are colleges of technology in Maradana, Kandy, Badulla, Galle, Ratnapura, Kurunegala, Anuradhapura and Ampara and Jaffna would be added to this list. The financial assistance and technical assistance for the college of technology in Jaffna will come from the Korean International Cooperation Agency (KOICA). Courses to be offered at this college would include construction and motor vehicle technology, which would be equivalent to level 5 and level 6 National Vocational qualifications. This College of Technology would be equipped with the latest equipment and would be funded by KOICA.
Mr. Kulathunga said that they expect to admit 40 students per course. Students attending this course can study for the Degree course upon obtaining their Diploma, if they so wish.
Currently there are colleges of technology in Maradana, Kandy, Badulla, Galle, Ratnapura, Kurunegala, Anuradhapura and Ampara and Jaffna would be added to this list. The financial assistance and technical assistance for the college of technology in Jaffna will come from the Korean International Cooperation Agency (KOICA). Courses to be offered at this college would include construction and motor vehicle technology, which would be equivalent to level 5 and level 6 National Vocational qualifications. This College of Technology would be equipped with the latest equipment and would be funded by KOICA.
Mr. Kulathunga said that they expect to admit 40 students per course. Students attending this course can study for the Degree course upon obtaining their Diploma, if they so wish.
Indian Bank plans branch in Jaffna
CHENNAI: The city-based Indian Bank is planning to open a branch in Jaffna in Sri Lanka. "Talks are in an advanced stage at the moment," chairman and managing director TM Bhasin said. A couple of months back, the bank had sent representatives to the region to evaluate the possibility of setting up a branch. Indian Bank already has a branch in Colombo and it is also looking at the possibility of opening a branch in Kandy as well as a representative office in Jakarta in Indonesia, he said.
The bank's net profit during the first quarter, ending June 2010, grew by 11% to touch Rs 368.15 crore. CASA (current account saving account) deposit as a percentage of the total deposits of the bank recorded a growth of 33.34% in the first quarter of the fiscal as against 30.39% during the corresponding period last year. In keeping with the focus of raising low-cost deposits, the bank has launched a supreme current account with a health cover.
Indian Bank's total business during the April-June quarter recorded a year-on-year growth of 24% to touch Rs 1,59,027 crore (Rs 1,28,700 crore). Of this, deposits accounted for Rs 91,000 crore, with advances constituting the remainder. The credit deposit(CD) ratio of the bank stood stood at 74.8% for the period ending June 30, as against 67.8% for the corresponding period in 2009.
While the net interest income of the bank rose by 25.6% on a year-on-year basis to touch Rs 926.65 crore in the first quarter of the fiscal, core non-interest income witnessed a growth of 54.4% during the same period to touch Rs 257.79 crore. While the bank's capital adequacy ratio (CRAR) stood at 12.5% during the same period, the ration of net non-performing assets (NPA) to net advances was at 0.76%.
"We have shifted to identifying NPAs through the online CBS (core banking solution) which would enable the bank track all NPAs and special mention accounts on a day-to-day basis," Bhasin said. "The accounts under the NPA category would be generated from the head office and the relevant branch office and circle office under which these accounts fall would be asked to push for recovery. Otherwise, a lot of time is wasted in identifying NPA accounts," said Bhasin.
With base rate coming into play, Indian Bank is planning to reprice its loans totalling Rs 6,000 crore which where under the bank's base rate of 8%. As per the RBI guidelines, banks cannot charge below the base rate for loans.
Source:http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/Indian-Bank-plans-branch-in-Jaffna/articleshow/6212129.cms
The bank's net profit during the first quarter, ending June 2010, grew by 11% to touch Rs 368.15 crore. CASA (current account saving account) deposit as a percentage of the total deposits of the bank recorded a growth of 33.34% in the first quarter of the fiscal as against 30.39% during the corresponding period last year. In keeping with the focus of raising low-cost deposits, the bank has launched a supreme current account with a health cover.
Indian Bank's total business during the April-June quarter recorded a year-on-year growth of 24% to touch Rs 1,59,027 crore (Rs 1,28,700 crore). Of this, deposits accounted for Rs 91,000 crore, with advances constituting the remainder. The credit deposit(CD) ratio of the bank stood stood at 74.8% for the period ending June 30, as against 67.8% for the corresponding period in 2009.
While the net interest income of the bank rose by 25.6% on a year-on-year basis to touch Rs 926.65 crore in the first quarter of the fiscal, core non-interest income witnessed a growth of 54.4% during the same period to touch Rs 257.79 crore. While the bank's capital adequacy ratio (CRAR) stood at 12.5% during the same period, the ration of net non-performing assets (NPA) to net advances was at 0.76%.
"We have shifted to identifying NPAs through the online CBS (core banking solution) which would enable the bank track all NPAs and special mention accounts on a day-to-day basis," Bhasin said. "The accounts under the NPA category would be generated from the head office and the relevant branch office and circle office under which these accounts fall would be asked to push for recovery. Otherwise, a lot of time is wasted in identifying NPA accounts," said Bhasin.
With base rate coming into play, Indian Bank is planning to reprice its loans totalling Rs 6,000 crore which where under the bank's base rate of 8%. As per the RBI guidelines, banks cannot charge below the base rate for loans.
Source:http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/Indian-Bank-plans-branch-in-Jaffna/articleshow/6212129.cms
Asin visits Jaffna and Vavuniya
Asin has become the first Kollywood star to have visited war devastated Tamil territories in Sri Lanka in the past 30 years. On Sunday, Asin visited Jaffna and Vavuniya accompanied by the wife of President Rajapakse, Shiranthi Wickramasinghe Rajapaksa. The actress took part in the events in Eye Treatment Centre in Jaffna Hospital. At the Vavuniya general hospital, she interacted with a few patients and even watched an ongoing cataract surgery, performed by a surgeon flown in from India, sources said.
The unannounced visit materialized after Asin had met Namal Rajapaksa, MP and eldest son Mahinda Rjapakse and expressed her desire to visit the war ravaged areas when she landed in the country for the shooting of her Hindi film ‘Ready’.
South Indian Film Industry unions had warned actors not to work in Sri Lanka which they described as a country stained with the blood of innocent Tamils. But Asin seems to be determined in going her way unmindful of the boycott threats by the south Indian film industry.
Source:http://www.indiaglitz.com/channels/malayalam/article/58526.html
Monday, July 26, 2010
Nagadeepa
Nainativu is one of the smallest inhabited islands in the Gulf of Mannar and is only about 35 miles from India. Merchants have long come here and the surrounding islands to buy the conch shells that are harvested in the warm shallow waters in the Gulf. The conch shell is of course essential for certain Hindu and Buddhist rituals and a particularly perfect specimen of one spiraling to the right can fetch an enormous price. Pilgrims have also been coming to Nainativu since about the 1st century CE to worship at its famous stupa. In the Mahavamsa the island is one of the sixteen sacred places and the Tamil Buddhist epic, Manimekala, mentions a gem studded throne and a stone with the Buddha’s footprints at Nagadipa which pilgrims from India used to come and worship. The heroine of the epic is described as wandering amongst the island’s 'long sandy dunes and lagoons’.
As the boat approaches the main jetty the pilgrim will see the distinctive red and white-striped walls of the Hindu temple. Although there has been a temple here for many centuries the present one is not old and is of no particular interest. However on either side of the side entrance to the temple there are two very ancient objects. On the left as you enter is a large stone with an inscription of Parakramabahu I on it. In the first part of this inscription the king says that foreigners coming into the country should enter only at Uraturai (Kayts) and that they should be helped if in need. This undoubtedly refers to merchants and pilgrims from India. The second part says what measures should be taken if ships carrying elephants or horses and merchant ships are wrecked. On the right of the entrance is a large life saver-shaped stone, an ancient anchor. Arab ships used to carry such anchors.
Less than half a kilometer down the road from the temple is Nagadipa Vihara marking the place where the Buddha is supposed to have stayed during his visit to the small island. On one side of the road is the Bodhi Tree and on the other is the silver painted stupa. There are two temples as well, one containing a bronze Buddha image donated by the Burmese government in 1956. Nothing at Nagadipa is of any aesthetic or historical interest, everything having been built in the 1950’s.
Source:http://www.buddhanet.net/sacred-island/nagadipa.html
As the boat approaches the main jetty the pilgrim will see the distinctive red and white-striped walls of the Hindu temple. Although there has been a temple here for many centuries the present one is not old and is of no particular interest. However on either side of the side entrance to the temple there are two very ancient objects. On the left as you enter is a large stone with an inscription of Parakramabahu I on it. In the first part of this inscription the king says that foreigners coming into the country should enter only at Uraturai (Kayts) and that they should be helped if in need. This undoubtedly refers to merchants and pilgrims from India. The second part says what measures should be taken if ships carrying elephants or horses and merchant ships are wrecked. On the right of the entrance is a large life saver-shaped stone, an ancient anchor. Arab ships used to carry such anchors.
Less than half a kilometer down the road from the temple is Nagadipa Vihara marking the place where the Buddha is supposed to have stayed during his visit to the small island. On one side of the road is the Bodhi Tree and on the other is the silver painted stupa. There are two temples as well, one containing a bronze Buddha image donated by the Burmese government in 1956. Nothing at Nagadipa is of any aesthetic or historical interest, everything having been built in the 1950’s.
Source:http://www.buddhanet.net/sacred-island/nagadipa.html
Buddha's visit to Nagadeepa
As the historical records reveal the Buddha's second visit to Sri Lanka had taken place during the month of Bak more than two thousand five hundred and ninety years ago.
Nagadeepa Vihara
As mentioned in the Mahavamsa, in the fifth year (523 B.C) of Supreme Enlightenment, the Buddha had visited Nagadeepa in Lankadeepa (Sri Lanka) to settle a dispute between Mahodara and Chulodara -uncle and nephew who were at war with each other over a gem studded throne.
During the Buddha's stay Jethawana he saw in his Divine Eye the disaster about to take place in Nagadeepa and arrived there on Bak Amawaka Poya day (fifteen days prior to Bak Full Moon Poya Day).
History
Mahodara was then a mighty king in Nagadeepa (a Naga-kingdom in the ocean that covered five hundred `yojanas'. His younger sister, Thirachchika was married to a Naga King of the Vaddhamana mountain.
Chulodara was their son.
Thirachchika's father gave her one of his most valuable jewels- a gem-studded throne before his death.
Mahodara had been displeased with this from the beginning and his anger grew worse when the throne was owned by Thirachchika's son in the end. Mahodara decided to declare war against Chulodara, his nephew.
A Deva named Samiddhi Sumana who dwelt in Rajayatana tree (a Banyan tree) in Jethawana too had joined the Buddha during his visit to Nagadeepa, the Mahavamsa reveals.
The Deva in fact had uprooted the tree and had held it like a parasol over the Buddha! The Buddha had made no objections as he knew that the god had lived in Nagadeepa in one of his previous births. In an another birth he had seen Paccekabuddhas taking their meals under the same Kiripalu tree. The sight made him happy and he offered them leaves to cleanse their alms bowls.
The merit was strong enough for him to be born in the same tree in the Jetawana Garden as a god. The Buddha brought him to Lankadeepa together with the tree as he knew that the tour will benefit him immensely.
As the Buddha arrived in Nagadeepa the Nagas were about to declare war. The Buddha hovered there in mid-air above the venue and in order to alarm the Nagas called forth dread darkness over the battle-ground.
Next the Buddha had spread light abroad in order to comfort those who were in distress and anxiety.
The Nagas were overwhelmed by happiness to see the Buddha who was hovering in mid-air. They raised their hands and worshipped the Enlightened One. He then preached to the Nagas in order to make them understand the evils of hatred.
The Buddha narrated to them Jathaka stories like Karkoluka, Pandana, Latukika, Wattaka which showed the evils of hatred and the importance of living in harmony. Chulodara and Mahodara discarded their weapons , and offered the gem studded throne to the Buddha. The Enlightened one who was in mid-air then alighted on the earth and sat on the throne.
The Mahavamsa finely describes how the Nagas offered him dhana.
Thousands of Nagas established themselves in the three refuges (Buddha, Dhamma, Sangha) and in the moral precepts.
Naga king Maniakkhika of Kelaniya who was the uncle of Mahodara (mother's brother) too was among the ones who came to participate in the battle.
In fact Maniakkhika had become established in Buddha, Dhamma and Sangha (three refuges) and in the moral precepts during the Buddha's first visit to Sri Lanka- to Mahiyangana. The Naga -king who was overwhelmed by the Buddha's power of compassion thanked him profusely for settling down the dispute which otherwise would cost millions of lives.
"The Compassion you showed is great". He told the Buddha. "Thatagatha, we would have all been consumed to ashes had not the Buddha intervened. May your compassion yet light also specially on me". Thus Maniakkika slowly revealed his intention of seeing the Buddha visiting his kingdom in Kelaniya if he intends to visit the country again. The Buddha remained silent and it indicated that he had accepted the invitation.
The Naga King then asked for an object of worship and as a result the Buddha gave over the Rajayathana tree and the gem studded throne to him to do homage. Historical records state that Maniakkikha planted the Rajayathana tree on that very spot as a sacred memorial.
"Since the Thathagatha has used these two, paying homage to them will bring about blessings and happiness" the Buddha had told the Nagas before returning to Jethawana on the same, Bak Amawaka poya day. Nagadeepa Stupa was constructed by Chulodara and Mahodara and it is still there in Nagadeepa in Jaffna district.
Source:www.sundayobserver.lk/
Nagadeepa Vihara
As mentioned in the Mahavamsa, in the fifth year (523 B.C) of Supreme Enlightenment, the Buddha had visited Nagadeepa in Lankadeepa (Sri Lanka) to settle a dispute between Mahodara and Chulodara -uncle and nephew who were at war with each other over a gem studded throne.
During the Buddha's stay Jethawana he saw in his Divine Eye the disaster about to take place in Nagadeepa and arrived there on Bak Amawaka Poya day (fifteen days prior to Bak Full Moon Poya Day).
History
Mahodara was then a mighty king in Nagadeepa (a Naga-kingdom in the ocean that covered five hundred `yojanas'. His younger sister, Thirachchika was married to a Naga King of the Vaddhamana mountain.
Chulodara was their son.
Thirachchika's father gave her one of his most valuable jewels- a gem-studded throne before his death.
Mahodara had been displeased with this from the beginning and his anger grew worse when the throne was owned by Thirachchika's son in the end. Mahodara decided to declare war against Chulodara, his nephew.
A Deva named Samiddhi Sumana who dwelt in Rajayatana tree (a Banyan tree) in Jethawana too had joined the Buddha during his visit to Nagadeepa, the Mahavamsa reveals.
The Deva in fact had uprooted the tree and had held it like a parasol over the Buddha! The Buddha had made no objections as he knew that the god had lived in Nagadeepa in one of his previous births. In an another birth he had seen Paccekabuddhas taking their meals under the same Kiripalu tree. The sight made him happy and he offered them leaves to cleanse their alms bowls.
The merit was strong enough for him to be born in the same tree in the Jetawana Garden as a god. The Buddha brought him to Lankadeepa together with the tree as he knew that the tour will benefit him immensely.
As the Buddha arrived in Nagadeepa the Nagas were about to declare war. The Buddha hovered there in mid-air above the venue and in order to alarm the Nagas called forth dread darkness over the battle-ground.
Next the Buddha had spread light abroad in order to comfort those who were in distress and anxiety.
The Nagas were overwhelmed by happiness to see the Buddha who was hovering in mid-air. They raised their hands and worshipped the Enlightened One. He then preached to the Nagas in order to make them understand the evils of hatred.
The Buddha narrated to them Jathaka stories like Karkoluka, Pandana, Latukika, Wattaka which showed the evils of hatred and the importance of living in harmony. Chulodara and Mahodara discarded their weapons , and offered the gem studded throne to the Buddha. The Enlightened one who was in mid-air then alighted on the earth and sat on the throne.
The Mahavamsa finely describes how the Nagas offered him dhana.
Thousands of Nagas established themselves in the three refuges (Buddha, Dhamma, Sangha) and in the moral precepts.
Naga king Maniakkhika of Kelaniya who was the uncle of Mahodara (mother's brother) too was among the ones who came to participate in the battle.
In fact Maniakkhika had become established in Buddha, Dhamma and Sangha (three refuges) and in the moral precepts during the Buddha's first visit to Sri Lanka- to Mahiyangana. The Naga -king who was overwhelmed by the Buddha's power of compassion thanked him profusely for settling down the dispute which otherwise would cost millions of lives.
"The Compassion you showed is great". He told the Buddha. "Thatagatha, we would have all been consumed to ashes had not the Buddha intervened. May your compassion yet light also specially on me". Thus Maniakkika slowly revealed his intention of seeing the Buddha visiting his kingdom in Kelaniya if he intends to visit the country again. The Buddha remained silent and it indicated that he had accepted the invitation.
The Naga King then asked for an object of worship and as a result the Buddha gave over the Rajayathana tree and the gem studded throne to him to do homage. Historical records state that Maniakkikha planted the Rajayathana tree on that very spot as a sacred memorial.
"Since the Thathagatha has used these two, paying homage to them will bring about blessings and happiness" the Buddha had told the Nagas before returning to Jethawana on the same, Bak Amawaka poya day. Nagadeepa Stupa was constructed by Chulodara and Mahodara and it is still there in Nagadeepa in Jaffna district.
Source:www.sundayobserver.lk/
Thursday, May 27, 2010
King Sangili Statue
King Sangili ruled Jaffna kingdom during 1519-1561. During Portuguese invasions , he defended against Portugese and then escaped to India. Later , he reconciled with the Portuguese and remained a King under Portuguese rule.
On the way to Nallur Kovil , one can see the statue of King Sangili .After the statue is passed, huge gate built by the Dutch can be seen and after theat gate, the palace of king Sangili is there. The palace shows a combination of Dutch and Indian architecture.
On the way to Nallur Kovil , one can see the statue of King Sangili .After the statue is passed, huge gate built by the Dutch can be seen and after theat gate, the palace of king Sangili is there. The palace shows a combination of Dutch and Indian architecture.
Kadurugoda Temple
The special feature of these ancient Buddhist structures is that there are no square shape constructions above the global structures; Instead of that , There are are umbrella shape structures one above the other next to the global structures.
This place is believed to have called Kadurugoda Vihara in the past. History of these structures go beyond 2000 years.
A Buddha statue, Bodhisaththa statue, a stone scripture and some coins believed to be in the 1st and 2nd centuries were found in this area. They are preserved at Jaffna museum.
It is believed that the relics of 60 Arhats are deposited in the small dagobas. There is a record that a special dagoba with the Buddha's relics was in this premises.
According to the history ,about 2000 years before there lived 60 Arhats in Jaffna peninsula preaching Dhamma and practising meditation. Owing to a famine in the area all the 60 Arhants passed-away.
Their bodies had been cremated and the ashes deposited in the small dagobas constructed later.
How to get there
Proceed from Jaffna – Kankasanturei road up to Chunnakam Junction, turn left and proceed another 3 kilometers to reach to thi temple complex.
Naga Viharaya Temple
Naga Viharaya is one of the famous Buddhist temples in Jaffna.It is situated in the Stanley road in Jaffna town.
According to the history, when Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi Bo Tree was taken by Theri "Sangamiththa" (daughter of King Ashoka) from India to Sri Lanka in 288BC ,king Devanampiyathissa of Sri Lanka had been to Jaffna to receive Theri Sanghamiththa and the group
On the group's way back to Anuradhapura, 'Naga' tribesmen of Jaffna requested the king to keep the Bo tree with them for a one week. Accordingly, the Bo Tree branch had been planted in Jaffna (where present Naga Viharaya is located.) for a one week before it was finally brought to Anuradhapura.
According to the history, when Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi Bo Tree was taken by Theri "Sangamiththa" (daughter of King Ashoka) from India to Sri Lanka in 288BC ,king Devanampiyathissa of Sri Lanka had been to Jaffna to receive Theri Sanghamiththa and the group
On the group's way back to Anuradhapura, 'Naga' tribesmen of Jaffna requested the king to keep the Bo tree with them for a one week. Accordingly, the Bo Tree branch had been planted in Jaffna (where present Naga Viharaya is located.) for a one week before it was finally brought to Anuradhapura.
Keerimalai
Keerimalai is a suburb in Jaffna .It is very close to Palaly. It has a natural water spring.
A bathing tank is built surrounding this pool and only the walls separate the waters of the spring and the sea. Although the tank is so close to the sea, the water is fresh coming from an underground fresh water spring in Tellipallai-Maviddapuram.
This spring is popular among the Hindus for the miraculous powers it holds..
According to the legend ,a Indian priest called Nagula Muni bathed in this pond and his mongoose face was cured and turned in to a human face.
How to get there: One has to take the Jaffna - Palaly route.
A bathing tank is built surrounding this pool and only the walls separate the waters of the spring and the sea. Although the tank is so close to the sea, the water is fresh coming from an underground fresh water spring in Tellipallai-Maviddapuram.
This spring is popular among the Hindus for the miraculous powers it holds..
According to the legend ,a Indian priest called Nagula Muni bathed in this pond and his mongoose face was cured and turned in to a human face.
How to get there: One has to take the Jaffna - Palaly route.
Jaffna library
The library was reconstructed and it is open to the public in 2004.The library potraits the glory of Hindu architecture.
Jaffna fort
Portuguese constructed the Jaffna fort in 1619 to protect from enemy attacks from the sea.Jaffna fort is one of main attractions in Jaffna peninsula.
Casuarina beach
Casuarina beach is one of the famous attractions in Northern Sri Lanka and it is just 20KM from Jaffna city.
It is in Karainagar suburb.
It is in Karainagar suburb.
Delft Island
This is the largest island in the Palk Strait, northern Sri Lanka. .Delft is a unique which lies North of Sri Lanka. It is the biggest of the seven inhabitable islands, Which are scattered around in the Indian Ocean and is seven and four miles wide.
There are two forts in this islet.Those were built by Portugese and Dutch.Portuguese called this islet (Neduntivu / Neduntheevu ) ilha das Vacas.During Dutch rule , Dutch called this islet Delft Island.The Dutch Fort was used as a prison.
How to get there:
One has to hire a ferry from Karikattuwan jetty.
There are two forts in this islet.Those were built by Portugese and Dutch.Portuguese called this islet (Neduntivu / Neduntheevu ) ilha das Vacas.During Dutch rule , Dutch called this islet Delft Island.The Dutch Fort was used as a prison.
How to get there:
One has to hire a ferry from Karikattuwan jetty.
Jaffna market
Jaffna is famous for its bombay onion, chillies, plantains, beetroot and carrot cultivations.
A variety of vegetables such as brinjals, beans, long beans, tomatoes, capsicum and bitter guard are grown in Jaffna.
Fishing is another lucrative trade in Jaffna. Jaffna fishermen community earn a substantial income in fishing in closerby lagoons.
The catch includes different varieties of fish such as sheer fish, mullet, prawns, shrimps, crabs, lobsters and sea cucumbers.
If you need to buy , fresh fishes from Jaffna market , you need to be there around 6AM.
A variety of vegetables such as brinjals, beans, long beans, tomatoes, capsicum and bitter guard are grown in Jaffna.
Fishing is another lucrative trade in Jaffna. Jaffna fishermen community earn a substantial income in fishing in closerby lagoons.
The catch includes different varieties of fish such as sheer fish, mullet, prawns, shrimps, crabs, lobsters and sea cucumbers.
If you need to buy , fresh fishes from Jaffna market , you need to be there around 6AM.
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