The Jaffna International Airport (JIA) achieved a historic milestone yesterday by welcoming its first international charter flight from Chennai, India. This landmark event marks a significant step in enhancing regional air connectivity and paves the way for increased international travel to North-East. 

In a speech delivered in the Sri Lankan Parliament, Gajendrakumar Ponnambalam, a member of the Tamil National People's Front (TNPF), strongly criticized the government's decision to call for nominations before March 21, arguing that it would disenfranchise smaller parties, particularly his own. He emphasized that the fundamental principle of democracy is not about adhering strictly to timelines, but ensuring the maximum enfranchisement of the people.

Sri Lankan President Anura Dissanayake has emphasised the importance of studying China’s development path as a model for Sri Lanka's future growth, stating it was “essential” for his government. 

In a recent interview with the Chinese programme Leaders Talk, Dissanayake outlined his interest in adopting strategies similar to those that have driven China’s rapid progress, particularly in areas such as poverty alleviation and technological advancement.

The Sri Lankan police have sought and obtained a restraining order from the Mannar Magistrate’s Court against ten Eelam Tamils, including lawyers and priests, who were organizing protests against illegal mineral sand mining in the district.