Travelling from Gujarat to Sri Lanka is about to get a lot easier. In a major boost for Indian tourists, Cinnamon Hotels and Resorts, along with City of Dreams Sri Lanka and FitsAir, have announced direct flights between Ahmedabad and Colombo, cutting travel time down to just around three hours. Speaking to WION, Kamal Munasinghe, Senior Vice President of Colombo Hotels at Cinnamon Hotels &amp; Resorts and General Manager of Cinnamon Life at City of Dreams, noted that 500,000 Indian tourists went to Sri Lanka last year, adding that they hoped to grow the number by 20-25 per cent this year. He said that India remained Sri Lanka's "number one market" for tourism and that they hoped to grow the number of Indians.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/green-card-applicants-should-go-home-new-us-citizenship-rule-may-hit-indians-hardest-check-how-you-could-be-affected-1779514161561">Green card applicants should go home? New US citizenship rule may hit Indians hardest; check how you could be affected</a>The new route is being pitched as more than just another international flight connection. Tourism and hospitality leaders involved in the launch say the idea is to turn Sri Lanka into a quick, affordable and hassle-free getaway for Gujaratis looking beyond traditional destinations like Dubai, Thailand or Singapore.<h2>Know about fit Air flights: Routes and timings</h2>Until now, travellers from Ahmedabad usually had to take connecting flights through Mumbai or other cities, stretching the journey to seven or even nine hours. The new direct service changes that completely.

“We saw a huge opportunity...Gujarat loves to travel...you all love to enjoy the have the good have a good culinary experience," a senior Cinnamon Hotels executive told WION. With this, the travel from Gujarat to Colombo will take just three hours.<h2>UPI accepted: No currency exchange hassle</h2>What makes the route even more attractive for Indian tourists is the convenience. Sri Lanka accepts UPI payments and even Indian rupees in many places, reducing the headache of foreign exchange conversions. "We do accept UPI and we've been having UPI for the last few years, but I think now is ever more important that we talk about it because of the current situation where we don't want to be spending foreign exchange unnecessarily, and also we as a country accept INR," noted Nalaka Gunawardena.Visa procedures are also relatively simple through the ETA system.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-fuel-price-hike-petrol-diesel-cng-prices-go-up-again-third-price-increase-in-10-days-here-s-how-much-you-ll-have-to-pay-now-1779502595979">India fuel price hike: Petrol, diesel, CNG prices go up again; third price increase in 10 days. Here's how much you'll have to pay now</a>Tour operators say the new connection could become especially popular for short luxury vacations, destination weddings, family trips and corporate events. Sri Lanka's Ramayana trail, beaches like Bentota, wildlife safaris, hill stations such as Kandy and Nuwara Eliya, along with shopping and food experiences, are expected to draw large numbers of Gujarati travellers.The launch is also expected to boost two-way tourism. Sri Lankan tourists can now travel directly to Ahmedabad for business events, cricket matches, concerts and cultural tourism. Hospitality leaders behind the project say this is only the beginning, with plans to position Sri Lanka as a "home away from home" for Indian travellers.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Planning a quick international getaway from Gujarat? A new direct Ahmedabad to Colombo flight is set to cut travel time to just three hours, with Sri Lanka betting big on Indian tourists. UPI payments, easy visas and luxury travel are all part of the pitch.

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Travelling from Gujarat to Sri Lanka is about to get a lot easier. In a major boost for Indian tourists, Cinnamon Hotels and Resorts, along with City of Dreams Sri Lanka and FitsAir, have announced direct flights between Ahmedabad and Colombo, cutting travel time down to just around three hours. Speaking to WION, Kamal Munasinghe, Senior Vice President of Colombo Hotels at Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts and General Manager of Cinnamon Life at City of Dreams, noted that 500,000 Indian tourists went to Sri Lanka last year, adding that they hoped to grow the number by 20-25 per cent this year. He said that India remained Sri Lanka's "number one market" for tourism and that they hoped to grow the number of Indians. Also read | Green card applicants should go home? New US citizenship rule may hit Indians hardest; check how you could be affected The new route is being pitched as more than just another international flight connection. Tourism and hospitality leaders involved in the launch say the idea is to turn Sri Lanka into a quick, affordable and hassle-free getaway for Gujaratis looking beyond traditional destinations like Dubai, Thailand or Singapore. Know about fit Air flights: Routes and timings Until now, travellers from Ahmedabad usually had to take connecting flights through Mumbai or other cities, stretching the journey to seven or even nine hours. The new direct service changes that completely.

Planning a quick international getaway from Gujarat? A new direct Ahmedabad to Colombo flight is set to cut travel time to just three hours, with Sri Lanka betting big on Indian tourists. UPI payments, easy visas and luxury travel are all part of the pitch.Scroll down to read more.

Ahmedabad to Colombo in just 3 hours? New direct flights from Gujarat to Sri Lanka begin soon

Since 28th November 2025, the Indian Armed Forces have been playing a major role in providing Humanitarian Aid and Disaster Relief (HADR) for cyclone-hit Sri Lanka, where the impact of Cyclone Ditwah, resultant landslides and floods claimed over 600 lives. The Indian Army has now successfully demonstrated the use of satellite-based internet connectivity on an emergency basis to re-establish reliable communications in regions where terrestrial networks have been severely disrupted.&nbsp;This satellite-based connectivity is facilitating 24/7 telemedicine consultations with specialist medical teams, ensuring the Army is able to deliver essential healthcare and emergency assistance to affected communities without delay. The initiative highlights the critical role of resilient, fast, satellite infrastructure in restoring essential services and in operational continuity during disaster response efforts.&nbsp;This was made possible as European firm Eutelsat and its partner Indian firm Airtel are extending OneWeb Low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite connectivity to strengthen the Indian Army’s ongoing humanitarian relief operations in flood-impacted areas of Sri Lanka.&nbsp;Neha Idnani, Regional Vice President for APAC, Eutelsat, said, “Eutelsat is deeply committed to supporting the Indian Army’s relief efforts with OneWeb LEO connectivity, delivered in partnership with Airtel. The ability to maintain high-quality communications in crisis situations is vital, and we remain committed to equipping organisations on the ground with secure, resilient connectivity required to safeguard lives and enable essential services.”<h2>How conventional satellite connectivity works</h2>For several decades, militaries and civilians have been using satellite internet and satellite telephony services by utilising special devices that can access signals from large communication satellites that are placed 36,000 km above the Earth. From 36,000 km away from the Earth, these satellites can see almost one-third of the planet and provide a wide area of coverage, as the satellites are in geostationary orbit. A satellite in geostationary orbit spins in sync with the Earth's rotation; therefore, it appears to be stationary when viewed from the Earth. This is why TV antennae at rooftops at are positioned to look towards a specific direction, towards the specific Geostationary satellite.&nbsp;However, Geostationary satellites have some limitations. Because these satellites are 36,000 km above the Earth, there is a slight lag (of a few milliseconds) as the signal has to travel a huge distance. This lag, also known as latency, is not best suited for contemporary applications such as HD video-conferencing, online gaming, stock market trading among others etc.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/yunus-govt-condemns-lynching-of-hindu-man-says-violence-has-no-place-1766143705105">Yunus government condemns lynching of Hindu man, says violence has no place in New Bangladesh</a>&nbsp;<h2>How Low Earth Orbit satellite constellations work</h2>Over the last five years, Low Earth Orbit satellite constellations have become increasingly popular. Several private firms, including Eutelsat OneWeb have been operating Low Earth orbit satellite constellations comprising hundreds, if not thousands, of small satellites. These satellites are placed barely 400-1,200 km above the Earth. Therefore, a single satellite would be visible from one point on Earth only for a handful of minutes, which means that each satellite offers coverage only over a small area at a time.&nbsp;Eutelsat-OneWeb operates more than 640 satellites in its fleet, so that they can almost encircle the Earth with its fleet of satellites and provide coverage in most regions. Being close to the Earth, it is possible to rapidly beam down internet signals from these satellites and enable internet usage on-board flights, ships, and even in remote areas (where terrestrial communication connectivity is sparse) for high-speed utilities such as HD video-calling, online gaming, trading, etc.&nbsp;While Geostationary satellite signals would have to travel 72,000 km for a two-way communication, Low Earth Orbit satellite signals have to travel barely 2,000 km for two-way communication. Significantly less signal travel time is what makes LEO satellite-based internet services so unique. Users of LEO-based satellite internet can obtain connectivity via portable devices known as terminals, which can communicate with satellites. Such terminals are small in size, lightweight and portable.<h2>Why LEO-based internet is in high demand</h2>Estimates from the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), the United Nations specialised agency for information and communication technologies (ICTs) say that one-third of the world's population is not connected to the internet or might not have access to high-speed internet. This is owing to a mix of economic reasons, societal divide, technological barriers, electricity problems, digital literacy gaps, etc.&nbsp;Conventional internet cables and telecom infrastructure are laid only in highly populated regions and areas with a large consumer base. In contrast, it is unviable and too expensive to lay down similar communication infrastructure in sparsely populated regions, mountains, forests, and islands.&nbsp;A fleet of satellites in Low Earth orbit can help bridge this connectivity gap and offer high-speed internet for such remote regions. Which is why there are multiple business entities such as Elon Musk's Starlink, Jeff Bezos' Amazon Leo(formerly Project Kuiper), Europe's Eutelsat OneWeb, China's Guowang and Qianfan that are competing for this lucrative market. In simple terms, they want to ensure that there are no major internet connectivity blind spots in most parts of the world. Such services can also enable high-speed internet access on board moving platforms such as aeroplanes, ships, and trains. Such LEO-based constellations serve military applications as well, as they offer significantly better capabilities than conventional communication satellites placed in higher geostationary orbits. &nbsp;

This satellite-based connectivity is facilitating 24/7 telemedicine consultations with specialist medical teams, ensuring the Army is able to deliver essential healthcare and emergency assistance to affected communities without delay.

Since 28th November 2025, the Indian Armed Forces have been playing a major role in providing Humanitarian Aid and Disaster Relief (HADR) for cyclone-hit Sri Lanka, where the impact of Cyclone Ditwah, resultant landslides and floods claimed over 600 lives. The Indian Army has now successfully demonstrated the use of satellite-based internet connectivity on an emergency basis to re-establish reliable communications in regions where terrestrial networks have been severely disrupted. This satellite-based connectivity is facilitating 24/7 telemedicine consultations with specialist medical teams, ensuring the Army is able to deliver essential healthcare and emergency assistance to affected communities without delay. The initiative highlights the critical role of resilient, fast, satellite infrastructure in restoring essential services and in operational continuity during disaster response efforts. This was made possible as European firm Eutelsat and its partner Indian firm Airtel are extending OneWeb Low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite connectivity to strengthen the Indian Army’s ongoing humanitarian relief operations in flood-impacted areas of Sri Lanka. Neha Idnani, Regional Vice President for APAC, Eutelsat, said, “Eutelsat is deeply committed to supporting the Indian Army’s relief efforts with OneWeb LEO connectivity, delivered in partnership with Airtel. The ability to maintain high-quality communications in crisis situations is vital, and we remain committed to equipping organisations on the ground with secure, resilient connectivity required to safeguard lives and enable essential services.” How conventional satellite connectivity works For several decades, militaries and civilians have been using satellite internet and satellite telephony services by utilising special devices that can access signals from large communication satellites that are placed 36,000 km above the Earth. From 36,000 km away from the Earth, these satellites can see almost one-third of the planet and provide a wide area of coverage, as the satellites are in geostationary orbit. A satellite in geostationary orbit spins in sync with the Earth's rotation; therefore, it appears to be stationary when viewed from the Earth. This is why TV antennae at rooftops at are positioned to look towards a specific direction, towards the specific Geostationary satellite. However, Geostationary satellites have some limitations. Because these satellites are 36,000 km above the Earth, there is a slight lag (of a few milliseconds) as the signal has to travel a huge distance. This lag, also known as latency, is not best suited for contemporary applications such as HD video-conferencing, online gaming, stock market trading among others etc. Also Read: Yunus government condemns lynching of Hindu man, says violence has no place in New Bangladesh How Low Earth Orbit satellite constellations work Over the last five years, Low Earth Orbit satellite constellations have become increasingly popular. Several private firms, including Eutelsat OneWeb have been operating Low Earth orbit satellite constellations comprising hundreds, if not thousands, of small satellites. These satellites are placed barely 400-1,200 km above the Earth. Therefore, a single satellite would be visible from one point on Earth only for a handful of minutes, which means that each satellite offers coverage only over a small area at a time. Eutelsat-OneWeb operates more than 640 satellites in its fleet, so that they can almost encircle the Earth with its fleet of satellites and provide coverage in most regions. Being close to the Earth, it is possible to rapidly beam down internet signals from these satellites and enable internet usage on-board flights, ships, and even in remote areas (where terrestrial communication connectivity is sparse) for high-speed utilities such as HD video-calling, online gaming, trading, etc. While Geostationary satellite signals would have to travel 72,000 km for a two-way communication, Low Earth Orbit satellite signals have to travel barely 2,000 km for two-way communication. Significantly less signal travel time is what makes LEO satellite-based internet services so unique. Users of LEO-based satellite internet can obtain connectivity via portable devices known as terminals, which can communicate with satellites. Such terminals are small in size, lightweight and portable. Why LEO-based internet is in high demand Estimates from the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), the United Nations specialised agency for information and communication technologies (ICTs) say that one-third of the world's population is not connected to the internet or might not have access to high-speed internet. This is owing to a mix of economic reasons, societal divide, technological barriers, electricity problems, digital literacy gaps, etc. Conventional internet cables and telecom infrastructure are laid only in highly populated regions and areas with a large consumer base. In contrast, it is unviable and too expensive to lay down similar communication infrastructure in sparsely populated regions, mountains, forests, and islands. A fleet of satellites in Low Earth orbit can help bridge this connectivity gap and offer high-speed internet for such remote regions. Which is why there are multiple business entities such as Elon Musk's Starlink, Jeff Bezos' Amazon Leo(formerly Project Kuiper), Europe's Eutelsat OneWeb, China's Guowang and Qianfan that are competing for this lucrative market. In simple terms, they want to ensure that there are no major internet connectivity blind spots in most parts of the world. Such services can also enable high-speed internet access on board moving platforms such as aeroplanes, ships, and trains. Such LEO-based constellations serve military applications as well, as they offer significantly better capabilities than conventional communication satellites placed in higher geostationary orbits.

This satellite-based connectivity is facilitating 24/7 telemedicine consultations with specialist medical teams, ensuring the Army is able to deliver essential healthcare and emergency assistance to affected communities without delay.

Explainer: How Indian Army used LEO satellite internet to aid cyclone-hit Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka's Health Minister Dr Nalinda Jayatissa has praised India for its swift assistance following the devastating Cyclonic Storm Ditwah, which struck the island in late November 2025, causing widespread flooding and landslides. In an interview with WION's Sidhant Sibal, Dr Jayatissa highlighted India's role in tackling post-disaster health challenges, particularly the risk of communicable diseases. "I take this opportunity to thank, once again, the Indian government and the people of India for the support they delivered us during this hard moment," he said. "They helped in relief activities as well in the health sector. Medical groups have been working in India, supporting us in critical areas."India launched Operation Sagar Bandhu, deploying field hospitals, medical teams, essential supplies and equipment to aid recovery efforts. Dr Jayatissa noted ongoing collaboration under two memorandums of understanding signed earlier, emphasising India's consistent support during crises.On pharmaceutical cooperation, the minister invited Indian firms to invest in local manufacturing. "We have a nearly 600 million USD pharma industry, 85% of our pharmaceutical requirement we are getting from India," he explained. "It's better if they can start their manufacturing sites in Sri Lanka. It is good for both countries."Full interview:WION: What has been the key focus of your India visit?Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa: I attended the Second WHO Global Summit on Traditional Medicine, and met Indian state ministers of health and Ayush, and we had a discussion on how to develop the health sector of Sri Lanka, and how to collaborate the sectors and share the experience of health sectors. We are in the process of developing our digital platform in the health sector, in Allopathy, Ayurveda and all traditional medicine. We discussed doing a real assessment and identifying the gaps in our country, in the IT sector, and developing a program for next few months.WION: So how do you see India's support for Sri Lanka's healthcare system? We know in the past, India has provided ambulances. India has been supporting in training as well.&nbsp;Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa: India has always been a real friend of us, and even in hard times of economy, in disaster moments, India as a country, they came to assist us. To deal with the natural disaster that hit it last month, India came to assist in various ways. They helped in relief activities as well in the health sector. Medical groups have been working in India, supporting us in critical areas. We have two MOUs signed last April. So according to that, we are jointly working to exchange experience.WION: How did India help you when your country when it was impacted by the Cyclonic Storm Ditwah?Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa: After such a severe disaster, the spreading of communicable disease is the most challenging issue. Our public health sector, especially those who are working on the ground level, were able to manage the health issues in disaster affected areas.WION: What kind of cooperation is looking at the Pharma sector?Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa:&nbsp; I met the Indian pharmaceutical industry, and I invited them to invest in manufacturing of devices and pharmaceuticals in Sri Lanka. They have the opportunity to start there, and under the regulation system of our country, we are ready to invite them, especially to start their manufacturing site, industrial zones. We have a nearly 600 million USD pharma industry, 85% of our pharmaceutical requirement we are getting from India. It's better if they can start their manufacturing sites in Sri Lanka. It is good for both countries.&nbsp;

Dr Jayatissa noted ongoing collaboration under two memorandums of understanding signed earlier, emphasising India's consistent support during crises.

Sri Lanka's Health Minister Dr Nalinda Jayatissa has praised India for its swift assistance following the devastating Cyclonic Storm Ditwah, which struck the island in late November 2025, causing widespread flooding and landslides. In an interview with WION's Sidhant Sibal, Dr Jayatissa highlighted India's role in tackling post-disaster health challenges, particularly the risk of communicable diseases. "I take this opportunity to thank, once again, the Indian government and the people of India for the support they delivered us during this hard moment," he said. "They helped in relief activities as well in the health sector. Medical groups have been working in India, supporting us in critical areas." India launched Operation Sagar Bandhu, deploying field hospitals, medical teams, essential supplies and equipment to aid recovery efforts. Dr Jayatissa noted ongoing collaboration under two memorandums of understanding signed earlier, emphasising India's consistent support during crises. On pharmaceutical cooperation, the minister invited Indian firms to invest in local manufacturing. "We have a nearly 600 million USD pharma industry, 85% of our pharmaceutical requirement we are getting from India," he explained. "It's better if they can start their manufacturing sites in Sri Lanka. It is good for both countries." Full interview: WION: What has been the key focus of your India visit? Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa: I attended the Second WHO Global Summit on Traditional Medicine, and met Indian state ministers of health and Ayush, and we had a discussion on how to develop the health sector of Sri Lanka, and how to collaborate the sectors and share the experience of health sectors. We are in the process of developing our digital platform in the health sector, in Allopathy, Ayurveda and all traditional medicine. We discussed doing a real assessment and identifying the gaps in our country, in the IT sector, and developing a program for next few months. WION: So how do you see India's support for Sri Lanka's healthcare system? We know in the past, India has provided ambulances. India has been supporting in training as well. Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa: India has always been a real friend of us, and even in hard times of economy, in disaster moments, India as a country, they came to assist us. To deal with the natural disaster that hit it last month, India came to assist in various ways. They helped in relief activities as well in the health sector. Medical groups have been working in India, supporting us in critical areas. We have two MOUs signed last April. So according to that, we are jointly working to exchange experience. WION: How did India help you when your country when it was impacted by the Cyclonic Storm Ditwah? Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa: After such a severe disaster, the spreading of communicable disease is the most challenging issue. Our public health sector, especially those who are working on the ground level, were able to manage the health issues in disaster affected areas. WION: What kind of cooperation is looking at the Pharma sector? Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa: I met the Indian pharmaceutical industry, and I invited them to invest in manufacturing of devices and pharmaceuticals in Sri Lanka. They have the opportunity to start there, and under the regulation system of our country, we are ready to invite them, especially to start their manufacturing site, industrial zones. We have a nearly 600 million USD pharma industry, 85% of our pharmaceutical requirement we are getting from India. It's better if they can start their manufacturing sites in Sri Lanka. It is good for both countries.

Dr Jayatissa noted ongoing collaboration under two memorandums of understanding signed earlier, emphasising India's consistent support during crises.

Sri Lanka's health minister thanks India for cyclone aid and invites pharma investment

New Delhi: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to travel to Sri Lanka in April. The visit, according to Sri Lankan sources, is still firming up and could happen around 5th April, with focus on a range of issues, including connectivity and economic ties.
The invitation for this visit was extended by Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake during his two-day trip to New Delhi in mid-December 2024. That was President Dissanayake's first overseas visit after being elected in September 2024. 
<iframe width="600" height="auto" style="width: 100%; aspect-ratio: 4/3;" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" class="external-video publive-iframes-block" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/files/2024/12/21/ISA_EP101_2012_PKG_DISSANAYAKE_INDIA_VISIT_WEB-1734787219-00000003.jpg&amp;videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/ISA_EP101_2012_PKG_DISSANAYAKE_INDIA_VISIT_WEB.mp4/index.m3u8&amp;duration=315&amp;tags=WION,wion news,World News,world news latest,viral" title="Sri Lanka's President Chose India Over China" id="PL_iframe_block-m7vjy2u4-sg9o7396-fgucnxt7"></iframe>
<h2>India's lines of credit to Sri Lanka</h2>
During the visit, the Indian government announced the conversion of $20 million in payments for seven completed Line of Credit projects into grants, easing Sri Lanka&rsquo;s debt burden. The announcement builds on Delhi's support to Colombo, worth $4 billion during the 2022 economic crisis the country faced.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ties-with-india-deep-rooted-bound-by-heritage-says-sri-lankas-top-diplomat-in-delhi-8743634">'Ties with India deep rooted, bound by heritage', says Sri Lanka's top diplomat in Delhi</a> The Sri Lankan president assured that Sri Lanka would not allow its territory to be used in any manner detrimental to Indian interests, key remarks amid India's concern over growing Chinese engagements in the Indian Ocean region.
<h2>PM Modi's past visits to Sri Lanka</h2>
This will not be PM Modi&rsquo;s first visit to Sri Lanka. He has previously visited the island nation multiple times, including in 2015, 2017, 2019 during his earlier terms. The 2015 visit, first bilateral trip by an Indian prime minister in several years, saw major announcements to firm up ties and a visit to Tamil-dominated Jaffna province. In May 2017, he was the chief guest for the first-ever International Vesak Day hosted by Sri Lanka.
In 2019, Modi made a brief stopover in Sri Lanka following the Easter terror attacks, becoming the first world leader to visit after the tragedy, signalling solidarity with Sri Lanka during a time of crisis.
<h2>Top issues in India-Sri Lanka ties</h2>
Ties have several pillars including connectivity. On the connectivity front, a new ferry route between India's Rameshwaram and Sri Lanka's Talaimanner is being discussed. Another proposal that is on the table is a multi product petroleum pipeline that links Nagapattinam to Trincomalee, with Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) playing a key role.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sri-lankan-president-dissanayake-holds-fruitful-discussions-with-indian-leaders-784266">Sri Lankan President Dissanayake holds 'fruitful discussions' with Indian leaders</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pm-modi-plays-with-orangutan-in-care-at-vantara-sanctuary-8790916"></a>
India is assisting Sri Lanka in adopting UPI for digital transactions, following its launch in February 2024 alongside Mauritius, something that enhances cross-border payments, especially for Indian tourists and businesses in Sri Lanka.
&nbsp;

India News | South Asia : Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to travel to Sri Lanka in April.

New Delhi: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to travel to Sri Lanka in April. The visit, according to Sri Lankan sources, is still firming up and could happen around 5th April, with focus on a range of issues, including connectivity and economic ties. The invitation for this visit was extended by Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake during his two-day trip to New Delhi in mid-December 2024. That was President Dissanayake's first overseas visit after being elected in September 2024. India's lines of credit to Sri Lanka During the visit, the Indian government announced the conversion of $20 million in payments for seven completed Line of Credit projects into grants, easing Sri Lanka’s debt burden. The announcement builds on Delhi's support to Colombo, worth $4 billion during the 2022 economic crisis the country faced. Also read: 'Ties with India deep rooted, bound by heritage', says Sri Lanka's top diplomat in Delhi The Sri Lankan president assured that Sri Lanka would not allow its territory to be used in any manner detrimental to Indian interests, key remarks amid India's concern over growing Chinese engagements in the Indian Ocean region. PM Modi's past visits to Sri Lanka This will not be PM Modi’s first visit to Sri Lanka. He has previously visited the island nation multiple times, including in 2015, 2017, 2019 during his earlier terms. The 2015 visit, first bilateral trip by an Indian prime minister in several years, saw major announcements to firm up ties and a visit to Tamil-dominated Jaffna province. In May 2017, he was the chief guest for the first-ever International Vesak Day hosted by Sri Lanka. In 2019, Modi made a brief stopover in Sri Lanka following the Easter terror attacks, becoming the first world leader to visit after the tragedy, signalling solidarity with Sri Lanka during a time of crisis. Top issues in India-Sri Lanka ties Ties have several pillars including connectivity. On the connectivity front, a new ferry route between India's Rameshwaram and Sri Lanka's Talaimanner is being discussed. Another proposal that is on the table is a multi product petroleum pipeline that links Nagapattinam to Trincomalee, with Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) playing a key role. Also read: Sri Lankan President Dissanayake holds 'fruitful discussions' with Indian leaders India is assisting Sri Lanka in adopting UPI for digital transactions, following its launch in February 2024 alongside Mauritius, something that enhances cross-border payments, especially for Indian tourists and businesses in Sri Lanka.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to visit Sri Lanka in April

Sri Lanka on Friday (Mar 1) cancelled the contract with a Chinese firm and awarded the construction of three solar and wind hybrid power generation facilities to an Indian company.

The project was initially funded by an Asian Development Bank (ADB) loan; however, it is now backed by an $11 million Indian government grant. The contract with the Chinese company was temporarily scrapped two years ago the after Indian government raised concerns.

India has over the past few years grown skeptical of growing Chinese involvement in its neighbour states, a trend it has sought to counter with its own initiatives.

Indian company U-Solar, based out of Bengaluru, will now be taking over the contract. India's assistance "underscored the significance New Delhi attached to bilateral energy partnership", the Indian embassy said in a statement.

The three facilities will have a combined 2,230 kilowatts of renewable energy capacity and be located on islets near the northern city of Jaffna, not far from India's southern coast.

“The hybrid project combines various forms of energy including both solar and wind, towards optimising capacities,” a press release from the Indian High Commission in Colombo said.

<h2>Third Indian energy project in Sri Lanka</h2>

The energy project is the third Indian-backed major project in Sri Lanka. While the National Thermal Power Corporation is spearheading a solar venture in the eastern Sampur town, the Adani Group is setting up renewable energy projects in Mannar and Pooneryn in the north.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwin3_uy7tWEAxXVmVYBHXrmCbEQxfQBKAB6BAgLEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/massive-outrage-over-whites-only-party-in-sri-lanka-at-russian-run-nightclub-694945" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/massive-outrage-over-whites-only-party-in-sri-lanka-at-russian-run-nightclub-694945&amp;ved=2ahUKEwin3_uy7tWEAxXVmVYBHXrmCbEQxfQBKAB6BAgLEAE">Massive outrage over `whites-only` party in Sri Lanka at Russian-run nightclub</a>

A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) regarding the third energy project was signed between the two nations back in March 2022, when India’s Foreign Minister S Jaishankar visited the South Asian country.

<h2>India’s growing influence</h2>

Earlier this year, Sri Lanka had imposed a one-year ban on Chinese “research vessels” from entering its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) after India raised objections.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwin3_uy7tWEAxXVmVYBHXrmCbEQxfQBKAB6BAgKEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/rats-on-the-plane-sri-lanka-airlines-plane-grounded-for-three-days-after-rodent-spotted-on-flight-694388" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/rats-on-the-plane-sri-lanka-airlines-plane-grounded-for-three-days-after-rodent-spotted-on-flight-694388&amp;ved=2ahUKEwin3_uy7tWEAxXVmVYBHXrmCbEQxfQBKAB6BAgKEAE">Rats on plane: Sri Lanka Airlines aircraft grounded for three days after rodent spotting on flight</a>

It was speculated that Chinese vessels track strategic military and naval assets of India under the garb of doing research work.

The ban on Chinese vessels was seen as a big diplomatic victory for India, as well as a major setback for China.

(With inputs from agencies)

Sri Lanka on Friday (Mar 1) cancelled the contract with a Chinese firm and awarded the construction of three solar and wind hybrid power generation facilities to an Indian company.

Sri Lanka on Friday (Mar 1) cancelled the contract with a Chinese firm and awarded the construction of three solar and wind hybrid power generation facilities to an Indian company. The project was initially funded by an Asian Development Bank (ADB) loan; however, it is now backed by an $11 million Indian government grant. The contract with the Chinese company was temporarily scrapped two years ago the after Indian government raised concerns. India has over the past few years grown skeptical of growing Chinese involvement in its neighbour states, a trend it has sought to counter with its own initiatives. Indian company U-Solar, based out of Bengaluru, will now be taking over the contract. India's assistance "underscored the significance New Delhi attached to bilateral energy partnership", the Indian embassy said in a statement. The three facilities will have a combined 2,230 kilowatts of renewable energy capacity and be located on islets near the northern city of Jaffna, not far from India's southern coast. “The hybrid project combines various forms of energy including both solar and wind, towards optimising capacities,” a press release from the Indian High Commission in Colombo said. Third Indian energy project in Sri Lanka The energy project is the third Indian-backed major project in Sri Lanka. While the National Thermal Power Corporation is spearheading a solar venture in the eastern Sampur town, the Adani Group is setting up renewable energy projects in Mannar and Pooneryn in the north. Also read: Massive outrage over `whites-only` party in Sri Lanka at Russian-run nightclub A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) regarding the third energy project was signed between the two nations back in March 2022, when India’s Foreign Minister S Jaishankar visited the South Asian country. India’s growing influence Earlier this year, Sri Lanka had imposed a one-year ban on Chinese “research vessels” from entering its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) after India raised objections. Also read: Rats on plane: Sri Lanka Airlines aircraft grounded for three days after rodent spotting on flight It was speculated that Chinese vessels track strategic military and naval assets of India under the garb of doing research work. The ban on Chinese vessels was seen as a big diplomatic victory for India, as well as a major setback for China. (With inputs from agencies)

Sri Lanka scraps energy deal with China, signs fresh contract with Bengaluru company

Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Ali Sabry on Monday said that Colombo has not given permission to a Chinese vessel to dock, adding that Indian security concerns are "important" for Sri Lanka.

Asked about reports regarding a Chinese research vessel named Shi Yan 6 scheduled to be docked in Sri Lanka in October and India's concerns regarding it, he said that they have a standard operating procedure (SOP) and they have consulted many friends, including India.

"That's a conversation going on for some period of time. India has expressed its concerns over a long time, but we have come out with the SOP (standard operating procedure). When we were making that, we consulted many of our friends, including India. So, as long as it complies with the SOP, we have no problem. But if it doesn't comply with the SOP, we have a problem," Ali Sabry told ANI.

He said that Sri Lanka has not given permission for the Chinese vessel Shi Yan 6 to dock in October, adding that negotiations are going on.

"So, therefore, as far as I know, we have not given permission to come to Sri Lanka during October. Negotiations are going on. Indian security concerns, which are legitimate, are very, very important for us. We have always told that because we want to keep our region a zone of peace," said Ali Sabry.

Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe too had said that an SPO had been worked out for foreign vessels.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-echoes-indias-security-concerns-over-chinas-shi-yan-6s-port-call-to-sri-lanka-report-639407">US echoes India’s security concerns over China’s Shi Yan 6’s port call to Sri Lanka: Report</a>

The Chinese research vessel was expected in Sri Lanka in October to conduct research along with the National Aquatic Resources Research and Development Agency (NARA), Sri Lanka-based Daily Mirror reported.

US Under Secretary Victoria Nuland, during her meeting with Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Ali Sabry, had raised concerns regarding Shi Yan 6's visit.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/terrorists-found-safe-haven-in-canada-sri-lankan-minister-slams-trudeau-in-scathing-critique-639592">'Terrorists found safe haven in Canada': Sri Lankan minister slams Trudeau in scathing critique</a>

Taking to X, formerly Twitter, Victoria Nuland stated, "The US supports a strong and prosperous Sri Lanka. Our work together continues at #UNGA. I met with @MFA_SriLanka Minister Ali Sabry to discuss U.S. economic assistance, human rights, and our shared vision for a free and open Indo-Pacific."

Sabry told Nuland that Sri Lanka had worked out the SOP to be followed by foreign ships and aircraft in carrying out any activity in Sri Lankan territory, according to the Daily Mirror report.

Reportedly, he told her that Sri Lanka had been even-handed in this approach for all nations and could not exclude China from the process. The two leaders held a meeting on the sidelines of the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).

Last year, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, while commenting on Chinese spy vessel Yuan Wang-5 which had docked in Sri Lanka, said that any developments that have a bearing on India's security are "obviously of an interest to us".

"What happens in our neighbourhood, any developments which have a bearing on our security obviously are of an interest to us," Mr Jaishankar said at a joint press conference after the 9th India-Thailand Joint Commission Meeting.

India had expressed its security concerns over the docking of the vessel at the Sri Lankan port as it was shown as a research vessel with the capability of mapping the ocean bed, which is critical to anti-submarine operations of the Chinese Navy. The Chinese research ship had docked at Sri Lanka's Hambantota Port.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Ali Sabry on Monday said that Colombo has not given permission to a Chinese vessel to dock, adding that Indian security concerns are "important" for Sri Lanka.

Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Ali Sabry on Monday said that Colombo has not given permission to a Chinese vessel to dock, adding that Indian security concerns are "important" for Sri Lanka. Asked about reports regarding a Chinese research vessel named Shi Yan 6 scheduled to be docked in Sri Lanka in October and India's concerns regarding it, he said that they have a standard operating procedure (SOP) and they have consulted many friends, including India. "That's a conversation going on for some period of time. India has expressed its concerns over a long time, but we have come out with the SOP (standard operating procedure). When we were making that, we consulted many of our friends, including India. So, as long as it complies with the SOP, we have no problem. But if it doesn't comply with the SOP, we have a problem," Ali Sabry told ANI. He said that Sri Lanka has not given permission for the Chinese vessel Shi Yan 6 to dock in October, adding that negotiations are going on. "So, therefore, as far as I know, we have not given permission to come to Sri Lanka during October. Negotiations are going on. Indian security concerns, which are legitimate, are very, very important for us. We have always told that because we want to keep our region a zone of peace," said Ali Sabry. Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe too had said that an SPO had been worked out for foreign vessels. Also read | US echoes India’s security concerns over China’s Shi Yan 6’s port call to Sri Lanka: Report The Chinese research vessel was expected in Sri Lanka in October to conduct research along with the National Aquatic Resources Research and Development Agency (NARA), Sri Lanka-based Daily Mirror reported. US Under Secretary Victoria Nuland, during her meeting with Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Ali Sabry, had raised concerns regarding Shi Yan 6's visit. Also read | 'Terrorists found safe haven in Canada': Sri Lankan minister slams Trudeau in scathing critique Taking to X, formerly Twitter, Victoria Nuland stated, "The US supports a strong and prosperous Sri Lanka. Our work together continues at #UNGA. I met with @MFA_SriLanka Minister Ali Sabry to discuss U.S. economic assistance, human rights, and our shared vision for a free and open Indo-Pacific." Sabry told Nuland that Sri Lanka had worked out the SOP to be followed by foreign ships and aircraft in carrying out any activity in Sri Lankan territory, according to the Daily Mirror report. Reportedly, he told her that Sri Lanka had been even-handed in this approach for all nations and could not exclude China from the process. The two leaders held a meeting on the sidelines of the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). Last year, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, while commenting on Chinese spy vessel Yuan Wang-5 which had docked in Sri Lanka, said that any developments that have a bearing on India's security are "obviously of an interest to us". "What happens in our neighbourhood, any developments which have a bearing on our security obviously are of an interest to us," Mr Jaishankar said at a joint press conference after the 9th India-Thailand Joint Commission Meeting. India had expressed its security concerns over the docking of the vessel at the Sri Lankan port as it was shown as a research vessel with the capability of mapping the ocean bed, which is critical to anti-submarine operations of the Chinese Navy. The Chinese research ship had docked at Sri Lanka's Hambantota Port. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Sri Lanka denies permission to Chinese 'spy vessel' to dock in Colombo, min says India's concerns important

Cash-strapped Sri Lanka began a fresh austerity drive as the country aims to reduce its expenses and secure the IMF bailout. Now Colombo has temporarily frozen all government recruitments as new taxes and high electricity prices kicked in this week.

Sri Lanka works towards securing IMF bailout, freezes recruitment in fresh austerity drive

Calling Sri Lanka “a close and friendly neighbour”, Prime Minister Narendra Modi told the visiting Sri Lankan Finance Minister Basil Rajapaksa that India would always stand with Sri Lanka.

The Sri Lankan FM is on a two-day visit to India amid the country’s worst economic crisis. The key focus of the meet is to get a $1 billion line of credit from New Delhi.

A statement by the Sri Lankan High Commission in Delhi said, “Finance Minister Rajapaksa thanked Prime Minister Modi for all the assistance that India has provided to Sri Lanka at this critical time.”

Among the key areas discussed during the meet at the Indian Parliament were agriculture, renewable energy, digitalisation, tourism and fisheries.

India and Sri Lanka have had multiple rounds of engagement on financial assistance from New Delhi. Finance minister Rajapaksa and external affairs minister S Jaishankar had virtually met in January on this issue.

During Wednesday's meet, Prime Minister Modi and minister Rajapaksa discussed Sri Lanka's decision to move towards organic agriculture.

Modi highlighted the “advantages of natural farming” and shared “India’s experience in developing related techniques and products, including nano fertilizers, which could be of relevance to Sri Lanka."

Last year, India had sent 100,000 kgs of nano nitrogen fertilizer to Sri Lanka after the latter barred the use of contaminated Chinese fertilizers.

Sri Lanka's unique digital identity platform, which India is helping to develop, and the promotion of Ramayana trail in Sri Lanka and the Buddhist circuit in India, including in Gujarat, was also discussed during the meeting.

Foreign secretary Harsh Shringla and Sri Lanka's high commissioner Milinda Moragoda were also present at the meet.

Calling Sri Lanka “a close and friendly neighbour”, Prime Minister Narendra Modi told the visiting Sri Lankan Finance Minister Basil Rajapaksa that India would always stand with Sri Lanka.

Calling Sri Lanka “a close and friendly neighbour”, Prime Minister Narendra Modi told the visiting Sri Lankan Finance Minister Basil Rajapaksa that India would always stand with Sri Lanka. The Sri Lankan FM is on a two-day visit to India amid the country’s worst economic crisis. The key focus of the meet is to get a $1 billion line of credit from New Delhi. A statement by the Sri Lankan High Commission in Delhi said, “Finance Minister Rajapaksa thanked Prime Minister Modi for all the assistance that India has provided to Sri Lanka at this critical time.” Among the key areas discussed during the meet at the Indian Parliament were agriculture, renewable energy, digitalisation, tourism and fisheries. India and Sri Lanka have had multiple rounds of engagement on financial assistance from New Delhi. Finance minister Rajapaksa and external affairs minister S Jaishankar had virtually met in January on this issue. During Wednesday's meet, Prime Minister Modi and minister Rajapaksa discussed Sri Lanka's decision to move towards organic agriculture. Modi highlighted the “advantages of natural farming” and shared “India’s experience in developing related techniques and products, including nano fertilizers, which could be of relevance to Sri Lanka." Last year, India had sent 100,000 kgs of nano nitrogen fertilizer to Sri Lanka after the latter barred the use of contaminated Chinese fertilizers. Sri Lanka's unique digital identity platform, which India is helping to develop, and the promotion of Ramayana trail in Sri Lanka and the Buddhist circuit in India, including in Gujarat, was also discussed during the meeting. Foreign secretary Harsh Shringla and Sri Lanka's high commissioner Milinda Moragoda were also present at the meet.

'India will always stand with Sri Lanka', PM Modi tells finance minister Basil Rajapaksa

Sri Lanka Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa, who is on a three-day visit to India, paid a visit to the Kashi Vishwanath in Varanasi, followed by the Buddhist shrine in Sarnath on Sunday.

Mahinda Rajapaksa kicks off state visit to India

WION&#39;s exclusive interview with the first democratically-elected chief minister of Sri Lanka&#39;s Northern Province, Justice CV &nbsp;Wigneswaran

PRS: Justice CV Wigneswaran, it&#39;s a pleasure to see you again. You met with India&#39;s Prime Minister Narendra Modi at a dinner hosted by Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena last week. What was your impression of Mr Modi - anecdotal, personal, whatever else you can tell us?

CVW: Well, I had no occasion to meet and discuss, except to exchange pleasantries. But I have met him earlier when he came to &nbsp;Jaffna and I have very pleasant memories of that visit. I went with him to some of our temples and had the occasion to open &nbsp;certain housing schemes etc. But even earlier, I had the occasion to hear of PM Modi as chief minister of Gujarat from Gujaratis when I visited &nbsp;the state. They had a very high opinion of him. I have found that he is a very good administrator, focused in all that he is doing and &nbsp;a very disciplined person. As a Hindu, I am also taken up by the way in which he lives his life -getting up early in the morning, doing his yoga and so on. So my assessment of him is very very positive and I have no doubt that he will take India to great &nbsp;heights, both economically and otherwise.

PRS: Indian governments have so far focused on the religious and ethnic links between Indian Tamils and those in Sri Lanka. PM Modi is now addressing the majority Buddhists. He was in Sri Lanka for the biggest Buddhist festival: Vesak..

CVW: Well, Buddha is not foreign to Hindus. He is venerated as an avatar of Vishnu. So we don&#39;t feel any antipathy towards &nbsp;Buddha. Hon&#39;ble Modi visited the Northern Province so what is wrong with his visiting Dalida Maligawa (the Temple of The Tooth &nbsp;Relic in Kandy), on this visit? I don&#39;t think there is any shift in policy towards us Northern and Eastern Tamils. In fact it is good &nbsp;because the goodwill of the Buddhists (Sri Lanka&#39;s Sinhalese majority) is very necessary for the resolution of our conflict and he &nbsp;cannot be seen as partial towards only one section of the people in Sri Lanka. And don&#39;t forget, India stood guarantee for the &nbsp;Tamils during the signing of the Indo-Sri Lanka peace accord of 1987. So they still have a responsibility towards us. I don&#39;t think &nbsp;there is any shift in India&#39;s policy from Tamil Northern and Eastern Sri Lanka to the Buddhist South..

PRS: In Dickoya, PM Modi gifted a 100-bed hospital to Sri Lanka&#39;s other community of Tamils: those who were brought to work on the tea estates by the British in the mid 19th century. Please describe the relationship between you Northern and Eastern &quot;Eelam&quot; Tamils whose origin lies in ancient South Indian kingdoms, and that ethnic group known as Indian Origin Tamils (IOTs)?

CVW: Politically, we do not distinguish between IOTs and North-Eastern Tamils. We look upon both the IOTs and also Muslims &nbsp;as Tamils of north-eastern Sri Lanka. &nbsp;Of course, there may be social differences but that is common in all societies and depends &nbsp;on one&#39;s station in life, the work one does and other criteria. Many IOTs became citizens of the Northern Province since 1977 or &nbsp;so. So they are now a part and parcel of the North-Eastern Provinces. &nbsp;They are our people and I don&#39;t see anything wrong with PM &nbsp;Modi visiting them. During the 30-year civil war, they too suffered a lot. Quite a lot of them belonged to some of the militant &nbsp;movements. So we don&#39;t think in any different way about them.

PRS: Nevertheless, are you concerned that this very obvious shift in India&#39;s focus away from Jaffna towards the Sinhalese-majority South may mean that India&#39;s support for the so-called Sri Lankan Tamil &#39;cause&#39;, which is essentially for greater autonomy &nbsp;and greater devolution, may be dwindling?

CVW: India stood guarantee on our behalf in 1987 and that responsibility still exists. Even more so now when reconciliation is &nbsp;forthcoming and India has to be acceptable to all communities in Sri Lanka. And if he could have come earlier to the Northern Province, what&#39;s &nbsp;wrong in his going to the IOTs Upcountry Tamils this time?

PRS: Sir, could you please enunciate how the Northern Province and all Tamils in Sri Lanka would like India to shape its relationship with Colombo and also with Jaffna from now on?

CVW: India is our big neighbour. Their economy is thriving. They need to help their neighbours. But they also have a geopolitical &nbsp;problem: the Chinese influence in the South Asian region. We would expect a country as close as India to help us. We have a &nbsp;number of projects which were drawn up earlier but which were either abandoned due to the war or discontinued for other &nbsp;reasons. We want those things to be brought back again especially with regard to the airport in Palaly, the Kankesanthurai harbour, &nbsp;the Dhanushkodi-Thalaimannar ferry service. These were all there earlier and it would now help both countries if they were &nbsp;resuscitated. Bringing them back to life will not only help the Tamils of the North and East but also the Sri Lankan government in &nbsp;Colombo. A regional airport and two harbours in the North and East - Kankensanthurai (KKS) and Mullaithivu on the north-eastern &nbsp;coast will be useful. At one stage, Mullaithivu catered to 1/3rd of the fishing needs of the entire island-nation. Reviving all these will be &nbsp;beneficial to India, Sri Lanka and the Tamils of the North and East. &nbsp;Both Sinhalese and Tamils want India to be a helpful big &nbsp;brother.

PRS: In one of your responses earlier, you used a word I found curious. The bloody separatist war is long over and yet you said you want India&#39;s help to resolve a &#39;conflict&#39;. Yes, I am aware that there is still a sort of an unseen divide between Colombo and &nbsp;Jaffna but what exactly do you mean by &#39;conflict&#39;? And given that it&#39;s a domestic matter, how could India help there?

CVW: There is inbuilt suspicion and hatred between the North and the South of Sri Lanka.That has been brought about, I dare say, &nbsp;by the politicians. When Tamils asked for a federal system of government in the early fifties, Sinhalese leaders &nbsp;painted federalism &nbsp;as separation. In fact, federalism brings people together rather than separate them. So either they did not know or they did not &nbsp;choose to know that federalism is not separation. We are now trying to bring about a federal constitution because we have been &nbsp;discriminated against and because we should be able to live in dignity with each other, in camaraderie and also within the same &nbsp;country. So we are not asking for separation. The Sinhalese masses must be taught the benefits of power-sharing. The word &nbsp;&#39;federalism&#39; must be introduced into our constitution as a word because we have judges capable of saying that since &#39;federalism&#39; is &nbsp;not in the constitution, it means we are still under a unitary one. That is how the Northern and Eastern Provinces of Sri Lanka, &nbsp;which were merged, were unmerged by our judges. So if the Sinhalese masses can be re-educated about the benefits that will accrue &nbsp;by having maximum power-sharing in the North and East, I am sure it is possible for this country to live together as one country.

PRS: Still, what could possibly be India&#39;s role there? &nbsp;

CVW: That is precisely where India could help. India is acceptable to both communities so India would be in a position to do so. &nbsp;Further, India gave us the 13th Amendment (a Rajiv-Gandhi authored amendment to the Sri Lankan constitution that envisages &nbsp;maximum autonomy for Sri Lankan Tamils), India stood as guarantor for the Tamils when it signed the Indo-Sri Lanka Accord of &nbsp;1987. So there is responsibility on part of India as well as expectancy on part of all citizens of Sri Lanka - except the most extreme &nbsp;sort - that it is India that could forge a relationship between the two communities in order to give recognition, dignity, equality and &nbsp;equity for the people of the Northern and Eastern region.

PRS: Then that must have been quite an animated discussion you had with PM Modi at dinner the other night... 
CVW: No. I was at the far end of the table from him, so we had no occasion to discuss any politics. But we did talk about some &nbsp;of this when he last visited the Northern Province.

PRS: And what did he say?

CVW: Well, PM Modi is very careful. He doesn&#39;t share his preferences. But he was and is a keen listener. That&#39;s all I can say.

(WION) 
&nbsp;

Padma Rao Sundarji, WION's Senior International Correspondent interviews the first democratically-elected chief minister of Sri Lanka's Northern Province, Justice CV ?Wigneswaran

WION's exclusive interview with the first democratically-elected chief minister of Sri Lanka's Northern Province, Justice CV Wigneswaran PRS: Justice CV Wigneswaran, it's a pleasure to see you again. You met with India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi at a dinner hosted by Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena last week. What was your impression of Mr Modi - anecdotal, personal, whatever else you can tell us? CVW: Well, I had no occasion to meet and discuss, except to exchange pleasantries. But I have met him earlier when he came to Jaffna and I have very pleasant memories of that visit. I went with him to some of our temples and had the occasion to open certain housing schemes etc. But even earlier, I had the occasion to hear of PM Modi as chief minister of Gujarat from Gujaratis when I visited the state. They had a very high opinion of him. I have found that he is a very good administrator, focused in all that he is doing and a very disciplined person. As a Hindu, I am also taken up by the way in which he lives his life -getting up early in the morning, doing his yoga and so on. So my assessment of him is very very positive and I have no doubt that he will take India to great heights, both economically and otherwise. PRS: Indian governments have so far focused on the religious and ethnic links between Indian Tamils and those in Sri Lanka. PM Modi is now addressing the majority Buddhists. He was in Sri Lanka for the biggest Buddhist festival: Vesak.. CVW: Well, Buddha is not foreign to Hindus. He is venerated as an avatar of Vishnu. So we don't feel any antipathy towards Buddha. Hon'ble Modi visited the Northern Province so what is wrong with his visiting Dalida Maligawa (the Temple of The Tooth Relic in Kandy), on this visit? I don't think there is any shift in policy towards us Northern and Eastern Tamils. In fact it is good because the goodwill of the Buddhists (Sri Lanka's Sinhalese majority) is very necessary for the resolution of our conflict and he cannot be seen as partial towards only one section of the people in Sri Lanka. And don't forget, India stood guarantee for the Tamils during the signing of the Indo-Sri Lanka peace accord of 1987. So they still have a responsibility towards us. I don't think there is any shift in India's policy from Tamil Northern and Eastern Sri Lanka to the Buddhist South.. PRS: In Dickoya, PM Modi gifted a 100-bed hospital to Sri Lanka's other community of Tamils: those who were brought to work on the tea estates by the British in the mid 19th century. Please describe the relationship between you Northern and Eastern "Eelam" Tamils whose origin lies in ancient South Indian kingdoms, and that ethnic group known as Indian Origin Tamils (IOTs)? CVW: Politically, we do not distinguish between IOTs and North-Eastern Tamils. We look upon both the IOTs and also Muslims as Tamils of north-eastern Sri Lanka. Of course, there may be social differences but that is common in all societies and depends on one's station in life, the work one does and other criteria. Many IOTs became citizens of the Northern Province since 1977 or so. So they are now a part and parcel of the North-Eastern Provinces. They are our people and I don't see anything wrong with PM Modi visiting them. During the 30-year civil war, they too suffered a lot. Quite a lot of them belonged to some of the militant movements. So we don't think in any different way about them. PRS: Nevertheless, are you concerned that this very obvious shift in India's focus away from Jaffna towards the Sinhalese-majority South may mean that India's support for the so-called Sri Lankan Tamil 'cause', which is essentially for greater autonomy and greater devolution, may be dwindling? CVW: India stood guarantee on our behalf in 1987 and that responsibility still exists. Even more so now when reconciliation is forthcoming and India has to be acceptable to all communities in Sri Lanka. And if he could have come earlier to the Northern Province, what's wrong in his going to the IOTs Upcountry Tamils this time? PRS: Sir, could you please enunciate how the Northern Province and all Tamils in Sri Lanka would like India to shape its relationship with Colombo and also with Jaffna from now on? CVW: India is our big neighbour. Their economy is thriving. They need to help their neighbours. But they also have a geopolitical problem: the Chinese influence in the South Asian region. We would expect a country as close as India to help us. We have a number of projects which were drawn up earlier but which were either abandoned due to the war or discontinued for other reasons. We want those things to be brought back again especially with regard to the airport in Palaly, the Kankesanthurai harbour, the Dhanushkodi-Thalaimannar ferry service. These were all there earlier and it would now help both countries if they were resuscitated. Bringing them back to life will not only help the Tamils of the North and East but also the Sri Lankan government in Colombo. A regional airport and two harbours in the North and East - Kankensanthurai (KKS) and Mullaithivu on the north-eastern coast will be useful. At one stage, Mullaithivu catered to 1/3rd of the fishing needs of the entire island-nation. Reviving all these will be beneficial to India, Sri Lanka and the Tamils of the North and East. Both Sinhalese and Tamils want India to be a helpful big brother. PRS: In one of your responses earlier, you used a word I found curious. The bloody separatist war is long over and yet you said you want India's help to resolve a 'conflict'. Yes, I am aware that there is still a sort of an unseen divide between Colombo and Jaffna but what exactly do you mean by 'conflict'? And given that it's a domestic matter, how could India help there? CVW: There is inbuilt suspicion and hatred between the North and the South of Sri Lanka.That has been brought about, I dare say, by the politicians. When Tamils asked for a federal system of government in the early fifties, Sinhalese leaders painted federalism as separation. In fact, federalism brings people together rather than separate them. So either they did not know or they did not choose to know that federalism is not separation. We are now trying to bring about a federal constitution because we have been discriminated against and because we should be able to live in dignity with each other, in camaraderie and also within the same country. So we are not asking for separation. The Sinhalese masses must be taught the benefits of power-sharing. The word 'federalism' must be introduced into our constitution as a word because we have judges capable of saying that since 'federalism' is not in the constitution, it means we are still under a unitary one. That is how the Northern and Eastern Provinces of Sri Lanka, which were merged, were unmerged by our judges. So if the Sinhalese masses can be re-educated about the benefits that will accrue by having maximum power-sharing in the North and East, I am sure it is possible for this country to live together as one country. PRS: Still, what could possibly be India's role there? CVW: That is precisely where India could help. India is acceptable to both communities so India would be in a position to do so. Further, India gave us the 13th Amendment (a Rajiv-Gandhi authored amendment to the Sri Lankan constitution that envisages maximum autonomy for Sri Lankan Tamils), India stood as guarantor for the Tamils when it signed the Indo-Sri Lanka Accord of 1987. So there is responsibility on part of India as well as expectancy on part of all citizens of Sri Lanka - except the most extreme sort - that it is India that could forge a relationship between the two communities in order to give recognition, dignity, equality and equity for the people of the Northern and Eastern region. PRS: Then that must have been quite an animated discussion you had with PM Modi at dinner the other night... CVW: No. I was at the far end of the table from him, so we had no occasion to discuss any politics. But we did talk about some of this when he last visited the Northern Province. PRS: And what did he say? CVW: Well, PM Modi is very careful. He doesn't share his preferences. But he was and is a keen listener. That's all I can say. (WION)

Exclusive - A port, an airport, 2 harbours: Jaffna CM offers India a chance to checkmate China in Sri Lanka

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