- Gift from India: Donated school bags and distribution of rations and more.
By Mewati Sitaram
The Indian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka, H.E. Gopal Baglay, recently embarked on a three-day visit to the Northern Province, spanning from November 29 to December 1, 2023. Accompanied by senior diplomats from the High Commission, the visit underscored the mutual commitment to bolstering development and bilateral ties between the two nations.
One of the key focal points of the visit was the emphasis on the development of railway infrastructure under the India-Sri Lanka cooperation partnership. The delegation, including H.E. Gopal Baglay, took a journey via Sri Lankan Railways from Colombo to Medawachiya, utilizing modern coaches provided under an Indian credit line. This experience allowed them to witness firsthand the upgraded railway line from Anuradhapura, an initiative led by the esteemed Indian public sector company IRCON, as part of the ongoing Indian line of credit for the Maho-Omanthai segment upgrade.
The visit extended to Thalaimannar and Kankesanthurai, focusing on passenger facilities and ferry services to enhance connectivity between India and Sri Lanka. Connectivity has been at the forefront of economic partnership discussions, as highlighted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Ranil Wickremesinghe during the latter’s visit to India in July 2023. The swift resumption of regular ferry services is a shared priority for both governments.
Highlighting India’s commitment to sustainable development, the High Commissioner visited islands off Jaffna, including Nainativu, Analaitivu, and Delft. The inspection aimed to assess the preparedness for implementing the Hybrid Renewable Energy Systems project, a venture supported by grants from the Government of India to address energy needs in these islands.
Indian High Commissioner H.E. Gopal Baglay inspecting railway tracks
Addressing diverse societal needs, H.E. Gopal Baglay inaugurated a program to donate 1000 school bags to students across Mannar District and launched a financial assistance scheme for underprivileged students at the University of Jaffna. Additionally, he distributed dry rations to over 500 families in Jaffna and Delft Island, emphasizing India’s commitment to the well-being of the local populace.
In a bid to support the local fishing community, the High Commissioner donated deep freezers to 15 fishermen cooperatives in the Jaffna region. During an interaction with cooperative representatives in Pasaiyoor, he highlighted India’s efforts to bring the benefits of scientific research and expertise for the sustainable development of fisheries in Sri Lanka, particularly in the Northern Province.
The visit concluded with a solemn homage at the Indian Peace Keeping Forces memorial in Jaffna, honouring the sacrifices of the brave soldiers who served during the conflict. This visit, among several others to Jaffna, underscores India’s enduring commitment to the development and well-being of the people of Sri Lanka, particularly in the Northern Province.
Editor in Chief : Mewati SItaram
