By Mewati Sitaram
The Sri Lanka-India Media Friendship Association (SLIMFA) held its General Meeting on 14 July 2025 at the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre (SVCC), Colombo, reaffirming its commitment to deepening media collaboration between the two countries.
The meeting was graced by the Patron of SLIMFA and High Commissioner of India to Sri Lanka, H.E. Santosh Jha. In his address, the High Commissioner acknowledged SLIMFA’s role in fostering media linkages and cultural understanding between India and Sri Lanka. He praised the Association for hosting impactful media events and for its contribution to the development of the media ecosystem in both nations.
Referring to the past year as a landmark period in bilateral relations, he cited the reciprocal visits of the Sri Lankan President to India and the Indian Prime Minister to Sri Lanka, which resulted in several positive outcomes. He noted that India’s approach has now shifted toward an investment-driven partnership with Sri Lanka, moving away from a purely credit-based model.
A key highlight of the meeting was the joint launch of SLIMFA’s official website (www.slimfa.lk) by the High Commissioner and SLIMFA Vice President Mr. Shehan Baranage, aimed at strengthening outreach and connectivity within the media community.
Formed in May 2024 at SVCC Colombo, SLIMFA includes Sri Lankan journalists who participated in familiarization trips to India. Mr. Nisthar Cassim serves as President, Mr. Shehan Baranage as Vice President, and Ms. Kalani Kumarasinghe, Mr. Vimukthi Dushantha, and Mr. Rifthi Ali hold posts as General Secretary, Assistant Secretary, and Treasurer, respectively. The Executive Board includes Mr. Santosh Menon, Mr. Dinesh de Alwis, Mr. Arosha Fernando, Mr. Prasad Dodangodage, Mr. Tharaka Wickramasekera, and Ms. Samangie Wettimuny.
Since its inception, SLIMFA has organized a range of initiatives including Sri Lanka’s first-ever Media Fest, interactions with Indian journalists, an Editors’ Roundtable, and a discussion on election coverage under the theme ‘Media Matters’.
Editor in Chief : Mewati SItaram
