The Sri Lanka Air Force Beechcraft aircraft is making a significant contribution to the inaugural edition of India’s biennial multinational air combat exercise, “TARANG SHAKTHI.” This prestigious event, which kicked off on August 6, 2024, features a remarkable gathering of 150 aircraft from 11 countries, with an additional 18 nations observing.

The first phase of TARANG SHAKTHI was successfully conducted at Sulur Air Force Station, Tamil Nadu, India, from 6th to 14th August 2024. The second and final phase is currently underway at Jodhpur Air Force Station, Rajasthan, and will conclude on 14th September 2024. The Sri Lanka Air Force Beechcraft is among the 70-80 aircraft actively participating in each phase of this monumental exercise.

TARANG SHAKTHI stands as the largest international air exercise ever hosted by India, underscoring the country’s growing stature in global defence cooperation. The Sri Lanka Air Force’s participation in this event reflects its unwavering commitment to strengthening military ties with India and other international partners.

The Beechcraft’s involvement in TARANG SHAKTHI offers invaluable training opportunities for the Sri Lanka Air Force air crew.

The National Dengue Control Unit (NDCU) mandated the implementation of mosquito control programmes at all examination centres for the 2024 GCE Advanced Level examination. Accordingly, candidates have been instructed to bring mosquito repellent to the exam centres.

Health officials have issued a warning on the spread of a viral fever in the community. Common symptoms include fever, chills, sore throat and cough. They urge individuals to seek prompt medical attention if these symptoms last for longer than three days.

President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, addressing the Ministry of Finance staff after assuming duties as Minister, emphasized the importance of meeting public expectations to restore hope for a prosperous future. He lauded the Ministry’s role in overcoming the economic crisis and urged officials to focus on accountability and self-discipline.

Thirty-five new MPs have asked for housing facilities at the Madiwela Housing Complex, according to an informed source. The source said that these MPs had submitted their applications at the moment. Housing facilities in this complex are provided for those living outside the 40-kilometre radius of Colombo. In the complex, there are facilities to provide housing for 110 MPs.

A complaint has been lodged with the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) against controversial statements made by first time Jaffna District MP Dr. Archchuna Ramanathan. Civil activist Gunarathne Adikari speaking to media after filing the complaint said that the statements and behaviour of the new MP were unacceptable.

The Government of China contributed Rs. 1.5 billion in aid to Sri Lanka's Northern and Eastern Provinces in 2024, according to the Chinese Embassy in Colombo.

For the first time in Sri Lanka, the government is to establish a mechanism to supervise and advice ministries in the implementation of policies, a source said.

A tense situation was reported at the UNP party headquarters in Sirikotha when a group of UNP supporters arrived to hand over a document on reviving the party.

Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) MP Harsha de Silva said today that an NPP MP has told him that the Parliament canteen will not be closed but the government will see that no one will abuse the facility.

Two fishermen were seriously injured and hospitalised after a parcel floating on the sea exploded while they were checking it off the coast of Mannar.