Arundathie Abeysinghe

This is a mineral needed for the production of batteries for electric cars. A recent study recommends trade agreements with the US taking advantage of the current geopolitical situation, but India has also shown interest in developing the industry, which had boomed in the period between the two world wars. However, only 2,792 tonnes were exported in 2023.

Connectivity is the key word in relations between Delhi and Colombo, in different areas: maritime, air, energy, trade, economic and people-to-people. Projects examined include the so-called "Land Connectivity Corridor", a bridge over the sea – for road and rail – connecting Talaimannar to Rameswaram. India contributed to the island's economy at the worst of its crisis.

The measure, announced by Commissioner General of Labour H. K. K. Jayasundara, provides for a daily wage of 1,750 rupees, up 70 per cent, to support workers crushed by the economic crisis and high interest rates. “We are unable to have three square meals a day,” lament two workers at the Hatton plantations.” Up in arms, employers claim that they cannot afford the pay rise.

According to the International Monetary Fund, the costs of building Sri Lanka's highways are exorbitant, about three times the global average. Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe said construction on the second section of the Central Expressway will be "started jointly with China". In the meantime, residents have lost their rice paddies.

An incident at Colombo's Bandaranaike International Airport on 1 May sparked tensions between the tourism industry and the Sri Lankan government. Private operators like GBS and VFS have been allowed to issue visas, and raise fees. As accusations whirl around the Ministry of Public Security, the government plans an investigation.

The denunciation by opposition MP Eran Wickramaratne of the Sjb. The large quantities coming from India are a cause for concern. A significant part of the smuggled heroin allegedly comes from the so-called 'Golden Triangle' region in South-East Asia. The ruling class accused of ignoring the emergency (also) because of the involvement of local politicians.

The island nation exports more than 50 per cent of its tea to Iran, Iraq, and Palestine. Attacks in the Red Sea have already slowed deliveries, but exporters have not noticed major price increases for now. However, as the war continues, small farmers will likely pay a heavy price.

Suicides are up, especially by hanging. Some 631 inmates died in the last four years, from, among others, assaults, riots, disease, psychological disorders, and drug abuse. The Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka calls for greater protection, like taking inmates’ picture immediately after arrest.

India ceded the atoll in 1974 when the Indian National Congress led by Indira Gandhi was in power. Experts believe the prime minister is using the issue to woo voters in India’s southern states ahead of national elections, set to start on 19 April.

The economic crisis pushes citizens to seek work abroad. Some fraudulent employment agencies lure needy people - both ex-military and civilians - to enlist in the foreign legions in Moscow and Kiev. This is the case of 55 Sinhalese who left on tourist visits. Nihal Thalduwa, deputy inspector of the DIG: 'Asked them between 250,000 and 500,000 rupees'.

According to residents, who protested against the first phase of the project in 2020, more turbines will drive away the fish and destroy their livelihoods. The new phase is managed by a company owned by Indian tycoon Adani. Experts fear the consequences will also be disastrous for migratory birds that cross the island.

The problem is most pronounced in the Western and Southern Provinces. At least 32 shooting incidents were reported in the first three months of the year, with at least 21 people killed and 14 wounded. In many cases, police action was hindered by political pressures that favour gang activities and their bosses’ impunity.