Minister. Fisheries, Aquatic and Ocean Resources
Joined June 2013
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89 Photos and videos
Joined the concluding workshop of the @FAO & π°π·-funded "Smart & Sustainable Aquaculture" project alongside Ambassador H.E. Miyon Lee. Modernizing our fisheries is vital to beat global competition, ensure food security & boost forex through high-quality exports! π±π°π€π°π·
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Key milestones achieved:
π¦ Launched the digital Shrimp Industry Information System (SIIS) using sensor tech
π¬ $128K in lab/IT gear provided to NAQDA
π¨βπΎ Trained 450 farmers & 190 officials
Next up: Expanding this digital tech to crabs, seaweed & ornamental fish! ππ¦π±
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Welcomed the 'Dr. Fridtjof Nansen' research vessel back to Colombo Port after 32-day marine research mission in our EEZ! Proudly partnered with Norway, @FAO & NARA to assess fish stocks, monitor ecosystems & study climate impacts. π±π°π³π΄π’ #MarineResearch
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The ocean is our lifeline. The data gathered over these 32 days provides us with a scientific 'map' for the future. Amidst ecological uncertainties, this is our strongest tool to make evidence-based policy decisions to protect our fisher communities and marine ecosystems. πππ
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Pleased to participate in the official launch of the Maldivian "Fasmeeru" Tuna brand in the Sri Lankan market, held in the presence of the President of Maldives, H.E. @MMuizzu. This strategic partnership between MIFCO and DICL marks a significant milestone in π±π°π²π» trade relations
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Delighted to attend the Colombo #KambanVizha2026 alongside Hon. President @anuradisanayake. Heartiest congratulations to H.E. on receiving the prestigious "Kamban Pugazh Virudhu 2026"! A historic moment as he becomes the first Sinhalese leader to receive this honour.
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This award reflects the Presidentβs deep respect for Tamil literature & his commitment to national unity. The event was further graced by TN BJP former President @annamalai_k as a special guest. The overwhelming public reception for our President was truly moving!
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Met Maldives HC @MasoodImv ahead of the Maldivian President's upcoming visit. We discussed boosting fisheries ties by combining π²π»'s fresh fish with π±π°'s canning expertise, and initiating direct exports to Maldives to bypass middlemen!
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To support our fishing, seafood processing & aquaculture industries, we've launched a dedicated 24/7 Help Line! π’
If you face any fuel supply issues for your boats or daily operations, please report them immediately to π 0114323389
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Yesterday in Chilaw, we advanced our Rs. 865.79M national 'Ditwa' relief program. In stage one, I handed over 2 new boats (out of 11), canoes, 14 repaired boats & new gear via Cey-Nor. We also announced 3% low-interest loans up to Rs. 25M for affected shrimp farmers! π±π°π€
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Part 2/2
Despite global challenges, our Govt will never abandon the people. By cutting excessive ministerial perks, vehicles & privileges, we are redirecting public funds straight to citizen welfare and transparent relief. We remain committed to a clean political culture! π±π°π€
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Ending a nearly 10-year delay! Yesterday (23rd), I officially handed over appointment letters to 10 new Assistant Directors at the Dept of Fisheries. I urged them to champion our Govt's vision for a corruption-free public service & protect our fishing communities. π±π°π
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Despite Wednesday public holidays, our Fisheries essential services (harbors, BIA, VMS) will operate 24/7! We've also rolled out a formal fuel distribution plan for all fishing boats & factories to ensure uninterrupted operations. We remain committed to our fishers! π±π°π
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For our 30,000 day & small boats, fuel is supplied via ~100 registered stations on officers' recommendations. Boats get 25L/day, issued once every 5 days. We are also prioritizing fuel support for remote fishing communities like Delft Island & Baththalangunduwa! π±π°π€β½
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Visited Valaichchenai Fishery Harbour on 11th. To boost Eastern Province fisheries, we've allocated Rs. 1300M for its full development, starting Phase 1 immediately with Rs. 400M for vital infrastructure. Discussed upgrades & fisher needs. Committed to modernizing our harbours!
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Met with Norwegian Consul Sturle H. Pedersen ahead of my April visit. Investor confidence in π±π° is strong! We discussed boosting our Blue Economy through ocean research, maritime innovation, modernizing fleets, and tech-driven PPP investments in fisheries. π±π°π€π³π΄
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On the 11th, I visited Batticaloa to support fishing communities affected by Cyclone 'Ditwa'. We provided Rs. 26.9M in relief: 72 canoes, 2 boats, 1,318 nets & repaired 14 boats via Cey-Nor & NAQDA. The NPP Govt is committed to rebuilding livelihoods & modernizing fisheries!
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Chaired a Ceylon Fisheries Corp review with Dep. Minister. We're transforming CFC into a profitable entity! For the upcoming Avurudu season, we'll supply fish at concessionary prices. also fast-tracking worker EPF/gratuity payments, new 150MT cold storage, &freezer truck projects
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