Current government is giving very positive consideration to the demands we have made regarding the development of the Northern Province. Therefore, we must make proper use of this opportunity and secure the necessary resources for the sports sector so that our athletes can excel on the international stage,” said the Hon. Governor of the Northern Province, N. Vethanayahan
The foundation stone–laying ceremony for the Jaffna District Indoor Sports Stadium, to be constructed with financial allocation from the Ministry of Sports and Youth Affairs, was held today – on Sunday, 23 November 2025, at the Old Park Complex in Jaffna. Participating in the event, the Governor made the above statement:
He further stated that only after the present government came to power has increased funding been allocated to the Northern Province, enabling the implementation of various development projects. He added that ever since his tenure as the Jaffna District Secretary, it had been his long-standing aspiration for the district to have an indoor sports stadium. Although several efforts were made in the past, it had not been possible at that time. “However, I am pleased that this government has made my long-held dream a reality today,” he said.
Speaking at the event, the Hon. Minister of Transport, Highways, Ports and Civil Aviation, Bimal Ratnayake, stated that the largest allocation of Rs. 170 million for the development of the sports sector has been provided to the Jaffna District in this year’s financial plan. He assured that the construction of the indoor sports stadium, for which the foundation stone is being laid today, will be expedited and officially handed over to the athletes on August 31, 2026.
The event was attended by the Hon. Minister of Sports and Youth Affairs, Sunil Kumara Gamage; Hon. Member of Parliament K. Ilankumaran; Jaffna District Secretary M. Piiratheepan; the Coordinator of Jaffna District Coordinating Committee Chairman S. Kapilan; officials of the Sports Department; athletes; and members of the public.
