The Hon. Governor of the Northern Province, N. Vethanayahan, stated that his expectation is for a large quantity of medicinal herbs required for the indigenous medicine sector to be produced in the Northern Province, not only to meet local needs but also to reach a level where they can be exported abroad.
The Governor made these remarks while addressing a special event held this afternoon – on Saturday 03 January 2026, at the Provincial Ministry of Health, Indigenous Medicine, Probation and Child Care Services of the Northern Province.
At the event, appointment letters were issued for the administrative posts of Medical Superintendent and Medical Officer-in-Charge under the Provincial Department of Indigenous Medicine. In addition, commendation letters were presented by the Governor to honor special doctors who have performed outstandingly in this field.
Continuing his speech, the Governor said:
The government led by His Excellency the President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has taken various measures to develop the indigenous medicine sector. Fund allocations for this sector have been increased, and a sufficient number of doctors have been appointed. Through this, we have filled the vacancies that existed in our province. The indigenous medicine sector is now progressing. Therefore, this sector can be further expanded by linking it with the tourism industry. Many tourists visit specifically for indigenous medical treatments. Hence, these two sectors should work together.
The Vanni region in the Northern Province is a highly underdeveloped area. Transportation facilities are inadequate, and many villages remain isolated. People living in these areas need our services the most.
However, I am deeply hurt by the Ministry Secretary’s mention that some individuals selected through interviews have refused appointments in districts other than Jaffna. In public service, no posting is permanent for anyone. We must not forget that we join service with the pledge to serve in any area.
My first appointment was in the Delft Divisional Secretary’s division. It was during wartime, a period with absolutely no telecommunication facilities. I travelled from home on a bicycle to Kurikadduvan, then by boat to reach my workplace. Similarly, many public servants travelled by boat with life-threatening conditions at Kilaly. Until 2009, we all worked under such challenging circumstances. But today, with all facilities available, it is concerning that there is reluctance to serve in underdeveloped areas.
The current government, led by His Excellency the President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, has shown special attention to the Northern Province. Necessary funding allocations have been provided to us. Moreover, there are opportunities to obtain additional funds from line ministries. Therefore, we must utilize these opportunities to develop our province, he said.
The event was attended by the Ministry Secretary Mrs. P. Jeyarani, Commissioner of Department of Indigenous Medicine Dr. T. Sarvanantha, Senior Assistant Secretary of the Ministry, Administrative Officer, Accountant, and many others.
