“Meaningful change begins with each individual. This principle forms the foundation of the ‘Clean Sri Lanka’ project.” — Hon. Governor

“We must strive to become a law-abiding society, and true change must begin with each individual. This is the core principle behind the ‘Clean Sri Lanka’ project,” stated the Honorable Governor of the Northern Province, Mr. N. Vethanayahan.

To promote the vision of a ‘Clean Sri Lanka’, the project is currently being implemented in Jaffna under the theme ‘Heartfeltly for Jaffna’, in conjunction with the annual festival of the Nallur Kandhaswamy Temple. As part of this initiative, a mobile service was held today, Friday (15.08.2025), at the Uduvil Divisional Secretariat. The event was jointly organized by the Presidential Secretariat, the Northern Provincial Council, the Jaffna District Secretariat, and the Divisional Secretariats of Tellippalai, Uduvil, and Sandilippai.

Delivering the keynote address, Jaffna District Secretary Mr. M. Piirathepan stated that although only 500 participants were initially expected at the mobile service held in Point Pedro yesterday (Thursday), a total of 1,567 individuals attended. He emphasized that this overwhelming response highlights the significant needs within the community. He further announced that, going forward, the mobile service will be conducted at the level of each Divisional Secretariat throughout the district.

In his keynote address, the Honorable Governor stated that the Clean Sri Lanka project, implemented under the leadership of the current government, aims to achieve multiple objectives — including mental, social, and environmental transformation. He emphasized that the initiative is not solely about maintaining a clean physical environment, but also about cultivating a purified mindset. “True change must begin within us,” he remarked, underlining the importance of personal responsibility in driving lasting transformation.

He further noted that through this mobile service, the various developments and benefits of the Clean Sri Lanka project are being brought directly to the people.

In line with the vision of His Excellency the President, the activities of the Presidential Fund have also been expanded. Citizens can now access its services through their respective Divisional Secretariats. The Governor urged the public to make full use of these opportunities for their benefit.

He concluded by echoing the words of the President, who has repeatedly emphasized that public service must become something the people can trust. “Our officials must embody this principle in their conduct and service to the public,” he said.

Delivering the chief guest address, Hon. Minister R. Chandrasekar stated that significant changes have taken place since the National People’s Power government assumed office. He pointed out that, in the past, Presidents, Prime Ministers, and Ministers misused public funds and enjoyed numerous privileges at the expense of taxpayers. However, under the current government, such practices have been eliminated. “We, as ministers, do not receive dual salaries. We do not use luxury vehicles. Are these not meaningful changes?” he asked, emphasizing the government’s commitment to transparency and accountability. The Minister also noted that individuals involved in past financial misconduct are now being brought to justice. “Many claim that such actions have not yet reached the Northern Province. But investigations will take place here as well. Some individuals from the North will be investigated in the near future — and arrests may follow,”

Thousands of people participated in today’s mobile service to access various public services.

The event was attended by the Chief Secretary of the Northern Province, Secretaries of Northern Provincial Ministries, Heads of Departments, and many other officials.