The contribution of the prosperous Northern Province to Sri Lanka’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) currently stands at the lowest level of 4.5 percent. We have now begun working intensively towards the target of raising this contribution to at least 10 percent in the coming years, stated the Hon. Governor of the Northern Province, N. Vethanayahan.
The ‘Northern Province Entrepreneurs Awards – 2025’ ceremony, organized by the Jaffna Chamber of Commerce and Industry, was held today – on Tuesday 10 March 2026, at Selva Palace in Kokkuvil, under the chairmanship of the Chamber’s President, K. Vaseekaran.
Participating in the event, presenting the awards, and delivering a special address, the Governor further stated:
“I am proud to participate in this special event that celebrates the foresight and resilience of the Northern Province. This has become a grand festival honoring the winners who stand as living witnesses to the resurgence of the Northern Province. We wholeheartedly salute the courage you entrepreneurs possess to create new things, introduce innovations, and provide excellent leadership.
The participation of the Chairman of the National Enterprise Development Authority in this event demonstrates our collective commitment to regional prosperity. The unwavering support of the Authority is extremely important in enhancing small and medium enterprises throughout the Northern Province and providing the basic infrastructure needed for local businesses to thrive.
This awards ceremony, conducted in close coordination with the National Enterprise Development Authority, serves as an excellent example that we can achieve anything through strategic partnerships. It acts as a vital bridge in connecting leadership development, sustainable growth, and the resources required for our entrepreneurs to compete in local and global markets.
To today’s award winners: You are the sculptors of our economic future. The successes you have achieved, with the continued support of initiatives such as the Jaffna International Trade Fair, the Jaffna Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and the National Enterprise Development Authority, will serve as a major driving force for the aspirations of the next generation.
Remember that you are re-establishing the historical glory of the Northern Province, which once stood as a prosperous economic hub of the island of Sri Lanka. We have full confidence in your capabilities, and I assure you that we will stand by you in every step you take,” he said.
Several dignitaries participated in this special event, including the Deputy High Commissioner of India in Jaffna, Sri S. Saimurali; the Chairman of the National Enterprise Development Authority, Laxman Abeysekera; representatives of the Jaffna Chamber of Commerce and Industry; entrepreneurs; and sectoral officials.
