As large-scale development projects are set to be implemented in the Northern Province with financial assistance from the Government of India, the Hon. Governor, N. Vethanayahan, expressed his heartfelt gratitude, on behalf of the people of the Northern Province, to the Government and people of India.
The Deputy High Commissioner of the Indian High Commission in Sri Lanka, Satyanjal Pandey and the Consul General of the Consulate General of India in Jaffna, Sai Murali, met with the Governor of the Northern Province this morning – on Friday 20 February 2026, at the Governor’s Secretariat and held discussions.
During the meeting, detailed deliberations were held regarding the projects to be implemented in the Northern Province with financial assistance from the Government of India. In particular, discussions focused on the development of the Mannar and Mullaitivu District Hospitals and the development of the Karainagar boat jetty.
The Deputy High Commissioner also briefed the Governor on post-disaster assistance programs following the recent Ditwah disaster, as well as on the priorities based on India’s “Neighbourhood First” policy. He further pointed out that certain assistance projects previously provided as loans have now been converted into grants.
Expressing gratitude for the immediate assistance provided by the Government of India during the Ditwah disaster, the Governor commended India’s continued contributions. He also recalled the remarks made yesterday by the relevant Hon. Minister regarding the development of the Kankesanthurai Harbour under a grant from the Government of India.
While the Government of Sri Lanka has taken special attention and action toward the development of the Palaly Airport terminal, the Deputy High Commissioner stated that the Government of India is prepared to respond favorably to any future requests made by the Government of Sri Lanka for further expansion activities.
Furthermore, as plans are underway to establish new investment zones in the Northern Province, the Governor requested that Indian investors be encouraged to invest in the region. In response, the Deputy High Commissioner assured that once official policy positions and guidelines concerning the investment zones are released, Indian investors could certainly be encouraged to invest in the North.
