Features
Overcoming economic crisis and rebuilding economy: A clarion call
By the National Science Foundation
(Continued from yesterday)
1. Circumventing and managing anarchical conditions
If addressing the immediate issues of reduced/non-availability of gas, fuel, food, medicines and other essential items is not done immediately, an anarchical situation could engulf the whole country. Symptoms of such a situation are already manifesting itself with an increase in violent and aggressive conduct and a break down in law and order. If the situation persists, a state of anarchy could erupt. It can be unintended and spontaneous or preplanned and organized.
Therefore, we strongly recommend immediate discussion with mainstream print and electronic media and those who create and manage social media content and delivery to deliver non-sensational information. They should provide balanced coverage including some of the positive developments and innovative solutions.They should also contain a sociological content to help people manage emotions and interpersonal relationships. Support mechanisms via social institutions such as Sarvodaya, SANASA and other community-based organizations should be used, and their experience and standing utilised. However, this should in no way be used as a pretext to curtail the freedom of expression and to have political control over free media.
(B). Sectoral recommendations
2. Immediate addressal of power and energy availability
Consumption and efficient use of energy will remain central to future efforts to promote economic and social growth in developing countries.
i. Holding direct negotiations with oil-producing countries by a high-powered competent negotiating team
ii Fast tracking solar, wind, bio-energy and mini-hydro projects in the pipeline and new projects with credible private sector institutions to promote and produce green energy
iii. Transport of fuel and other cargo must be done by railway at night instead of by bowsers and lorries, to save fuel and reduce distribution cost.
iv. Quickly develop a supply chain for charcoal, pellets, briquettes and such value-added products as well as for bio-ethanol, bio-diesel and biogas through focused R&D for use as an alternative to LPG and petroleum fuel. Use of wood charcoal in place of coconut shell charcoal should be promoted, since the latter is a foreign exchange spinner.
v. Establish energy plantations (4th plantation crop), particularly in degraded land for production of dendro-thermal energy, using fast-growing tree species such as Gliricidia and early successional species which can also serve as Lungs of the Earth in order to gain carbon credit.
vi. Promote the use of biogas, making use of household and municipal waste, as is done at the Kaduwela Municipal Council. Other MCs can embark upon similar projects to generate electricity from municipal waste. This, besides offering a sustainable and rewarding solution to municipal waste management, will earn carbon credit, and hence Dollars, for the country.
3. Immediate and short term interventions for improved food and nutrition security
Sri Lanka has around two million farmers comprising mainly small holders who contribute about 80% of the food production. Agriculture accounts for 25% of the workforce of the country, yet contributes only about 6% of the GDP due to its low productivity and poor value addition. Hence, ensuring food security under the present circumstances is a formidable challenge. Adoption of the following will mitigate the impact of the current crisis on food and nutrition security.
i. Determination of food and feed requirements, food production and food deficit/surplus in respect of the major food crops at district and national levels. This is required to understand the magnitude and gravity of food and nutritional insecurity and its spatial variation and to ensure equitable food distribution. (For instance, only about 10% of the food requirement of the Western Province is produced within the Province and the deficit, i.e. 90%, is met by food produced in other areas and imports.)
ii. Identification of food crops and their varieties, i.e. cereals, pulses, yams, vegetables and fruits, that are most essential to food and nutritional security and import substitution.
iii. Determination of the agro-climatically and edaphically most suitable areas/fields for cultivation of the crops and their varieties identified under (ii), to enable matching of crop and land for optimum yield.
iv. A rapid multiplication programme of high-quality planting material to meet the increased demand. This is extremely important for paddy and due attention should be paid to collect adequate seed paddy from this year’s Yala season harvest to meet the need in the coming Maha season which is about 80,000 metric tons.
v. Identification of outstanding enterprising farmers in each AGA division who have consistently produced relatively high yields, particularly those who adopt good agricultural practices (GAPs), including integrated farming and integrated nutrient management with the support of relevant institutions and promoting outgrower schemes
vi. Making available expensive limited inputs, e.g. chemical fertilisers, pesticides, weedicides, fuel for machinery, etc., on a priority basis to the most outstanding selected farmers in areas with high agricultural potential for the crops/varieties in each district. This will ensure maximum return on investment (ROI) and minimize unregulated, uncoordinated, ad hoc crop production for commercial purposes under sub-optimal and marginal conditions.
9. Develop a roadmap for critical export-oriented manufacturing
Sri Lanka is endowed with valuable natural resources including Graphite, Ilmenite, Rutile, Zircon, Quartz, Feldspar, Clay, Kaolin, Apatite, Silica Sand, Garnet, Mica, Calcite and Dolomite. However, presently, large quantities of these minerals are exported with hardly any value addition, thereby country loses a great opportunity to earn considerable amount of foreign exchange; therefore, setting up a basic chemical process industry (CPI) in Sri Lanka is a high priority concern. Two of the on-going industrial revolutions in the world are presently on our soil, namely Biotechnology and Nanotechnology, thanks to some strategic investments. These two investments can significantly add value to our minerals as well as bio resources. With a concerted policy drive, it is feasible for those industries to contribute about 5% to the GDP in the medium term.
The recommendations and observations above are derived from our deep concern over the unprecedented nature of the crisis and existential issues involved. The recommendations are science-based, data driven and above all, politically neutral and objective. They do not seek to supplant inputs by other professional sources, but rather to add to and complement them.
Given the dire situation and the urgency of its resolution, it is imperative that the political authorities, both the Government as well as the Opposition, shed partisan postures and cooperate towards adopting the above recommendations and other desired public policy decisions through an all-party consensual approach involving consultation and compromise including, but not limited to, the Parliamentary Consultative Committee System.
This consensual approach is not some idealistic dream, but a hard-nosed imperative of the hour and for two reasons. It is needed to restore confidence among a skeptical public that those responsible for the crisis are now contemplating serious steps towards reform, normalcy and a road map to growth. Equally, it will demonstrate to our foreign interlocutors, whose tax payers are asked to remit their hard earned money to help Sri Lanka out of this self-made crisis, that our commitment to recovery and reform is backed by a national consensus, and is therefore sustainable. Such a process of confidence building will ideally begin with a truly representative multi-party, if not all party, interim governance arrangement based on consensual decision making as articulated by many segments of society, especially religious leaders, minority parties, the youth, civil society, professionals etc.
Everyone agrees that external assistance is a sine qua non for our recovery, especially in the short term. Those willing to consider assisting the country must, therefore, have the assurance that the succeeding Government will not renege on the agreed programmes of reform and recovery. Such confidence building, derived from a national consensus, is a must if negotiations with our bilateral and multilateral interlocutors are to be concluded successfully.
Finally, we must emphasize that there is no quick fix available to resolve the problems in a modern economy in a fast developing world. A programme of development and renewal will involve unremitting hard work, consistency and early responses based on proper analysis and evaluation of emerging problems. To our knowledge, no country in the world has developed without sustained hard work over an extended period of time. It is imperative therefore, that we get away from politics and devote our sustained attention to governance. Politics could be conducted within parties. But, it has to be always remembered, that parties are elected by the people to govern, not to pursue party politics, the pursuit of which has brought the country to present state.
Prof. Ranjith Senaratne, Chairman, National Science Foundation and former Vice-Chancellor, University of Ruhuna
Dr. Sepalika Sudasinghe, Director General, National Science Foundation and Visiting Professor in Management, Management and Science University of Malaysia
Desamanya M.D.D. Pieris, former Secretary to the Prime Minister and several ministries and currently serving on some professional bodies and committees
C. Maliyadde, Vice President, Sri Lanka Economic Association and former Secretary to several ministries
H.M.G.S. Palihakkara, former Foreign Secretary, Ambassador and former Governor, Northern Province.
Dr. Chandra Embuldeniya, Chairman, Technology Development and Innovations Arm of the NSF, Founder, Vice-Chancellor, Uva Wellassa University, and Past President, The National Chamber of Commerce of Sri Lanka
Prof. A.K.W. Jayawardane, Senior Professor in Civil Engineering, University of Moratuwa, Chairman, Commercial Bank of Ceylon PLC and former Vice-Chancellor, University of Moratuwa
D.K RAJAPAKSA BSc (Hons) Ceylon, Emeritus Managing Director DSI Samson Group (Pvt.) Ltd
Dr. P.A. Kiriwandeniya, Founder of SANASA Movement
Rizvi Zaheed, BA Hons. MBA, Chairman, Sri Lanka Agripreneurs’ Forum
Professor Saroj Jayasinghe, Professor Emeritus of Medicine, University of Colombo
Prof. Ajith de Alwis, Senior Professor of Chemical and Process Engineering, University of Moratuwa and Chief Innovation Officer (Actg.), National Innovation Agency
Concluded
Sri Lanka needs to take full stock of its current economic situation and use to the maximum the potential in its GSP+ facility for export sector growth. In the process, it should ensure that it cooperates fully with the European Union. The urgency of undertaking these responsibilities is underscored by the issues growing out of the recent US decision to sweepingly hike tariffs on its imports, though differentially.
These were principal ‘takes’ for participants in the Pathfinder Foundation’s Ambassadors’ Roundtable forum held on April 8th at the Colombo Club of the Taj Samudra. The main presenter at the event was Ms. Carmen Moreno Raymundo, Ambassador of the European Union to Sri Lanka and the Maldives. The forum was chaired by Ambassador Bernard Goonetilleke, Chairman, Pathfinder Foundation. The event brought together a cross-section of the local public, including the media.
Ms. Moreno drew attention to the fact Sri Lanka is at present severely under utilizing its GSP+ facility, which is the main means for Sri Lanka to enter the very vast EU market of 450 million people. In fact the EU has been Sri Lanka’s biggest trading partner. In 2023, for instance, total trade between the partners stood at Euros 3.84 billion. There is no greater market but the EU region for Sri Lanka.
‘However, only Sri Lanka’s apparel sector has seen considerable growth over the years. It is the only export sector in Sri Lanka which could be said to be fully developed. However, wider ranging export growth is possible provided Sri Lanka exploits to the fullest the opportunities presented by GSP+.’
Moreno added, among other things: ‘Sri Lanka is one among only eight countries that have been granted the EU’s GSP+ facility. The wide-ranging export possibilities opened by the facility are waiting to be utilized. In the process, the country needs to participate in world trade in a dynamic way. It cannot opt for a closed economy. As long as economic vibrancy remains unachieved, Sri Lanka cannot enter into world trading arrangements from a strong position. Among other things, Sri Lanka must access the tools that will enable it to spot and make full use of export opportunities.
‘Sri Lanka must facilitate the private sector in a major way and make it possible for foreign investors to enter the local economy with no hassle and compete for local business opportunities unfettered. At present, Lanka lacks the relevant legal framework to make all this happen satisfactorily.
‘Sri Lanka cannot opt for what could be seen as opaque arrangements with bilateral economic partners. Transparency must be made to prevail in its dealings with investors and other relevant quarters. It’s the public good that must be ensured. The EU would like to see the local economy further opening up for foreign investment.
‘However, it is important that Sri Lanka cooperates with the EU in the latter’s efforts to bring about beneficial outcomes for Sri Lankans. Cooperation could be ensured by Sri Lanka fully abiding by the EU conditions that are attendant on the granting of GSP+. There are, for example, a number of commitments and international conventions that Sri Lanka signed up to and had promised to implement on its receipt of GSP+ which have hitherto not been complied with. Some of these relate to human rights and labour regulations.
‘Successive governments have pledged to implement these conventions but thus far nothing has happened by way of compliance. GSP+ must be seen as an opportunity and not a threat and by complying with EU conditions the best fruits could be reaped from GSP+. It is relevant to remember that GSP+ was granted to Sri Lanka in 2005. It was suspended five years later and restored in 2017.
‘The importance of compliance with EU conditions is greatly enhanced at present in view of the fact that Sri Lanka is currently being monitored by the EU with regard to compliance ahead of extending GSP+ next year. A report on Sri Lanka is due next year wherein the country’s performance with regard to cooperating with the EU would be assessed. The continuation of the facility depends on the degree of cooperation.
‘A few statistics would bear out the importance of Sri Lanka’s partnership with the EU. For example, under the facility Sri Lanka benefits from duty free access in over 66% of EU tariff lines. The highest number of tourist arrivals in Sri Lanka in 2023 was from the EU’s 27 member states. Likewise, the EU’s 27 member states rank second in the origin of inflows of foreign exchange to Sri Lanka; with Italy, France and Germany figuring as the main countries of origin. Eighty five percent of Sri Lanka’s exports to the EU market benefits from GSP+. Thus, the stakes for the country are high.’
Meanwhile, President, In-house Counsel & Legal Advisor, The European Chamber of Commerce of Sri Lanka, John Wilson said: ‘GSP+ should be seen as not only an opportunity but also as a necessity by Sri Lanka in the current international economic climate. ‘Implementation of local laws is what is needed. Considering the pressures growing out of the US imposed new tariff regime, a good dialogue with the EU is needed.
‘Sri Lanka’s level of business readiness must be upped. Among the imperatives are: An electronic procurement process, Customs reforms, a ‘National Single Window’, stepped-up access to land by investors, for example, a clear policy framework on PPPs and reform of the work permits system.’
It ought to be plain to see from the foregoing that Sri Lanka cannot afford to lose the GSP+ facility if it is stepped-up economic growth that is aimed at. It would be in Sri Lanka’s best interests to remain linked with the EU, considering the aggravated material hardships that could come in the wake of the imposition of the US’ new tariff regime. Sri Lanka would need to remain in a dialogue process with the EU, voice its reservations on matters growing out of GSP+, if any, iron out differences and ensure that its national interest is secured.
Chit-Chat
Chiara Tissera
Mrs. Queen of the World Sri Lanka 2024, Chiara Tissera, leaves for the finals, in the USA, next month
I had a very interesting chat with her and this is how it all went:
1. How would you describe yourself?
I am a sensitive and passionate individual who deeply cares about the things that matter most to me. I approach life with a heart full of enthusiasm and a desire to make meaningful connections.
2. If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?
Actually, I wouldn’t change a thing about myself because the person I am today, both inside and out, is the result of everything I’ve experienced. Every part of me has shaped who I am, so I embrace both my strengths and imperfections as they make me uniquely me.
3. If you could change one thing about your family, what would it be?
If there’s one thing I could change about my family, it would be having my father back with us. Losing him six years ago left a void that can never be filled, but his memory continues to guide and inspire us every day.
4. School?
I went to St. Jude’s College, Kurana, and I’m really proud to say that the lessons I gained during my time there have shaped who I am today. My school and teachers instilled in me values of hard work, perseverance and the importance of community, and I carry those lessons with me every day. I was a senior prefect and was selected the Deputy Head Prefect of our college during my tenure.
5. Happiest moment?
The happiest moment of my life so far has been winning the Mrs. Sri Lanka 2024 for Queen of the World. It was a dream come true and a truly unforgettable experience, one that fills me with pride and gratitude every time I reflect on it.
6. What is your idea of perfect happiness?
Happiness is a deeply personal and multifaceted feeling that often comes from a sense of contentment, fulfillment and well-being. For me, perfect happiness is in moments of joy, peace and accomplishments … and also being surrounded by my loved ones.
7. Are you religious?
Yes, I’m a very religious person. And I’m a firm believer in God. My faith guides me through life, providing strength, dedication and a sense of peace in every situation. I live by the quote, ‘Do your best, and God will do the rest.’
8. Are you superstitious?
I’m not superstitious. I believe in making my own decisions and relying on logic and faith rather than following superstitions.
9. Your ideal guy?
My ideal guy is my husband. He is compassionate, understanding and is always there to support me, no matter what. He’s my rock and my best friend – truly everything I could ever want in a partner.
10. Which living person do you most admire?
The living person I admire the most is definitely my mummy. Her strength, love and unwavering support has shaped me into who I am today. She is my role model and she inspires me every day with her wisdom and kindness.
11. Your most treasured possession?
My most treasured possession is my family. They are the heart of my life, providing me with love, support and strength. Their presence is my greatest blessing.
12. If you were marooned on a desert island, who would you like as your companion?
I would like to have my spouse as my companion. Together, we could make the best of the situation, supporting each other, sharing moments of laughter and finding creative ways to survive and thrive.
13. Your most embarrassing moment?
There’s quite a few, for sure, but nothing is really coming to mind right now.
14. Done anything daring?
Yes, stepping out of my comfort zone and taking part in a pageant. I had no experience and was nervous about putting myself out there, but I decided to challenge myself and go for it. It pushed me to grow in so many ways—learning to embrace confidence, handle pressure, and appreciate my own uniqueness. The experience not only boosted my self-esteem but also taught me the value of taking risks and embracing new opportunities, even when they feel intimidating.”
15. Your ideal vacation?
It would be to Paris. The city has such a magical vibe and, of course, exploring the magical Eiffel Tower is in my bucket list. Especially the city being a mix of history culture and modern life in a way that feels timeless, I find it to be the ideal vacation spot for me.
16. What kind of music are you into?
I love romantic songs. I’m drawn to its emotional depth and the way they express love, longing a connection. Whether it’s a slow ballad, a classic love song or a more modern romantic tune these songs speak to my heart.
17. Favourite radio station?
I don’t have a specific radio station that I like, but I tend to enjoy a variety of stations, depending on my mood. Sometimes I’ll tune into one for a mix of popular hits, other times I might go for something more relaxing, or a station with a certain vibe. So I just like to keep it flexible and switch it up.
18. Favourite TV station?
I hardly find the time to sit down and watch TV. But, whenever I do find a little spare time, I tend to do some spontaneous binge – watching, catching whatever interesting show is on at that moment.
19 What would you like to be born as in your next life?
Mmmm, I’ve actually not thought about it, but I’d love to be born as someone who gets to explore the world freely – perhaps a bird soaring across continents.
20. Any major plans for the future?
Let’s say preparing and participating in the international pageant happening in the USA this May. It’s an exciting opportunity to represent myself and my country on a global stage. Alongside this, I am dedicated to continuing my social service work as a title holder, striving to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others through my platform.
The formation of wrinkles and fine lines is part of our ageing process. However, if these wrinkles negatively impact appearance, making one look older than they actually are, then trying out some homemade remedies, I’ve listed for you, this week, may help in giving your skin a fresher look.
* Banana:
Bananas are considered to be our skin’s best friend. They contain natural oils and vitamins that work very perfectly to boost our skin health. Skincare experts recommend applying the banana paste to the skin.
Take a ripe banana and mash a quarter of it until it becomes a smooth paste. Apply a thin layer of the banana paste on your skin and allow it to sit for 15 to 20 minutes before washing it off with warm water.
* Olive Oil:
Olive oil works as a great skin protector and many types of research suggest that even consuming olive oil may protect the skin from developing more wrinkles. Olive oil contains compounds that can increase the skin’s collagen levels. Yes, olive oil can be used as a dressing on your salads, or other food, if you want to consume it, otherwise, you can apply a thin layer of olive oil on your face, neck and hands and let it stay overnight.
* Ginger:
Ginger serves to be a brilliant anti-wrinkle remedy because of the high content of antioxidants in it. Ginger helps in breaking down elastin, which is one of the main reasons for wrinkles. You can have ginger tea or grate ginger and have it with honey, on a regular basis.
* Aloe Vera:
The malic acid present in Aloe Vera helps in improving your skin’s elasticity, which helps in reducing your wrinkles. Apply the gel once you extract it from the plant, and leave it on for 15-20 minutes. You can wash it off with warm water.
* Lemons:
Lemons contain citric acid, which is a strong exfoliant that can help you get rid of your dead skin cells and wrinkles. Also, as an astringent and a cleansing agent, it helps to fade your wrinkles and fine lines. You can gently rub a lemon slice in your wrinkled skin and leave it on for 10-15 minutes. Rinse afterwards and repeat this process two to three times a day.
* Coconut Oil:
Coconut oil contains essential fatty acid that moisturises the skin and helps to retain its elasticity. You can directly apply the coconut oil, and leave it overnight, after gently massaging it, for the best results.
Sun directly overhead Hatthikuchchi, Kalankuttiya, Halmillewa, Ipalogama, Palugaswewa and Habarana at about 12:11 noon. today [10]
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