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Moving to Burqa Governance

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Sirasa TV is certainly having much more than its popularity. Its “Lakshapathi” weekly quiz programme has hit huge local, and global publicity, within a few weeks. Shukra Munawwar winning two million rupees, and her wide knowledge on national and social issues, and commitment to national unity, was certainly a big winner.

It is now followed by Bhagya Abeyratne, who didn’t win any money, but told the country what she had seen in the huge eco destruction taking place so close to her home; just as it is in so many parts of the country. This is certainly a “Lakshapathi” victory for the people, when the state keeps denying and making so many false claims about the destruction of nature under Saubhagya.

It is surprising that the Public Security Minister (Dr.) Sarath Weerasekera had not issued any warning that a Burqa order would be issued on Bhagya, to prevent her from any further comments or criticism of the Saubhagya policies.

As the eco and nature destruction continues, with possibilities this may soon become an international issue, considering the vast extents being destroyed, and the global nature zones that are being destroyed, we are now told about plans to import rice.

Rice, the daily meal of the people, is certainly an issue of concern for politicians, who need the votes of the people. The current talk about the need to import rice, is a total escape from the need to ensure that locally produced rice is brought to the market, and sold to the people at a reasonable price. What is seen here is the government chucking away the need to take firm legal action against the rice hoarders – the Rice Mafia – that transcends political divisions, and is a powerful manipulator of the people’s daily meals. 

No police or any other Minister will have the courage, or commitment, to act against the Rice Mafia. Such action is not the stuff of Prosperity and Splendour policies of Gotabaya Glory. The Rice Mafia will have its day. Make huge profits, share some of it with connected and also related politicians, and possibly go back to a Bajiri Yugaya in controlled food supply.

We are now in the midst of another pro-Burqa activity by the police. Politicians and former Western Province Governor, Azath Salley, was arrested under Prevention of Terrorism and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR). This can certainly keep Salley away from the people, for many months, as investigations continue. This is a policy adopted against some journalists, by the so-called Yahapalana government, too.

It is certainly the task of Salley’s lawyers, and those concerned about human rights, and independence of the people, to take whatever actions necessary, through the judicial system, to have him released if he has not violated any law.

But the broadcast comments by Salley on his commitment to the Koran, and to following its teachings, including issues of marriage, and his lack of interest in the law of the land, certainly raise many issues about the right to free speech. In the trend of events. What we see is the problems faced by members of ethnic or religious minorities in expressing their commitments to their religious or any other beliefs.

How wrong will it be for any Buddhist citizen to make a public commitment to the teachings of the Buddha? What if someone tells that he or she will follow the Pancha Seela or even extends the practice to the Dasa Seela in daily life? What if such a person states what is important is to follow the teachings of the Dhamma, and not the laws of the country, if the country’s laws are not violated?

What of a Christian who makes a public commitment to follow the Ten Commandments? Is it wrong for a citizen to publicly declare honour and respect, and to even worship one’s creator?

Is it wrong for a citizen to follow the commandments against killing, stealing, lying, adultery? What if such a follower of Christian or Biblical teaching states the observance of these are more important than the law of the land? 

Do we have any laws of the land that permit or encourage actions against what is taught to the followers of the Dhamma, Ten Commandments or the teachings of the Koran?

Salley may linger wherever he is held – under Prevention of Terrorism or the ICCPR. There may be so far undisclosed serious charges against him under these laws, and even having an imported pistol and bullets. But, are other citizens also to linger with fearful thoughts of arrest and detention, for believing or commitment to the teachings of their Dhamma or Faith – whether Koran, Bible or Hindu teachings?

The Cabinet did not endorse the Burqa ban regulation proposed and much publicised by the Minister Weerasekera. But, will we soon have to move towards another Burqa ban, not in any clothing, but in the publication of news on what will happen in Geneva next week? 

The Burqa Law is the call of failed governance. Will we soon have a Burqa /Niqab Minister in the Cabinet? It is the warning of the times to come, with much more of Prosperity and Splendour, under the cover of a Political Burqa! 



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Opinion

A concept for enhancing forest cover expected in ‘Wanaspathi Programme’

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Uruwal Oya

When we talk about new forestry programmes such as the recently launched Wanaspathi, we think of planting trees only in isolated locations in rural areas. However, reservations along streams and roads in urban areas are also potential locations for planting trees.

Concept behind the Proposal

Road Reservations and Stream corridors which extend to about 10 to 20 Metres on either side are not actively protected in Sri Lanka though it is very common in other countries. Reservations of roads and streams are owned by the government. Therefore, public use of this land can be considered as a fair use of the land. Another purpose of this proposal is to introduce an intervention to connect the isolated Forest Patches in urban areas using the reservations of streams and roads by planting trees so that those strips act also as Bio Corridors while enhancing the tree cover at national level.

Already completed Projects

In Sri Lanka, the concept of Bio Corridor was introduced in 1988 under a project called Mahaweli Agriculture and Rural Development project implemented in System B under an USAID funded programme. Similar to highways which connect main cities, in this case the Bio Corridors were introduced as “Bio Highways” connecting fragmented forest patches (“Bio Cities”). At the same time those corridors were improved as Cycle Tracks for local farmers.

In 2010, similar intervention was introduced in Gampaha District in parallel with a flood mitigation project implemented by the Provincial Road Development Authority (WP). For example, when Uruwal Oya running adjacent to Gampaha Urban Area was improved to mitigate floods, when it runs adjacent to urban areas, those riparian tree belt areas were introduced. In this project while streams were improved to mitigate floods, riparian forest tree belts were also introduced using Bio Engineering Technologies to strengthen the stream banks structurally, instead of using gabions. Later, part of that stream running adjacent to Gampaha Town was improved as Recreational purposes such as Jogging tracks for urban communities.

According to this intervention, as an additional benefit, it was expected that the shades provided by riparian tree cover would discourage growth of invasive plants such as Japan Jabara, which clogs the drainage outlets resulting in floods in Urban Areas. Note that a technical paper published highlighting those achievements under Uruwal Oya, won the First Prize in a competition held by the Institution of Engineers Sri Lanka (IESL)-2012 on Water Related Bio Engineering Interventions in Urban Areas.

Eng. Mahinda Panapitiya

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Opinion

Revolutionising tea: How steam brewing unlocks hidden potential of green tea

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For centuries, green tea has been cherished for its delicate flavours and health benefits. But now, a quiet revolution is brewing—literally. Across Japan, China, and even in tech-forward Western startups, tea enthusiasts and scientists are rediscovering an ancient technique with a modern twist: steam brewing. Unlike traditional boiling, which can scorch leaves and destroy nutrients, steam extraction gently coaxes out the tea’s essence, preserving its antioxidants, amino acids, and subtle aromas.

Could this be the future of tea? From home gardeners experimenting with DIY steamers to high-end machines mimicking espresso precision, steam-brewed green tea is making waves. And with growing interest in wellness, sustainability, and artisanal food culture, this method might just be the next big thing in beverages.

The Science Behind Steam Brewing: Why It Works

Green tea is rich in L-theanine (a calming amino acid), catechins (potent antioxidants), and chlorophyll (which gives it a vibrant color). However, boiling water can degrade these compounds, leading to bitterness and lost benefits.

Steam, on the other hand:
Preserves delicate flavours – Lower temperatures (70–85°C) prevent overcooking. Although the temperature of steam is 100oC, it drops down to 70-85oC when it interacts with tea leaves.
Enhances nutrient retention – More L-theanine and EGCG (a powerful antioxidant) remain intact.
Reduces bitterness – By avoiding harsh extraction, the tea stays smooth and sweet.

Studies in Japan have shown that steamed green tea (like Sencha) retains up to 30% more antioxidants than boiled versions. This makes it not just tastier, but also better for immunity, metabolism, and mental clarity.

From Farm to Cup: How Different Cultures Are Embracing Steam Brewing

1. Japan: The Masters of Steam

Japan has used steam for centuries in Sencha and Matcha production. Today, companies like Tiger Corporation and Panasonic sell home steam brewers, while Kyoto’s elite tea houses serve steam-infused Gyokuro—a luxury variety with unmatched umami depth.

2. China: Artisanal Steam Fixation

While most Chinese green teas are pan-fired, Enshi Yulu from Hubei province still relies on light steaming, giving it a uniquely fresh, grassy taste. Small farmers are reviving this method, catering to premium markets.

3. The West: Tech Meets Tradition

In the U.S., startups like Teforia (now defunct) and Bkon experimented with steam-vacuum brewing, while coffee shops modify Yama cold brew towers for iced steam tea. The demand for specialty tea is growing, and steam extraction could be the next trend.

Can You Steam-Brew at Home? Absolutely!

You don’t need fancy machines to try steam brewing. Here’s how:

· Harvest fresh leaves (or use high-quality loose-leaf tea).

· Steam for 1–2 minutes

in a bamboo basket over boiling water.

· Cool rapidly

(ice bath) to lock in freshness.

· Brew at 75–80°C

for a smoother, sweeter cup.

For an extra health boost, add ginger, cinnamon, or mint—these pair perfectly with steamed green tea’s natural sweetness.

The Future of Tea: Where Do We Go From Here?

Steam brewing isn’t just a novelty—it’s a return to smarter, gentler tea preparation. As consumers seek healthier, more sustainable beverages, this method offers:

· Better flavour (less bitterness, more complexity).

· Enhanced health benefits

(higher antioxidants, calming effects).

· Eco-friendliness

(lower energy use than boiling).

The way forward?


🔹 Tea companies should invest in affordable home steam brewers.
🔹 Researchers should study steam’s impact on different tea varieties.
🔹 Consumers can experiment with DIY steaming for fresher, tastier tea.

One thing is clear: The future of tea is steaming ahead—literally. Will you take the plunge?

The writer is a Senior Research Professor at National Institute of Fundamental Studies, Kandy, and a tea researcher interested in improving tea quality using microbial biotechnologies.

by Gamini Seneviratne

– NIFS -Kandy
Introduction: The Ancient
Brew Meets Modern Science

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Opinion

“You will be my APPCCHCHI for the rest of my life”

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Suraj

An appreciation

So said my son-in-law Captain Suraj Weerasekera on the day that his father died, three years ago, when I condoled with him on that sad occasion.

I first met Suraj when he came to see me in my official residence in Kotahena when he was a student in a senior form at Nalanda College, My daughter Samanmalee, who is a Visakian asked me whether a son of a Brigadier named Ananda Weerasekera, training in Athletics with her at the Independence Square Grounds could visit us. She represented the national team here and abroad. I consulted my wife who readily agreed, indicating that she had been aware of an affair between Samanmalee and Suraj , going beyond the realms of the training grounds. A few days later a handsome, lanky lad visited us. He was soft spoken and exuded an aura of inborn innocence. Sooner than expected, the athletics training came to an abrupt end and Suraj and Samanmalee entered the bonds of marriage with the blessings of elders from both families in the year 1996 and became proud parents of two daughters and a son.

Before his marriage Suraj left for Texas for training as a pilot and having successfully completed the course joined SriLankan airlines as a pilot. He got his command on A320 in November 2000 and he joined ETIHAD AIRWAYS in March 2006. He became a flight instructor in May 2007. He went to the BOEING Fleet in October 2012 as a line pilot and rose to the rank of Senior Examiner on the BOEING fleet.

Suraj was a true nationalist and he loved his country immensely. It was after much deliberation and with a degree of hesitation that he joined a foreign airline. It was done for the sake of his children’s education. All three children are now in the closing stages of their education in foreign universities. He used to visit his motherland at least twice a year and during those visits he used his sizable financial resources to help his needy friends, relations, religious and educational institutions, and desolate villages in the Ampara District. His generosity to his alma mater was highlighted in the funeral oration delivered by a representative of the college. He spent a few millions on the development of the facilities in the Buddangala Viharaya, where his father

Major General Ananda Weerasekera was ordained a priest and spent the last years of life in solitude and meditation.

When I was sworn in as an Attorney- at- Law in 2011, after my retirement from the police service, Suraj congratulated me and presented me with a desktop computer and printer which he had purchased in Abu Dhabi. I am using that computer to type this appreciation. He told me that I could now continue with the service I have been rendering for the nation in the new capacity as a lawyer to help the poor and needy. I cannot express in words the grief that engulfs me when these memories strike my mind.

When he visited Sri Lanka on 02 March this year for the big match between Ananda and Nalanda, he telephoned me and invited me to meet him at his residence in Maharagama. I met him at about 5PM . He was quite hale and hearty and in good spirits and there were no signs of illness. He served me vegetarian pastries and we had tea together. He was a vegetarian and a teetotaler.

True to his word of honour , he treated me with intense respect and unflagging affection. He was the epitome of love and affection. Unfortunately, his relationship with his wife was in the doldrums after nearly

20 years of blissful married life. My wife, Soma, and I were at a loss to understand those shocking developments but we presumed that it was due to the stress of a pilot’s life which invariably involved long days of work away from the family. The trauma generated by such loneliness may have impacted negatively on their relationships and snowballed into the disruption of their marriage. When I met him, he told me that divorce would not in any way disrupt the education of his children; he allocated sufficient funds for their university education.

So, my dear son Suraj, you have discharged the obligations and responsibilities of your life very creditably, a true testimony to the fact that you are a gentleman in the true  sense of the word. You were always conscious of the core concept of Buddhism, to wit, anichcha watha sankara that all things that come to existence  through a combination of causes and conditions are subject to change and decay.’ All the world’s a stage and all the men and women merely players.’(Shakespeare) Your role was as a Captain and the role was executed exceptionally well.

May you attain the supreme bliss of NIBBANA!

H. M. G. B. Kotakadeniya

(Former SDIG)

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