Sri Lanka conducts first pilotless passenger drone test flight at Colombo Port City

Sri Lanka conducted its first official demonstration flight of an electric, pilotless passenger drone on 11 November 2026 at Colombo Port City. Ports and Civil Aviation Minister Anura Karunathilaka flew aboard the aircraft during the inaugural flight. The trial used a Chinese EHang E216 two-seater electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing aircraft. Remotely operated from a central station, the drone features 16 propellers, 12 battery packs, and automated safety systems for emergency failures. Testing will continue at Port City across a six-month trial phase. Deputy Minister Janitha Ruwan Kodithuwakku announced that commercial passenger operations are expected within six months, with additional plans to expand into cargo transport. Authorities expect the service to support aerial tourism to destinations like Sigiriya and Pidurangala, as well as emergency services, coordinated by aviation, defence, port city, and tourism agencies.

Several dead and dozens injured after buses collide on A9 in Rambewa

A head-on collision involving two Sri Lanka Transport Board (SLTB) buses and a private bus occurred on the A9 road in Rambewa, Anuradhapura, on the morning of 10 November. Police said a speeding SLTB bus attempting to overtake the private bus collided head-on with an oncoming SLTB bus. Road conditions were narrow, and police suspect reckless driving and racing. Daily News, Dinamina, Divaina, and News 1st reported four dead, including one SLTB driver, while The Island reported five. Injured passengers were admitted to Anuradhapura, Medawachchiya, and Rambewa hospitals. Dinamina and News 1st reported 76 injured, Daily News stated 60, Divaina reported over 61, and The Island said over 50. Anuradhapura Additional Magistrate D.L. Samarasinghe directed Mihintale Police to obtain reports from the Government Motor Vehicle Examiner for court.

Sri Lanka launches five-day business name registration pilot project in Anuradhapura

On 10 November 2026, Sri Lanka launched the Simplified and Unified Business Name Registration pilot project in Anuradhapura, enabling sole proprietorships and partnerships to register within five days. The reform modernises a system dating back to 1918 by separating business name registration from other regulatory licences. Applicants will no longer need land ownership documents or approvals from multiple agencies, requiring only basic identity and residency information. The initial three-month pilot covers 20 Divisional Secretariat divisions across the Central, Northern, North Central, and North Western provinces. Following an evaluation, the government plans to expand the system islandwide and introduce a digital registration platform. The project is implemented jointly by the Ministry of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development, non-profit organisation Chrysalis, and Provincial Councils. Most outlets reported the launch was held under Deputy Minister Chathuranga Abeysinghe, though Virakesari named him Chaturanga Abeywickrama.

ADB approves $98 million loan for Sri Lanka's digital transformation project

The Asian Development Bank approved a $98 million loan on 10 November 2026 to support Sri Lanka's digital transformation and public service delivery. The bank is also providing an additional $1 million technical assistance grant from its Technical Assistance Special Fund to support program preparation, design, and capacity building. The Advancing Digital Transformation Project will expand broadband in underserved areas, upgrade telecommunications from 2G to 4G and 5G, and enhance government data systems through Lanka Government Cloud 3.0. Aligned with the National Digital Economy Blueprint, the project will also strengthen cybersecurity and improve digital skills among public sector employees, with targeted support for women.

Minister says only 20km of Colombo’s 469km drainage network upgraded since 2014

Cabinet Spokesman and Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa said on Tuesday that only 20 kilometres of Colombo’s 469-kilometre drainage network have been upgraded since 2014 to handle 102 millimetres of rain per hour. Speaking at a Cabinet briefing, Dr. Jayatissa attributed recent flooding to extreme downpours, an ageing drainage system designed for 30 millimetres per hour, unauthorised constructions, and garbage blockages. Dr. Jayatissa stated that 129 to 150 millimetres of rain fell within two hours. However, Colombo Municipal Council Drainage Deputy Director Deepika Wijethilake told the Daily Mirror that nearly 100 millimetres fell. Dr. Jayatissa noted that eight households along the Norris Canal near the flooded National Hospital remain unrelocated despite Rs. 11 million in offered compensation. The Presidential Secretariat is leading a multi-agency rapid response, while the council plans to seek Tri-Forces assistance and hire more workers to clean drains.

Sri Lanka to introduce entrepreneurship and financial literacy to Grade 6 in 2027

Prime Minister and Education Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya announced on 10 November that entrepreneurship and financial literacy will be added to the Grade 6 curriculum from 2027. While Hiru News initially reported the rollout would begin next year, other outlets and the remainder of Hiru News's report specified 2027. Speaking at Isurupaya, Amarasuriya said the initiative aims to protect young people from financial fraud and promote participation in productive economic activities. Commercial education, previously limited to Ordinary and Advanced Level students, will become a broader life skill. The announcement coincided with awards for the first All-Island Commerce Knowledge and Entrepreneurial Skills Competition. Supplementary teaching modules were also introduced. The ministry launched a plan to establish 100 regional activity-based learning centres in three phases between 2026 and 2028, beginning with 25 centres across all districts this year.

ADB approves $300 million for Sri Lankan water supply and sanitation projects

The Asian Development Bank has approved two projects totalling $300 million to expand and strengthen water supply and sanitation services across Sri Lanka. A $200 million project will improve drinking water access for over 1.3 million people in the Western and Southern provinces, and upgrade sewerage services for nearly 250,000 people in Jaffna. Under this project, water treatment plants and reservoirs will be built in Colombo and Lunugamwehera, and wastewater facilities will be developed in Jaffna, while strengthening the National Water Supply and Drainage Board. The remaining $100 million will fund a sector reform programme. It will support policy changes, tariff reforms, and financial sustainability measures for the water board, while mobilising private sector financing.

Journalists receive honours across 37 categories at 27th Journalism Awards for Excellence

The 27th Journalism Awards for Excellence ceremony was held at the Cinnamon Grand Hotel in Colombo on 10 November, recognising outstanding achievements in Sri Lankan journalism during 2025. Organised by the Editors’ Guild of Sri Lanka and the Sri Lanka Press Institute, the event presented awards across 37 categories under the patronage of senior journalist and lawyer Kishali Pinto-Jayawardena. Five veteran journalists—Asoka Goonetilleke, Anura Bandara Rajaguru, Chandra Fernando, Rohan Sarath Abeywardena, and Ariyaratne Ganegoda—received Lifetime Achievement Awards for their contributions to Sri Lankan journalism. Publications and journalists from media houses including the Associated Newspapers of Ceylon Limited (Lake House) and Liberty Publishers secured multiple honours across English, Sinhala, and Tamil reporting and website categories.

Donald Trump says war with Iran is effectively over after meeting Qatari premier

US President Donald Trump announced on Monday that the war against Iran is effectively over, following a White House meeting with Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani. Trump said further military strikes were unlikely because Iran’s military was practically finished, though he warned the United States remained fully prepared if needed. He added that the US would maintain its extensive naval blockade. Trump noted that Middle Eastern allies had pressed to end military operations and preserve the status quo, while expressing hope for discussions to resolve the nuclear crisis. However, Iranian National Security Council Secretary Mohsen Rezaei dismissed Trump's statements, accusing Washington of manufacturing fake news about imaginary negotiations.

US mediates Ukraine and Russia peace talks in Abu Dhabi

Russian and Ukrainian representatives began US-mediated peace talks in Abu Dhabi on 10 November to end the war. US President Donald Trump’s special envoy Steve Witkoff and son-in-law Jared Kushner are mediating the discussions. Russian presidential advisor Vladimir Medinsky leads the Russian delegation, while chief negotiator Rustem Umerov leads the Ukrainian side. The talks focus on post-war security concerns, long-term security architecture, and control over Ukraine’s eastern regions. Dinamina reported that the war has lasted nearly five years, whereas Thinakaran stated it has lasted more than four and a half years. European officials expressed concern over being excluded after Russia rejected European participation in the trilateral meeting. However, Ukrainian officials held separate talks with representatives from Britain, France, Germany, Italy, NATO, and the European Union.

US Congressman Thomas Massie introduces resolution to impeach Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth

United States Republican Representative Thomas Massie has submitted eight articles of impeachment against Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth, accusing him of abusing his authority and violating the US Constitution and the War Powers Act. The charges include conducting unauthorized military operations in Iran, including an airstrike on a school in Minab that killed over 200 civilians, arresting Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, and attacking suspected drug boats, killing 243 people. Massie urged Hegseth to resign or be replaced before Democrats assume control of Congress in January following recent midterm elections. A House vote on the impeachment motion is expected this week. Hegseth dismissed Massie as a disgruntled lawmaker and rejected the effort, stating that he welcomed the opportunity to defend his actions before Congress.

CID investigates MP Nalin Bandara over seized drones and microphones

The Criminal Investigation Department has appointed a team led by an Assistant Superintendent of Police to investigate Samagi Jana Balawegaya MP Nalin Bandara Jayamaha over the importation of drones and microphones. Inspector General of Police Priyantha Weerasuriya ordered the probe after Customs officials seized 39 drones and 16 microphones brought from Singapore on Sunday (8). News 1st reported that the items arrived on SriLankan Airlines flight UL 307. Speaking on Monday (9), Jayamaha stated the equipment was imported for a family rental and sales business run by his wife and son. He admitted lacking Defence Ministry approval, but claimed to have clearance from the Civil Aviation Authority and the Telecommunication Regulatory Commission. However, News 1st reported that the items lacked approval from both the Defence Ministry and the Telecommunications Regulatory Commission. Police Media Spokesperson ASP F. U. Wootler confirmed the investigation.

UN experts urge Sri Lanka to amend proposed anti-terrorism bill

United Nations human rights experts on Monday urged the Sri Lankan government to revise the proposed counter-terrorism law to align with international human rights law. While welcoming the repeal of the 1979 Prevention of Terrorism Act, the experts stated that detention orders must undergo prompt judicial oversight and review committees must operate independently. The experts also recommended restricting the definition of terrorism to intentional killing or severe injury, excluding property damage, and removing arrest and search powers granted to the armed forces. Meanwhile, Samagi Jana Balawegaya parliamentarian Ajith P. Perera stated that the government's proposed amendments were insufficient, adding that his party would submit amendments to the draft.

Port City Colombo holds first Indian investor forum in Chennai

Port City Colombo held its inaugural investor forum in India at the Hyatt Regency in Chennai on 4 November, seeking to attract Indian investment. The event was organised by the Deputy High Commission of Sri Lanka in Chennai alongside Port City Colombo. Over 200 business leaders, investors, and policymakers attended to explore opportunities across real estate, financial services, logistics, and technology. Deputy High Commissioner Dr. Ganesanathan Geathiswaran stressed the potential to expand bilateral commerce, while Colombo Port City Economic Commission Chairperson Harsha Amarasekera outlined regulatory safeguards positioning the project as a regional business hub. CHEC Port City Colombo Deputy Managing Director Thulci Aluwihare noted that as Sri Lanka’s only foreign currency-designated Special Economic Zone, the project offers single-window approvals, 100 percent foreign ownership, and transactions in 16 foreign currencies, including the Indian rupee.

PUCSL decides not to revise electricity tariffs for final quarter of 2026

The Public Utilities Commission of Sri Lanka (PUCSL) has decided not to revise electricity tariffs for the final quarter of 2026. The tariff structure used in the third quarter will remain unchanged until the end of the year. The decision follows National System Operator (NSO) data showing a 2.88 percent increase in electricity supply costs. The NSO submitted updated cost data on 9 November 2026. According to the Daily Mirror, the NSO submitted initial estimates on 6 October, missing a deadline set for before 17 August 2026. The PUCSL stated that it decided against a revision after reviewing the updated cost data and stakeholder views submitted during legally required public consultations.

Air Force takes over management of Neville Fernando Hospital in Malabe

The Sri Lanka Air Force has taken over the administration and day-to-day operations of the 1,002-bed Dr. Neville Fernando Hospital in Malabe. The facility remains completely owned by the Treasury. Cabinet approved the transfer following a joint proposal by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake and Health Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa. This replaces an interim management arrangement established after the state acquired the hospital in 2017. Under Chief Executive Officer Air Commodore Dr. Niluka Abeysekara, the hospital will allocate around 180 beds to the Air Force while continuing free and paid healthcare services for the public. Dr. Jayatissa said the Health Ministry previously provided approximately Rs. 50 million monthly to support the hospital, as its income was insufficient to cover employee salaries.

Ceylon Chamber signs agreement with Italy’s Unioncamere to boost bilateral trade

The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce and Unioncamere, Italy’s Union of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Handicraft and Agriculture, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to expand trade, investment opportunities, and commercial partnerships between both countries. The signing took place at Unioncamere headquarters in Piazza Sallustio, Italy, with Ceylon Chamber and Sri Lanka–Italy Business Council (SLITBC) representatives joining virtually alongside ambassadors from both nations. The agreement follows over a year of engagement initiated by SLITBC immediate past president Daminda Mulgama. Planned areas of cooperation include business delegations, business-to-business matchmaking, and knowledge exchange.

Health Ministry opens Dengue Control Operations Office for 13 high-risk districts

The Health Ministry has established a new Dengue Control Operations Office within its Disaster Preparedness and Response Division to streamline and coordinate national dengue prevention efforts. Daily News reported the hub opened on Monday, while Daily Mirror stated it was set up on 9 November. The launch coincides with a Special Dengue Control Week declared from 9 to 14 November. The office will directly oversee control measures across 74 Medical Officer of Health divisions in 13 high-risk districts, following rising mosquito density and dengue cases linked to recent weather changes. Health and Mass Media Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa chaired a meeting at the venue to review campaign protocols. Ministry Secretary Dr. Anil Jasinghe, health officials, police, armed forces, and Clean Sri Lanka Secretariat representatives attended.

CIC Holdings reports 16.7% rise in first-half net profit to Rs. 3.79 billion

CIC Holdings PLC reported a consolidated revenue of Rs. 42.91 billion for the first half of the 2026/27 financial year, recording a 3.06% growth over the previous year. Profit after tax rose 16.72% to Rs. 3.79 billion from Rs. 3.25 billion, while profit before tax grew 8.26% to Rs. 5.35 billion. Post-subdivision earnings per share increased from Rs. 1.37 to Rs. 1.67. Agri Solutions remained the largest revenue contributor at 40.18%, generating Rs. 17.51 billion. Livestock Solutions contributed Rs. 10.59 billion, while Health and Personal Care generated Rs. 10.05 billion. Industrial Solutions posted the fastest top-line growth, surging 34.91% to Rs. 5.43 billion, and increased its segmental profit by 47.37% to Rs. 1.02 billion.

At least 39 migrants die as boat sinks off Senegal coast

At least 39 people have died after a small wooden boat carrying migrants sank off the coast of Senegal, the Senegalese Press Agency reported. The boat capsized between the capital Dakar and the northern city of Saint-Louis while heading towards Spain’s Canary Islands. Search operations continued to establish the nationalities of others on board. Saliou Diouf, founder of Senegalese migrant aid group Boza Fii, told AFP that all bodies recovered by Sunday evening were Senegalese. Four decomposing bodies were recovered on Monday morning and buried after a collective funeral prayer. Spanish migrant rights group Walking Borders recorded 635 deaths on the Atlantic route to the Canary Islands between January and May 2026, marking its highest monitored toll.

Former Malaysian PM transferred from prison to home at KL for House Arrest

Pakistan condemns Houthi attack on Saudi Aramco corporate office in Riyadh

Pakistan on Monday condemned a Houthi attack on Saudi oil giant Aramco’s corporate office in Riyadh, demanding that the rebel group immediately and unconditionally stop all attacks against Saudi Arabia. The Saudi energy ministry said an attempted attack on Sunday damaged the Aramco skyscraper. The Houthis claimed responsibility for the attack, and no casualties were reported. Pakistan’s Foreign Office stated that targeting civilian infrastructure showed reckless disregard for human life and regional security. It commended the vigilance and swift response of Saudi authorities. The Foreign Office affirmed that Saudi Arabia’s security was of paramount importance to Pakistan, expressing full support for all measures necessary to safeguard the kingdom's sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Pelwatte Dairy receives Special Commendation at National Supply Chain Excellence Awards

Pelwatte Dairy Industries Limited received a Special Commendation in the Large Scale Manufacturing category at the National Supply Chain Excellence Awards 2026 on 24 October at Monarch Imperial. The Institute of Supply and Materials Management organised the event, choosing the company from a field of 80 applicants. The honour marked an improvement from the Commendation Award Pelwatte Dairy received in 2025. Managing Director Akmal Wickramanayake said the recognition testified to the work behind every delivered product, adding that the company will continue to strengthen its people and processes.

Central Province wins men's and women's hockey titles at National Sports Festival

Central Province won both the men’s and women’s hockey titles at the 50th National Sports Festival, which concluded on Saturday (07) at Reid Avenue in Colombo. In the women’s final, Central Province beat Western Province 1–0 to secure gold, while Southern Province finished third. Central Province’s G.G. Damayanthi was named best female player. In the men's final, Central Province defeated Western Province to take gold, though Daily News reported a 3–0 score while Thinakaran reported 3–1. North Western Province took third place, and Central Province’s V.H.K.H. Thilakasiri was named best player. Meanwhile, football finals held at Sugathadasa Stadium saw Sabaragamuwa Province defeat Southern Province 4–3 for the men’s title, while Western Province beat Northern Province 6–0 to win the women’s competition.

Sri Lankan delegation promotes investment opportunities to British businesses in London

The Board of Investment of Sri Lanka presented the country’s investment opportunities and incentives to British investors at promotional events held in London on October 21 and 22. Trade, Commerce, Food Security and Cooperative Development Minister Wasantha Samarasinghe led the delegation. The events were organised by the Export Development Board and the Sri Lankan High Commission in the United Kingdom. At the Sri Lanka–UK Trade and Investment Forum, attended by over 130 participants, BOI Executive Director Priyanka Samaraweera detailed tax benefits, duty-free imports, investment zones and ease-of-doing-business reforms. Discussions also covered Port City Colombo. The delegation later met Sri Lanka–UK Chamber of Commerce representatives and 40 members of London’s investment community to encourage business partnerships and promote Sri Lanka Expo 2027, scheduled for January 14–17.

ADB and CEPA propose 2027 rollout of natural capital accounting for Sri Lanka

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the Centre for Poverty Analysis (CEPA) have called for Sri Lanka to integrate natural capital accounting into national economic planning. At a policy workshop in Colombo, experts proposed a phased rollout starting in 2027, focusing initially on upper watersheds and coastal and marine ecosystems. ADB Country Director Shannon Cowlin said the system complements gross domestic product by making the value of natural resources visible in economic decisions. CEPA Senior Advisor Dr. Herath Gunatilake noted that developing credible accounts would improve investment, though political commitment, fragmented institutional responsibilities, data limitations, and technical capacity remain key challenges.