India celebrates its 76th Republic Day on Sunday, January 26, commemorating 75 years of its Constitution. The grand event at Kartavya Path, New Delhi, will highlight India’s military prowess and cultural richness.
In Colombo, Acting High Commissioner Dr. Satyanjal Pandey underscored India’s pivotal role as Sri Lanka’s principal development partner, with grants amounting to nearly USD 780 million. He announced the conversion of USD 100 million in developmental loan assistance into grants to support Sri Lanka’s fiscal stabilization efforts.
Dr. Pandey highlighted the strategic shift from debt-driven growth to investment-led partnerships, as outlined in the joint statement by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake during the latter’s December 2024 visit to India. Collaborative projects include the Sampur Solar Power Plant, LNG supply initiatives, and a multi-product pipeline involving the UAE. The launch of Sri Lanka’s Unique Digital Identity project is also anticipated, aiming to enhance service delivery and curb corruption.
India remains committed to capacity-building initiatives, training 1,500 Sri Lankan civil servants, offering over 1,000 scholarships, and providing the largest defense training slots. Cultural ties are strengthened through initiatives like the Ramayana Trail in Sri Lanka, the Buddhist Circuit in India, and the recognition of Pali as a Classical Language.
Dr. Pandey emphasized the deep-rooted connections between the two nations and called for continued collaboration to foster a shared future. He reaffirmed India’s steadfast support for Sri Lanka’s economic recovery, development, and prosperity.
