Category: Daily Financial Times

India overcame pressure and difficult batting conditions to score a first-up win at the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup (CWC) 2025.

India’s mission to claim a maiden 50-over Women’s CWC is off to a positive start, beating foes Sri Lanka by 59 runs (DLS method) in Guwahati. But it wasn’t all smooth sailing for the home side, who lost four wickets for just four runs in the middle stages of their innings, falling to 124/6 after 27 overs.

Sri Lanka’s sixth pole brought Amanjot Kaur to the crease, who steadied things for India alongside Deepti Sharma. Outside of putting their team’s batting depth on full show, the pair put on 103 runs for a stand that would help set up a first-up World Cup victory.

Post-game, Amanjot (57 off 56) shot down suggestions there were nerves when she came to the crease, clinging to full belief in not only the process, but the talent she shared a wicket with.

‘I knew that Deepti was with me,’ she told media. ‘We can make a long partnership. I wanted to stay on the wicket. The wicket was a little sticky, it was holding, it was moving, so as long as we played, we knew that we could get a decent total for India, and we did just that. I rarely get a chance to bat; I got the chance today and I enjoyed it when I batted and I’m sure Deepti was also very happy to do batting.’

‘If I would have played slowly and got out, then you’ll would say I wasted so many balls and didn’t get any runs. That is how cricket is. At least that ball will not be spoilt for the next person. Because ultimately, you have to put up some score on the scoreboard to defend.’

With a win on the board, India will look to stay in the moment and turn their attention to what promises to be a huge matchup with Pakistan in Colombo on Sunday.

‘We’re going to take this game by game,’ Amanjot continued. ‘Day one, we have done well and we have won, now we have to have eight more good days; hopefully, we will have eight [more] good days.’

Excited children of all ages rushed to over 31 HNB Customer Centers across the island to participate in mega-celebrations for ‘Singithi Day’ on Saturday 20th September in line with World Children’s Day.

The Singithi Day programme included a number of games and activities such as an art competition, face painting, musical chairs, magic shows, puppet shows and cartoon shows and saw all children enthusiastically taking part in the diverse and fund range of activities of the day.

HNB gave away valuable gifts and prizes to the winners of the games and activities, while every child who took part received a certificate of participation.

The Government yesterday issued Sri Lanka’s first residence visa under the Individual Investor Category, introduced through the amended Immigration and Emigration Regulations published in November 2023.

The visa was awarded to German national Dr. Prey Drechsel by Public Security and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Ananda Wijepala.

The scheme allows foreign nationals to qualify for a five-year visa with an investment of $ 100,000, or a 10-year visa with $ 200,000. Investments must be deposited in a Visa Programme Foreign Currency Account (VPFCA) at a licensed Sri Lankan bank.

The initiative is intended to attract foreign capital by linking long-term residency to direct investment in the country.

MTI’s international and Bhutan teams were in Thimphu as part of developing the strategic plan for the Bank of Bhutan.

Bank of Bhutan (BoB) is the largest and oldest commercial bank in Bhutan, established in May 1968 under a royal charter. It operates a network of over 45 branches across Bhutan, offering a wide range of financial services, including retail and corporate banking, investment banking, mortgage loans, and online banking. The bank is jointly owned by Druk Holding and Investments Ltd., which holds 80% of its capital, and the State Bank of India, which owns the remaining 20%.

MTI Consulting is an internationally networked strategy consultancy, having carried out assignments in 51 countries over the past 28 years.

A new three-storey ward complex costing Rs. 1 billion has been opened at the Dharga Town District Hospital, with Health and Media Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa attending the ceremony.

The project is part of a Chinese-funded initiative to upgrade 13 hospitals across the country.

The 38,400-square-foot facility includes a 96-bed maternal and paediatric ward, a four-bed ICU, general wards, and an outpatient department. The Health Ministry has set aside an additional Rs. 50 million to procure essential medical equipment.

According to Dr. Jayatissa, the facility addresses a longstanding requirement in the area and will help reduce pressure on the Kalutara and Beruwala hospitals. Staffing will be expanded gradually, with more doctors, nurses, and support personnel to be deployed.

The hospital, managed by the National Institute of Health Sciences, is expected to significantly improve access to healthcare in the Kalutara District.

Technology has transformed communication, healthcare, finance and entertainment-but many elders are left behind due to limited digital literacy. On World Elders’ Day, it is important to recognize that bridging the digital gap for senior citizens can improve independence, safety and social connection.

Many elders find smartphones, apps and online services confusing or intimidating. Without guidance, they may avoid using technology altogether, missing opportunities for telemedicine, virtual banking, video calls or online information. Digital exclusion can increase loneliness, limit access to services and reduce independence.

Teaching digital skills to elders requires patience, clear instructions and practical examples. Family members can start with simple tasks such as making video calls, sending messages or using health apps. Community centres, libraries and NGOs can organize digital training sessions specifically designed for senior learners.

Affordable devices with accessible features such as larger fonts, voice commands and simplified interfaces can make technology less overwhelming. Governments and private sectors can offer subsidies, senior-friendly devices and helplines to assist with technical support.

Technology can improve elder safety and convenience. Telemedicine allows medical consultations without travel. Emergency alert systems and health monitoring apps provide peace of mind to both seniors and families. Online banking helps elders manage finances securely without standing in queues.

Most importantly, technology reduces isolation. Video calls allow grandparents to connect with family abroad. Social media and messaging platforms help them maintain friendships and participate in community groups. Entertainment apps, audiobooks and educational videos can stimulate cognitive activity and reduce boredom.

However, cybersecurity awareness is essential. Elders must be taught how to recognize scams, protect passwords and avoid sharing personal data. With the right guidance, they can use technology confidently and safely.

Digital inclusion is not about replacing human connection; it enhance

SriLankan Airlines, in collaboration with UnionPay International and Bank of Ceylon, has introduced UnionPay as a payment option on its official website, expanding its online payment ecosystem and offering greater convenience to the growing number of Chinese travellers.

This addition not only enhances the airline’s range of payment options, which already includes Visa, MasterCard, Amex, Diners, Discover, UATP, Alipay and WeChat Pay, but also reinforces SriLankan Airlines’ position in the rapidly growing digital travel market.

SriLankan Airlines Head of Commercial Dimuthu Tennakoon said, ‘As the national carrier of Sri Lanka, we strive to enhance the travel experience for our customers, from flight booking to completing their journeys. By enabling UnionPay card acceptance, we provide a more inclusive and seamless payment experience, making it easier for international travellers to book their flights conveniently.’

‘UnionPay is delighted to collaborate with Bank of Ceylon and SriLankan Airlines to enhance payment accessibility for our cardholders. This partnership aligns with our broader expansion strategy in Sri Lanka, providing domestic UnionPay cardholders and international travellers with a seamless payment experience. As a key merchant, Sri Lankan Airlines plays an essential role in supporting our issuance business and driving greater adoption of UnionPay in the market,’ said UnionPay International Country Manager of Sri Lanka and Maldives Crispin Wijesekera.

Bank of Ceylon Acting General Manager/ Chief Executive Officer Y.A. Jayathilake added, ‘We are excited to enable UnionPay’s online acceptance for SriLankan Airlines. This initiative not only improves the airline’s payment options but also strengthens Sri Lanka’s payment infrastructure, fostering digital transactions and aligning with our vision of a cashless economy.’

To celebrate this launch, SriLankan Airlines and UnionPay are in discussions to introduce a special promotional campaign for UnionPay cardholders.

The Tourism Ministry and Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau (SLTPB) yesterday set the record straight amid recent debates over LGBTQ-themed events, noting Sri Lanka values diversity and respects all communities, whilst stressing that the Government has not launched specific tourism campaigns targeting LGBTQ+ travellers.

In a joint statement, they said that tourism promotion will continue to focus on the country’s cultural heritage, natural beauty, wellness and adventure experiences, reflecting Sri Lanka’s commitment to inclusivity, dignity and social harmony.

Following is the full statement.

‘The Tourism Ministry wishes to address the recent public discourse surrounding the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau’s (SLTPB) communication regarding LGBTQ-themed events. We recognise the diversity of our society and affirm that every community, including the LGBTQ community, is a valued and respected part of it.

Sri Lanka has long been a welcoming destination for travellers from all walks of life. Our tourism legacy is built on the warmth of our people, the richness of our culture, and the breath-taking beauty of our landscapes. We remain committed to promoting inclusivity, mutual respect, and hospitality for all visitors, regardless of background.

The Government is committed to ensuring equality for every Sri Lankan citizen and foreign tourist, regardless of their ethnicity, religion, age, gender, sex, or sexual orientation, as enshrined in Article 12 of the Constitution and affirmed by the determinations of the Supreme Court of Sri Lanka. These principles guide our approach to tourism and public engagement, ensuring that Sri Lanka remains a destination that reflects dignity, fairness, and respect for all.

However, the Government has not decided to run a specific tourism promotion campaign targeting LGBTQ+ foreign tourists. While such proposals among others have been presented for consideration, they are part of broader discussions aimed at reinforcing Sri Lanka’s image as a safe and welcoming destination for all travellers. Any future initiatives will be carefully evaluated within the framework of national tourism priorities and social harmony.

Sri Lanka is a country that respects all genders and communities, along with their individual identities. This respect, however, should not be misinterpreted as an endorsement or promotion of any particular sexual behaviours or activities. Our intention is to create space for individuals-should they choose-to engage with globally recognised institutions and platforms where they can express their perspectives freely and safely.

As a civilized society, it is essential that we approach such matters with maturity and understanding. No citizen or visitor should be judged or measured based on their gender identity or orientation. Our strength as a nation lies in our ability to uphold dignity, fairness, and mutual respect for all.’

According to the statement issued by the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority Chairman, this reflects one of many outreach efforts aimed at engaging global audiences, it does not signal a change in the Government’s core tourism strategy. ‘Our national approach continues to prioritise Sri Lanka’s unique cultural heritage, wellness and nature-based experiences, adventure tourism, and spiritual journeys-elements that have consistently positioned our country as one of the world’s most cherished travel destinations,’ he stated.

We acknowledge that the topic has generated concern among certain segments of society. As a Government, we are mindful of the sensitivities involved and wish to reassure the public that our tourism promotion remains rooted in unity, tradition, and the shared values that define Sri Lankan society. We believe in celebrating the full spectrum of Sri Lankan identity while ensuring that tourism continues to be a source of pride and prosperity for all citizens.

We respectfully call upon all stakeholders, including political and religious leaders, civil society, and the general public, to approach this matter with understanding and calm. Let us work together to present Sri Lanka to the world as a destination of warmth, diversity, and timeless appeal-one that reflects the true spirit of our people.’

Mahindra Ideal Finance Ltd. (MIFL), has further expanded its island-wide presence with the opening of a new branch in Gampola on 18 September 2025. This marks the company’s 37th branch and reflects its continued commitment to improving access to financial services across the Central Province and beyond.

MIFL’s Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Mufaddal Choonia, led the opening ceremony, together with members of the company’s senior management and branch staff. The new branch offers a full portfolio of services, including multi-brand vehicle leasing, business and SME loans, revolving loans, gold loans and fixed deposits, aimed at supporting both individual and business customers in the area.

‘Our expansion into Gampola is part of a broader effort to bring customised, transparent and flexible financial solutions closer to where our customers live and work. We believe every Sri Lankan should have access to tools that help them build a better future for themselves, regardless of geography,’ Mufaddal said.

The Gampola branch adds to MIFL’s growing regional network, which plays a central role in the company’s strategy to extend responsible and technology-enabled finance to emerging communities in Sri Lanka. In recent months, MIFL has introduced several new initiatives, including tailored financial solutions for MSMEs and multi-brand vehicle importers, supported by strategic partnerships and financial product innovation.

The Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau (SLTPB), together with 16 leading Sri Lankan travel trade companies, successfully showcased the island’s rich and diverse tourism offerings at the Istanbul Tourism Fair 2025, held on 25-26 September at the Eurasia Show and Art Centre in Istanbul. The Embassy of Sri Lanka in Ankara facilitated the arrangements pertaining to the participation of Sri Lanka in this key international tourism fair.

Ambassador-designate of Sri Lanka to the Republic of Trkiye Niluka Kadurugamuwa attended the fair and inaugurated the Sri Lanka stand on 25 September. The Ambassador-designate’s participation and the diplomatic support to the promotional activities of the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau and the industry representatives reflected the Government’s firm commitment to advancing tourism diplomacy and strengthening bilateral tourism cooperation with Trkiye.

This prestigious international platform with the participation of about 15,000 tourism professionals from Trkiye and around the world, created valuable opportunities for Sri Lankan tourism and hospitality stakeholders to network with Turkish and global travel trade professionals, highlighting Sri Lanka’s unique attractions and reputation as a world-class travel destination. The promotional activities at the fair aimed at boosting tourist arrivals, building new partnerships, and positioning Sri Lanka as a preferred destination for Turkish travellers.

Speaking at the inauguration of the Sri Lanka stand, Ambassador-designate Kadurugamuwa underscored Sri Lanka’s readiness to welcome Turkish tourists warmly, noting the country’s wide range of experiences, from cultural heritage and wellness tourism to adventure, wildlife, and pristine beaches. He further assured of the commitment of the Embassy of Sri Lanka in Ankara to contribute to the overall target of tourist arrivals set by the Government, by increasing tourist arrivals from Trkiye. The Ambassador-designate also interacted with Turkish tour operators, industry representatives and travel journalists at the fair.

The Sri Lanka stand, coordinated by the SLTPB, drew significant interest from visitors, tour operators, and media representatives throughout the fair. Sri Lanka’s participation in the Istanbul Tourism Fair 2025 is expected to enhance destination awareness in the Turkish market while opening new avenues for bilateral tourism, trade, and investment.