Category Press Release

January 2026_r (1)

February 2026_r (1)

Mr. Ganesh Kannan of Team Bison called on the Deputy High Commissioner of Sri Lanka in Chennai, Dr. Ganesanathan Geathiswaran, on 24th March 2026, in connection with the forthcoming “Sail & Ride – Tour of Jaffna,” scheduled to be held from 2nd to 5th April 2026. The initiative will bring a delegation of 40 Indian cyclists to Jaffna, conveying the important messages of “Cycle for Health” and “Say No to Drugs,” while further strengthening people-to-people ties between Tamil Nadu and Sri Lanka. This cross-border cycling initiative promotes health and wellness tourism by promoting active lifestyles and sustainable travel. It also provides an opportunity to showcase the rich cultural heritage, scenic landscapes, and hospitality of Northern Sri Lanka, positioning Jaffna as a promising destination for eco-friendly and fitness-oriented tourism. A key highlight of the initiative is the first-ever India–Sri Lanka cross-border cycling expedition, utilizing the ferry service from Nagapattinam to Jaffna. Over the course of four days, participants are expected to cover approximately 200 km, visiting key cultural and historical landmarks including Jaffna Fort, Nallur Temple, and the Jaffna Public Library. During the meeting, the official event jersey was ceremonially launched by the Deputy High Commissioner.

The Deputy High Commission of Sri Lanka in Chennai hosted an ‘Iftar’ function on 16 March 2026 at the Chancery premises, marking the observance of the holy month of Ramadan. The programme commenced with the recitation of Qirath by Imam Aalim Haji Omar Rilwan of the Puliyur Mosque, Kodambakkam, setting a solemn and spiritual tone for the evening. Addressing the gathering, the Deputy High Commissioner, Dr. Ganesanathan Geathiswaran, underscored the importance of respecting and upholding the values of all religions and ethnic communities. He highlighted the significance of such occasions in fostering harmony, unity, and mutual understanding among diverse communities. Imam Aalim Haji Omar Rilwan, in his address, elaborated on the spiritual significance of fasting during Ramadan, emphasizing its values of discipline, compassion, and self-reflection. The prayer of supplication was led by Imam Mohammed Akbar Ali Shah Aamiri, Traditional Quazi of the Government of Tamil Nadu, invoking blessings for peace, prosperity, and the continued well-being of Sri Lanka and its people. The event proceeded with the traditional breaking of the fast at sunset, in keeping with the customs of Ramadan. The gathering was attended by distinguished guests, well-wishers of Sri Lanka, and staff members. Guests were served a selection of traditional refreshments to break the fast, followed by an opportunity for warm interaction, reflecting the spirit of goodwill and togetherness that defines the holy month.

The Deputy High Commissioner of Sri Lanka in Chennai, Dr. Ganesanathan Geathiswaran, attended as the Chief Guest at the Valedictory Ceremony of the Sri Lankan CxO Entrepreneurship Development Program conducted at IIT Madras through IITM Pravartak. The six-week program was successfully completed by 25 entrepreneurs and senior business leaders from Sri Lanka, focusing on entrepreneurship, innovation, leadership, and the application of Artificial Intelligence in business. Addressing the gathering, the Deputy High Commissioner congratulated the participants and highlighted the importance of such initiatives in strengthening innovation and entrepreneurial collaboration between India and Sri Lanka. He also expressed appreciation to SLASSCOM, the High Commission of India in Colombo, and IITM Pravartak for their valuable support in making the program a success.

SLIF2026 Road Map Presentation – 09.03.2026 (2)

Mr. Kuldip Sarma, Co-founder and Pro-Chancellor of Medhavi Skills University, who also serves as the Director of the Medhavi Foundation, paid a courtesy call on the Deputy High Commissioner of Sri Lanka in Chennai, Dr. Ganesanathan Geathiswaran, on 16 March 2026. During the meeting, discussions focused on exploring avenues for cooperation in the fields of skill development, higher education, and capacity building. Both sides also exchanged views on promoting knowledge exchange between Sri Lanka and India in areas of mutual interest.

Mr. Thulci Aluwihare, Deputy Managing Director, and Mr. Shalaka Wijeyaratne, Executive Director, Investment Promotion and Marketing of CHEC Port City Colombo (Pvt) Ltd, paid a courtesy call on the Deputy High Commissioner, Dr. Ganesanathan Geathiswaran, on 10 March 2026.During the meeting, discussions focused on potential investment opportunities in the Colombo Port City project, with particular emphasis on promoting the initiative among investors in Southern India

Ms. Srividhya Satish, Principal of Velammal Global School, together with Ms. Suganya Angeline, Vice Principal, paid a courtesy call on the Deputy High Commissioner of Sri Lanka in Chennai, Dr. Ganesanathan Geathiswaran, on 09 March 2026. During the meeting, they extended an invitation to the Deputy High Commissioner to attend their upcoming Annual day celebration as the Chief Guest, scheduled to be held on 24 March 2026 at the school premises. The interaction provided an opportunity for a cordial exchange and further strengthened engagement with the educational community.

The Deputy High Commissioner of Sri Lanka in Chennai, Dr. Ganesanathan Geathiswaran, participated in the Tamil Nadu Leadership Summit organized by The Week at Taj Coromandel, Chennai, on 2 March 2026. The summit brought together prominent political leaders, policymakers, and industry experts to discuss economic growth, innovation, governance, and regional development in Tamil Nadu and India. The Hon. Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, Mr. M.K. Stalin, addressed the gathering and outlined the State Government’s vision for future development. The Hon. Deputy Chief Minister, Mr. Udhayanidhi Stalin, Hon. Member of Parliament Dr. Thamizhachi Thangapandian, Hon. Member of Parliament Ms. Kanimozhi Karunanidhi, and Mr. Cecil Sundar, AI Director at Microsoft, also participated in the discussions. During the event, the Deputy High Commissioner engaged with participants and exchanged views on strengthening economic cooperation, trade, investment, and people-to-people ties between Sri Lanka and Tamil Nadu.

The Deputy High Commissioner Dr. Ganesanathan Geathiswaran, along with his spouse Ms. Krithiga Devi, attended as Special Guests in the inauguration of the exhibition Artist Legacy – Marking 60 Years of Vimonisha x Sarala Art International held on 9 March 2026 at the Lalit Kala Akademi Regional Centre, Chennai.  The exhibition featured a diverse collection of artworks highlighting creativity, cultural heritage, and contemporary artistic expression, while also promoting cultural exchange among artists and art enthusiasts.

The Deputy High Commissioner of Sri Lanka Dr. Ganesanathan Geathiswaran, participated as the Chief Guest, along with his spouse Ms. Krithiga Devi, at the Mega Charitable and Social Upliftment Programme held at the MASM Hall of the Melmaruvathur Adhiparasakthi Temple on 03 March 2026. The temple, founded by the late spiritual leader Bangaru Adigalar, is a renowned spiritual centre in Tamil Nadu attracting devotees from across India and abroad. The program was organized by the Melmaruvathur Adhiparasakthi Spiritual Movement together with the Adhiparasakthi Charitable Medical Educational and Cultural Trust, aimed to support nearly 3,000 underprivileged individuals through financial assistance, educational support, medical aid, and other welfare services. During the programme, the Deputy High Commissioner highlighted the importance of humanitarian efforts and discussed the value of extending compassionate support to communities, including Sri Lanka.

The Deputy High Commissioner of Sri Lanka in Chennai, Dr. Ganesanathan Geathiswaran, attended a match of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup as a Special Guest at the invitation of the President of the Tamil Nadu Cricket Association. The event was also attended by several distinguished personalities, including the Consul General of Australia, Ms. Silai Zaki, and renowned musical director Mr. Anirudh Ravichander. During the match, the Deputy High Commissioner met Mr. Jay Shah, Chairman of the International Cricket Council (ICC), and exchanged cordial greetings on the sidelines of the event.

More details of the above could be accessed via https://www.industrv.gov.lk/web/wp- content/uploads/2026/03/Kahataqaha-Graphite V7 l.pdf (Annex I).

Further, Field Visits will be arranged for potential investors from 23.03.2026 to 28.03.2026 and Pre-Proposal Meeting will be held on 31st March 2026 at the Main Auditorium of the Ministry of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development. Please strongly encourage potential IPs undertake the field visit during the said period and join the proposed meeting on 31st March 2026 in Colombo.

Annex 4 – Sri Lanka Expo 2026 Buyer Brochure – Updated

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The Deputy High Commission of Sri Lanka in Chennai hosted a networking reception in celebrating of the 78th Independence Day of Sri Lanka on 23 February 2026 at The Leela Palace, Chennai. The event was attended by 350 distinguished guests, including members of the Diplomatic Corps, Government officials, representatives of the business community, and well-wishers

The programme commenced with a graceful performance by the Sri Lanka Police dance troupe featuring the vibrant “Pooja Netuma,” a traditional Sri Lankan devotional dance customarily performed at the beginning of auspicious ceremonies to invoke blessings and pay reverence to deities.

The Chief Guest of the event was Hon. Palanivel Thiaga Rajan, Minister for Information Technology and Digital Services of the State of Tamil Nadu. The Guests of Honour were Mr. R. Sarathkumar, Actor, Former Member of Parliament, Former Member of Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly, National Executive Member of BJP, Mr. Jose Charles Martin,

Chairman and Managing Director of the Charles Group of Companies and Mrs. Leema Rose Martin, Director of the Charles Group of Companies.

The Deputy High Commissioner Dr. Ganesanathan Geathiswaran in his address expressed appreciation for the presence of valued partners and friends, noting that their participation reflected the enduring and close ties between Sri Lanka and India, particularly with the State of Tamil Nadu. He highlighted Sri Lanka’s ongoing journey of rebuilding following recent challenges and conveyed sincere gratitude for the steadfast support extended by the Government of India and the Government of Tamil Nadu. He further emphasized the shared commitment to deepening cooperation in trade, tourism, investment, and people-to-people ties, with a view to promoting mutual prosperity of Sri Lanka and India. The Western Music Band of the Sri Lanka Police and its Dance Troupe entertained the audience throughout the evening with captivating performances showcasing Sri Lanka’s artistic excellence and adding vibrance to the celebration.

A significant highlight of the event was the official inauguration of the “Sri Lanka – South India Business Association” Mr. G. L. Gnanatheva, Minister (Commerce) of the Deputy High Commission made a speech on the objectives of setting up the association and stated that the association is a new chapter in strengthening trade and economic cooperation between Sri Lanka and South India.

To commemorate Sri Lanka’s 78th Anniversary of Independence, a ceremonial cake was cut on stage by the Deputy High Commissioner together with the Chief Guest and the Guests of Honour. Hence, a hamper of compliments containing Sri Lankan Tea and other products were distributed among the participants. The event was concluded with a dinner with Sri Lankan delicacies.

The Deputy High Commission of Sri Lanka in Chennai commemorated the 78th Independence Day of Sri Lanka with a networking reception held on 23 February 2026 at The Leela Palace Chennai. On this occasion, for the first time, the Western Music Band of the Sri Lanka Police and its Dance Troupe travelled to Chennai to perform and entertained the audience throughout the evening with captivating performances, showcasing Sri Lanka’s artistic excellence and adding vibrancy to the celebration.