Special Inclusion of Northern and Eastern War Hero Families at 17th National Victory Celebration

COLOMBO (News 1st); The National Victory Day Commemoration, marking 17 years since the end of the war, is scheduled to be held tomorrow (19) under the patronage of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake.

The ceremony will commence at 3.00 p.m. in front of the War Heroes Memorial in Battaramulla.

Chairman of the Ranaviru Seva Authority, Brigadier S. B. Kohona, stated that this year marks the 17th commemorative event and will include several special changes.

He said the primary objective is to provide maximum opportunities for war heroes and the family members of those who sacrificed their lives for the country. Accordingly, participation of war hero families has been significantly increased compared to previous years.

He also highlighted a special effort to include Tamil and Muslim war heroes from the Northern and Eastern regions who had served alongside the tri-forces during the conflict. In this regard, relatives of fallen war heroes from the North and East have been specially invited, with approximately 1,000 invitations extended to ensure their participation.

Director of the Ranaviru Seva Authority, L.M.C.B. Nishshanka, stated that a total of 2,769 individuals are expected to attend the commemoration. Among them, 160 war hero parents have been given the opportunity to participate, marking an increase compared to previous events.

Deputy Director A.G. Bhagya said the Ranaviru Seva Authority continues to provide extensive support to war heroes and their families, including physical, psychosocial, and financial assistance.The Deputy Director noted that the Authority plays a comprehensive role under its mandate, addressing rehabilitation, care for disabled war heroes, welfare support, housing, healthcare, education, and employment opportunities.

A.G. Bhagya further stated that structured plans have been developed across short-term, medium-term, and long-term frameworks. For this year, an allocation of Rs. 569 million has been made for these initiatives over the upcoming five-year period.