It is Here Already !

 

Alluring Charm of a Mountain !

 

Rate Cuts & Stock Market !

 

Learn to Listen to Your Gut Feeling !

 

Self Employment of Banditry ?

 

X-mas & NY Greetings !

 

Conquering Cabin Fever ?

 

Threesome in Yala Sri Lanka !

Degrees of Compassion : Understanding the "Aegrotat Award"

An Aegrotat  ( (iːɡrə(ʊ)tat) Degree is a type of academic degree awarded to a student who is unable to complete their studies or final examinations due to severe illness, injury, or other extenuating circumstances. The word "aegrotat" comes from the Latin phrase "he/she is ill."

Key Features of an Aegrotat Degree:

1. Award Without Final Examination:

   • Aegrotat degrees are typically granted when a student has demonstrated sufficient academic ability throughout their studies but is unable to take final exams or complete final requirements due to exceptional circumstances.

2. No Classification:

   • In many institutions, an Aegrotat degree is unclassified, meaning it does not include distinctions like First Class, Second Class, or Honours. Instead, it is issued as a pass degree.

3. Application Process:

   • The awarding of an Aegrotat degree often requires the student (or their representative) to apply formally, providing medical evidence or other documentation of their inability to complete the program.

4. Acceptance:

   • In most cases, students must accept the Aegrotat award. Some universities allow students to retake assessments or exams at a later date if their circumstances improve.

How is it Different from Other Degrees?

1. Completion Requirements:

   • Regular degrees require the fulfilment of all academic and practical requirements, including exams, coursework, and other assessments. Aegrotat degrees are an exception, granted based on a student's prior performance and extenuating circumstances.

2. Recognition:

   • While an Aegrotat degree recognizes the student’s effort and academic capability, it may not always be viewed as equivalent to a standard degree in terms of professional or postgraduate opportunities. Some institutions or employers might require a fully completed degree.

3. Purpose:

   • The Aegrotat degree is specifically meant to ensure students are not penalized for circumstances beyond their control, unlike regular degrees that are based solely on academic merit and completion.

In essence, an Aegrotat degree is a compassionate measure by academic institutions to recognize the efforts and abilities of students facing extraordinary challenges.

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Christmas in Oman #christmas #oman

Accessibility in Public Transport: A Case for Substance Over Symbolism

On a recent journey, I noticed that one of the CTB buses had a designated space for wheelchair users.

At first glance, this seemed like a commendable step towards inclusivity.

However, upon closer inspection, it became evident that this effort might fall short of truly addressing the needs of those it aims to serve.

Several critical issues stood out:

• Narrow Entryway: The entrance of the bus is too narrow for a standard wheelchair to pass through comfortably, making entry a challenge.

• Lack of Assistance Mechanisms: There is no mechanical lifter or ramp to assist wheelchair users in boarding the bus, leaving them dependent on others for help.

• Absence of Safety Measures: Once inside, there are no restraints to secure the wheelchair in place during movement, posing a serious risk to the passenger's safety.

• Emergency Preparedness: In the event of an emergency, one must question how a wheelchair user could be evacuated quickly and safely.

• Crew Training: There seems to be no indication that bus crews have received any training on how to assist or ensure the safety of passengers with disabilities.

This raises the uncomfortable question: is this a genuine attempt to make public transport accessible, or is it simply a token gesture to appear politically correct?

While the intent might be noble, the execution leaves much to be desired.

True accessibility requires more than just allocating space—it demands a holistic approach. 

This includes infrastructure upgrades, training for staff, and a thorough understanding of the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities. 

Without these essential components, such measures risk becoming little more than symbolic gestures, failing to make any meaningful impact.

If we are to create a society where everyone has equal opportunities to participate and thrive, we must prioritize practicality and genuine inclusion over superficial appearances. 

It’s time to move beyond tokenism and commit to meaningful change in our public transportation systems.

True Wealth Secret !

 

Gone in 60 Seconds

Live You Faith - Action Over Words

 

AKD in New Delhi

The Truth Behind the Titles: A Debate on Fake Credentials

The Truth Behind the Titles

The issue of fake academic qualifications to gain undue favour and attention is dominating public discourse today. 

Whether it's fake credentials or merely fake news, I am not in a position to determine.

The first casualty of this controversy was the former Speaker of the House, Mr. Ranwala. 

When social media articles questioned the legitimacy of his doctoral title, he promptly submitted his resignation. 

Was it a voluntary decision, or was he coerced into stepping down? 

Again, I leave that for others to decide.

What followed was significant: his "Doctor" title was removed from the Parliament website. 

Some blame a "Trojan horse" left by the previous regime for this act. 

But the real intrigue lies elsewhere—how did the title disappear from his professional and personal social media accounts? 

Was his account hacked, or did he quietly remove the title himself?

If a "Trojan horse" and a hacker were at play, this points to a meticulously orchestrated mudslinging campaign. 

But if not, what does this imply about the situation? 

The word "FEAR" offers two interpretations that may provide insight:

Forget Everything And Run.

Face Everything And Rise.

Which interpretation fits Mr. Ranwala's response?

This debate is not limited to Mr. Ranwala. 

Two other prominent political figures—Mr. Sajith Premadasa and Mr. Namal Rajapaksa—have also been accused of holding fake credentials. 

Unlike Mr. Ranwala, however, both faced these allegations head-on. 

Despite the public backlash, neither accusation has been proven beyond a reasonable doubt.

Revisiting history, there was another high-profile case decades ago when a politician claimed to have earned a degree from a prestigious European university.

That claim, too, was challenged, yet no conclusive evidence was presented.

These incidents present two possible explanations:

Either the accusations are baseless.

The resilience—or thick skin—of these individuals differs significantly from Mr. Ranwala's.

This write-up does not aim to exonerate some while vilifying others. 

As members of the general public with limited access to investigative resources, we rely heavily on electronic and print media for the truth. 

However, in the current scenario, the media appears to have become a participant in a tug-of-war with no clear winner. 

Unfortunately, this leaves the public to believe whatever aligns with the "colour glasses" they wear.

The onus lies on the media to rise above this partisanship. 

Their "you scratch my back, I'll scratch yours" approach must give way to principled journalism that prioritizes truth over agenda. 

Only then can we move beyond this quagmire of doubt and speculation?

Is Safety Paramount ?

 

Invest in Stocks is Not a Game of Casino !

 

ලංකාවේ හාල් මාෆියාව මෙල්ල කරන හැටි (කියනකොට එහෙමයි, කරනකොට මෙහෙමයි).

True Connection Beyond Applause !

 

Elephant Pass ( වරෙන් බං ඉක්මනට ගෑණියේ ).

Muscle Growth with Reverse Rep !

 

How to Make Candles (from old used ones).

 

Fly Tipper කුනු නෝනා (Moratuwa).

What is Overnight Rate ?

 

How to Boost Your YouTube Views !

 

Don't Blame Me for the Delay !

Keep the Date Free - The Spirit of Oman !

 

Discover Your True Potential !

 

At the Gym (Lat Pulldown).

 

At the Gym (Leg Press) !

 

The Battle We All Fail !

 

Jumping Tables or Jumping Morals?

Lunch is often a mundane affair, but sometimes, it opens windows into realities we seldom consider.

Today, while enjoying a meal at a restaurant, a young server approached to check if we needed anything else.

Polite and eager to please, she hesitated when I asked her how she felt about her job.

Pressing further, I inquired about her salary.

Though reluctant at first, she eventually disclosed it—a meagre amount.

However, what followed struck a chord in my conscience.

She revealed a troubling truth: diners sometimes leave without paying their bills.

The loss isn’t shouldered by the establishment but passed on to the servers, deducted from their already modest earnings.

Bottled water theft, in particular, posed a significant issue.

Last month alone, the total unpaid cost exceeded Rs. 50,000, divided among 14 servers.

Imagine the indignity of working long hours, catering to customers with a smile, only to have your wages docked because of someone else’s dishonesty.

What drives such behaviour?

If it's kleptomania—a compulsive mental disorder—it’s a condition that requires treatment.

But when theft arises from arrogance or malice, it reflects a deeply flawed character.

What makes this even more disheartening is that the restaurant caters to affluent customers.

Their secure car park and decor suggest patrons of means.

Yet, having wealth doesn’t equate to having values.

Sophistication is not defined by affluence but by the respect you show to others.

The servers here work tirelessly, often unnoticed, carrying the burden of others' selfish actions.

My only immediate remedy was to leave a generous tip, hoping to ease a fraction of their hardships.

But this incident left me wondering: How do we address this growing apathy?

If you’re battling kleptomania, seek professional help.

If you’re stealing out of malice or carelessness, reflect deeply.

Is it worth compromising your integrity for a fleeting thrill?

If you’re craving an adrenaline rush, try something worthwhile—like BASE jumping or zip-lining.

Table-jumping doesn’t make you adventurous; it reveals your moral bankruptcy.

To those who read this, let’s remember that the smallest acts of honesty and kindness can create ripples of positive change.

Respect the labour of others.

Pay your bills.

It’s the least you can do.

Next time you think of leaving without paying, pause.

Think not just of the money, but of the lives you’re affecting.

Honesty isn’t just a virtue; it’s the backbone of humanity.

Bystander Mentality !

 

Understanding PMI !

 

Florence Cathedral - Must Go Place & Why ?

 

RSI Explained !

 

Weep Not Mother Lanka !

 

EPS: Your Investment Compass

 

Woodstock 1968 !

 

Bear vs. Croc ?

Grant Them the Majority.

Granting them a majority in the upcoming general election (which seems unlikely given the current sentiment in the country) is important.

Otherwise, they might continue to blame a lack of majority for their inability to implement policies, just as they currently blame past administrations.

It's important to remember that they played a role in establishing three of the most corrupt periods in our parliament's history.

If they do receive a majority, it will be interesting to see how they handle their own perceived successes.

එළැඹෙන මහ මැතිවරණයේදී (රටේ දැනට පවතින මනෝභාවය අනුව එය කළ නොහැකි බව පෙනේ) ඔවුන්ට බහුතරයක් ලබා දීම වැදගත් ය.

 
එසේ නොවුවහොත්, ඔවුන් දැනට පවතින පරිපාලනයට දොස් පවරනවා සේම, ප්‍රතිපත්ති ක්‍රියාත්මක කිරීමට ඇති නොහැකියාව ගැන බහුතරයේ හිඟය දිගටම දොස් පැවරිය හැකිය.

 
අපේ පාර්ලිමේන්තු ඉතිහාසයේ දූෂිතම කාල පරිච්ඡේද තුනක් ස්ථාපිත කිරීමට ඔවුන් කාර්යභාරයක් ඉටු කළ බව මතක තබා ගැනීම වැදගත්ය.

 
ඔවුන් බහුතරයක් ලබා ගන්නේ නම්, ඔවුන් තමන්ගේම අවබෝධ කරගත් සාර්ථකත්වයන් හසුරුවන්නේ කෙසේදැයි බැලීම සිත්ගන්නා කරුණකි.

வரவிருக்கும் பொதுத் தேர்தலில் அவர்களுக்கு பெரும்பான்மையை வழங்குவது (நாட்டின் தற்போதைய உணர்வைப் பொறுத்தவரை இது சாத்தியமில்லை என்று தோன்றுகிறது) முக்கியமானது. இல்லையெனில், அவர்கள் கடந்த கால நிர்வாகங்களைக் குற்றம் சாட்டுவதைப் போலவே, கொள்கைகளைச் செயல்படுத்த இயலாமைக்கு பெரும்பான்மை இல்லாத காரணத்தை அவர்கள் தொடர்ந்து குற்றம் சாட்டலாம். நமது நாடாளுமன்ற வரலாற்றில் மிகவும் ஊழல் நிறைந்த மூன்று காலகட்டங்களை நிறுவுவதில் அவர்கள் பங்கு வகித்தனர் என்பதை நினைவில் கொள்வது அவசியம். அவர்கள் பெரும்பான்மையைப் பெற்றால், அவர்கள் தங்கள் சொந்த வெற்றிகளை எவ்வாறு கையாளுகிறார்கள் என்பதைப் பார்ப்பது சுவாரஸ்யமாக இருக்கும்.

Dividend Yield Smart Investing !

Surprise Party to Celebrate the 65th Birthday !

Finding Balance The Dangers of Excess

Our Unsung Heroes !

 

The New President of Sri Lanka !

 

Boost Your Alertness - Red Light Exposure

 

The Money Printing Balancing Act Explained !

Printing Money - Benefits & Consequences

While quantitative easing and replacing old notes are common reasons for printing money, there are other factors that influence a country's decision to print currency:

ප්‍රමාණාත්මක ලිහිල් කිරීම සහ පැරණි නෝට්ටු ප්‍රතිස්ථාපනය කිරීම මුදල් මුද්‍රණය සඳහා පොදු හේතු වන අතර, වෙනත් සාධක රටක මුදල් මුද්‍රණය කිරීමට ගත් තීරණයට බලපායි:

1. Economic Stimulus: During recessions or economic downturns, governments may print money to inject liquidity into the economy, stimulating spending and investment. This can help jumpstart economic growth.

2. ආර්ථික උත්තේජක: අවපාත හෝ ආර්ථික පසුබෑම් වලදී, රජයන් ආර්ථිකයට ද්‍රවශීලතාවය එන්නත් කිරීමට මුදල් මුද්‍රණය කළ හැකිය, වියදම් සහ ආයෝජන උත්තේජනය කරයි. මෙය ආර්ථික වර්ධන වේගය ඉහළ නැංවීමට උපකාරී වේ.

3. Inflation Control: Ironically, in certain circumstances, printing money can help control inflation. If the economy is experiencing deflation (falling prices), increasing the money supply can encourage spending and prevent prices from falling too rapidly.

4. උද්ධමනය පාලනය: උත්ප්‍රාසාත්මක ලෙස, යම් යම් තත්වයන් යටතේ, මුදල් මුද්‍රණය කිරීම උද්ධමනය පාලනය කිරීමට උපකාරී වේ. ආර්ථිකය අවධමනය (මිල පහත වැටීම) අත්විඳින්නේ නම්, මුදල් සැපයුම වැඩි කිරීමෙන් වියදම් දිරිමත් කළ හැකි අතර මිල ඉතා වේගයෙන් පහත වැටීම වළක්වා ගත හැකිය.

5. Debt Financing: Governments may print money to finance public spending or reduce debt burdens. However, this can be a risky strategy as excessive money printing can lead to inflation.

6. ණය මූල්‍යකරණය: රාජ්‍ය වියදම් සඳහා මුදල් යෙදවීමට හෝ ණය බර අඩු කිරීමට රජයට මුදල් මුද්‍රණය කළ හැකිය. කෙසේ වෙතත්, අධික ලෙස මුදල් මුද්‍රණය කිරීම උද්ධමනයට හේතු විය හැකි බැවින් මෙය අවදානම් උපාය මාර්ගයක් විය හැකිය.

7. Seigniorage: This refers to the profit a government makes from issuing currency. By printing new money, governments can generate revenue that can be used for public services or debt reduction.

8. Seigniorage: මෙයින් අදහස් කරන්නේ රජයක් මුදල් නිකුත් කිරීමෙන් ලබන ලාභයයි. නව මුදල් මුද්‍රණය කිරීමෙන් රජයට රාජ්‍ය සේවා හෝ ණය අඩු කිරීම සඳහා භාවිතා කළ හැකි ආදායමක් උපයා ගත හැකිය.

It's important to note that the decision to print money is a complex one with potential consequences. Excessive money printing can lead to inflation, devaluation of the currency, and economic instability. Central banks carefully monitor economic conditions and adjust the money supply accordingly to maintain price stability and promote economic growth.

මුදල් මුද්‍රණය කිරීමේ තීරණය විභව ප්‍රතිවිපාක සහිත සංකීර්ණ එකක් බව සැලකිල්ලට ගැනීම වැදගත්ය. අධික ලෙස මුදල් මුද්‍රණය කිරීම උද්ධමනය, මුදල් අවප්‍රමාණය වීම සහ ආර්ථික අස්ථාවරත්වයට හේතු විය හැක. මහ බැංකු විසින් ආර්ථික තත්ත්වයන් හොඳින් නිරීක්ෂණය කරන අතර මිල ස්ථායීතාවය පවත්වා ගැනීමට සහ ආර්ථික වර්ධනය ප්‍රවර්ධනය කිරීමට ඒ අනුව මුදල් සැපයුම සකස් කරයි.

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Strategic Solutions Needed for Resolving Human-Elephant Conflicts, Not Reactive Measures

The recent tragedy involving a train collision that killed three elephants and derailed carriages along the Batticaloa-bound night train has sparked an intense outcry on social media.

In response, the railway authority’s decision to run trains on that line only during the day appears to be more reactive than strategic.

While it may appease online critics, it overlooks the deeper issue at hand and sets a worrisome precedent for decision-making based on social media pressures rather than thoughtful, long-term solutions.

Limiting train operations to daylight hours may seem like an immediate fix, but it's far from practical or sustainable.

Such a change will inevitably disrupt schedules, affect freight deliveries, and impact communities that rely on these transport services.

Economically, this shift could be detrimental to regions dependent on nighttime rail operations, as increasing the number of carriages to offset the loss of commercial capacity isn’t feasible with the current locomotive pulling power.

Not to mention, it doesn’t address the core problem, elephants continue to cross these tracks, day or night.

There are far more nuanced and effective solutions that could be implemented. For one, electronic tagging of elephants, already a proven method in wildlife conservation, could be introduced.

GPS systems and handheld units in locomotive engines could alert train operators when tagged elephants are near, allowing them to slow down or take precautions.

Another viable option is using high-frequency sound-emitting devices that only elephants can hear, warning them to steer clear of oncoming trains without disturbing other animals or nearby residents.

Additionally, trains could slow down considerably in accident-prone areas while speeding up on open stretches to make up for the time lost, or train schedules could be adjusted in a more precise manner to avoid passing through these zones during peak elephant movement hours.

These measures would mitigate the risk to elephants without compromising the region’s economic stability or social connectivity.

What we need are real, innovative solutions, not rushed decisions aimed at quelling public outcry.

Addressing human-elephant conflict in the modern world requires thoughtful integration of technology, careful planning, and a genuine commitment to coexistence.

Read more here

Negative Inflation: an Undesirable Economic Condition.

Negative inflation means that the general price level of goods and services in an economy is falling over time. 

This is the opposite of inflation, where prices rise. 

It's also known as deflation.

Why might a country report negative inflation?

• Economic slowdown: If the economy is slowing down, people may spend less, leading to a decrease in demand for goods and services. This can cause businesses to lower prices to attract customers.

• Increased productivity: If businesses become more efficient at producing goods and services, they can lower their costs and pass those savings on to consumers in the form of lower prices.

• Currency appreciation: If a country's currency becomes stronger compared to other currencies, it can make imported goods cheaper, leading to lower prices for consumers.

Can negative inflation be maintained?

Maintaining negative inflation can be challenging and can even be harmful to an economy. 

If people expect prices to keep falling, they may delay purchases, hoping to get a better deal later. 

This can lead to a vicious cycle of falling demand and prices.

Pluses and Minuses of Negative Inflation

Pluses:

• Lower living costs: Consumers benefit from lower prices on goods and services.

• Increased purchasing power: People's money can buy more, improving their standard of living.

• Reduced debt burden: If prices are falling, the real value of debts decreases, making it easier to pay them back.

Minuses:

• Economic slowdown: Deflation can discourage spending and investment, leading to economic stagnation or recession.

• Deflationary spiral: If people expect prices to keep falling, they may delay purchases, leading to a downward spiral of falling demand and prices.

• Increased debt burden: While deflation reduces the real value of debts, it also makes it harder for businesses to pay back their loans, which can lead to bankruptcies and job losses.

In conclusion, while negative inflation can have some short-term benefits, it's generally considered to be an undesirable economic condition.

 Maintaining it is difficult, and the long-term consequences can be severe.

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"Triple hat-trick" Remains an Extraordinarily Rare and Elusive Occurrence

A "triple hat-trick" in cricket refers to an extraordinary achievement where a bowler takes four wickets in four consecutive deliveries.

While the term "hat-trick" typically refers to taking three wickets with three successive balls, a "triple hat-trick" extends that by one more ball and wicket.

It is an extremely rare feat in cricket due to the difficulty of dismissing four batsmen in as many consecutive deliveries.

Some people may informally use the term "triple hat-trick" to describe even more consecutive dismissals (e.g., five wickets in five balls), but technically, the term applies to four in four.

No cricketer has ever officially achieved a "triple hat-trick" (four wickets in four consecutive deliveries) in an international match.

However, there have been several instances where bowlers have come close by taking hat-tricks or even four wickets in five balls.

Here are a few notable achievements related to multiple wickets in short spans:

Lasith Malinga (Sri Lanka):

Malinga took four wickets in four balls against South Africa in the 2007 ICC Cricket World Cup.

This is one of the most famous examples where a bowler came close to achieving a "triple hat-trick," as he dismissed four South African batsmen in consecutive deliveries (two at the end of one over and two at the beginning of the next).

Curtly Ambrose (West Indies):

While Ambrose did not take four consecutive wickets, he once took seven wickets for just one run in a devastating spell against Australia in 1993, though these were not all on consecutive deliveries.

While the feat of four in four deliveries has happened in other formats or lower-level cricket, the "triple hat-trick" remains an extraordinarily rare and elusive occurrence in top-level international matches.

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Nominating Visually Impaired Candidate in an Election - Inclusiveness or Political Exploitation

Nominating a visually impaired candidate in an election is a progressive move that reflects inclusivity and a commitment to diversity.

However, such a decision comes with both pros and cons and if the person is voted in, certain preparations will be necessary to ensure they can fulfill their role effectively.

Pros

1. Promotes exclusivity and representation:

Nominating a visually impaired person sends a powerful message about the importance of diversity in politics. It highlights the value of providing representation to people with disabilities and shows that barriers to participation can be overcome.

2. Advocacy for disability rights:

A candidate with firsthand experience of living with a disability is likely to be a strong advocate for policies that support the disabled community. This could lead to more inclusive public policies and improvements in accessibility across the country.

3. Challenges societal biases:

Electing someone with a visual impairment can help shift public perceptions about the abilities of disabled individuals. It demonstrates that leadership and governance are not limited by physical limitations but rather by intellect, vision, and dedication.

4. Encourages broader participation:

This decision can inspire other marginalized groups, including people with disabilities, to engage in politics and public service, knowing that their conditions do not prevent them from holding office.

Cons

1. Public perception and prejudice:

There may still be some level of societal prejudice or skepticism about whether a person with a disability can effectively perform the duties required of a politician. Some voters may have concerns about their capacity to engage with certain tasks or represent them fully.

2. Accessibility and adaptability challenges:

Government offices and public spaces might not yet be fully accessible, making it difficult for the candidate to navigate their role. This could present a logistical challenge unless sufficient accommodations are made in advance.

3. Communication barriers:

While a visually impaired politician may be highly capable, communication and document access (especially in non-digital formats) could be a challenge. This may limit their ability to interact with certain information channels or constituents who rely on written materials.

4. Political exploitation:

In some cases, there may be criticism or accusations that the party is using the visually impaired candidate as a token gesture to garner votes from sympathetic voters, without real consideration for their policies or leadership.

Preparations if the Candidate is Elected

1. Assistive technology and equipment:

The candidate will need access to technologies such as screen readers, braille displays, and voice recognition software to handle written documents, emails, and other correspondence. Offices should be equipped with these assistive devices.

2. Personal assistant or accessibility officer:

A dedicated assistant could help with tasks that require visual perception, such as navigating large gatherings, interpreting non-verbal cues, or managing documents in meetings.

3. Accessible infrastructure:

Government buildings, offices, and public spaces should be equipped with accessible infrastructure, including ramps, tactile guidance paths, and accessible restrooms, to ensure mobility and independence for the candidate.

4. Specialized training for staff:

The candidate’s staff may need training on disability awareness and how to support their boss effectively, ensuring smooth communication and office functioning.

5. Public outreach adaptations:

The visually impaired politician may rely more on radio, social media, and voice-based platforms for outreach, so extra emphasis may be needed on digital and auditory forms of communication when connecting with the public.

6. Parliamentary procedures and materials:

If elected to parliament, provisions should be made for accessible versions of legislative documents, motions, and reports. Parliamentary sessions may also need adjustments in how visual presentations are handled during debates.

Overall, this move promotes equity and sends a strong message about the possibilities of leadership for all citizens, regardless of physical ability, provided the right infrastructure is in place to support them.

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Meritocracy in Leadership Appointments.

The recent appointment of a former Sri Lanka Air Force chief as the Chairman of Airport and Aviation Services (Sri Lanka) (Private) Limited, the state-run airport management company, has been the subject of much debate.

While it may seem like a newsworthy event, in reality, it follows a long-established pattern of selecting top military personnel for civilian roles.

This practice, however, raises several questions.

First, the company is registered as a "Private" entity, yet government influence over decision-making appears as strong as ever.

How private can it truly be when the government retains control over its leadership appointments?

More troubling is the broader implication of bringing in an outsider, someone who, while distinguished in his chosen field, is not very familiar with the intricacies of managing a specialized organization like Airport and Aviation Services.

Why isn't there a system in place to groom leaders from within the company?

Many successful private sector companies invest in the training and professional development of their employees, ensuring that when a top position becomes vacant, there are capable candidates ready to step in.

This not only maintains continuity but boosts morale and productivity by demonstrating a clear path to career progression.

When employees know that their hard work and commitment can lead to leadership roles, it creates a sense of motivation and loyalty.

On the other hand, if the top positions are seen as reserved for outsiders, often with political connections, any sense of fairness and meritocracy within the organization is lost, and morale inevitably suffers.

So, why hasn’t such a career development program been implemented in these state-linked enterprises?

One possibility is that these leadership roles are intentionally kept available for political appointees, ensuring a means of rewarding loyalists and “back-scratchers.”

Another possibility is that even within the organization, political influence has played a role in staffing, leading to a workforce that may not have the skills or merit to rise through the ranks.

Regardless of the reason, the end result is the same: inefficiency and frustration among capable individuals within the organization.

If the goal is to truly manage this company like a private enterprise, it’s time to abandon the old patterns of political patronage and establish a genuine system of career development and progression.

This would not only empower employees but also help the organization thrive in a competitive, global aviation industry.

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Corruption on Sr Lanka Train

The Nine Arches Bridge in Ella, Sri Lanka, recently made headlines again, and it's an opportune moment to share a personal story connected to it. 

During our daughter's recent visit to Sri Lanka, she and a friend decided to explore Ella, a common destination for many tourists. 

They bought tickets for the train, like most travellers, intending to disembark at Ella.

During their journey, a railway security officer, who also doubled as a ticket checker, approached them, seemingly to inspect their tickets. 

Discovering that their journey was to end in Ella, he made an unsolicited suggestion: “Why not continue to the next station? 

The train will stop on the Nine Arches Bridge for at least 10 minutes, and you can take as many photos as you like.”

My daughter, always one to follow the rules, pointed out that their tickets were valid only up to Ella and not for Demodara, the station beyond the bridge. 

The officer replied, “We can allow you to continue, but it will cost you something.” 

Intrigued, they asked how much, and he quoted Rs. 1500 per passenger. Both women declined the offer and got off at Ella, their planned stop.

This incident, though seemingly minor, is just one of the countless examples of corruption in the system. 

It's a reflection of a much broader issue where many acknowledge the need for systemic reform, but few take steps toward real change. 

People like this railway officer exploit their positions, indulging in petty corruption that has become ingrained in daily life.

At first, I was inclined to report this to the railway authorities, but on further reflection, I realized that the very authority meant to uphold integrity is likely more corrupt than the individuals they employ. 

This small encounter on a train in Sri Lanka reveals a deeper truth about the unchecked decay of a system that people are either too complacent or too complicit to fix.

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The Politics of Qualifications: Does Education Define Success?

Sri Lanka’s current Prime Minister, who holds a PhD in Anthropology, has sparked conversations on social media, where many are hailing her as the most academically qualified leader in the nation's history. 

Indeed, the fact is irrefutable, but it raises a broader, more nuanced question: Is there a direct correlation between academic qualifications and political success?

The debate over what makes a politician successful is as old as politics itself, but education is often brought into the discussion. 

Does possessing a prestigious degree guarantee good governance? 

Does academic prowess naturally translate into political effectiveness?

Looking back at our own history, the answer seems to be far from straightforward.

Sri Lanka gave the world its first female Prime Minister, Mrs. Sirima Bandaranaike, who held only a Junior School Certificate (JSC). 

Her supporters, especially those aligned with leftist ideologies, argue that she was one of the most successful leaders the country has seen. 

Known for her policies of nationalization and her firm stance on non-alignment, Bandaranaike shaped Sri Lankan politics during tumultuous times with a vision that resonated deeply with many.

On the other hand, supporters of J. R. Jayewardene, who was educated at the University of Ceylon, championed his economic reforms and the introduction of the executive presidency. 

He led Sri Lanka through a period of significant economic and political transformation. 

Any of his advocates believe he ranks as the country’s most accomplished leader, with his educational background lending him a certain intellectual rigour that translated into his governance style.

Both Bandaranaike and Jayewardene achieved tremendous success in their own rights, despite their vastly different educational backgrounds. 

Their contrasting stories underline an important point: academic qualifications alone do not dictate political success. 

Politics, after all, is a different beast.

A PhD in Anthropology may provide insight into human behaviour and social systems, but does it prepare one to navigate the choppy waters of political power, diplomacy, and governance? 

Conversely, does the absence of an academic degree mean one lacks the vision or leadership required to inspire a nation?

The world stage offers numerous examples. 

Winston Churchill, who led Britain through World War II, was famously disinterested in his formal studies, yet his leadership remains legendary. 

Nelson Mandela, with his legal education, used his knowledge to dismantle apartheid, but it was his resilience, not just his education, that made him an icon. 

At the same time, countless highly educated leaders have failed miserably, unable to translate academic success into political acumen.

So, does a PhD make someone a better Prime Minister? 

The truth is, it’s too early to say. 

Our new leader has only been on the job for a few weeks, and it will take time for us to measure her success, not by her qualifications, but by her ability to connect with people, make tough decisions, and lead the country forward.

Ultimately, politics is about people. 

Success in politics requires the ability to understand human needs, articulate a vision, and, most importantly, inspire trust. 

While education provides a toolkit, it is no substitute for the complex, deeply human qualities that define political leadership. 

Whether one’s path to power is paved with academic accolades or life experience, history suggests there is no one formula for success.

What matters most is how effectively a leader can navigate the intricacies of governance, steer the country through crises, and leave a legacy that resonates with the people, not the letters after their name.

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Pointing Out Fallacies Isn’t Revenge — It’s Necessary for Progress !

Some supporters of the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) may feel personally attacked when their party's missteps are highlighted, but this isn’t about revenge.

It’s about truth and accountability.

The JVP is not part of the solution to our country's problems, largely because of their controversial history.

Their attempt to overthrow a democratically elected government during the 1971 uprising resulted in the deaths of thousands and significant property damage.

While some may romanticize this as a class struggle, I see it more as a caste struggle.

Just look at the backgrounds of the first 20 JVP members who were brought before the courts.

Moreover, the JVP's history is tainted by its opportunism.

They've propped up three corrupt regimes in exchange for positions and favours.

While the exact amounts of money that changed hands are known to only a few, businessman Dudley Sirisena recently hinted at such dealings.

So, if anyone believes the JVP can transform this country into a utopia, they should think again.

No country has ever achieved prosperity through Marxist economic policies.

The nations that have abandoned Marxism in favour of a free-market economy have proven beyond a doubt that it’s the better system.

Marxism, on the other hand, is a failed ideology.

We all want the best for this country.

But how do we achieve that?

The answer lies in individual reform.

Take a look at the state of our roads, for instance.

Despite the presence of countless cars, buses, and three-wheelers proclaiming support for AKD, has anyone seen any real improvement in the quality of life?

We’re too focused on blaming politicians when, in reality, we often use them for personal gain, only to criticize them when they fail to meet our expectations.

If we want change, we need to stop using the backdoor and let meritocracy prevail.

Looking at the political landscape, the raw numbers speak for themselves.

Anura Kumara Dissanayake (AKD) got 42, Sajith Premadasa (SP) secured 37, and Ranil Wickremesinghe (RW) garnered 12.

If RW and SP unite, the National People's Power (NPP) winning a majority is nothing more than a pipe dream.

They will likely find themselves where they belong, in the opposition.

And with no real mandate in Parliament, AKD will face a tough task ahead.

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A Disappointing Roti Experience in Bandaragama

Yesterday, while out and about, we came across a restaurant in Bandaragama that boasted of serving "ගලේ පුච්චපු රොටි" — roti prepared on a hot granite slab.

Intrigued by their claims of a unique taste, different from the usual metal plate preparation, and having seen many romanticize the experience, we decided to stop by and give it a try.

Unfortunately, our expectations were met with disappointment.

The rotis were more akin to tortillas than the traditional Sri Lankan roti we know and love, which is typically made with freshly scraped coconut, chopped onions, green chillies, and curry leaves. 

These essential flavours were notably absent. 

As for the accompaniments — chicken curry gravy, mushrooms, lentils, and Kochchi sambal — they were ordinary at best, lacking the "wow" factor we were hoping for.

To make matters worse, being charged Rs 100 for such an unremarkable roti felt almost sacrilegious. 

The establishment also lacked basic amenities, such as toilet facilities. 

Patrons were left with the rather unappealing option of taking care of their needs on the side of a busy trunk road. 

All things considered, it felt more like a truck stop than a place for families to enjoy a meal.

Will we return? 

Most certainly not.

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A Fare Question: The Case for Electronic Payments

The simple act of paying a bus fare in Sri Lanka has become a perplexing puzzle.

For a minimum fare of Rs 28, handing over a Rs 100 note results in a Rs 70 return.

Where does the remaining Rs 2 disappear to?

It's a question that has puzzled commuters and raised concerns about transparency and efficiency in public transportation.

The answer lies in the antiquated cash-based system.

The unaccounted-for Rs 2, while seemingly insignificant, represents a systemic inefficiency. 

It neither benefits the loss-making Ceylon Transport Board (CTB) nor the passenger.

This inefficiency is a stark reminder of the need for a modern, electronic payment system.

Such a system would not only ensure accurate fare calculation but also streamline revenue collection.

By eliminating the need for physical cash handling, service providers could reduce their operational costs and potentially decrease their reliance on subsidies.

Moreover, electronic payments could help mitigate the risk of fare evasion, a significant problem that contributes to the financial burden on public transportation systems.

The reluctance to adopt electronic payments can be attributed to several factors, including concerns about union resistance and potential political backlash.

However, the continued reliance on outdated systems is a disservice to both commuters and the public transportation sector.

The new regime has an opportunity to address this issue and implement a more efficient and transparent payment system.

By taking bold steps to modernize public transportation, the government can improve the quality of service, reduce costs, and enhance the overall commuting experience for Sri Lankans.

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බලමු මේ කුහකයෝ කව්ද කියලා ?

ලැබුන ජයග්‍රහනය සාමූහිකව සමරමු, හැබැයි කුහකයෝ නම් වෙන්න එපා.කියලා සමාජ ජාලවල සංසරණය වන කතාවක් දැකලා මේක ලියන්න හිතුවේ.

බලමු මේ කුහකයෝ කව්ද කියලා.

පාසල් අධ්‍යාපනය අඛන්ඩව පවත්වාගෙන යාමට ඉඩ නොදෙමින් වැඩ වර්ජන කරමින් ලමයි අමාරුවේ දාන අයද?

කැට හොල්ලන කොල්ලෝ කුරුට්ටෝ දාල විශ්වවිද්‍යාලවල කලබල ඇති කරලා ඒවා වහලා දාන්න කටයුතු කරන අයද?

ඉස්පිරිතාලවල වැඩ වර්ජන, අකුරට වැඩ කරලා ලෙඩ්ඩු අමාරුවේ දාන අයද?

රාජ්ය සහ පුද්ගලික ව්‍යාපාරයකට දියුනු වෙන්න නොදී තර්ජන, ඝර්ජන සහ වැඩ නැවැත්වීම් වලින් එවා පාඩු ලබන ව්‍යාපාරකරපු අයද?

බස් කොච්චී, ට්‍රාන්ස්ෆොර්මර්, වෙළද ව්‍යාපාර ගිනිබත් කරපු අයද?

බස් එකක්, කෝච්චියක් නොදුවවන්න වැඩ වර්ජණ, කඩාකප්පල්කාරී වැඩ කරපු අයද?

නැත්නම් සාධාරණ රැකියාවක් කරලා, රටට අවශ්‍ය බදු මුදල් වෙලාවට ගෙවපු අයද කුහකයෝ.

ඔය අද කුහකයෝ ගැන අටුවා ටීකා ලියන කීදෙනෙකුට අද වෙනකොට ආදායම් බදු ගෙවන අංකයක් තියෙනවාද?

දුෂණ මර්ධන පනතට විරුද්ධව පාර්ලිමේන්තුවේ එදා චන්දය දීපු අය අද දූෂණ මර්දධනය ගැන කතා කරන එක කුහක කමක් නෙමෙයිද?

මේ ටික එදා මුන්ට තේරුණා නම් අද සමහර විට අපි සිංගපූරුවට වඩා ඉහලින් ඉන්න තිබුනා.

ප්‍රශ්ණේට උත්තරේ එදාත් තිබුනා, අදත් තියෙනවා.

අනුන් බලේ ඉන්න කොට කුහකකම් කරන්න හොඳනම් දැන් කරාම ඇති වරද මොකක්ද?

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USE OF DRONES FOR AIRPORT INSPECTIONS.

Drones are becoming popular and useful in various industries,

including airport management and offer many benefits for

inspecting airport facilities, equipment, and operations.

Types of inspections

Drones can perform a variety of inspections at airports, such as

checking the surface conditions, markings, lighting, and signs of the

runways and taxiways for foreign object debris.

Inspect the roofs, walls, windows, and doors of the terminal and

hangar buildings, as well as monitor fire safety systems, ventilation,

and electrical wiring.

They can also patrol the airport perimeter fence to identify breaches

or intrusions, as well as monitor access points, gates, and vehicles.

Furthermore, drones can survey wildlife habitats and populations

around the airport to assess potential risks of bird strikes or other

wildlife hazards.

Additionally, they can measure the noise, air quality, and water

quality impacts of the airport operations.

Advantages of drones

Using drones for airport inspections can provide several advantages,

such as saving time and money, improving accuracy and quality,

and enhancing safety and security.

Drones can inspect large areas and hard-to-reach places faster and

cheaper than human inspectors or vehicles, while capturing high-

resolution images, videos, and data that can be analyzed and stored digitally.

They can also reduce the need for runway closures or disruptions to

the airport operations, reduce the exposure of human inspectors to

hazards, and improve the detection and response to security threats

or incidents.

Using drones for airport inspections presents several challenges, from

regulatory and legal issues to operational and technical ones.

For example, drones must comply with aviation rules and regulations,

coordinate with air traffic control, and have reliable systems.

Additionally, they must be operated by trained and qualified pilots

and inspectors who can follow standard procedures and protocols,

as well as have the support of airport management and staff who

can integrate them into operations.

All of this must also take into consideration the privacy and property

rights of airport neighbours and stakeholders.

Best practices and tips

Using drones for airport inspections can be effective and efficient,

but it requires careful planning and coordination.

Before using drones, one should conduct a risk assessment, define

the objectives and scope of the inspection, select the appropriate

drone model and equipment, and obtain the required permissions

and approvals.

During the inspection, one should follow the flight plan and the

inspection checklist, communicate with the Air Traffic Control and

airport staff, while monitoring the drone’s performance and status.

Afterwards, download and review the images, videos, and data

collected by the drone.

Generate a report, share it with relevant parties, be mindful of GDPR

(General Data Protection Regulations) requirements, provide

recommendations for improvement, and offer feedback.

By adhering to these best practices and tips, one can use drones for

airport inspections safely, legally, and effectively.