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CHAPTER THREE
DATA PRESENTATION AND DATA ANALYSIS
NATIONAL DEFENCE AS A PUBLIC GOOD
21. According to business dictionary.com,
“public good is an item whose consumption is not decided by the individual
consumer but by the society as a whole, and which is financed by taxation. A
public good or service may be consumed without reducing the amount available
for others and cannot be withheld from those who do not pay for it. Public good
and services include economic statistics and other information, law enforcement,
National Defence, parks and other things for the use and benefit of all. No market
exists for such goods, and they are provided for everyone by governments.”
22. Therefore, it can be assumed that there is a direct link between the national defence
and public good. If National Defence is exercised properly then the public will be benefitted.
On the other hand National Defence is of pertainingto or maintained by a nation as an
organized whole or independent political unit owned preserved, or maintained by the federal
government. Defence means resistance against danger, attack, or harm: protection. By
providing Defence expenditure, a positive stimulate effect on the economy of Sri Lankacan
be achieved for a rapid growth after defeating the LTTE. Moreover, National Defence is a
public good even if we consider it is only there to prevent from another attack. That is
because everybody can profit of the prevention at the same time. No other citizen can deny
the protection offered by the National Defence.
23. Defence expenditure can enhance growth if some of the expenditure is used to provide
social infrastructure and maintenance ofsuch as dams, roads, airports, communication
networks and also other forms of public good which are benefited by public. Defence
expenditure can provide to particular areas such as training, awareness programs and
education as well as nutrition, health care to the areas directly affected by the Tamil Ealam
war in Sri Lanka.
Different Complementary Services of Aspects that National Defence as Public Good
Transportation Aspects
24. Transportation is a main section that defence sector can involve. Presently the military
involves in crisis situations such as strikes. This should efficiently maintain further with a
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view to assisting the government to address the crisis situations with perfect solutions and to
ease the pressure on normal civilians.
25. On the other hand, the Navy and the Air Force can perform specific tasks in
transportation sector. The Navy can concentrate on tourist transportation. This will be a much
attractive and interesting new thing to both local and international tourists. The Air force can
also consider on air transportation inside the island. This can be done by either sea planes or
through air ports inside the country. Now theAir Force has started Heli-tour service which
gives opportunity to travel major tourist destination in Sri Lanka by planes.
Medical Aspects
26. Other than these areas, military can be used in many other fields such as medical field.
They can help the government to do the vaccination campaigns and other national level health
operations. Also they can reach places which normal civilian medical professional refuse to
move and do the necessary treatments for those who required medical treatments.
Life Guard Services
27. Life guard service has been done by the military services as social work.
Especially,the Navy has kept their lifeguard teams in and around the country. This service can
be developed further to provide more safety for the people.
Disaster Management
28. Disaster management can also be done by the forces very effectively. Presently, the
forces also give their maximum contributions to national disastrous situations. For example,
it is easy to highlight the work done by the forces during Tsunami disaster in 2004 and
flooding and land sliding in Rathanapura in 2003. In those situations the military forces did
rescue operations, evacuations, supplying of foods, clothes and other required items,
providing medical facilities and many more things to get civilian life back to normal. The
Navy and the Air Force are more vital in these situations than the ground forces. When
challenging the sea disasters role of Navy boats, divers are significant. The Air Force planes
can be used for quick transportation, and get to the location where there are no other means of
transport available.
29. There are side advantages in using military forces in such kind of situations too.
Normally, these people are trained not to be panicked in serious situations; therefore they can
take the required action without any further damages. Using them is more effective and
reliable using than using normal civilians as they have to be given prior training. Other than
that the military forces have a well-organized body and perfect management. Therefore,
bribery and corruption that occur in supplying and providing facilities through other means
can be minimized. Hence, disaster management in a post war scenario can be directly done by
military forces.
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The Post War Scenario and its Importance for the Economy of Sri Lanka
Brief History of the Sri Lankan Economy
30. The war had lasted nearly three decades. During that period it had influenced the Sri
Lankan economy, culture, and day to day life of the common people as well.The war
extensively damaged housing, roads, bridges, commercial and state property, irrigation
system, machinery, communications systems, plantations and fisheries. The total cost of
replacement of assets and houses, and cost of damages and property in the North and East
amount to Rs. 296.5 billion and total cost of property damaged outside the North and East
amounts to Rs. 32.7 billion. (Based on 2001 prices).
Recent Economy of Sri Lanka and Different Factors Affected on the Economy
31. Although suffering a brutal civil war that began in 1983, Sri Lanka saw GDP growth
average 4.5% in the last 10 years with the exception of a recession in 2001.
32. The government spending on development and fighting the LTTE drove GDP growth
to about 7% per year in 2006 to 2007 before the global recession slow growth in 2008, but
high government spending and high oil and commodity prices also raised inflation to around
15% in 2008.
33. Due to war past 30 years Sri Lankan economy faced many numerous problems.
Tourism industry, fisheries industry, agriculture and all other industries in northern and
eastern area were totally destroyed. The LTTE attacked economically important places such
as the airport, Central Bank, fuel storage complex in Kolonnawa. The government had to
spend a considerable amount of money from the National Income to rebuild these places.
Future Sri Lanka and Different Ways to Rebuild the Economy
34. The Finance Ministry Secretary Dr. PB Jayasundara gave an interview to the Daily
News on July 5, 2011. He said that government has managed to reduce the defence
expenditure systematically. Further, he expressed the criticism against spending much for
defence expenditure in a speech given at the Sri Lanka Economic Summit 2011 held at the
Cinnamon Ground Hotel as “Sri Lanka has faced so many criticisms for the high defence
expenditure.” “Defence allocation will further go down to 2.5% of the GDP, provided that
the economic growth rate remains above 6%. And public investment, including education and
rural development grew by 6.5% in 2010, despite 2.5% posted during 2000 and 2002.
35. Professor G.L. Peiris during his speech in KDU symposium expressed that Sri
Lanka‟s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) grew by an impressive 8 % in 2010 over a relatively
low growth of 3.5 per cent in 2009. This was the second highest growth rate witnessed during
the past six decades and the highest growth rate reported during the past three decades. In
2011 Inflation rate control to 6%, foreign reserve increased up to $ 8 billion. All these were
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achieved mainly due to the end of the war. From these data, we can understand importance of
peace in country for economy development.
36. Thus, it is obvious that the end of the war positively affected the national economy
since the excessive expenditure for the military operations have been curtailed and the
allocated funds for military operations could be used for other development projects. This is
achieved due to the end of the war; therefore, what was spent for military operations was not
waste because it has laid the foundation for a better economy for the country.
37. The government policy on the agriculture as envisaged in the “MahindaChinthana
Vision for Future” focuses on several targets. These include achieving food security of the
people, ensuring higher and sustainable income and remunerative prices for farmers,
uninterrupted access to competitive markets both in Sri Lanka and abroad, farm
mechanization, expanding the extent under cultivation, reducing wastage in transit and
ensuring environmental conservation, introducing efficient farm management techniques and
using high yielding seeds and improved water management. Moreover, plans have been made
in order to use the recently liberated North and East area for agriculture, industry, and many
other projects.
38. To achieve all these, the government faces problems in utilizing experts because a
huge demand for professionally qualified experts in various fields has suddenly arisen. On the
other hand the remaining personnel have had the reluctance of executing their duties in these
liberated areas. Then, the tri forces showed their ability to extend their assistance to fill the
dearth of professional requirement for these projects.
Contribution of National Defence to the Economy Development
39. There are many development projects conducted in north and east area with the help
of the try forces. The government are now developing infrastructure facilities in north and
east area because to use these areas to get the maximum contribution to national economy,
the infrastructure such as proper roads, continuous supply of electricity and other facilities
should be developed.
40. On par with the development drive 'UthuruWasanthaya', a series of development
initiatives have been carried out under the guidance of Economic Development Minister Basil
Rajapaksa to provide the basic needs for the people of Jaffna. Development of electricity,
water supply and sanitation, agriculture, irrigation, livestock, inland fisheries, health
facilities, solid waste disposal systems, education, sports, cultural affairs and transportation
are some of the areas that will be covered under this program. Prof.G.L. Peirisin his Key Note
speech at the annual symposium of General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University on 18th
August 2011 emphasized that 95% of schools in northern area have been reconstructed with
the help of armed forces. Further he mentioned that developing infrastructure facilities in war
affected area is one of the major works that the military can be involved in.
41. Projects worth Rs. 1010 million have already been underway in the district. The total
cost of developing the A-9 Highway will be Rs. 710 million. A total of Rs. 380 million will
be spent on the Vavuniya-Horowpathana road and Rs. 360 million on the Medawachchiya-
Mannar road. Meanwhile road construction in relief villages currently housing IDP‟s is
nearing its completion at a cost of Rs. 150 million. Another important project is north railway
line. So far government have completed up to Omanthai. Sri Lanka Army engineering
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regiment doing the most of the construction in this project.Many schools in north and east
area were reconstructed by the armed forces. Regional school in Divulweva was newly
constructed by the Sri Lankan Air force.
42. Another water supply scheme for the people of Point Pedro, who mainly depended on
wells and tube wells, were provided with a massive 1350 m3 capacity elevated water tower.
The project would improve the water supply infrastructure and services in the Northern
region. Chempiyanpattu in Nagarkovil was also provided with electricity through the
UthuruWasanthaya programme. Kokavil tower project is one of the major projects involved
by Sri Lanka Army. This tower helps to develop telecommunication system in north and east
area.Agriculture being the main livelihood of the Jaffna people, more than 15 agrarian centres
have been open within this year to facilitate the farmers in the region. Until, the farmers
establish a proper agriculture, the military forces are involved in developing the abandoned
farms run by the government before the outbreak of the war.
43. The government has taken a decision to allow the largest BOI approved industry to be
located in Achchuveli. Another five major industries would also be set up in the North. The
minister noted that he takes actions to reopened Paranthan chemical factory, Pulmudai
factory and Kakasanthurai cement factory. This would generate more employment
opportunities to the educated youth in the North. These mega projects will be more beneficial
for economy development.After the defeat of LTTE armed forces involved in many
development programs all over the country. Diyagama international stadium, Sooriyawewa
international cricket stadium are a few of them. Government can save a lot of money as all
these construction done by the armed forces.
44. Due to peaceful situation in the country foreign investors have started investing in Sri
Lanka. This is a very good condition to boom the national economy. There is also a project to
develop KKS harbour, which is very important to economy of northern zone.
Development of Tourism and Fisheries Industry
45. Tourism and fisheries industry are two major industries that show tremendous
development after the end of war. Tourism industry had been one of the major industries
which contributed the national economy, and it had been one of the main incomes for then Sri
Lanka. However, due to the war, foreigners were reluctant to tour Sri Lanka. After the
war, an assurance was given to them to visit Sri Lanka. Moreover, there are many tourist
attractive locations in the recently liberated areas such as Nilaweli, Pasikuda, Arugambe etc.
The prevailing peaceful situation is highly essential to utilize those areas as prominent
locations for the tourist industry. Tourist Development Authority has made the arrangements
to establish 13 Tourist Resort in the Pasikudah Tourist area in Trincomalee.
46. Sri Lanka's tourist arrivals gained 32.3% in July from a year earlier to the highest level
since December, as the island nation kept attracting more visitors and tourism-related
investment since the end of a 25-year civil war.
47. Fisheries industry is another industry which can be developed after the war. During
war period, this industry in northern and eastern area was totally collapsed due to security
conditions in that area. But now fishermen can do their job without any obstacles. Hence, the
government should give them facilities to improve the industry. The Navy has special role to
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play regarding fisheries industry. They have to protect our sea line from others and provide
security for Sri Lankan fishermen.
STRENGTH AND THE CAPABILITIES OF NATIONAL DEFENCE
Strategic Role for Armed Forces
48. During past few decades, armed forces had major role to defeat terrorism. Now there
is no more war in country. So role of armed forces now transit from conflict era to peace full
situation.The complementary services referred here are important during the period of
transition.Therefore, the role with respect to role of defence during the period of transition is
important for the future of National Defence. The armed forces have the strength and potential
to take a share of responsibility in regional security arrangements to prevent Sri Lanka from
becoming the hunting ground for external powers. The introduction of Sri Lanka as a new
military factor in the regional security spectrum has to be reckoned in future operational
planning of all powers including India. It will be in the interest of both India and Sri Lanka to
evolve greater strategic convergence between both countries to ensure better coordination of
their security strategies to their mutual advantage. This would enable both nations to keep the
Indian Ocean region sanitized from external forces.
49. When we consider about the defence service directly their involving with the war. But
the problem appears with the post war scenario. What do they have to do? That is the main
question in before Sri Lankan military. As a third world country, we have to do many more
things to develop our culture, security, health, and economy etc. Those defence service
officers and soldiers are undergoing with post war, they can involve with above subjects to
develop our country. Military officers and soldiers are well trained and they can involve to
any matter in correct manner. If they have some knowledge regarding particular subject they
cope upwith it. For achieve this aim we have to give the basic knowledge.
50. Professor G.L.Peiris explained that role of armed forces in post war scenario have two
dimensions. That is internal and external in the country. Internally armed forces can involve
with development programs in country. At the same time they have to face external threats.
51. When the war times there were a number of military bases and camps were situated all
over the country especially in North and Eastern provinces. Therefore, in a post war situation
we do not need such numbers of military establishments. Therefore what we have to do is to
reduce the number of camps and check points. However, that is not such as easy task. First we
have to find out what are the vulnerable places for a sudden internal or external threat. On the
other hand we have to study our national interest and our military strategy.
52. The Army has expanded too fast and the period for new recruits‟ training has become
shorter. As the new army commander Lt General JagathJayasuriya has emphasized the army
needs to be trained with greater discipline and professionalism to make it fit a first rate
fighting force for conventional operations. This is usually an on-going process in the army and
that should take priority.
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Strength and the Current Role of Sri Lanka Army
53. The Sri Lanka Army is the oldest and largest of the Sri LankaArmed Forces and is
responsible for land- based military and humanitarian operations. Established as the Ceylon
Army in 1949, it was renamed when Sri Lanka became a republic in 1972. The government of
Sri Lanka launch a military campaign against the LTTE in mid-2006, which resulted in
eradicating the menace of terrorism/separatism in less than three years from the soil of Sri
Lanka.On 19 May 2009, the Sri Lankan military effectively concluded its 26 year operation
against the LTTE.
54. As of the year 2010, the Army has believed to have approximately 200,000 regular
and reserve personnel approximately between 20,000-40,000 and 18,000 National
Guardsmen and comprises 13 operational divisions, one air-mobile brigade, one commando
brigade, one special forces brigade, one independent armoured brigade, three mechanized
infantry brigades and over 40 infantry brigades. From the 1980s to 2009 the army was
engaged in the Sri Lankan civil war.The army has seven regiments of amour (including one
volunteer regiment), nine regiments of artillery (including two volunteer regiments), seven
engineer regiments (including one volunteer regiment), ten regiments of signals (including
one volunteer regiment), 97 infantry battalions, one mechanized infantry battalion, four
commando regiments and three special forces regiments.
Strength
55. The army needs to be trained with greater discipline and professionalism to make it fit
a first rate fighting force for conventional operations. This is usually an on-going process in
the army and that should take priority.
56. Plans to raise the morale of the Army personnel by imparting knowledge on new
training methods and technological innovations that are much-needed for an Army to be
professionally qualified. On the instructions of the Defence Secretary, new courses covering
tactics, offensive methods and ground operations are to be introduced for the first time in the
history of Sri Lanka Army with a view to sharing our battle experiences with foreign Armies.
The Role of Sri Lanka Army in the Post Conflict Scenario
57. In the post conflict scenario, the army has a tremendously important role to play
especially in assisting the government in post-war development work. The first major task is
the de-mining process.
58. Next sole objective is to march towards development in order to make our country the
„Miracle of Asia‟ while giving maximum support to government efforts. In achieving those
development goals, Sri Lanka Army has a formidable role to play since the Army which won
the appreciation of the nation after defeat of terrorism and its challenges, is capable of
shouldering any such tasks in the future too.
The Soldiers are now in the Development Process of the North
59. The Army is involved in the re-building process in the North and East in a major way.
They are assisting the people at grass root level in animal husbandry and farming. Besides, all
engineering feats of road building are under the purview of the Army. Being trained as goal
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oriented HR persons, the Army is bound to take the new role away from the battleground to
new heights of achievement.
60. A separate contingent of army engineers have been deployed on de-mining tasks.
Attention is also needed in the repair and reconstruction work on roads, bridges, and irrigation
tanks and also in the provision of infrastructure facilities. Because of the war which was
spread over the last 30 years, there has been no development work in those areas.
How will the Sri Lankan Army Assist in the Global War on Terror?
61. The same situation that was prevailing in Sri Lanka is prevailing in Haiti. And with
experience over the last 30 years, Sri Lanka army quite capable of understanding the situation
that is prevailing there, the way of assist them, and the way of operate there. Sri Lanka Army
can assist the other armies fighting terrorism and offer them training if they wish. There have
been many requests by other armies requesting such training and this is a good indication that
they have recognized the task that they have accomplished [by defeating the LTTE
militarily].The Army is exploring opportunities to send more officials to United Nation peace
keeping missions.
The Projects to Uplift the Living Standards of Military Personnel
62. The SevaVanitha Army Branch, engaged in many welfare role are actively working
for the upliftment of living conditions of the War Heroes, War Hero families, disable War
Heroes and children of fallen War Heroes by way of house constructions, award of
scholarships and numerous other supportive programmes.
63. „Brave Hearts‟, while collecting funds for its „Abimansala‟, the special holiday resort
for rest and recreation of disable War Heroes at Anuradhapura is expected to declare it open
in the first quarter of the new year. The SevaVanitha Army leading a prominent role in this
connection should be commended. The second stage of the „Abimansala‟ is to be set up in
Wayamba and South within this year. Besides, following a concept of the Secretary Defence,
a similar Centre for rest and recreation is to be a reality in Aththidiya area very shortly.
RanaviruSevana, in English "Shelter for War Heroes", is the main establishment operated
under Sri Lanka Army's Rehabilitation Directorate. There are thirteen other establishments
located around the country operated under the same commandment. RanaviruSevana is
dedicated to look after young men and women who are permanently disabled due to injuries
received in the war.
Strength and the Current Role of the Navy of Sri Lanka
64. History of the Sri Lanka Navy runs back to as far as 1937. In 1972 with Ceylon
becoming the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka, the Royal Ceylon Navy became the
Sri Lanka Navy. The Sri Lanka Navy (SLN) being the only Naval Arm of the Sri Lankan
Armed Forces is classed as the most vital defence force of Sri Lanka, due to the fact that Sri
Lanka is an island. According to the latest Navy list Sri Lanka Navy has approximately
50,000 personnel on active duty as of today.
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Contribution to the War Effort
65. Sri Lanka Navy proved its might by venturing out to deep sea for thousands of miles
away from our coasts with its “men of war” and hunting down the LTTE floating ware houses
thereby depriving the LTTE of the logistic support which is an important principle in any kind
of warfare for a force to sustain in battle. The most daring force of all time sea battle and the
cutting edge of SLN was the Fast Attack Craft (FAC) Squadron, held the line tight and stayed
together against all odds at sea. The Special Boats Squadron (SBS) along with the Rapid
Action Boat Squadron (RABS) opened a new concept in littoral combat especially within the
sphere of asymmetric warfare to effectively counter the swarming tactics of the Sea Tigers
The Role of the Sri Lanka Navy in the Present Context
66. In an interview with the Daily News the Navy Commander says that the role of the
Navy has been expanded in order to cater to the newly arisen needs. He says,
“During the last three decades of war, Sri Lanka Navy has been gradually
structured to provide four fundamental military and non-military capabilities.
First is control of the sea to assure Sri Lanka can use the oceans for economic
and military purposes while denying such access to opponents in time of crisis or
war.
Second is the ability to project power ashore with naval gunfire, rockets, and
marine forces, either in support of sea-control or to support a joint campaign
ashore.
Third, the Navy provides Aid to Civil Power in time of unrest or any civil
disturbances.
Finally, the Navy provides aid by way of men, expertise and material in times of
natural calamities. Now the war is over. Yet the battle for success to free our
nation from the chains of human suffering caused by the violence of LTTE’s war
of destruction has just begun. Sri Lanka as a nation must look back and ponder if
they really want to look beyond”
67. When concentrate the final fact we can assume all major items such as ships and craft.
Even for spare parts there is a lead-time. The Government has provided us with all necessary
funding but you can see that you can‟t expand a Navy overnight. It takes time. We are in the
process of increasing the strength in respect of manpower, ships and craft and equipment.
Protection of Maritime Resources and Fishing Industry
68. Rear Admiral JayanathColombage presented his research based on Maritime Threats
And Maritime Security-Way Ahead For Sri Lanka at the KDU symposium‟s defence session
III on 19th
August 2011. He mentioned the following facts in his research paper.
“ We all are aware of the fact that Sri Lanka being an island, by the rights granted
by the United Nations Convention of the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), can claim a
sea area of 21 times of its size of land areas. More importantly, all the living and
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non-living marine resources there in are belonged to us. These include the crude
oil deposits, minerals and marine life. It is incumbent on the Navy to protect these
resources being illegally exploited and preserve them for the generations to come.
It is equally important to protect our fishing vessels in cases of natural disasters or
even form any kind of atrocities by illegal fishermen on our vessels and above all
from the perpetrators of gun running, drug trafficking and human smuggling.
Hence, constabulary duties in the waters extending up to 200 NM from the coastal
lines. Radars capable of detecting any inbound threat or any unwanted guest in the
sea for a distance of 400km (200 NM) from the coast. All these radars are
positioned at strategically important coastal locations and with time to come, will
be definitely fortified and expanded as deemed necessary. It is very important have
continuous surveillance and naval operation to avoid, arms and drug smuggling to
Sri Lanka, coming back of LTTE cadres, to Sri Lanka.
69. There is no doubt that future of our country depends heavily on sea borne trade and the
other use/ exploitation of the sea. We have a duty to keep our ports secure and Sea Lanes of
Communications free from any threat and also to assist/protect those exploring the ocean for
living and non-living resources
70. In KDU symposium defence secretary GotabayaRajapakse also said that future role of
Navy should be changed according to these needs. Today the SLN is among the most
experienced Naval forces specially that of an island Nation in the world.
Naval Diplomacy and Strengthening of International Relation
“ Naval Role does not cease at the limits of maritime boundaries but goes far beyond.
Navy makes good will visits to certain countries and even invite them to do combine naval
exercise to instil confidence and cooperation among such navies. The SLN does the role of a
diplomat in such interactions. Sri Lanka Navy is playing an important role in enhancing
bilateral relations with our closest neighbour India by conducting combined training
exercises and all other multi-faceted interactions with the Indian Navy.”
71. According to the above facts Indian Ocean is a maritime arena where global and
regional powers are busy making new alliances and strategic repositioning of their naval
assets, along with building new capabilities. There is the real possibility that national and
regional events could draw Sri Lanka into the centre of this tripartite (US, China, India)
geopolitical rivalry
72. Commodore JJ Ransinghe, present Director Training of Sri Lanka Navy claims the
Navy has been able to combined with other Navies as mentioned the above during the KDU
symposium‟s defence session III on 19th
August 2011
73. In the same session, Ms.PrabhaJayasinghe uttered the influences and importance of Sri
Lanka being in Indian Ocean under her topic Placing Sri Lanka in the Indian Ocean
Geopolitically Rivalry.
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Strength of the role of Sri Lankan Air Force
Strength of the Sri Lanka Air Force
74. The Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF) is the air arm and the youngest of the Sri Lanka
Armed Forces. It was founded in 1951 as the Royal Ceylon Air Force (RCYAF) with the
assistance of the Royal Air Force (RAF). The SLAF played a major role throughout the Sri
Lankan Civil War. The SLAF operates more than 160 aircraft and has a projected trained
strength of 27,400 airmen and 1,300 officers, who are from both regular and reserve service.
75. During 30 years conflict air force play major role. SLAF men & machine soared to the
sky, along with the military thrust that started from Mavilaru. They touched down, only after
victory was declared by the commander –in-chief of Sri Lanka‟s armed forces, after defeating
LTTE.
Role of the Sri Lanka Air Force in the Present Context
76. Starting from resettlement, SLAF has progressed towards provision of hundreds of
acres for agriculture, building up school for the children apart from providing security to the
resettles. They also have given, assurance to the government authorities to step forward in
opening their local offices & function as it used to. Many non-governmental organizations
were also encouraged & assisted in re-developing the infrastructure, which was destroyed at
the hands of the LTTE. The explosive ordinance disposal term, another subunit of SLAF
regiment, it deployed across liberated areas engaged in de mining activities, directly
facilitating of IDPs to their homes.
77. The Air Force has limited capability to keep Sri Lanka air space sanitized. It is
probably capable of providing close air support both with fighters and gunships to a divisional
front. Its air lift capability is probably an infantry battalion minus. Air support was one of the
key elements of Sri Lankan success. The Air force has ordered a number of military transport
helicopters and other weaponry from Russia, the country's defence secretary said in an
exclusive interview with Rianosti. "I have managed to reach an agreement with Russia on a
loan to purchase military equipment, primarily helicopters for the air force, and other
weaponry," GotabhayaRajapaksa said, adding that the helicopters had been already ordered.
Rajapaksa did not specify the amount of the deal or the number of helicopters, but said they
were needed in the first place "to transport military personnel. He added that Sri Lanka was
willing to develop stronger military ties with Russia. "
Development Projects done by Sri Lanka Air force
Newly Refurbished Ward No. 3 Declared Open
78. The Commander of the Air Force, Air Marshal HarshaAbeywickrama declared re-
opened the newly refurbished ward No. 3 of the Mulleriyawa Mental Hospital on 21st June
2011.This female Ward has been maintained by the SLAF since 1985.
Garment factory project
79. Sri Lanka Air Force Sevavanithaunit launched the garment factory project as
permanent income generating mode. Total turnover of this project at the end of the year
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2010was Rs. 41 million and was able to earn a net profit of Rs.7.1 million. The funds generate
by this project will be utilize for other project launched by SLAF Sevavanithaunit.
Scholarship for Children
80. The GuvanViruPranama scholarship awards ceremony organized by the SevaVanitha
Unit of the Sri Lanka Air Force. The Janashakthi Insurance PLC sponsored the program and it
was awarded to hundred needy students in the age group between 10 to 17 years.Marian
Gunathilake scholarship fund also support to children of SLAF war heroes to do their higher
education.
Marble Beach Air Force Resort
81. A place that is considered amongst the top beaches in the world in Trincomalee, Air
force have their own beach resort at marble beach Trincomalee.
SLAF Welfare Filling Station inNegombo
82. The Sri Lanka Air Force welfare filling station Negombo dealership & management
have been ably handled by Sri Lanka Air Force since 1992. As of today, it stands spotless as
the proud recipient of the Ceypetco good housekeeping 2010 award.
Helitours
83. Helitours the largest & premier domestic air service in Sri Lanka, operated by the
SLAF. Helitours resumed its operations on the 21st of July last year after the successful
conclusion of the "humanitarian operations". Since then, Helitours has transported 2669
passengers, clocking nearly 520 flying hours in the process Through Helitours the SLAF
offers scheduled flights to Palaly and China Bay.
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Schedule Programme
Destination Day Departure Return One Way
(LKR)
Both
Ways(LKR)
Ratmalana to
Palaly
Monday-
Wednesday-
Friday
0800Hrs 0900Hrs 9550 19100
Ratmalana to
Chinabay
Monday &
Friday 0800Hrs 1400Hrs 4100 8200
Ratmalana to
Batticaloa Tuesday 0800Hrs 1400Hrs 6100 12200
Ratmalana to
Ampara Tuesday 0800Hrs 1430Hrs 5600 11200
Ratmalana to
Anuradhapura Thursday 0800Hrs 5000
CHALLENGES OF NATIONAL DEFENCE IN CURRENT CONTEXT OF SRI
LANKA
Tamil Diaspora and itsInfluence to Sri Lanka
84. Diaspora is the dispersal or the scattering of persons with common identity such as
culture and language in different directions. The Tamil Diaspora can be categorized into two
parts. They are pre Diaspora1983 and post 1983Diaspora.For the past Quarter Century the
Tamil Diaspora has shaped the Sri Lankan political landscape thorough it‟s financial and
Ideological Support to the Military struggle for an Independent Tamil state. Although The
May 2009 defeat of the Liberation tigers of Tamil Ealam (LTTE) has dramatically reduce the
Diaspora influence, the majority of Tamils outside Sri Lanka continue to support a separate
state and the Diaspora Money can ensure it plays a role in the country‟s future.
85. Different parts of the diaspora served different functions for the tigers. LTTE saw the
west as a goldmine and almost unlimited source of cash. According crisis group Asia
reporting 2005 some outlets werehandle an estimated $25,000-$50,000 per month. U.S state
and treasury department officials estimate that during the war LTTE earned $100-$200
million a year. The tigers depended on a complex global network of managers to raise funds,
which were often invested in legal operations like restaurant and real estate, shipping lines.
Funds were generated through other activities, such as passport forgery, narcotic and human
trafficking. Significant funds also came from individual contributions through community
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temples, cultural and political events. For large events in Toronto and London, such as
Prabakaran‟sheroes day speech.Substantial amounts were also collected through systemized
donations or taxes to ensure a regular flow of income.
RESETTLEMENT PROGRAMMES
86. More than 220,000 people who were forced to flee due to the armed conflict that had
ended in 2009 are still living in displacement at the end of May, 2011 according to
government figures. Over one third among them were “old” IDPs, who had displaced prior to
April 2008, while the rest were “new” IDPs, displaced during the last year of the conflict.
Almost 190,000 were staying with host families, while 30,000 were living in temporary
camps, including more than 16000 in Menik Farm, and in transit situations. The following
maps indicated the resettlement areas comparatively according to the months.
October 2009 February 2010
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June 2010 November 2010
Resettlement and Release Movements
86. Resettlement programmes are carried out based on two processes; they are,
a. Return to original location/habitat.
b. Relocation to other areas.
87. According to above facts almost 297,000 “new” IDPs have retuned so far. 9, 287
IDPs have failed. This number includes 9, 191 IDPs in Menik Farm Relief Village and 96
IDPs in Jaffna Ramavil transit camp. The government has resettled and released 271, 199
IDPs.
88. Accordingly, 233, 628 IDPs from Vavuniya, Mannar, Trincomalee and other districts
have been resettled in their places of origin.9,851 IDPs in the Jaffna district have been
resettled in their places of origin such as Jaffna, Mannar, Vavuniya and Trincomalee.The
government has resettled 95% of IDPs with the help of security forces so far under its
programme for the speed resettlement. The Government reunited the IDPs who were released
for humanitarian reasons with their relations
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Resettlement According to the Districts (As At 15.07.2011)
Returns From Districts(To Place of
Origin)
Families Male Female Persons
1 Vavuniya, Mannar,
Trincomalee
(pulmuddai)
Ampara 191 260 331 591
2 Trincomalee 2,112 3,174 3,530 6,704
3 Batticaloa 897 1,140 1,374 2,514
4 Vavuniya 8,406 13,215 14,149 27,364
5 Mannar 4,532 7,359 7,907 15,266
6 Jaffna 19,468 28,647 31,240 59,887
7 Mulaitivu 12,696 19,868 21,349 41,217
8 Killinochchi 19,778 31,751 34,654 66,405
9 Kandy 5 11 15 26
10 Pollonnaruwa 1 1 1
11 Puttalam 10 18 15 33
12 Kegalle 4 6 8 14
13 Baddulla 1 1 1 2
14 Colombo 2 3 2 5
15 Gampaha 1 1 2 3
16 NuwaraEliya 2 2 2 4
17 Galle 1 1 1
18 Mathale 1 1 2 3
19 Kurunegala 2 3 6 9
Sub Total 68,110 105,461 114,588 220,049
Returns (26 March
to 18 June 2009)
To various Districts 1,429
Total 68,110 105,461 114,588 221,478
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0
5000
10000
15000
20000
25000
30000
35000
40000
Families
Male
Female
Problems when Commencing Resettlement
89. This research identifies major problems when commencing the resettlement programs.
a. Lands mines
b Regrouping LTTE cadres
90. Focusing these two major problems national defence involves demining programme
and rehabilitation programme.
Demining Programmes
91. SL Army Started proper Humanitarian Demining operation in September 2003. Sri
Lanka Army Humanitarian Demining Contingent was upgraded as a professional entity with
all three components of Humanitarian Demining. They are Manual, Mechanical &Mine
Detection Dog (MDD). The aim of the demining programme is to reduce the social,
economic and environmental impact of landmine and Unexploded Ordnance(UXO)
contamination.
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92. According to Brigadier LasanthaWickramasuriya RSP USP psc in the “Bangkok
Workshop on Achieving a Mine-FreeSouth East Asia”, the significant increase in operations
by the Sri Lankan Army's Humanitarian Demining Unit (HDU) along with eight active
demining organizations, the Sri Lankan government expects to complete the demining
operations in the North by the end of this year to resettle the internally displaced persons
(IDPs) remaining in welfare camps.
93. The landmines spread around the North and East of Sri Lanka has meant that families
cannot return to their homes and livelihoods. The troops had found more than 358,588 mines
in an area of 3971 square Kilometers and the area to be cleared land mines has reduced to 300
square Kilometers from 4,400 square Kilometers by this month. Sri Lanka army humanitarian
demining unit has accelerated the demining programme, and it has been achieved higher
result so far.
Demining Progress Made by SLA since May 2009 in Northern Province up to 29 July
2011
AREA CLEARED
54%
REMAINING46%
DEMINING PROGRESS IN NOTHERN PROVINCE
DISTRICT AREA
ALLOCATED
AREA
CLEARED REMAINING
MINE RECOVERED
Anti-
personnel
Anti-
Tank
Unexploded
Ordnance
Jaffna 72,867,887 22,247,855 49,708,610 6,107 24 1,468
Mannar 558,845,893 140,333,298 164,712,595 14,639 9 5,356
Kilinochchi 5,930,902 5,227,517 703,385 `1,109 0 155
Mulativu 807,137,916 139,020,563 72,377,221 6,601 61 5,467
Vavuniya 44,819,435 43,205,687 1,613,748 8,630 115 437
Total 1,615,316,895 350,034,920 299,531,840 37,086 209 12,883
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Anti-personnel
35%
Anti Tank1%
Unexploded Ordnance
64%
EASTERN PROVINCE MINE RECOVERED
Demining progress made by SLA since May 2009 in eastern province up to 29 July 2011
DISTRICT MINE RECOVERED
Anti-
personnel
Anti
Tank
Unexploded Ordnance
Batticaloa 545 10 181
Trincomalee 382 9
Ampara 134 7 1,748
TOTAL 1,061 17 1,938
Anti-personnel
74%
Anti-Tank0%
Unexploded Ordnance
26%
NOTHERN PROVINCE MINE RECOVERED
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REHABILITATION PROGRAMS FOR THE WAR EFFECTED PEOPLE
94. At the interview with the Director of the Ministry of Rehabilitation and Prison reforms
Mr.ADissanayaka following details were collected. With the end of war lot of LTTE cadres
surrendered to government forces. These people can directly be trained to assist the national
development. However, before releasing them into civil society they should be rehabilitated.
95. All the rehabilitation programmes are being conducted under the Commissioner
General of Rehabilitation. Presently Maj. GeneralSudanthaRanasingha,RWP,RSP,PSC is the
Commissioner General of all the rehabilitation programmes conducted by the Ministry of
Rehabilitation. Sri Lankan defence services hadlaunched a five year strategy (2008-2012) to
disarm,demobilize,and rehabilitate misguided armed personnel and successfully integrate
them into their families and communities as individuals with positive attitude,employable
skills and leadership aptitude. The Bureau of the Commissioner General of Rehabilitation
(BCGR) has stated that 11698 ex-combatants have been identified and earmarked for
rehabilitation.
96. With the influx of such a large number of ex-combatants and the expanded support of
the Ministry of Defence and the military the bureau in a pursuit of its goals has established
new centres and expanded the existing Rehabilitation centres and widened the
programmes.According to the publication of Ministry of Rehabilitation and Prison reforms
“progress of year 2010 and the Future vision”, the details of Rehabilitation programmes and
the progress of implementing them is based on the vision of His Excellency the president to
serve the misguided ex-combatants who voluntarily surrendered or were identified as such,to
become useful citizens of the society. Thus, building the foundation for a lasting peace is on
progress.
Information on Rehabilitees underPurview of the Bureau of the Commissioner General
of Rehabilitation
End of the War Reintegration No of Rehabilitant Person in
Rehabilitation Centers
No of Rehabilitees No of Rehabilitated
Person
In 08 Rehabilitation Centers
effective on 05.07.2011
Female 2264 2130 100
Male 9400 5839 2846
Total 11,664 7969 2946
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REHABILITATION CENTRE MEN WOMEN TOTAL
Nelukkulam training school 436 436
Pompaimaducampushostal centre 246 246
Tamil primary college-vavuniya 287 287
Maradamadu 570 570
Welikanda 392 392
Kandakadu 796 796
Thellipple 119 17 136
Co-operative training centre-
poonthottam
83 83
TOTAL 2846 100 2946
Organizational Structure and the Staff
97. Initially the Bureau was established with a limited approved cadreof 62 predominantly
civilian staff. In view of the sudden influx of ex-combatants, the Bureau was obliged to rely
on greater military staff and resources for carrying on the rehabilitation programme.At present
86% of Bureau staff consist of military personnel assigned to the Bureau.The balance 14% are
civilians employed on renewable fixed-term yearly contract
“Rehabilitation Villages” at Kandaikadu/ Thrikonamadu with Emphasis on
Agricultural based Vocational Training
98. A complex of 12 PARCs each intended to accommodate 500 ex-combatants when
fully operational totalling 6000 trainees are located in the proposed 11,000 Acre Agriculture/
Livestock farm complex. Approximately 2000 trainees are presently accommodated
therein.Administration and logistics of 06 sectors(each sector to be managed as a separate
farm) have been entrusted to the Sri Lanka Army and Sri Lanka Air force with Bureau of
commissioner General Rehabilitation coordinating the Rehabilitation and Vocational Training
aspects.
Vocational Training Programmes are been Carried out to all Rehabilitees
99. Arrangements had been made to direct the trainees to rehabilitation programmes who
were over aged and who were unable to continue their school education at the rehabilitation
matters, by the bureau of the commissioner Generals bureau Rehabilitation. Accordingly,
vocational training programmes in various fields were conducted by one government
institution to the minor trainees.The following are particulars of programmes.
a. Welding course for twenty seven male minor trainees was conducted by the
vocational training authority-Vauniya.
b. A course of electricity was commenced by vocational training authority for
twenty three male minor trainees.
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c. A course of aluminium re-product was commenced by V.T.A vocational
Training Authority for twenty six male minor trainees.
d. A course of carpentry was commenced by Vocational Training Authority
Vauniya for 12 male minor trainees.
e. Masonry course was commenced by vocational training authority for twenty
six male trainees.
Other Programmes
100. Other programmes conducted under the Bureauof the Commissioner General for the
Misguided Armed Personnel are as follows.
a. IT related vocational training programmes for Ex-combatants.
b. “Cricket for change” sports as a medium for Reconciliation.
c. Psychological development and counselling.
d. Mental development programmes.
e. Six months duration programmes for House wiring, Carpentry,Repairing
cycles end three wheelers,plumbing.
f. Training courses for the female trainees in Juki machines, Beauty culture,
training,Montessori training.
g. Family planning programmes.
101. Related information of rehabilitation programmes was gathered with the interview of
Secretary of the Ministry of Mass Media and Information, about the rehabilitation
programmes currently conducting for the disabled war heroes. According to that the
rehabilitation programmes for the war affected people are,
a. Looking after the residue of the war that is the lame, the blind, the disabled
and the next of kin of the dead.
b. Under Free medical aid schemes programme a panel of doctors was appointed
in each district. They have consents to treat the families of soldiers.
c. Concessions have been arranged for the admission of children of service
personnel to schools of their choice.
d. Arrangements have been made to obtain transfers of wives of service
personnel to stations of their choice.
e. Insurance schemes such as accident insurance personnel insurance and driver
insurance service also available to the disabled people from war.
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f. Hire purchase scheme is also one of the schemes were purchase of house hold
goods on easy payment. Also for the convenience of purchases island wide and the
security of cash on person.
g. There is also some vocational training for the disabled people during the war
such as computer training, gem cutting, tailoring, basket weaving, TV and radio
repairs, computer operation, animal husbandry, accounting and clerical duties, hotel
management and cookery. Because of these trainings they are able to come out
again to the economy as useful productive people who are useful to the economy.
Diaspora afterDefeat of LTTE
102. Within Sri Lanka, the LTTE has stopped functioning. Its leadership is mostly dead and
thousands of former fighters and suspected supporters are in detention camps. However, some
reportedly escaped before the end of the war
103. In U.S state department report, mentioned that India is the most convenient place for
the tigers to regroup and rearm. There are some evidences that LTTE begun training camps in
Tamil Nadu. During 2011 KDU symposium Dr.Rohan Gunarathne mentioned that the Pro
tiger elements in the Diaspora continue to raise funds in order to carry forward the struggle for
a separate state in new non-violent forms. Several new organizations are fundraising for this
purpose.
104. KP former leader of LTTE had arrested by Sri Lankan government. After that LTTE
leadership now divided to two parts. One is compressed of KP loyalist and led by Visvanathan
Rudrakumaran and other one is led by Nediyawan who studied at Moscow and now operated
from Norway.
105. Translational government of Tamil Elam still in the planning stages, the TGTE is an
ambitious attempt to rebrand the LTTE as a non-violent democratic political body in the
diaspora. At present, New York lawyer Visvanathan Rudrakumaran is the acting head of the
TGTE‟s executive committee.
106. Dr.Gunarathne in his presentation told that several efforts have begun to take shape to
carry forward the LTTE‟s struggle. Chief among them are the transnational government of
TamilElam (TGTE) and the global Tamil forum (GTF). Their immediate aim is to convince
western countries to pressure Sri Lanka to negotiate a political deal with Tamils. They try to
win their demands by pressuring Sri Lanka government. With the help of human right
organizations and other nongovernmental organizations they continue their propaganda. Now
they plan to accuse Sri Lankan government on war crimes.
107. Specially through the UN organization Tamil diaspora can fulfil their objectives.
Diaspora next objective is to like south Sudan establish a separate state through the help of
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western countries and UN. It is not easy to do that but in the future it will be a threat to our
country.
108. Dr.Gunarathne in his speech explains the need of powerful foreign relationships. Still
India gives helping hand to us. But we cannot ignore the influence on Tamil Nadu. LTTE can
regroup in the Tamil Nadu. Especially our intelligence service should powerful to face this
situation. Before problem come we should analysts the situation.
Involvement ofNon-Government Organization
109. NGOs are defined by their voluntary, independent, and not-for-profit status. Military
and other entities that begin operations in humanitarian emergencies will find various types of
NGOs in the area that focus on many different types of services.
110. In Sri Lanka there are many Non-government organizations work. They doing
number of important programs in Sri Lanka in order of helping innocent war affected people.
Red Cross, human rights watch, united nation are some international non-government
organizations. But at the same time Sri Lanka faced several problems because of these non-
government organizations. Many organizations truly helping to people and they doing
humanitarian operations in north and eastern provinces, but at the same time there some
organizations work in Sri Lanka for other objectives. Their primary task is to helping to
terrorism while acting as non-government organization. After defeat of war lot of evidences
found that some non-government organizations have given their resources to LTTE. Some
people come to Sri Lanka as non-government workers and collect information about the
situation in Sri Lanka. After they went, they create bad picture about our country. For
example, now channel 4 video. These type of things have done many times and they try to say
to world that Sri Lanka full of violence.
Internal Treats
111. 30 years brutal war end now. But there are still many threats on Sri Lanka. The
capability of regrouping LTTE we cannot ignore. Lot of LTTE cadres flee away from the
organization in the last phase of humanitarian operation.
112. They hide their weaponries in various places. So they have some possibility to regroup
within or outside the country. To overcome this problem rehabilitation programs are very
important. If government gives good life condition to them most probably they will not go for
past situation to again. People in these areas grew up with war condition. They should send
for counsellingprograms and the rehabilitation camps give them a good vocational training to
get better job.
113. Some non-government and foreign organization say that government going to
militarize the northern area. Defence secretary Gotabhaya Rajapakse said that government
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now gradually establishing the civil administrative system in northern area. This will help
control to reduce unrest of Tamil in northern area.