I extend my heartfelt greetings to the entire fishing community and all Sri Lankans on the occasion of the Sinhala and Tamil New Year, which dawns with renewed hope despite the many challenges and obstacles faced in recent times.
The present government, under the leadership of His Excellency President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, has ushered in a people-centered administration, marking a significant turning point in the political history of the country. Concrete steps have been taken to reduce excessive privileges of Members of Parliament and Ministers, redirecting those funds towards public welfare and setting a strong example of transparent, corruption-free governance. Initiatives such as ‘Aswasuma’, along with timely financial assistance and relief measures provided to fishermen—particularly during Cyclone ‘Ditwa’ and the fuel crisis—demonstrate the government’s continued commitment to placing the people at the heart of its decisions.
Our ultimate goal is to realize the vision of “A Rich Country - A Beautiful Life.” I firmly believe that the spirit of the New Year will bring genuine prosperity to every fishing household across the island, whether in the North or the South. May this New Year inspire all of us to come together in unity, setting aside differences and working collectively towards a shared national purpose.
I reaffirm my commitment in this New Year to dedicate myself to uplifting the livelihoods of the fishing community and all Sri Lankans, ensuring a future of greater prosperity.
May this New Year bring peace, happiness, and abundance to you all!
Ramalingam Chandrasekar,
Minister, Ministry of Fisheries, Aquatic and Ocean Resources.
10.04.2026
