INDIA'S CHIEF OF THE ARMY STAFF VISITS ARMY WAR COLLEGE BUTTALA AND LAYS FOUNDATION STONE FOR INDIA-SRI LANKA FRIENDSHIP SPORTS COMPLEX

Chief of The Army Staff of India, General Upendra Dwivedi PVSM AVSM, laid the foundation stone for the India-Sri Lanka Friendship Sports Complex at the Sri Lanka Army War College, Buttala on 08 January 2026. This historic event was made possible by the invitation of Lieutenant General Lasantha Rodrigo RSP ctf-ndu psc, Commander of the Army, underscoring the strong bilateral defence cooperation between two countries.

Upon arrival, General Upendra Dwivedi and his spouse Mrs. Sunitha Dwivedi, were warmly welcomed by the Commandant of the Army War College, Major General Kaminda Silva RSP USP psc, and Mrs Sugandi Silva.

After a brief discussion with the Commandant at his office, the ceremony commenced with a cultural welcome dance followed by interfaith blessings offered by representatives of revered religious institutions, reflecting inclusivity, harmony, and mutual respect. During the event, General Upendra Dwivedi formally laid the foundation stone and unveiled the plaque for the India-Sri Lanka Friendship Sports Complex. He also planted a White Sandalwood sapling, symbolising enduring peace and long-standing friendship.

A presentation featuring a 3D animated video of the proposed sports complex was screened, providing a visual overview of the project and its future impact in promoting sports and strengthening military cooperation. As a gesture of goodwill and continued support, General Dwivedi also handed over an ambulance to the Army War College.

Prior to his departure, General Upendra Dwivedi engaged with the Student Officers of Senior Command Course 16 and Junior Command Course 35 at the Army War College, Buttala, reinforcing professional interaction and military-to-military cooperation and posed a photograph with the Student Officers and all Officers who participated in the ceremony.

The ceremony was attended by General Officer Commanding of the 12 Infantry Division, Director General Army Health Services, Director Engineer Services, Brigadier (Doctrine) of the Directorate of Research, Concept and Doctrine, Colonel (Sports), Directorate of Sports together with the staff of the Army War College, Buttala.