Commander of the Army Visits Jaffna Peninsula

Lieutenant General Lasantha Rodrigo RSP ctf-ndu psc IG, the Commander of the Sri Lanka Army, visited the Jaffna Peninsula from 24 to 25 March 2025, engaging in a series of significant activities to strengthen military and community relations in the region.

Upon his arrival at the Security Forces Headquarters in Jaffna, the Army Chief was warmly welcomed by Major General Y.A.B.M Yahampath RWP RSP ndu psc, the Commander of the Security Forces (Jaffna). He was given a Guard Turnout and proceeded to plant a sapling within the camp premises as a symbolic gesture of growth and unity. The Commander then participated in an interactive All-Ranks tea session at the Private Mess, engaging in discussions with Officers and Other Ranks. He also signed the visitors’ book, marking the occasion with his presence.

As part of his spiritual and cultural engagements, Lieutenant General Rodrigo visited the historic Sri Nagavihara Temple, where he received blessings from Venerable Meegahajandure Siriwimala Thero. He also visited the Bishop’s House in Jaffna, where he met with Very Rev. Fr. P. Josephdas Jebarathan, the Vicar General of the Diocese of Jaffna. Additionally, the Commander of the Army paid his respects at the revered Nallur Kovil, receiving blessings from the Chief Priest Maikundal Swami Kurukkal.

The Army Chief’s visit also included a significant contribution to the local educational infrastructure. He attended the foundation stone-laying ceremony for the Varany Ontrium-U.K. Pavilion at Varany Central College in Jaffna. This project, spearheaded by the Warani Union under the leadership of Mr. Thambu Selva Kumar, President of the Warani Union, will provide a venue to accommodate approximately 300 individuals. The construction of the pavilion is supported by the troops from the 523 Infantry Brigade and the 5th Engineer Service Regiment, under the guidance of the General Officer Commanding the 52 Infantry Division and the Commander of the 523 Infantry Brigade.

On the second day of his visit, Lieutenant General Rodrigo inaugurated a newly constructed house in Kodikamam South, Jaffna, for Mr. Thureisinham Rajindas and his family. The house, built with the support of the 7th Battalion of the Vijayabahu Infantry Regiment, was funded by Imagine Compassion International Ltd., Australia, and coordinated by Father Andrew Arul. The construction was completed at a cost of Rs. 20,000,000.00, showcasing the Army’s commitment to supporting the welfare of local communities.

The visit concluded with a tour of the 52 Infantry Division, where the Commander was honored with a Drive Pass. He participated in a group photograph with the troops, planted another sapling, and delivered a speech. The event concluded with the exchange of mementos and an All-Ranks Lunch, where the Army Chief had the opportunity to interact with the officers and other ranks.