Inauguration of the Indo-Lanka Friendship Reading Section at the Major Indika Walisundara Memorial Library

A significant milestone in Indo-Lanka relations was marked with the ceremonial opening of the “Indo-Lanka Friendship Reading Section” at the Major Indika Walisundara Memorial Library of SLMA on 06 June 2025. The event was graced by Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh, IAS the Defence Secretary of India, who unveiled the commemorative name board, officially inaugurating the reading section.

The Indian delegation, comprising several distinguished dignitaries, was warmly received by the Commander of the Sri Lanka Army Lieutenant General Lasantha Rodrigo RSP ctf- ndu psc IG and the Commandant of the SLMA, Major General M J R S Medagoda RSP USP ndc psc IG . The ceremony underscored the enduring diplomatic, educational, and defence ties between the two neighboring nations.

This initiative was the result of a formal request made by the then Commandant of the Academy, which received the generous support of the Indian High Commission. An allocation of LKR 15 million was provided to enhance the library's facilities. The funding facilitated the addition of 833 new books, procurement of essential learning aids for Officer Cadets, and comprehensive interior furnishing and decoration of the upgraded reading section.

To further commemorate this historic occasion, plaques were ceremoniously exchanged between the Commander of the Sri Lanka Army, the Commandant of the SLMA, and the Indian delegation. As a symbolic gesture of growth and friendship, a “Norfolk Island Pine” sapling was also planted in the library garden premises by the Defence Secretary of India.

The inauguration of the Indo-Lanka Friendship Reading Section not only enriches the academic environment of the SLMA but also stands as a lasting symbol of the deep-rooted and ever-strengthening ties between India and Sri Lanka.