The Ministry of Public Administration, Provincial Councils, and Local Government has announced that this year’s Independence Day celebrations on February 4th at Independence Square, Colombo, will involve greater public participation and a reduced budget.
Minister Chandana Abeyratne stated that the event will be conducted at a cost of Rs 80 million, marking a Rs 27 million reduction from last year’s Rs 107 million expenditure. The celebrations will be held under the theme “Let’s Unite for National Revival” and notably, this year’s event will not include the traditional Presidential salute.
Additionally, Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuyyakontha, Secretary of Defense, announced a reduction in the number of military personnel participating in the tri-forces parade.
Rehearsals are currently underway at Independence Square, with special traffic arrangements in place to ensure a smooth flow of events.
