In order to promote reconciliation, harmony and co-existence, the 54 Infantry Division HQ in Mannar at the request of the Mannar District Secretariat organized a ‘Vesak’ zone where colourful, decorative and creative lanterns were displayed and free-eateries held for the benefit of Vesak sight-seers during 5-9 May.

District Secretary Mannar Mrs. A. Stanley de Mel and General Officer Commanding, 54 Infantry Division, Major General W.W.H.R.R.V.M.N.D.K.B Niyangoda RWP RSP VSV USP ndu psc, together with Brigade Commanders, Senior Officers, Officers and Other Ranks of the 54 Infantry Division joined the inauguration of the ‘Vesak’ zone on Vesak day (5 May).

All decorations were crafted by troops of the under command Brigades and Battalions and the best of them were awarded cash gifts.

After a while, General Officer Commanding and District Secretary Mannar were invited to switch on the illuminations in the Vesak Zone before he visited a few stalls where creative Vesak lanterns and decorations, were on display.

Popularity of the Vesak zone compelled the organizers to extend the exhibition of lanterns until Tuesday (9 May).

Meanwhile, around 150 Officers and Other Ranks of the 4 Vijayabahu Infantry Regiment (VIR) of the 541 Infantry Brigade under the 54 Infantry Division on 1 May joined a blood donation programme for the benefit of the blood bank in the Mannar Hospital.