19th April 2026
Lieutenant General Lasantha Rodrigo RSP ctf-ndu psc IG, Commander of the Army, graced the New Year Festival held at Duraiappa Stadium on 18 April 2026 organised by 51 Infantry Division under the direction of Security Forces Headquarters (Jaffna).
Upon arrival, the Army Chief was warmly received by Major General K.J.N.M.P.K. Nawarathna RWP RSP ndu, Commander, Security Forces (Jaffna), along with other Senior Officers from Sri Lanka Navy and Sri Lanka Police.
The festival included a number of cultural performances and traditional games signifying both Sinhala and Tamil cultures. The programme also showcased traditional dance performances and cultural items.
The Army Chief also attended a customary tea reception at the “Gami Gedara.”
The event culminated with the finals of major competitions, including tug of war for both men and women and the selection of the Avurudu Kumariya. The Army Chief presented awards and gifts to the winners of the competitions.
Senior Officers, Officers, District Secretaries of Jaffna and Kilinochchi, Police Officers, Other Ranks, and civilians participated in the event.
