Defender of the Nation
Sri Lanka’s 78th National Independence Day was celebrated on 04 February 2026 at Independence Square in Colombo under the theme “Rebuilding Sri Lanka”. His Excellency the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Anura Kumara Dissanayake, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest.
Here follows the message of Commander of the Army:
The inaugural edition of Lanka Ride 2026, Sri Lanka’s premier multi-stage cycling tour, concluded in grand style on 18 January 2026.
The Sri Lanka Army emerged as the overall champions of the 13th Defence Services Games. The tournament, hosted by the Sri Lanka Army, commenced with its inaugural ceremony on 12 September 2024 and featured 39 sports.
General Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) of the Indian Army, along with his spouse, Mrs. Sunita Dwivedi concluded their official visit to Sri Lanka, which commenced on 06 January 2026. The visit marked a significant step towards further strengthening bilateral defence cooperation between Sri Lanka and India.
General Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) of the Indian Army, together with his spouse, Mrs. Sunita Dwivedi, paid an official visit to the Army War College on 08 January 2026, marking a significant milestone in strengthening bilateral military cooperation and professional military education.
General Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) of the Indian Army, along with a three member delegation, paid an official visit to the Army Headquarters on 07 January 2026.
General Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) of the Indian Army, arrived in Sri Lanka on 06 January 2026 with his spouse, Mrs. Sunita Dwivedi, on an official visit aimed at strengthening bilateral defence cooperation between the two nations.
Lieutenant General Lasantha Rodrigo RSP ctf-ndu psc IG, Commander of the Army, together with All Ranks, extends warm wishes on the occasion of ‘Thai Pongal’.
All Ranks of the Sri Lanka Army, Sri Lanka Navy and Sri Lanka Air Force have donated one day’s salary to the ‘Rebuilding Sri Lanka’ Fund, established to restore livelihoods and rebuild the country affected by Cyclone Ditwah.