The National Training Center for Cinnamon Industry of the Cinnamon Research Centre, Palolpitiya, Thihagoda has launched training programmes for cinnamon processing. Here, a group of young women engaged in cinnamon peeling and processing at the centre. Picture by P P G Sugathadasa, Thihagoda Group Correspondent

On President’s instructions:

Special committee to handle relief

* Dry rations for affected farmers

* Opposition using drought to gain political mileage

The government will take steps to provide dry rations to farmers whose crops have been destroyed by the severe drought in the country, with immediate effect. Addressing a media-briefing in Colombo yesterday, Disaster Management Minister Mahinda Amaraweera said dry rations will be provided based on information provided by Government Agents with regard to farmers in drought affected districts.

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PC polls: nominations to be accepted from July 12 to 19

Nominations from recognised political parties and independent groups for the Eastern, Sabaragamuwa and North Central Provincial Council election will be accepted from July 12 to 19 noon at District Secretaries, the Elections Department said yesterday.

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Govt ready for elections - Minister

The government’s decision to hold three Provincial Council elections at a time the country is experiencing a drought shows the confidence and courage of the government, Mass Media and Information Minister and Cabinet Spokesman Keheliya Rambukwella said.

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Canada hastens Sri Lanka human smuggling prosecution

Canadian prosecutors announced Wednesday they were foregoing a preliminary hearing and proceeding to trial for six men charged with smuggling hundreds of Tamils aboard a rickety ship into Canada. No reason was given for the expedited process, but the case is politically charged and prosecutors may opt to go directly to trial if they deem the rush to be in the public interest.

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