A significant boost to India-Sri Lanka ties unfolded in Colombo with the presentation of Mahatma Gandhi Scholarships to 300 outstanding students from all 25 districts. Hosted by the Education Ministry, the event drew Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya, Deputy Minister Madura Senewiratne, and India’s Acting High Commissioner Satyanjal Pandey.
The merit-cum-means program awards 2,500 LKR per month, selecting the top six students per district. This year’s dual-batch rollout for 2021-2024 periods marked a milestone in sustained support.
PM Amarasuriya lauded India’s role in the scholarships and other initiatives, blessing the recipients and reminiscing Gandhi’s ideals. She called on them to perpetuate his legacy of truth and compassion.
Pandey hailed the award as a ‘lifetime identity,’ urging academic excellence alongside lifelong advocacy for Gandhian principles.
India’s contributions extend further: 210 yearly scholarships in key sectors, plus 400+ ITEC training slots for officials. High-level pacts include a five-year training MoU for 1,500 civil servants from President Dissanayake’s 2024 visit, and 700 annual programs pledged during the PM’s 2025 trip.
This collaboration not only aids individual aspirations but fortifies bilateral relations, promoting education as a bridge for peace and progress.