Government to Hold Modest 77th Independence Day Celebrations with Fewer Guests and Activities

COLOMBO (News 1st): The Ministry of Public Administration, Provincial Councils, and Local Government has announced that the 77th Independence Day celebrations will be held with reduced costs, fewer guests and activities.

Minister Professor Chandana Abeyratne stated that, accordingly, the number of guests invited to attend the event will be reduced from 3,000 to 1,600.

He also mentioned that the 21-gun salute traditionally presented by the President will not take place this year.

The Minister further stated that the number of military and police personnel participating in the tri-forces and police parade will also be reduced.

The display of armed vehicles during the military parade will not be conducted this year as part of the Independence Day celebrations.

The Minister also announced that air displays will be limited for this year’s event.

The Minister confirmed that this year’s Independence Day celebrations are scheduled to be held on February 4th at the Independence Square in Colombo, under the leadership of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake.