India has extended support to the Eastern University of Sri Lanka with a grant of Rs.105 million to the Siddha Faculty of the University. Under the grant assistance, India has supplied laboratory equipment, computers, reference books, anatomical models and charts, a bus and a jeep for the use in the Siddha Faculty.

The faculty has been equipped to carry out research and study in the field of Siddha.

Speaking on the occasion, High Commissioner of India to Sri Lanka Ashok K. Kantha noted that the successful completion of the project has a deep symbolic value as the traditional knowledge of Auyurveda and Siddha is an important part of the heritage of the common civilization of both countries.

He said that India and Sri Lanka should work closely and share their experience and expertise in these areas. He suggested that the faculty and students of the Eastern University could benefit from training under the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) and the Colombo Plan. He stressed the Indian Government’s readiness to assist in further development of the Eastern University.

Governor of the Eastern Province Rear Admiral Mohan Wijewickrama said that the relationship between the two countries is at all time strong. He highlighted various development assistance projects being implemented under the Indian assistance and thanked India for its continued support.