In recent years, a series of proposed mineral extraction projects along this fragile stretch, particularly near Alampil Beach in Mullaitivu district, has triggered alarm among environmentalists, local residents, and civil society.
In his letter, Gandhi urged the government to cancel the tenders issued for offshore mining blocks, emphasising the need for rigorous scientific assessments of their environmental and socio-economic impact.
Sources indicate that extensive consultations have been conducted at various levels, involving chief secretaries, chief ministers, mining associations, state-owned enterprises, and both large- and small-scale mining companies.
A deal signed in 2008 with the previous US-backed government, but it came to a standstill after a Taliban-led attack.
By Maliha Safi
A Chinese delegation...
River meetings – or 'Nodi Boithoks' – empowered under-threat and overlooked river communities in Bangladesh to have a say in critical conversations about their...
China has placed food security at the centre of its national strategy, setting a binding target to raise annual grain production capacity to 725 million metric tonnes by 2030.
The appeal came during a high-level meeting with visiting Indian Defence Minister, Rajnath Singh on 9 September 2026, the first such visit by an Indian defence minister in 38 years.
China has placed food security at the centre of its national strategy, setting a binding target to raise annual grain production capacity to 725 million metric tonnes by 2030.