Sri Lanka’s government is pursuing a cashless economy and digital IDs. A Presidential Secretariat review discussed progress on digitising government services, expanding QR-based transactions, and completing the digital identity card program. source http://www.adaderana.lk/news.php?nid=117318
A search operation has been launched to locate two fishermen who disappeared after setting out by boat from Wella, Chilaw this morning. Police say the men are missing. The report was published via Ada Derana RSS on January 19, 2026. source http://www.adaderana.lk/news.php?nid=117317
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi announced she will dissolve Parliament on Friday and call a national election to gain support for higher spending and a new security strategy aimed at accelerating Japan’s defense buildup. source http://www.adaderana.lk/news.php?nid=117315
Three people were arrested by the Bureau for the Prevention of Abuse of Children and Women over a social-media video depicting a woman being abused. Investigators say the clip circulated online, triggering the arrests. source http://www.adaderana.lk/news.php?nid=117314
China’s population declined for the fourth straight year in 2025 as birth rates fell to a record low, despite the government introducing incentives to boost births. source http://www.adaderana.lk/news.php?nid=117313
The Grama Niladhari Trade Union Alliance has decided to withdraw from distributing the Rs 5 million government cyclone relief grant intended for residences partially damaged by Cyclone Ditwah. source http://www.adaderana.lk/news.php?nid=117311
NGJA announced a revision to the taxation methodology for importing rough gemstones, aiming to provide relief to industry stakeholders and bolster the country’s goal of achieving $1 billion in annual gem export earnings. source http://www.adaderana.lk/news.php?nid=117310
The Central Environmental Authority reports a decline in air quality across multiple areas; spokesperson Dr. Ajith Gunawardena says air quality has deteriorated nationwide and cautions the public. source http://www.adaderana.lk/news.php?nid=117307
A massive fire destroyed a Karachi shopping mall, prompting firefighters to search for more than 60 missing. By Monday, the disaster’s death toll had risen to 11, with rescue teams continuing amid extensive damage in Pakistan’s most populous city. source http://www.adaderana.lk/news.php?nid=117306