It was just a few days ago, the Ministry of Power and Energy, launched the island-wide project, themed on 'Awareness Programme for Energy Conservation' from the Independence Square with an inaugural Marathon Race, in which HE the President, Minister of Power and Energy and the Commander of the Army also participated.

Declaring a month-long period for National Energy Conservation, the Ministry wanted the Army to be alert to this much-needed economical practice as one of the main users of energy in the country. The awareness programme, elaborate with multimedia presentations and data of relevance, was also presented during the sessions, headed by the Hon. Minister Patali Champika Ranawaka.

Lieutenant General Crishanthe De Silva, Commander of the Army, senior officers and all ranks serving the Army Headquarters attended the awareness programme.

The programme also explained the gathering about the new techniques, ways and means of Energy Conservation and the introduction of new renewable energy resources with special focus on heavy costs involved in fuel and electricity.

On arrival of the Minister, Lieutenant General Crishanthe De Silva, Commander of the Army, welcomed the Chief Guest, together with a group of Ministry Officials.

In his address to the gathering, the Minister pointed out the importance of Energy Conservation, and the challenges that would occur in the event of an Energy Crisis with unexpected global trends.

Mr. M.M.R Padmasiri, Director General, Sri Lanka Sustainable Energy Authority emphasized the need for formulation of an Energy Conservation Plan within each and every Institute, thereby mustering the support and participation of all working in a specific place.

He also proposed to conduct an Energy Audit within each institute and a novel scheme for the Army to conserve Electricity and Fuel.

Major General Jagath Dias, Chief of Staff, Major General Mahinda Ambanpola, Deputy Chief of Staff, Major General Mahinda Hathurusinghe, Adjutant General, all Directors, Senior Officers and officers from several Army formations attended the programme.