Just saw some news coming from Sri Lanka,and it's actually quite nice to see some positive development work happening for a change. India is helping out students in Jaffna,which is always a good thing.
On June 2, 2026,the High Commissioner of India,Santosh Jha ,was at University of Jaffna giving out scholarships. And this is for students who are economically vulnerable,so it's not just for show.
This whole thing started after PM Narendra Modi announced it when Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayaka visited back in December 2024 . They are giving LKR 7,500 per month to 100 students rn,and plan is to increase it to 400 students every year. That's not a small amount ah .
And honestly,this is the kind of foreign policy that actually makes a difference on ground. Jha even posted on social media,"Empowering youth through education!" which is a good sentiment.
Few things from his visit that stood out:
- Educational support for 400 students — aimed at enhancing opportunities for underprivileged youth .
- Books donated to Jaffna Public Library — fostering knowledge and cultural exchange.
- RO Water Plant inaugurated — improving community access to clean water at a revered temple.
But it wasn't just about scholarships . He also inaugurated a RO Water Plant at Keerimalai Naguleshwaram Temple in Kankesanturai . Providing clean drinking water is such a basic but important need.
He even paid respect at the temple and said,"Serving Community through India-Sri Lanka bonds!" which shows it's about connecting with people,not just governments .
And then he also went to see Atchuvely Industrial Estate . This place was set up with Indian support way back in 2015 . So it shows this is not new thing,it's a long-term partnership .
Jha mentioned he was "Glad to see local industries thriving,generating jobs and boosting economy." And at end of day,that's what people want,jobs and a stable economy.
It's good to see these kinds of projects,direct help for students,clean water,support for local jobs . But you always wonder if this kind of 'Neighbourhood First' policy really trickles down and changes bigger picture of relations between countries…
