COLOMBO ; The Sri Lanka India Media Friendship Association (SLIMFA) held its Third Annual General Meeting on 28 October 2026 in Colombo, with the participation of the Patron of SLIMFA and High Commissioner of India to Sri Lanka, Santosh Jha and the members of SLIMFA.
The meeting saw the election of the new Executive Committee for the coming year. Mr. Nisthar Cassim was re-elected as President, while Mr. Shehan Baranage, Ms. Kalani Kumarasinghe, Mr. Rifthi Ali, Mr. Santosh Menon, Mr. Dinesh De Alwis, Mr. Arosha Fernando, Mr. Robert Anthony, Ms. Dilrukshi Hadunnetti and Mr. Mahesh Bandara were elected to serve as members of the Executive Committee. The President thanked members for their continued support and expressed his hope for continued collaboration in strengthening media ties.
The High Commissioner highlighted the important role played by SLIMFA in fostering deeper engagement and collaboration between the media communities of India and Sri Lanka. He also congratulated the Association on organizing impactful initiatives within a short period since its establishment. The High Commissioner wished SLIMFA success in their endeavours to further strengthen media cooperation, encourage professional exchanges and deepen the bonds of friendship between India and Sri Lanka.
Established in May 2024, SLIMFA brings together Sri Lankan journalists who have visited India under Government of India supported programmes, providing a platform for sustained engagement and knowledge-sharing between the media communities of both countries.
Since its establishment, the Association has organized several initiatives, including Sri Lanka’s first-ever Media Fest and its second edition in 2026, an AI Masterclass for media professionals, interactions with visiting Indian journalists, an Editors’ Roundtable, and discussions on media practices and election coverage. These initiatives have provided opportunities for media professionals to exchange experiences, explore emerging trends and share best practices.
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Through its continued engagement, SLIMFA seeks to strengthen professional networks and facilitate greater collaboration between media professionals in India and Sri Lanka, further reinforcing the longstanding friendship and people-to-people ties between the two countries.
