Best printers for Home

Best Mixer Grinder

Best wired Earphones

Best 43 Inch TV in India

Best Wi Fi Routers

Best Home Theatre in India

Smart Watch under 5000

Best Laptops for Education

Best Laptop for Students

<ul><li>Schools in Colombo, Sri Lanka will be shut on Monday and Tuesday. </li><li>Over 290 have been killed as multiple explosions that targeted churches and hotels in the country’s capital, Colombo. </li></ul>Schools in Colombo, Sri Lanka will be shut on Monday and Tuesday, following the multiple bomb blasts that took place in the city. Akila Viraj Kariyawasam, Sri Lanka’s education minister announced that all schools across the island would remain closed for two more days until Wednesday due to the ongoing terror situation. Over 290 have been killed as multiple explosions that targeted churches and hotels in the country’s capital, Colombo. Hundreds of worshipers gathered at the St. Anthony's Church in Kochchikade, Kotahena, St. Sebastian's Church in Katuwapitiya in Katana, and the Zion church in Batticaloa to commemorate Easter Sunday, at the time of the explosions. The other three blasts where reported at the Shangri-La, Cinnamon Grand and Kingsbury five-star hotels in Colombo. News agencies have also reported a seventh explosion, with more casualties. 
 
 
 
 <div type="javascript" title="Custom" contenttype="Video"><cdata><![CDATA[
 
]]></cdata></div>









 The US embassy in Colombo has asked travellers to follow instructions from local authorities and advised them saying “Please shelter in place and exercise extreme caution.” The United Kingdom, too, has issued a travel advisory for tourists travelling to Sri Lanka. See Also: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/sri-lanka-blasts-foreign-offices-in-us-and-uk-issue-travel-advisories/articleshow/68975432.cms">Find shelter and exercise extreme caution, says US’ travel advisory after multiple blasts in Colombo, Sri Lanka</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/sri-lanka-blasts-colombo-airport-advisory-after-terror-attack/articleshow/68975705.cms">Colombo airport asks passengers to check in four hours before flights after terror attacks in Sri Lanka’s capital</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/easter-sunday-blasts-deadly-explosion-kills-138-sri-lankan-prime-minister-urges-people-to-stay-united-and-strong/articleshow/68975878.cms">Easter Sunday Blasts: Deadly explosion kills 138, Sri Lankan Prime Minister urges people to stay united and strong</a>

Schools to stay shut in Colombo for two more days: Sri Lanka’s Education Minister

<ul><li>Sri Lankan authorities have so far arrested over 40 suspects. </li><li>The serial bombing that has now claimed the lives of over 321 people including 38 foreigners. </li><li>Sri Lanka defence minister Ruwan Wijewardene told<a href="https://www.ndtv.com/world-news/sri-lanka-blasts-probe-shows-attacks-retaliation-for-christchurch-says-minister-2027263"> </a>Parliament the findings of an initial probe. </li></ul> The Islamic State has claimed responsibility for the serial blasts in Sri Lanka, one of the deadliest terrorist attacks in the island nation's history that has killed over 320 people. It made the claim via its 'Amaq' news agency. Earlier, a preliminary investigation had revealed the attacks were in response to the mosque mass shooting at <keyword id="98905" type="LOCATION" weightage="20" keywordseo="Christchurch">Christchurch</keyword>, New Zealand last month. Sri Lanka defence minister Ruwan Wijewardene reportedly <a href="https://www.ndtv.com/world-news/sri-lanka-blasts-probe-shows-attacks-retaliation-for-christchurch-says-minister-2027263">told </a>Parliament on Tuesday the Sunday blasts were “in retaliation for the attack against Muslims in Christchurch.” According to a <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2019/apr/23/sri-lanka-bombings-attacks-live-news">confidential</a> briefing that was shared among government officials, one of the suspects had started sharing ‘extremist’ content from his social media handles, The Guardian reported. A small radical Muslim group, National Thowheeth Ja’amath, is the main suspect behind the attack. Sri Lankan authorities have so far arrested over 40 suspects in connection with the Easter day serial bombing that has now claimed the lives of over 321 people including 38 foreigners. A total of eight bombs struck the island country on Sunday, targeting churches and hotels. The country’s leaders have strongly been questioned over the massive security failure leading up to the attack, as intelligence officials had <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2019/04/22/world/asia/ntj-warning-sri-lanka-government.html?action=click&amp;module=Top%20Stories&amp;pgtype=Homepage">reportedly</a> alerted the authorities of a possible planned attack in mid-April. Sri Lankan cabinet spokesperson Rajitha Senaratne told the media on Monday that Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe wasn’t made aware of the security threat, calling it a “colossal intelligence failure.” The comments came amid an ongoing rift between president Maithripala Sirisena, who oversees security operations, and the PM. The two have been at loggerheads in recent months leading to a political crisis. On Tuesday, the defence minister again claimed that key government officials were “never” informed about a potential terrorist attack.” On Monday, Sri Lanka's cabinet spokesperson had publicly apologized admitting that the Sri Lankan police had prior information on possible terror attacks but adequate measures had not been taken. The Christchurch mass shootings in New Zealand happened during Friday prayers at a mosque on March 15, which killed over 50 and injured many others in one of the worst deadliest terror attacks in the country. An Australian-born white supremacist, Brenton Tarrant, was held for that massacre. On Monday, President Sirisena declared a conditional state of emergency in the country for the maintenance of essential supplies and services. With agencies

ISIS claims it is behind Sri Lankan serial blasts

<ul><li>A total of eight blasts struck the South Asian island country on Sunday. </li><li>A ninth bomb was <a href="https://www.ndtv.com/world-news/sri-lanka-improvised-pipe-bomb-near-colombo-airport-defused-by-sri-lanka-air-force-say-police-news-a-2026474?pfrom=home-topscroll">reportedly </a>diffused near the Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport on late Sunday. </li><li>At least ten Indians among those killed.</li></ul>The Easter Sunday serial blasts in Sri Lanka have now claimed at least 310 lives, according to the Sri Lankan authorities. A ninth bomb was <a href="https://www.ndtv.com/world-news/sri-lanka-improvised-pipe-bomb-near-colombo-airport-defused-by-sri-lanka-air-force-say-police-news-a-2026474?pfrom=home-topscroll">reportedly </a>diffused near the Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport, near the south-eastern coast, on late Sunday that had explosives inside a pipe. Sri Lankan authorities <a href="https://www.hindustantimes.com/world-news/easter-blasts-in-sri-lanka-kill-at-least-207-13-suspects-arrested/story-GNnVxPY1p7n4lYK4AgT6HN.html">have</a> arrested about 26 suspects as of Tuesday, although no group has so far come forward claiming responsibility for the coordinated attacks. Several news agencies have reported earlier that 500 people were injured. The death toll has climbed from the previous estimate of just over 200 as more fatalities were discovered, with many critically injured succumbing to their injuries. A total of <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/easter-sunday-blasts-deadly-explosion-kills-138-sri-lankan-prime-minister-urges-people-to-stay-united-and-strong/articleshow/68975878.cms">eight blasts</a> struck the South Asian island country, targeting churches and high-end hotels. “Location of targets &amp; ability to carry out multiple attacks almost simultaneously indicative of high level of perpetrator confidence and competence. Scale of death and injury is huge. Southern Asia differently blighted in collective inability to quarantine terror,” <a href="https://twitter.com/theUdayB/status/1119867645438750720">according to strategic affairs expert</a> C Uday Bhaskar. The Sri Lankan government appealed for calm and <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/sri-lanka-bombing-government-declares-curfew-after-seventh-blast/articleshow/68976010.cms">imposed</a> a curfew, which was lifted earlier on Monday. <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/sri-lanka-has-temporarily-blocked-access-to-facebook-instagram-and-whatsapp-after-a-series-of-bombings-left-over-200-dead-fearing-the-spread-of-misinformation/articleshow/68980529.cms">Access</a> to several social media and messaging services was also cut off in the aftermath of the blasts. At least five Indians, among at least 30 foreigners, were killed in the blasts, which is one of the deadliest attacks in the country since the end of a prolonged civil war over a decade ago. With agencies

Sri Lanka bombings death toll climbs to 310

<ul><ul class="summary-list "><li>At least 207 people are dead and 450 others have been injured after a series of explosions hit churches and hotels in <keyword id="6355572" type="LOCATION" weightage="20" keywordseo="sri-lanka">Sri Lanka</keyword>.</li><li>The churches were bombed as worshippers attended Easter Sunday service.</li><li>The hotels targeted are among the most luxurious in Sri Lanka's capital. 35 foreigners have been killed, <a href="https://www.afp.com/en/news/15/blasts-sri-lanka-hotels-and-churches-kill-156-doc-1ft48d4">AFP cited hospital sources as saying</a>. Eight explosions in various locations have now been reported. </li></ul></ul>At least 207 people were killed in a series of blasts on Easter Sunday Blasts in Sri Lanka, targeting three churches and three hotels. As of 1 pm, more than 400 people were wounded and hospitalized, reported Reuters. 
 
 
 
 
 <div type="javascript" title="Custom" contenttype="Video"><cdata><![CDATA[
 
]]></cdata></div>











 AFP news agency quoting Sri Lankan Police said the toll in <keyword id="7550956" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="20" keywordseo="sri-lanka-blasts">Sri Lanka blasts</keyword> had risen to 156, including 35 foreigners. The blasts took place at three churches located at Kochchikade, Negombo and Batticaloa. The three hotels that were targeted are located in Colombo, and include Shangri La Colombo, Cinnamon Grand Colombo, and Kingsbury Hotel, according to media reports. The Sri Lankan Prime Minister, Ranil Wickremesinghe, has urged the people to remain strong and united in the tragic time. The Prime Minister is reportedly going to conduct a national security council meeting at his house. 
 
 
 
 
 
 <div type="javascript" title="Custom" contenttype="Video"><cdata><![CDATA[
 
]]></cdata></div>












 Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena, in a special message read out on local news channels, has requested the people to remain calm and help the authorities in the investigation. India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi has condemned the attack and said the country stands in solidarity with the people of Sri Lanka. 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 <div type="javascript" title="Custom" contenttype="Video"><cdata><![CDATA[
 
]]></cdata></div>















 Indian President Ram Nath Kovind also condemned the attack. 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 <div type="javascript" title="Custom" contenttype="Video"><cdata><![CDATA[
 
]]></cdata></div>















 St. Sebastian’s church, which was among the target, posted pictures showing destructions and bloodshed after the blast on its Facebook Page and urged people to help. The post read “A bomb attack to our church please come and help if your family members are there” No one has yet claimed responsibility for the attacks. Several peace messages "Pray For Sri Lanka" were trending on social media. Messages and prayers also poured in from celebrities. 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 <div type="javascript" title="Custom" contenttype="Video"><cdata><![CDATA[
 
]]></cdata></div>















 Former Sri Lankan captain of the cricket team, <keyword id="79577" type="PERSON" weightage="20" keywordseo="Angelo-Mathews">Angelo Mathews</keyword> in a recent tweet has requested people to not to believe in rumors. 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 <div type="javascript" title="Custom" contenttype="Video"><cdata><![CDATA[
 
]]></cdata></div>















 A travel advisory had been issued by the US embassy in Colombo advising citizens to follow local security instructions and “exercise extreme caution.” External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj said on Sunday that she was in touch with the Indian High Commissioner in Colombo as six explosions hit churches and hotels in Sri Lanka, killing at least 20 people. "Colombo - I am in constant touch with Indian High Commissioner in Colombo. We are keeping a close watch on the situation," the Minister said in a tweet. 
	
	
	
	
	
	
	<div type="twitter" handle="golrizghahraman" handlename="Golriz Ghahraman" image="http://pbs.twimg.com/profile_images/1035120828780707840/PRgmSRXp_normal.jpg" favoritecount="121" retweetcount="22" status="Devastated for Sri Lanka, especially the targeted Christian community. In a nation who has seen so much violence an… https://t.co/a3297hWuYK" createdat="1555826450000" id="1119843413006774272"></div>
















	
	
	
	
	
	
	<div type="twitter" handle="AJEnglish" handlename="Al Jazeera English" image="http://pbs.twimg.com/profile_images/875638617606987776/YBOKib96_normal.jpg" favoritecount="595" retweetcount="614" status="BREAKING: Multiple blasts hit Sri Lanka churches and hotels on Easter Sunday https://t.co/3Xn6pRk0kU https://t.co/FHAHmOUr4N" createdat="1555824930000" id="1119837039392899073"></div>















 Helpline numbers for Indian citizens in need of assistance or who seek clarification are: +94777903082, +94112422788, +94112422789, +94777902082 and +94772234176. With IANS

Easter Sunday Blasts: Deadly explosion kills 207, Sri Lankan Prime Minister urges people to stay united and strong

<ul><li>The eight blasts in the country saw a death toll of 290. </li><li>Three big hotels were a target of the blasts, affecting tourists. </li><li>The island nation’s popularity as a tourist destination was already under pressure because of a political crisis and now it could be further affected.</li></ul>The eight blasts in <keyword id="6355572" type="LOCATION" weightage="20" keywordseo="sri-lanka">Sri Lanka</keyword> on Sunday saw the death toll rising to 290, with five Indians killed. Five-star hotels were among the main targets of the bombing that included Cinnamon Grand, Shangri-La and the Kingsbury in the capital Colombo. That is a direct hit to Sri Lanka’s travel and tourism industry. Sri Lanka Association of Inbound Tour Operators (SLAITO) President Harith Perera told <a href="http://www.sundaytimes.lk/article/1084683/tourism-early-casualty-from-sri-lankan-blasts">The Sunday Times</a> that this was the first time that hotels have been directly attacked. The island nation for long has been a favourite tourist destination especially after the end of a protracted civil war that ended a decade ago, bringing peace and tourists to the tropical country that is famous for its pristine beaches and several old tea plantations. According to reports, the Sri Lankan government had been looking at ramping up its efforts for tourism in the country. The government had plans to double the annual income from tourism from $3.5 billion in 2018 to $7 billion in 2019. "Although the tourist arrivals for the year 2018 fell slightly short due to the political instability we saw post 26th October, I think in terms of earnings we have reached the $3.5 billion target, Minister of Tourism Development, John Amaratunga had said to a <a href="https://economynext.com/Sri_Lanka_tourist_arrivals_up_10.3_pct_in_2018,_earnings_down-3-13043-7.html">local daily</a>. With the numbers already dwindling (the earnings from tourism in 2018 were 10.3% lower than 2017), the blasts could further lead to distrust among tourists. The political crisis in Sri Lanka began when Mahinda Rajapaksa was appointed as Prime Minister on 26 October 2018 before the formal dismissal of the current Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, resulting in two concurrent Prime Ministers. This resulted in escalated tensions in the country which also <a href="https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/news/world/sri-lanka-crisis-scares-tourists-in-fresh-hit-to-economy/article25427489.ece">scared off </a>tourists. However, Indian travel firms believe the impact will be temporary. Speaking to <a href="https://www.business-standard.com/article/international/impact-on-sri-lanka-tourism-post-attacks-may-be-short-lived-travel-firms-119042100302_1.html?1555882175">Business Standard</a>, Sharat Dhall, chief operating officer (B2C), Yatra.com said "The unfortunate attacks in Sri Lanka have happened just ahead of the peak summer travel season. Sri Lanka has always been a preferred travel option for Indian tourists. While it is early to quantify the impact of this incident on travel to the country, we anticipate a short term effect on bookings with some travelers preferring to shift to other destinations for their summer vacations." Indian airlines like Air India and IndiGo are also helping out tourists stranded in Sri Lanka by waiving off rescheduling and cancellation charges. See Also: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/sri-lanka-blasts-colombo-airport-advisory-after-terror-attack/articleshow/68975705.cms">Colombo airport asks passengers to check in four hours before flights after terror attacks in Sri Lanka’s capital</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/sri-lanka-blasts-foreign-offices-in-us-and-uk-issue-travel-advisories/articleshow/68975432.cms">Find shelter and exercise extreme caution, says US’ travel advisory after multiple blasts in Colombo, Sri Lanka</a>

The tragic blasts on Easter Sunday is just the start of a long weary summer for Sri Lanka's tourism industry

The Sri Lankan government has declared curfew with immediate effect and it is not clear when it will be lifted, Reuters reported. The decision has come after a seventh blast killed at least two people in Dehiwala, near Colombo. The death of over 156 people in the serial blasts on Easter Sunday had barely sunk in, there was a seventh bombing in the country’s capital the same day, according to agency reports. 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 <div type="javascript" title="Custom" contenttype="Video"><cdata><![CDATA[
 
]]></cdata></div>















 Earlier in the day, multiple explosions targeted the hundreds of worshippers at the St. Anthony's Church in Kochchikade, Kotahena, St. Sebastian's Church in Katuwapitiya in Katana, and the Zion church in Batticaloa, who were there to commemorate Easter Sunday. The other three blasts where reported at the Shangri-La, Cinnamon Grand and Kingsbury five-star hotels in Colombo. 
 <div type="image" title="tiktok ban" msid="68976178" hostid="261"></div>



 Prime Minister Ranil Wickramasinghe called for an emergency cabinet meeting, while <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/news/sri-lanka-bombing-president-maithripla-sirisena-message-after-colombo-blasts/articleshow/68975914.cms">President Maithripla Sirisena warned</a> of stern action against the conspirators. Schools have been ordered to remain shut for two more days and passengers have been asked to reach <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/news/sri-lanka-blasts-colombo-airport-advisory-after-terror-attack/articleshow/68975705.cms">Colombo airport at least four hours before</a> the flight. Russian President Vladimir Putin has denounced a series of attacks on churches and hotels in <keyword id="6355572" type="LOCATION" weightage="20" keywordseo="sri-lanka">Sri Lanka</keyword> as “cruel and cynical,” <a href="https://www.apnews.com/fabb6b93861a46d1b7cef4983450ffb3">the Associated Press reported</a>. In a telegram of condolences sent to his Sri Lankan counterpart, the Russian leader said Moscow remains a “reliable partner of Sri Lanka in the fight against international terrorism.” Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan too called the attack “an assault on all of humanity.” The Archbishop of Colombo is calling for those responsible for the Easter Sunday blasts in Sri Lanka to be punished “mercilessly.” Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith called on Sri Lanka’s government to launch a “very impartial strong inquiry” and to punish those found responsible “mercilessly because only animals can behave like that,” according to the agency report. See Also: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/sri-lanka-blasts-colombo-airport-advisory-after-terror-attack/articleshow/68975705.cms">Colombo airport asks passengers to check in four hours before flights after terror attacks in Sri Lanka’s capital</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/sri-lanka-blasts-foreign-offices-in-us-and-uk-issue-travel-advisories/articleshow/68975432.cms">Find shelter and exercise extreme caution, says US’ travel advisory after multiple blasts in Colombo, Sri Lanka</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/easter-sunday-blasts-deadly-explosion-kills-138-sri-lankan-prime-minister-urges-people-to-stay-united-and-strong/articleshow/68975878.cms">Easter Sunday Blasts: Deadly explosion kills 138, Sri Lankan Prime Minister urges people to stay united and strong</a>

Sri Lankan government declares curfew after a seventh blast near Colombo

<ul><li>A fresh security warning says that Islamic militants have plans to attack using a van dressed in military uniforms, Reuters reported. </li><li>Five locations targeted including Batticola. </li><li>The attacks were reportedly planned for Sunday or Monday. </li></ul>One week after Sri Lanka was hit by one of the deadliest terrorist attacks in the country, security officials in the island nation have reportedly warned of the possibility of another wave of terror attacks by the Islamic militants believed to be behind the Easter day blasts. According to a Reuters <a href="https://in.reuters.com/article/sri-lanka-blasts/sri-lanka-on-alert-for-attacks-by-militants-disguised-in-uniforms-idINKCN1S50BA?il=0">report, </a>Sri Lankan security officials in a letter warned that Islamic militants have plans to attack using a van dressed in military uniforms. They were targeting five locations for the attacks including Batticaloa. The attacks were reportedly planned for Sunday or Monday, added the report. Sri Lanka has been on high alert since last Sunday’s attacks that claimed the lives of over 350 people including over 40 foreigners. Terror group ISIS has claimed responsibility for the deadly blasts after the Sri Lankan government suspected a small radical Islamic group National Thawheedh Jamaath (NTJ) to be behind the attacks. According to a preliminary probe by the Sri Lankan government, the attacks in Sri Lanka <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/sri-lankan-bomb-blasts-retaliation-for-christchurch-says-probe/articleshow/69007423.cms">were </a>in retaliation to the mosque shootings in Christchurch, New Zealand last month. Sri Lankan authorities have reportedly arrested over 40 suspects in connection with the Easter day serial blasts. Eight bombs hit the country on Easter day, targeting churches and luxury hotels. Sri Lankan leaders have been strongly criticised over the massive security failure that led up to the attack as intelligence officials had <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2019/04/22/world/asia/ntj-warning-sri-lanka-government.html?action=click&amp;module=Top%20Stories&amp;pgtype=Homepage">reportedly</a> already warned the country’s authorities of a possible terror attack as early as mid-April.

Sri Lanka warns of another ‘wave of attacks’ by bombers in military uniforms: Report

<ul><li>Hotels are slashing prices and are also aggressively advertising in key markets like Russia, after Easter bombings have kept tourists at bay. </li></ul><ul><li>Lavanga Resort &amp; Spa is reportedly offering a room for $35 a night with breakfast, much less than its usual price of $75, reported Reuters. </li></ul>After a slump in tourist arrivals, <keyword id="6355572" type="LOCATION" weightage="20" keywordseo="sri-lanka">Sri Lanka</keyword> is going all out to get them back to its country. Hotels are slashing prices and are also aggressively advertising in key markets like Russia, after Easter bombings have kept tourists at bay. Lavanga Resort &amp; Spa is reportedly offering a room for $35 a night with breakfast, much less than its usual price of $75, reported Reuters. The co-ordinated suicide bombings in April 2019 killed 250 people, including 45 foreigners from China, India, US and the UK. After the attack, the country’s <keyword id="20048" type="CITY" weightage="20" keywordseo="tourism">tourism</keyword> industry took a massive hit with 80% drop in arrivals, according to government data. The sector contributes 4.9% to the country’s GDP, and directly employs over half a million people. In 2018, nearly 2.3 million tourists visited the South East Asian island which offers everything that Bali and Thailand does. The scenic country also has historical places, beaches and is known for its wildlife sanctuaries. Tourism is also a growth sector in the country. It generated nearly $4.4 million in 2018, up 17% from 2017. Before the blasts, the country was hoping to grow its number of tourists. Travel Ban Several countries issued a travel ban after the attacks, which barred Sri Lanka from launching a marketing campaign. The government is hoping to make a comeback after the ban is lifted. According to Sanath Ukwatte, president of the Hotels Association of Sri Lanka, hotels which once had 70% occupancy, now barely fill up 10%. As per his estimates, the tourism sector lost $1.5 billion due to the blasts.

Tourists visiting Sri Lanka are down to less than a third -- and hotel rooms are dirt cheap

Earlier this week, <keyword id="6355572" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="sri-lanka" source="Orion">Sri Lanka</keyword> deployed military troops at petrol stations to “discourage any unrest” among thousands of motorists waiting outside for hours to get their tanks filled up. While chaos at petrol stations is not a rare sight in a South Asian country, people dying because of it, is. And this only scratches the surface. What started off as a temporary decline of tourism due to the serial bomb blasts in 2019 turned out to be a huge <keyword id="42511" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="economic-crisis" source="Orion">economic crisis</keyword> for Sri Lanka. The local government did try to control the situation with tax cuts and major policy changes in 2019, but it only kept getting worse since then. First, it was the deadly Coronavirus. Then, the inflation. Then, even more debt. India’s southern neighbour is now struggling to provide electricity, fuel and basic essentials to its citizens, leading to a massive unrest among its citizens. The situation is so brim that the country had to cancel school exams due to shortage of paper and lack of cash to buy essentials. The entrepreneurs are unable to do their businesses, the country is running out of foreign exchange, and the recent Ukraine-Russia conflict has led to skyrocketing fuel prices. How did it get so bad in the first place? Sri Lanka has been running a trade deficit for decades, meaning the country imports more than it exports. A large amount of foreign exchange earned by the country is being utilised to pay for the cost of these imported items. Sri Lanka’s <keyword id="6371665" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="financial-crisis" source="Orion">financial crisis</keyword> stems from a big shortfall of foreign currency, leaving traders unable to pay for imports. The company’s foreign exchange reserves have been declining since 2019, but it reached a low-point in November 2021 when it only had enough currency to support one month’s imports. While a part of the problem did emerge from the policies of the local government, the rest had to do with the situations that emerged over the last three years. You may remember the serial suicide bombings that took place in Sri Lanka’s top-end hotels and churches, commonly used by Western tourists, in April 2019 and left 250 dead. The blasts scared tourists away from the country and impacted the tourism industry, which represents over a tenth of the country’s gross domestic product (GDP). GDP is the sum of everything a country produces. <div type="image" title="Sri Lanka&amp;#39;s GDP growth rate" msid="90421556" hostid="261" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Sri Lanka&amp;#39;s GDP has been declining over the quarters&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div> Before people could once again feel comfortable travelling to Sri Lanka, COVID-19 had taken over the world and travel restrictions were imposed across the globe. While the country was facing three waves of Coronavirus attacks, price rise was towering in the background and this deteriorated Sri Lanka’s condition even further. Sri Lanka currently has the worst inflation among Asian nations. Inflation or price rise happens when too much money chases too few goods. <div type="image" title="Sri Lanka&amp;#39;s inflation trend" msid="90421641" hostid="261" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Sri Lanka&amp;#39;s inflation has skyrocketed in the last four months&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div> Being a net importer of goods from fuel to medicines to paper, the Russia-Ukraine war could not have come at a worse time since movement of goods has also taken a hit. A few things went wrong on the policy side too Economists believe that Sri Lanka’s debt spiral was already on an unsustainable trajectory even before the pandemic made it worse for the country. The country borrowed foreign funds to fill its reserves, instead of boosting its exports. This move has only added more foreign debt on the country, and has done nothing to boost the local industry. The country’s public debt has increased from 94% of the GDP in 2019 to 119% of GDP in 2019, the <keyword id="6366068" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="international-monetary-fund" source="Orion">International Monetary Fund</keyword> (IMF) noted. As the debt was mounting, the Sri Lankan government’s decision to introduce changes to the indirect tax regime in 2019 took a turn for the worse. There were loans to be repaid, the country’s tourism industry was on a decline, cash reserves were falling and these tax cuts reduced government’s revenue even further. When the Britishers left Sri Lanka in the late 1940s, the country was in shambles. The civil war fought by the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) led by Velupillai Prabhakaran – from the 1970s to the late 2000s – didn’t help the economy either. Now, the country is staring at an economic collapse and the scary part is that there are no easy solutions for a catastrophe of this scale. Before we let you go, do check out Business Insider India’s personal finance series Money Insider, which brings together the country’s leading ‘Fin-fluencers’ who are heralding a new beginning in the world of financial literacy <div type="image" title="BI India&amp;#39;s presents Money Insider" msid="90422545" hostid="261" caption="&amp;lt;p style=&amp;quot;margin-left: 20px;&amp;quot;&amp;gt;Business Insider India presents its personal finance series Money Insider&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>

SIMPLY PUT: Why Sri Lanka is going through an economic meltdown

A series of bomb attacks struck Sri Lanka on <keyword id="6387218" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="20" keywordseo="easter-sunday">Easter Sunday</keyword>, killing at least 156 people and injuring over 400. At least six attacks took place targeting churches and hotels, and as of 2: 30 pm IST, a seventh attack was also reported by Reuters. The Sri Lankan government has declared curfew with immediate effect and it is not clear when it will be lifted, Reuters reported. The decision came in the wake of a seventh blast that has reportedly killed at least two people in Dehiwala, near Colombo. According to a Reuters report, access to major social media services and messaging services was also shut down. Earlier, the US embassy in Colombo asked travellers to follow security instructions from local authorities and urged them to seek "shelter" and "exercise extreme caution.” The United Kingdom also issued a travel advisory. According to the island nation's The Daily Mirror newspaper, explosions were reported as hundreds of worshipers gathered at the <keyword id="7551167" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="20" keywordseo="st-anthonys-church-in-kochchikade">St. Anthony's Church in Kochchikade</keyword>, <keyword id="7551168" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="20" keywordseo="kotahena">Kotahena</keyword>, <keyword id="7551169" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="20" keywordseo="st-sebastians-church-in-katuwapitiya-in-katana">St. Sebastian's Church in Katuwapitiya in Katana</keyword>, and the Zion church in <keyword id="194056" type="LOCATION" weightage="20" keywordseo="Batticaloa">Batticaloa</keyword> to commemorate <keyword id="6363803" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="20" keywordseo="easter">Easter</keyword> Sunday. Three blasts where reported at the Shangri-La, Cinnamon Grand and Kingsbury five-star hotels in Colombo. An emergency meeting was called over the attacks, Minister Harsha De Silva said in a tweet. "Secretary of Defence and I am at Kochchikade Church. We were also at Shangri-La and Kingsbury Hotels. Rescue operations are underway. Many casualties have been reported including foreigners," he said and requested people to stay calm and indoors. Images on social media showed the inside at the St. Sebastian church with a shattered ceiling and blood on the pews, the BBC said. No one has yet claimed responsibility for the attacks. External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj said on Sunday that she was in touch with the Indian High Commissioner in Colombo as six explosions hit churches and hotels in Sri Lanka, killing at least 20 people. "Colombo - I am in constant touch with Indian High Commissioner in Colombo. We are keeping a close watch on the situation," the Minister said in a tweet. The official handle of the High Commission of India in Colombo also said in a tweet that they were also "closely monitoring the situation". It also provided helpline numbers for "Indian citizens in need of assistance or help and for seeking clarification". With agencies See also: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/sri-lanka-blasts-foreign-offices-in-us-and-uk-issue-travel-advisories/articleshow/68975432.cms">Find shelter and exercise extreme caution, says US’ travel advisory after multiple blasts in Colombo, Sri Lanka</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/sri-lanka-blasts-colombo-airport-advisory-after-terror-attack/articleshow/68975705.cms">Colombo airport asks passengers to check in four hours before flights after terror attacks in Sri Lanka’s capital</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/schools-to-stay-shut-in-colombo-for-two-more-days-sri-lankas-education-minister/articleshow/68975916.cms">Schools to stay shut in Colombo for two more days: Sri Lanka’s Education Minister</a>

Sri Lanka blasts: Death toll rises in multiple explosions targeting churches, hotels

<div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table"><div><div class="image on-image">APSri Lankan policeman patrol in a Muslim neighborhood before Friday prayers in Colombo, Sri Lanka.</div></div></div><ul class="summary-list"><li>Suspects in the Sri Lanka Easter Sunday bombing are in a shootout with the military, a military spokesperson has said.</li><li>The military went to investigate an explosion in Ampara Sainthamaruthu, eastern Sri Lanka, and were fired upon at the scene.</li><li>The military were conducting a search in the area when the blast happened.</li><li>Local media report police have now examined a large bomb-making facility, which contained ISIS flags and bomb-making equiptment.</li><li><a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/?hprecirc-bullet">Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories. </a></li></ul>People suspected of orchestrating the Sri Lanka Easter bombings are in a shoot out with the military, a spokesperson for the country's armed forces said.Soldiers went in to investigate an explosion in the town of Ampara Sainthamaruthu, Batticaloaeastern, during a search operation, <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-sri-lanka-blasts-shooting/shooting-breaks-out-in-eastern-sri-lankan-town-during-police-raid-idUSKCN1S21NI?feedType=RSS&amp;feedName=topNews">Reuters reported the spokesperson as saying</a>, and were fired upon. Local Sri Lankan media reports <a href="https://twitter.com/Kyruer/status/1121796752363778052">are suggesting</a> the military were searching for a makeshift bomb factory in the area. Footage <a href="https://twitter.com/Kyruer/status/1121796752363778052">broadcast by Sri Lankan media outlet News 1st</a> appears to show piles of bomb-making equiptment and flags bearing the mark of the Islamic State.Sri Lankan security forces have been raiding homes across the country in the search for those responsible for the Easter Sunday attacks which killed more than 250 people. The so-called Islamic State has claimed responsibility for the attacks. Sri Lankan police have arrested over 70 suspects in connection with the blasts. This is a developing news story, check back for updates. <div class="margin-top"> <h3>NOW WATCH: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/what-happens-when-hold-in-your-pee-too-long-2018-6">If you're going to see the 3-hour-long 'Avengers: Endgame,' plan your bathroom break wisely. Here's what can happen if you hold your pee too long.</a></h3> <div> </div> </div>

You Searched For "bomb blast in lanka" and got 11 results

Schools to stay shut in Colombo for two more days: Sri Lanka’s Education Minister

Sanchita Dash

ISIS claims it is behind Sri Lankan serial blasts

BI India Bureau

Sri Lanka bombings death toll climbs to 310

BI India Bureau

Easter Sunday Blasts: Deadly explosion kills 207, Sri Lankan Prime Minister urges people to stay united and strong

BI India Bureau

The tragic blasts on Easter Sunday is just the start of a long weary summer for Sri Lanka's tourism industry

Sanchita Dash

Sri Lankan government declares curfew after a seventh blast near Colombo

BI India Bureau

Sri Lanka warns of another ‘wave of attacks’ by bombers in military uniforms: Report

BI India Bureau

Tourists visiting Sri Lanka are down to less than a third -- and hotel rooms are dirt cheap

Preeti Soni

SIMPLY PUT: Why Sri Lanka is going through an economic meltdown

Sri Lanka blasts: Death toll rises in multiple explosions targeting churches, hotels

BI India Bureau

Sri Lanka Easter bombing suspects are in a gun battle with the military after a raid on a makeshift bomb factory, local media report

Bill Bostock,Bill Bostock

Popular Keywords

Buying Guides