Sri Lanka on August 1

This is 1st of August. It is day 213 of the year. As of today, there are 152 days left until the end of the year. The island nation, with its cultural heritage and pivotal role in global history, has witnessed numerous defining moments throughout the centuries. From ancient kingdoms and colonial rule to modern independence and national transformation, the country's history is a tapestry of triumphs, struggles, and remarkable achievements. If you are curious about the most important and notable historical footprint of Sri Lanka, let us delve into more On This Day events to uncover fascinating tidbits from the nation's history that covers for 365 days.

Today’s Highlight

• 1640 – Willem Jacobszoon Coster ended his term as the first Dutch Governor, succeeded by Jan Thyszoon Payart.
• 1812 – The Auxiliary Bible Society, now known as the Ceylon Bible Society, was established.
• 1867 – The first public train service between Kandy and Colombo in British Ceylon began.
• 1905 – The Northern railway line was finished, marking the arrival of the first train at Jaffna Railway Station from Colombo.
• 1914 – Daytime train service commenced between Mannar and Madavachi.
• 1939 – Sir Andrew Caldecott, the British governor, officially inaugurated the Bank of Ceylon (BOC).
• 1974 – The University of Jaffna was founded.
• 1978 – A detachment of the Sri Lanka Air Force moved to Vavuniya Airport, establishing it as one of the air force’s bases.
• 1981 – The Eastern University at Vantharumoolai, Batticaloa, was established.
• 2021 – The University Grants Commission issued a charter recognizing the University of Vavuniya.

International observance

• World Scout Scarf Day