An Archaeological Advisory Committee was appointed by Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa as the Buddha Sasana and Cultural Affairs Minister today to obtain assistance in protecting archaeological sites scattered across the country.

According to the Prime Minister’s Media Division, the letters of appointment to the members of the committee were handed over at Temple Trees by the Premier today.

The Prime Minister has appointed the 20-member committee in accordance with the Archaeological (Amended) Act and the committee is expected to provide instructions to the minister on archaeological sites, on special projects, policymaking, observation and development on archaeological sites and promotion of them.

Out of the 20 members, nine members are Buddhist prelates including Most Venerable Anunayake of Asgiri Chapter Wendaruwe Upali Thera, Ven. Mataramba Hemarathana Thera, Ven. Pallegama Hemarathana Thera, Ven. Ellawala Medhananda Thera, Ven. Alikewela Seelananda Thera, Ven. Yatigaloluwe Wimalarathana Thera, Ven. Pahamune Sri Sumangala Thera, Ven. Professor Induragare Dhammarathana Thera and Ven. Dr. Maduruoye Dhammissara Thera.

Other members include former Archaeological Director General Dr. Shiran Deraniyagala, Professor T.G. Kulatunga and Senior Professors Nimal De Silva and Raj Somadewa. (Lahiru Pothmulla)

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