Sri Lanka, Sept. 20 -- The Indian Government has extended financial assistance for the passenger ferry service between Nagapattinam and Kankesanthurai for another year. This marks the third consecutive year of support since the service resumed in August 2024.

The assistance, provided under India's Viability Gap Funding (VGF) mechanism, amounts to nearly Rs. 300 million annually and is aimed at keeping the service affordable and operationally sustainable by covering key logistical and operational costs.

Since its resumption, the ferry service has carried around 52,000 passengers, facilitating increased cultural, economic and social exchanges between India and Sri Lanka and contributing to the revival of maritime connectivity between the...