Sri Lanka celebrates today the 36th anniversary of becoming a republic.  On May 22, 1972, with the adoption of a new constitution that ended 'Dominion Status', the country became a republic, simultaneously replacing the colonial name of Ceylon with Sri Lanka.

The post of Governor General was also abolished and a ceremonial post of President instituted in its place.
 
All Ministries, Departments, Statutory Corporations and other State bodies will commemorate Republic Day.
 
The Ministry of Constitutional Affairs and National Integration has distributed a pamphlet titled the 'Birth of the Republic of Sri Lanka', among students to mark the occasion.

(Courtesy : Department of Information )