On 13 May 1997, the military operation known as “Jaya Sikurui”
On 13 May 1997, the military operation known as “Jaya Sikurui”
On 13 May 1997, the military operation known as “Jaya Sikurui” was launched by the Sri Lankan military with the aim of extending its presence across the vast Vanni region and defeating the Tamil resistance. However, unable to withstand the counteroffensive, the operation became stalled along the A9 highway, reaching only as far as Mankulam.
In May 1998, the Tamil homeland marked the first anniversary of its successful resistance against this military campaign. Members of community organizations operating in villages across the region visited frontline positions, met with the fighters, distributed dry food supplies, held discussions, and shared moments of encouragement and solidarity.
During this period, arrangements were also made for school students from across the Vanni region to visit frontline areas and meet the combatants.
In preparation for these visits, students brought sweets, dry food items, and small gifts that they had collected or prepared themselves. These were distributed to the fighters serving on the front lines, boosting their morale and expressing appreciation for their efforts.
The students listened to accounts of battlefield experiences and observed conditions at the front. They exchanged their affection and support with those who had spent an entire year defending the homeland and preventing enemy advances.
Note: Dry foods are nutritious items that are easy to consume and can be stored for long periods without spoiling. It was customary for civilians to provide such foods to those serving on the front lines. Examples include:
- Egg flour sweets (muttai maa)
- Laddus
- Point Pedro vadai
- Green gram balls (payatham urundai)
- Roasted puffed rice and chickpeas
These foods were valued because they were portable, long-lasting, and suitable for use in demanding field conditions.
Translation by Hari
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