Sri Lanka, Oct. 1 -- C.W. Karunaratne, a proud product of the Sri Lanka Administration Service, passed away at the age of 83. His 45-year service, beginning as a teacher and then as an Assistant Government Agent, Senior Assistant Secretary, Additional Secretary to the Prime Minister and finally as Senior Administrator of the Dalada Maligawa, was outstanding. His services for the rural people and to strengthen agriculture across the country, including far flung areas of the North and East have been much appreciated.

Born in Neluwa in Hinidum Patththuwa, Galle District, he obtained his education at the Wanduramba National School and graduated from the University of Colombo. After commencing his career as a school teacher, he joined the Sri...