Minister of Defence (Sri Lanka)

The Minister of Defence of Sri Lanka is a cabinet minister in the Government of Sri Lanka responsible for the Ministry of Defence. The Minister is responsible for the formulation and execution of defence policy of the nation, as well as overseeing the armed forces. The Ministry's responsibilities encompass internal security, defence against external threats, and the overall maintenance of peace and order. The office was established in 1978, prior to which the Prime Minister held the portfolio. In certain periods, the President of Sri Lanka has also held the portfolio of Minister of Defence. The Minister is appointed by the President and is accountable to the Parliament. Responsibilities include overseeing the Sri Lanka Army, Sri Lanka Navy, Sri Lanka Air Force, and the police force (although the police has at times fallen under a separate ministry). Key functions involve resource allocation, strategic planning, and responding to national security threats.