President Maithripala Sirisena will be the chief guest at the inaugural function in this regard at Ja Ela municipal stadium.

In view of temperance month, all liquor shops will remain closed on July 10, said the excise department.

During this period, drug prevention activities will be carried out, with focus on schoolchildren.

At a media briefing, Dr. Palitha Abeykoon said Sri Lanka had the ability to eliminate harm caused due to alcohol.