– The Government Pharmacists’ Association has decided to launch a one-day strike from 8 a.m. on August 31, citing unresolved issues over the “additional service allowance” paid to pharmacists.According to Association President Ajith P. Thilakaratne, the Health Secretary had issued a circular dated August 29, 2026, changing the official designation of the overtime allowance paid to pharmacists to “additional service allowance.”However, he said the circular was subsequently cancelled due to pressure exerted by the medical service, without any acceptable reason being given for the decision.Thilakaratne said the authorities had so far failed to provide an acceptable solution to the issues raised by pharmacists.