Independent Television Network (ITN), the pioneer television station in Sri Lanka celebrates its 46th Anniversary today (June 05).

ITN Ltd., commenced operations on April 13, 1979 with the introduction of the ITN television channel. As the first television broadcasting service of Sri Lanka and South Asia they began transmission of the first terrestrial television channel in the country. Started operations with very modest beginnings, and very basic equipment comprising a 1KW transmitter and a 65 foot antenna mast, ITN beamed programmes to a radius of about 15 miles in and around Colombo.

On June 05, 1979 ITN was converted to a government owned business undertaking, under a Competent Authority. In 1992, ITN was converted to a public company under State jurisdiction. The founding board of directors was composed of Shan Wickramasinghe, Anil Wijewardene and Bob Christie.

The rare ITN captured visuals on the Tsunami are still used by media all over the world. ITN is a Shrama Abhimani Award winner (Oct 2009). ITN channel is also the first 1080p full HD television channel in Sri Lanka.

ITN now has a daily transmission of 20 hours. There is also a small component of English programmes mainly featuring films and dramas with worldwide appeal. On the Engineering side, five transmitting stations spread throughout the Island enables coverage to most parts of the Island. With the establishment of another transmitting station in the central hilly region it is expected that ITN programmes will cover the entire Island.

ITN will commence its Multi Media Campus (MMC ITN Campus) shortly (on June 07) setting another milestone. It will provide the opportunity for students to follow the best certificate course in Sri Lanka for Digital Communication.