Comprehensive Workshop on Financial and Accounting Strengthening of the CSIAP

A dedicated workshop focusing on the financial and accounting strengthening of the Climate Smart Irrigated Agriculture Project (CSIAP) was successfully held this morning (04th) at the Mahagedara Hotel in Kurunegala. The session was conducted under the distinguished patronage of Mr. Saman Bandulasena, Project Director of the CSIAP, underscoring the project’s ongoing commitment to robust financial governance and administrative transparency.

This timely initiative aimed to enhance the financial management capacity of key provincial-level staff, improve internal control systems, and ensure adherence to financial compliance standards required for large-scale, donor-funded development projects. The workshop was attended by Provincial Deputy Project Directors and accountants from across the CSIAP’s operational provinces, all of whom play critical roles in managing financial resources effectively at the regional level.

The workshop was led by Mr. W. G. N. Abeywickrama, Financial Management Specialist, and Mr. Sarath Perera, Internal Auditor of the CSIAP, who together conducted a comprehensive and interactive session covering a wide range of essential financial topics. These included: Best practices in project accounting, financial reporting and documentation standards, Budget utilization and variance analysis, Internal audit processes, Compliance with government and donor financial guidelines and Risk management in financial operations.

Mr. Abeywickrama emphasised the importance of maintaining accurate and timely financial records, promoting transparency, and fostering a culture of accountability at every level of project implementation, noting that these are fundamental pillars for the long-term success of the CSIAP.

Mr. Perera stated, “Strong financial management systems are not only essential for maintaining compliance, but they also directly contribute to the achievement of project objectives by enabling timely decision-making, minimizing wastage, and ensuring funds are used where they are needed most. By strengthening financial capabilities at the provincial level, we are building the foundation for sustainability and institutional integrity.”

The workshop was facilitated by Mr. H. M. P. Bandara, Deputy Project Director of the CSIAP in the Northwestern Province, along with his project staff, who played a key role in organizing and coordinating the event. Their contribution ensured that the logistical and administrative arrangements were executed smoothly, allowing participants to fully engage with the workshop content. In addition to provincial participants, the workshop also saw the active participation of specialists and officers from the Project Management Unit (PMU). Their presence reflected the integrated and collaborative approach the CSIAP adopts in strengthening institutional capacities across its management hierarchy.

By bringing together stakeholders from various levels of the project, the workshop created a platform for dialogue, knowledge sharing, and problem-solving in relation to financial management challenges. Participants also had the opportunity to discuss real-life case studies, share provincial-level experiences, and explore innovative solutions to streamline accounting practices.

This workshop forms part of the CSIAP’s broader strategy to build institutional resilience, enhance fiduciary performance, and ensure the sustainability of financial systems throughout the project's lifecycle.

World Bank Reviews Progress of Climate Smart Agriculture Initiatives in NP

A World Bank delegation conducted a field visit to the Semmankundru and Thelikarai areas recently to monitor the progress of infrastructure and agricultural development initiatives being implemented under the Climate-Smart Irrigated Agriculture Project (CSIAP). The mission focused on assessing the impact of the reconstructed saltwater intrusion bund in Semmankundru and the adaptation of Climate Smart Agricultural practices for the cultivation of pumpkin, Watermelon and groundnut in Thelikarai, both of which are part of ongoing efforts to strengthen climate-smart agriculture in the region.

The saltwater intrusion bund, reconstructed at a cost of about Rs. 100 million, has already brought significant benefits to the local community. Residents noted that the structure effectively prevents saltwater intrusion into their villages, which in turn has improved the quality of both agricultural land and groundwater. As a result, more land has been brought under cultivation, directly contributing to improved agricultural productivity and the livelihoods of farmers.

During the visit, the World Bank team also reviewed pumpkin, Watermelon and groundnut cultivation in Thelikarai, where modern agricultural technologies have been introduced to increase efficiency, yields, and resilience against climate challenges. Farmers in the area shared their experiences of adopting new practices, highlighting improvements in income and sustainability.

The monitoring visit was led by Mr. Tomas Ricardo Rosada Villamar, the World Bank’s Practice Manager for Agriculture and Food in South Asia, together with Dr. Felipe Dizon, Senior Agriculture Economist; Dr. Athula Senaratne, Senior Agriculture Specialist; and Eng. (Ms.) Thiruni Liyanage, Co-Task Team Leader and Senior Water Resources Management Specialist. They were joined by Mr. George Babu, Deputy Project Director for the Northern Province of the CSIAP; Mr. K. Karunanidhi, Deputy Irrigation Director for the Kilinochchi Region; as well as senior departmental officials and representatives of the local farming community. The delegation engaged directly with the farming community to understand their challenges, expectations, and the long-term impact of climate-resilient infrastructure and modern farming interventions.

By Story by Ms. Kesiga, Environmental Safeguard Officer, NP, CSIAP 

Vital Farm Inputs Procured by the CSIAP Tested at FMRC, Mahailluppallama

 

A total of 4325 sets of vital farm inputs procured under the Climate Smart Irrigated Agriculture Project (CSIAP) were subjected to a comprehensive quality verification process at the Farm Mechanization Research Centre (FMRC), Mahailluppallama, yesterday (22nd), to ensure that they meet the agreed technical specifications before being distributed to farming communities. Each set of farm inputs was tested under eleven categories, which included Solar-powered Water Pumps, Electric Water Pumps, and Micro Irrigation Systems such as Sprinklers, Drip, Micro Jet, and Rain Hose on the FMRC premises. The inputs,  installed by the respective service providers, will support several CSIAP initiatives, namely the Climate-Smart Agronomic Improvements Programme, Climate-Smart Commercial Home Gardening Programme, Micro Irrigation Programme, and the Climate-Smart Agriculture Model Village Programme. The FMRC technical staff, together with Chief Engineer Mr. Anuradha Wijethunga, conducted practical tests and evaluations to assess durability, performance, and compliance with the required standards.

Prior to the testing, the CSIAP Project Director, Mr. Saman Bandulasena held a meeting with the vendors, during which he explained the purpose of subjecting all inputs to testing. He emphasized that this process was not only a procurement requirement but also a crucial step to guarantee that farmers receive quality-assured, climate-smart technologies that will directly support their livelihoods. This testing process is a key quality assurance step to ensure that only high-standard, climate-smart technologies are delivered to farmers. Once cleared, the farm inputs will be distributed among beneficiaries in 11 districts across six provinces in Sri Lanka’s dry zone, where the CSIAP is being implemented with the objective of promoting climate-resilient, water-efficient, and sustainable agricultural practices. 

The inspection and testing session was led by Mr. Saman Bandulasena, Project Director of CSIAP, together with Mr. R. P. M. Dissanayake, Deputy Project Director for North Central Province, Mr. H.M.P. Bandara, Deputy Project Director for the North Western Province, Mr. George Babu, Deputy Project Director for Northern Province and Mr. D.M.L. Bandaranayake, Deputy Project Director for Southern and Uva Provinces. Several subject specialists and other officials of the CSIAP also participated in the event, reflecting the project’s strong emphasis on accountability and transparency in procurement and implementation.

Speaking during the inspection, Project Director Mr. Bandulasena highlighted that ensuring the quality of procured inputs is essential to the project’s success. “Our farmers must receive only the best quality technologies, as they play a critical role in increasing productivity and resilience under changing climate conditions,” he said.

The CSIAP, funded by the World Bank, is designed to introduce climate-smart technologies, improve irrigation efficiency, and enhance sustainable agriculture in vulnerable regions of Sri Lanka. The rigorous testing and monitoring of farm inputs is part of its broader commitment to ensure farmers benefit from reliable and effective tools that will strengthen food security and rural livelihoods. 

The CSIAP's Progress Review Meeting Held at the Ministry of Agriculture

A Progress Review Meeting of the Climate Smart Irrigated Agriculture Project (CSIAP) was held today at the Ministry of Agriculture, Land, Livestock and Irrigation, under the patronage of Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Livestock, Mr. Namal Karunarathna. The meeting was also attended by Members of Parliament representing Kurunegala District, Mr. Chandana Thennakoon and Ms. Geetha Herath.

During the session, Subject Specialists and Officers of the CSIAP presented updates on the progress made in project implementation areas. The Deputy Minister highlighted the importance of ensuring that CSIAP funds are utilised effectively to uplift the livelihoods of farming communities and strengthen their economic well-being.

Senior officials of the Ministry, including Ms. Latheesha Liyanage, Additional Secretary (Development), and Ms. Anuradha Dharmasena, Director (Development), were present at the meeting. The CSIAP team was represented by Project Director Mr. Saman Bandulasena, Deputy Project Director of the Project Management Unit Mr. K.V. Athula, and Deputy Project Director for the North Western Province Mr. H.M.P. Bandara, together with Subject Specialists and Officers of the project.

Modern Farming Practices and Irrigation Reviewed in Kilinochchi by DM, MoLI

Kilinochchi, Sri Lanka – Dr. Susil Ranasinghe,  the Deputy Minister of Lands and Irrigation,  undertook an official visit to the Kilinochchi District to review ongoing development initiatives under the World Bank–funded Climate Smart Irrigated Agriculture Project (CSIAP). The visit highlighted the government’s continued efforts to promote climate-smart agriculture and modern irrigation infrastructure in the Northern Province.  

During his visit, Dr. Ranasinghe participated in a special field event in the Thelikarai area of Poonagari, where farmers showcased their successful cultivation of Groundnuts, Watermelon and Pumpkin using climate-smart agricultural technologies introduced through the project. Farmers explained that the use of modern inputs and improved methods provided by the CSIAP had enabled them to increase yields, reduce vulnerability to climate change, and diversify crop production.

A key highlight of the Deputy Minister’s visit was the ceremonial handing over of the Uppvil Tank, rehabilitated under the Akkarayan Agricultural Service Center. The rehabilitation, completed at a cost of Rs. 67 million, is expected to provide reliable irrigation water for hundreds of farming families in the surrounding area, thereby improving agricultural productivity and enhancing livelihoods. 

Speaking at the event, Dr. Ranasinghe emphasised that the government, together with development partners, is committed to strengthening rural economies through sustainable agricultural practices and modernized irrigation facilities. He noted that projects of this nature not only improve food security but also contribute to long-term resilience in the face of climate change.

The visit drew the participation of Mr. George Babu, Deputy Director for the Northern Province of CSIAP, along with project staff, departmental officials, and a large number of farmers. Farmers expressed their appreciation for the rehabilitation works and the introduction of modern technologies, highlighting the positive transformation already visible in their communities.   

Officials further stated that the CSIAP will continue to expand its initiatives in Kilinochchi and other districts of the Northern Province, focusing on rehabilitating tanks, introducing micro-irrigation systems, and providing technical support to farmers to adopt climate-smart practices.

By Story by Ms. Kesiga, Environmental Safeguard Officer, NP, CSIAP

A New Chapter for the Puvanendran Family in Akkarayan, Kilinochchi

In the quiet farming village of Maniyankulam in Akkarayan, Kilinochchi, life for the family of Mr. Sivapragasam Puvanendran (58) and Ms. Puvanendran Udayarani (58) has always revolved around the land. As parents of five children, they worked tirelessly to provide their family with a stable future. Yet, despite their hard work, financial hardship loomed like an unrelenting shadow.  “For years, we cultivated with whatever little resources we had. But it was never enough. Our main worry was always how to manage our children’s education expenses,” recalls Mrs. Udayarani. 

Receiving further instructions from Mr. Vasanthan,
together with Ms Kayalini

 Struggles Before the CSIAP
The family’s cultivation covered three-quarters of an acre, but the methods and resources available to them were limited. Seasonal harvests brought in only around Rs. 25,000, barely covering food and household expenses, let alone tuition fees for their five children. The couple often worried that their dreams of securing a better life for their children might remain unfulfilled. Water scarcity and pest damage added to their challenges. Without irrigation systems or protective nets, crops often withered or were damaged, reducing yields further. 

The CSIAP Steps In
Hope took root when the Climate Smart Irrigated Agriculture Project (CSIAP) — implemented under the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, Lands and Irrigation and financed by the World Bank — was introduced in Maniyankulam. The CSIAP’s Agriculture Facilitator in Akkarayan, Ms. R. Kayalini, supported by Agriculture Specialist Mr. K. Vasanthan and guided by Deputy Project Director for the Northern Province Mr. George Babu, visited the Puvanendran household to understand their challenges.

Happy Family; Mr. Puvendran, Mrs. Udayarani
and  Son Thusinthan

Based on their needs, CSIAP provided the family with an insect-proof net, a sprinkler irrigation system, and seeds for green gram, black gram, and groundnut. These interventions were carefully chosen to reduce crop damage, improve productivity, and ensure efficient water use.

A Family Effort
Farming in the Puvanendran household is very much a family affair. Their son, Thusinthan Puvanendran (20), plays a vital role, actively supporting his parents in daily cultivation work. Meanwhile, Ms. Udayarani benefitted from specialized training at the Climate Smart Farmer Training School in Thirappane — the first of its kind in South Asia — where she learned about modern techniques in crop management, water conservation, and climate-resilient practices. Both husband and wife also received on-site CSA (Climate Smart Agriculture) training, which further enhanced their knowledge.

“With the training, we learned how to protect our crops better and use water wisely. It has changed the way we look at farming,” says Ms. Udayarani with pride.

Their fertile groundnut cultivation

Harvesting Success
The results have been transformative. With CSIAP’s support, the family’s income has now doubled to over Rs. 50,000 per season. The improved earnings not only ensure that the family’s daily needs are met but also allow them to invest in their children’s education — a dream that once seemed beyond reach.
“Now we don’t have to worry about stopping their tuition. We can support them properly,” says Mr. Puvanendran with relief.

Looking Ahead
For the Puvanendrans, farming is no longer just about survival — it is about building a secure future. The family takes pride in their progress and hopes to expand their cultivation further. Their story reflects how climate-smart practices and targeted support can transform rural livelihoods and bring hope to farming families across the Northern Province.

“We are very grateful for the support from CSIAP,” the family says in unison. “It has given us the strength to stand on our own feet and hope for a better tomorrow.”

Story and Photographs by Samantha Mallawaarachchi, IEC & ICT Specialist, PMU, CSIAP

Cultivating Hope in Their Golden Years; The Story of Mr. Thiyagaraja's Family

A Life Rooted in the Soil
For Mr. Sebestian Peter Thiyagaraja (76) and his wife, Ms. P. Rani (68), farming has been more than an occupation—it has been their lifeline for decades. In their small village of Maniyankulam in Akkarayan, Kilinochchi District, the couple has worked tirelessly on their modest half-acre of land, relying on the soil to feed their family and sustain their livelihood. Yet, farming in this part of the Northern Province has never been easy. Years of water scarcity, unpredictable weather, and lack of resources made agriculture a daunting challenge. “We wanted to cultivate more, but the struggle for water was endless,” remembers Ms. Rani.

 A Turning Point with CSIAP
Hope arrived through the Climate Smart Irrigated Agriculture Project (CSIAP), implemented under the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, Land and Irrigation with World Bank support. Understanding the challenges faced by farmers like Mr. Thiyagaraja and Ms. Rani, CSIAP stepped in with a sprinkler irrigation system—a sustainable solution that optimizes limited water resources. Alongside this, the couple received Green Gram (Mung Bean) seeds, well-suited to their land and climate. For the first time in years, the couple could cultivate without worrying about water shortages.

Harvesting Success
The transformation was remarkable. With better irrigation and quality seeds, their yields improved significantly. Today, they earn nearly Rs. 100,000 per season—a level of income they had never experienced before. More importantly, farming has once again become a source of dignity and pride. The couple is already planning to expand their cultivation further with continued the CSIAP support. “We never thought at this age we could achieve this much,” says Mr. Thiyagaraja with a smile.

Mr. Thiyagaraja and Ms. Rani

Strength Beyond Age
What makes their story extraordinary is not only the income but their perseverance. Even in their 60s and 70s, the husband and wife work side by side in the fields, refusing to depend on anyone else. “Without burdening anyone, even at this age, we continue to cultivate and stand on our own feet.” – Ms. P. Rani. The earnings from their farm not only sustain the couple but also help support their unmarried daughter, ensuring she too can live with dignity and security.

More Than Farming – A Legacy of Resilience
This story reflects more than agricultural success; it reflects resilience, family values, and the power of the right intervention at the right time. By adopting climate-smart practices, the couple is securing their livelihood while inspiring other farmers in their community.

Gratitude and Hope
Mr. Thiyagaraja and Ms. Rani express deep gratitude to the CSIAP for transforming their farming journey. Their fields now symbolise more than crops—they symbolize hope, independence, and strength in the golden years of life.
“This is not just farming,” says Mr. Thiyagaraja softly. “This is our future.”