The Year-End National Project Steering Committee of the CSIAP held at MoA

The year-end National Project Steering Committee (NPSC) Meeting of the Climate Smart Irrigated Agriculture Project (CSIAP) was held this morning (24th) at the Ministry of Agriculture, Lands, Livestock, Irrigation, Fisheries and Aquatic Resources. The NPSC, which is set up at the ministry to provide governance, and strategic oversight, take the overall responsibility for executing the CSIAP and support throughout the project's lifecycle, is chaired by the ministry’s secretary Mr. M. P. N. M. Wickramasinghe.

The committee's existence ensures that the CSIAP aligns with the organization's goals, delivers value, and adheres to budgetary and timeline constraints. Their involvement is crucial to the project's success, where alignment with project goals is essential. The NPSC essentially bridges the gap between senior management and the project team, providing strategic support and ensuring the project delivers the intended value. The NPSC will consist of key officials of the major stakeholder agencies of the central government and provincial government to provide policy guidance to the project and to ensure CSIAP’s objectives are achieved.

The CSIAP's Project Director Mr. Sumith Chandana attended this meeting with Deputy Project Director (PMU) Mr. H.M.P. Bandara and subject specialists. Chief Secretaries of provinces where the CSIAP is being implemented, Senior Officials of implementing agencies and some Provincial Deputy Project Directors of the CSIAP joined the meeting remotely along with World Bank Officials.  Ms. Latheesha Liyanage, Additional Secretary (Development) and Ms. Anuradha Dharmasena, Director (Development) of the ministry were also present at this meeting.

Photograph by Nikeshala Kodithuwakku, PMU, CSIAP

A 03-day workshop on achieving the CSIAP’s objectives commenced at the NIPM

Mr. Attanayake flanked by  Mr. Bandara, explains the objectives of the workshop

A three-day workshop on reviewing the current status of the CSIAP,  expediting the current implementation in the field and preparing an action plan up to end December 2025 commenced today (14^th) at the National Institute of Plantation Management (NIPM), Athurugiriya with the participation of Deputy Project Directors, relevant Subject Specialists, Engineers and Officers of the Project Management Unit (PMU) and Provincial Deputy Project Directors’ Offices of the Climate Smart Irrigated Agriculture Project. 

The ultimate goal of this workshop is to speed up activities to reach the project’s development objective by the end of the project period.

Project Director Mr. Chandana addressing the audience

Commencing the workshop, Deputy Project Director (PMU) Mr. H.M.P. Bandara stated the importance of this workshop to achieve project objectives for the betterment of the country. Monitoring and Evaluation Specialists Mr. Nalaka Attanayake explained the goal of the workshop. While doing the group work in the afternoon today, Project Director Mr. Sumith Chandana pointed out the need to work collectively as a team and achieve the workshop's objectives.

Group activities were conducted under every subject covering each component of the project to prepare a plan to move forward. The Monitoring & Evaluation Unit of the CSIAP organized the workshop under the guidance of the Project Director Mr. Sumith Chandana and Deputy Project Director DPD (PMU) Mr. H.M.P. Bandara.

Photographs by Nikeshala Kodithuwakku, PMU, CSIAP 

The FTS trained 1966 farmer leaders on CSA to train around 19600 farmers

The Climate Smart Agriculture Project (CSIAP) built a Climate Smart Agriculture Training School for the first time in South Asia in an area of ​​03 acres in Thirpappane, Anuradhapura district at a cost of Rs. 117 Mn with the support of the World Bank to promote Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA) in Sri Lanka. A total of 1966 farmer leaders including 788 women farmer leaders have been trained in 86 training programs to disseminate the knowledge, that they have acquired about CSA, to more than 19600 farmers in the six provinces namely Northwest, North Central, Northern, Eastern, Uva and Southern Provinces where the CSIAP is being implemented..

The CSIAP Project, implemented under the Ministry of Agriculture, Lands, Livestock, Irrigation, Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, aims to guide the farming community living in the project area to use CSA technologies and train them to cope with and adapt to the adverse effects of climate change by building this training school. Training sessions are also conducted for technical personnel during the project period.

The construction of the Farmer Training School started on 22nd December 2021 and was opened on 4th December 2022. The coordinator of this school, Mr. Sajith Ekanayake, says that the school is used to train farmers to give hands-on experience in CSA practices and technologies and address challenges to climate change mitigation, adaptation, and food security.

 The CSIAP has planned to establish a platform for the dissemination of CSA  knowledge in the village and provide beneficiaries living in the areas where they are experiencing climate change with CSA technology by covering all 47 agricultural service center divisions. Eventually, the CSIAP envisages dissemination of CSA technologies and practices among entire farming communities that are vulnerable to the effects of climate change in the country through the intervention of officials from the Department of Agriculture.

A success story of a youth farmer who cultivates red onions in the Northern Province

 

The CSIAP completes the rehabilitation of 470 tanks at a cost of Rs. 13000 M

The Climate Smart Irrigation Agriculture Project (CSIAP), which implemented under the Ministry of Agriculture, Land, Livestock, Irrigation, Fisheries and Aquatic Resources and funded by the World Bank, completed rehabilitation works of 470 tanks in selected hotspots areas with the aim of improve the productivity and build climate resilience of small holder agriculture sector in selected hotspot areas.

The CSIAP, which is being implemented in 11 districts covering 06 provinces namely North-West, North-Central, Northen, East, Uva and Southern, rehabilitated  116 tanks in Kurunegala district, 28 tanks in Puttalam district, 56 tanks in Anuradhapura district, 10 tanks in Polonnaruwa district, 34 tanks in Kilinochchiya district, 47 ​​tanks in Mullaitivu district, 29 tanks in Trincomalee district, 21 tanks in Batticaloa district, 19 tanks in Ampara district, 36 tanks in Monaragala district and 74 tanks in Hambantota district completely. Therefore, 30,000 farming families will be able to cultivate 38,000 acres of land to boost the agro-economy of the country.

In addition to this, by December 2025, the Climate Smart Irrigated Agriculture Project has prepared plans to rehabilitate another 205 tanks with an estimated cost of  Rs. 4200 million. This will benefit 12,000 farming families and enable them to cultivate 15,000 acres of land in hotspot areas. 

Current Vacancies for the Project Staff (PMU and Provincial Offices) of the CSIAP

For more information, please visit:  https://csiap.lk/vacancies

A warm farewell to Project Director, Senior Engineer and ESS Specialist of CSIAP

Eng. R. M.B. Rajakaruna, Senior Engineer Gamini Wijayawardhana and Dr.  Janaka Jayawardena receive gifts from newly appointed Project Director Mr. K. A. Sumith Chandana

The Climate Smart Irrigated Agriculture Project (CSIAP) gave a fond farewell to former Project Director Eng. R. M.B. Rajakaruna, Senior Engineer Gamini Wijayawardhana and Social Safeguard Specialist Dr.  Janaka Jayawardena who had been pivotal members of the CSIAP for last few years. Eng. R. M.B. Rajakaruna (joined on 08th Aug 2021) has shown great leadership and made a tremendous contribution to the CSIAP during his period. Senior Engineer Gamini Wijayawardhana (joined on 02nd Mar 2023) had been an enthusiastic figure throughout his time at the CSIAP. Dr.  Janaka Jayawardena (joined on 20th Jan 2020) had also been actively involved in various subjective activities including erecting sessional electric fences and planting trees in the project area.

We are incredibly grateful for everything they have contributed over the years thank them for their boundless energy, hard work and dedication to the CSIAP. They are leaving the CSIAP when the  CSIAP is at a good level, with plans in place to grow the project steadily even in future. Everyone at the CSIAP wishes them well in their future endeavours.

Photographs by Nikeshala Kodithuwakku, PMU, CSIAP

The CSIAP obtained clearance to rehabilitate another 63 tanks in the forest areas

Rehabilitating water tanks in forested areas is not just an environmental initiative, but a vital step in preserving ecosystems, supporting biodiversity, and providing essential resources to farming communities in areas where the Climate Smart Irrigated Agriculture Project (CSIAP) is being implemented. Water tanks, or traditional reservoirs, have been historically used for water storage, agricultural purposes, and wildlife sustenance in Sri Lanka. However, as these tanks age, sedimentation, structural degradation, and neglect can render them ineffective. Rehabilitating these tanks by the CSIAP offers numerous ecological, social, and economic benefits.

The CSIAP takes the initiative to rehabilitate 33 tanks inside the forest area and another 30 tanks within 300 meters of the forest reservation in its project area too. To obtain clearance from the Department of Forest Conservation to rehabilitate the above tanks, a high-level workshop led by the Ministry of Agriculture, Land, Livestock, Irrigation, Fisheries and Aquatic Resources along with the CSIAP and the Department of Forest Conservation was held today (27^th) at Hotel Kamrel in Kurunegala.

Benefits of tanks to be rehabilitated in the Forest Areas
1. Enhanced Water Availability:  A rehabilitated tank provides a reliable water source for both wildlife and surrounding farming communities. This can improve agricultural productivity, especially for forest-dependent communities, and ensure the health of local ecosystems.

2. Biodiversity Conservation: By restoring water sources in forest areas, the rehabilitated tanks help conserve biodiversity by providing habitats for aquatic species and drinking water for land-based wildlife.

3. Reduction in Human-Wildlife Conflicts: With access to clean water, wildlife is less likely to venture into human settlements, thereby reducing conflict and ensuring both human and animal safety.

4. Climate Resilience: Properly maintained water tanks contribute to the resilience of forest ecosystems in the face of climate change. By storing water and recharging groundwater, these tanks buffer ecosystems against drought and other climate-induced stresses.

Rehabilitating tanks in forest areas is an environmentally sound and socially beneficial practice that aligns with conservation efforts and sustainable development. The restored water bodies not only support forest health but also provide essential resources to the wildlife and farming communities that depend on them. Effective rehabilitation projects require collaboration between forest conservation management authorities, environmental organizations, and local farming communities to ensure the long-term preservation of these valuable resources. For this purpose, the CSIAP gathered all relevant parties to achieve the main objectives.

Ms. Anuradha Dharmasena, Director, (Development) of the Ministry of Agriculture, Land, Livestock, Irrigation, Fisheries and Aquatic Resources chaired the table and Mr. M.A.A.M. Jayarathne, Additional Forest Conservator General, Mr. Sumithra Gunathilaka, Forest Conservator, Mr. Wasantha Gajanayake, Forest Conservator, Mr. G. R. P.B. Senarathne, Forest Conservator, Ms. Devani Jayathilaka, Assistant Forest Conservator and forest officers representing 11 districts of six provinces in project areas attended this workshop.  The CSIAP team is headed by Project Director Eng. R. M. B. Rajakaruna with Deputy Project Directors, Subject Specialists, Environmental Safeguard Officers and Social Safeguard Officers.  Dr. Janaka Jayawardena, Environmental and Social Safeguard Specialist of the CSIAP organized this programme. 

MoAPI reviews the current progress of the CSIAP

The Progress Review Meeting to assess the current status and performance of the Climate Smart Irrigated Agriculture Project (CSIAP) and ensure that the project remains on track and any obstacles are addressed early to prevent delays was held at the Ministry of Agriculture and Plantation Industries (MoAPI) yesterday (19th).  This meeting was chaired by Mr. Janaka Dharmakeerthi, Secretary with Ms. Latheesha Liyanage, Additional Secretary (Development),  Ms. Anuradha Dharmasena, Director,  (Development)  of the MoAPI.  The CSIAP team including Provincial Deputy Project Directors and Subject Specialists at the Project Management Unit was led by  Project Director Eng. R.M.B. Rajakaruna.

A glimpse of the CSIAP's progress upto August 2024

The CSIAP takes initiatives export high-quality Banana to Middle East markets

Banana is one of the most important fruit crops in the world and Banana cultivation has been expanding globally due to its higher demand and market value. To enhance the Banana productivity, farmers in Hotspot areas, where the Climate Smart Irrigated Agriculture Project (CSIAP) is being implemented,  have been practising novel Climate Smart Agriculture (CSA) techniques such as Micro Irrigation to combat the impact of climate change.

The objective of the Banana Project: This Banana cultivation program aims to produce high-quality bananas that meet international standards to satisfy the demand of the export market, using high-tech CSA Agronomic practices, and adapting farmers for climate change impact.

Implementation arrangements
Project location: The project is being implemented in Rambe ASC Division at Niyadawanaya GND, within the Pothuwapitiya cascade in Kurunegala District.

Beneficiary selection and implementation: A farmer group with 20 members (each farmer owns ½ Ac land) are involved for this program. The farmer selection has been carried out by considering the factors such as land availability, water availability and the farmers willingness to adopt new CSA technics and share those technics among the other farmers in the village. A Producer Society is formed with the involvement of these farmers to ensure equal benefit distribution and Market Linkage development

CSA Agronomic Intervention established: Since this area exists within the climate change-affected Hotspot area, the prominent CSA strategies have been adopted as follows to ensure the success of this program despite the climate change impact.

1)    The main climate change impact for this area is prolonged drought. Hence, we have selected the Cavendish banana variety, which is a drought tolerant crop compared to other banana varieties, recommended for the dry zone.

2)    To ensure the optimum soil moisture usage and minimize the soil water evaporation here, farmers have followed the high-density planting method by accommodating 750 Banana plants per Acre. The planting spacing is 1.5 x 1.5 meters within rows and 4 meters in between within 2 rows. Also promoted the intercropping within Banana plants during the growing stage.

3)    To increase the soil moisture retention and provide micronutrients for the plants, farmers were encouraged to apply 20 Kg of organic manure with Paddy husk charcoal to the planting pit at the time of planting.

4)    To overcome the water scarcity during the drought season, have introduced the Microjet irrigation system with fertigation.

5)    To improve the Banana quality and protect the Banana bunch from pest and disease attacks, promote covering the bunch with a white polythene layer.

Contribution to the Banana Project: This project is carried out as a joint venture, with the contribution of all 03 parties as follows.

1)    The CSIAP contributes to initiating this program, selecting potential farmers and forming them as Producer Society and arrange farmer training programs and exposure visit for the capacity building of farmers.

2)    In addition, the CSIAP assists farmers in carrying out compost production programmes and provides a microjet irrigation system for all farmers to productively utilize available limited water resources.

3)    The beneficiary farmers make their contribution by providing Agri inputs, planting materials and labour.

4)    The DOA offered their contribution by providing technical knowledge on Cavendish banana cultivation and arranging exposure visits to observe the Banana plantation and processing units operating for export purposes.

Marketing arrangements: The CSIAP officers in NWP link a Banana buyer called S.R.Bio Foods Products (Pvt) Ltd. He exports the Cavendish banana to Middle East Markets in Dubai and Saudi Arabia.

Meantime, CSIAP arranged to sign a tri-party buyback agreement with the buyer for the period of 05 years by stating the minimum purchasing prices for grade 01 and grade 02 Banana yield.

Anticipated production & income: The economic lifespan of the banana plants is considered as 03 years. Hence, a farmer could be able to receive production, income and profit during 03 years period from this Banana cultivation as follows.

Conclusion: When considering the production pattern and income details, it is explicit that one farmer can receive Rs. 405,533 average annual profit from his ½ Ac Banana cultivation up to 03 years. Hence, it is convinced that this is a substantial income for a smallholder farmer living in Niyadawanaya area and it leads to improving the living standards of these farmers sustainably.

The Climate Smart Irrigated Agriculture Project, a World Bank-funded project, is implemented under the purview of the Ministry of Agriculture & Plantation Industries (MOA & PI). The main objective of the project is to increase farm & water productivity and build the resilience of the climate change-affected farmers in Hotspot areas. The project is implemented in 11 Hotspot areas in 06 Provinces covering 09 River basins

By Frank Jayasinghe, Climate Smart Agriculture Specialist, PMU, CSIAP

The CSIAP Offices in SP and UP merged and moved to a new home in Thanamalwila

Two Provincial Deputy Directors’ Offices  of the Climate Smart Irrigated Agriculture Project (CSIAP) in Southern and Uva Provinces were merged into one hub and relocated to a new office at No. 63, Thissa Road, Aluthgoda, Thanamalwila. To mark this significant milestone, the staff lead by the Deputy Project Director of the both provinces Mr. Mr. D.M.L.D. Bandaranayake held a traditional ceremony that was both meaningful and reflective of the CSIAP’s values and heritage. The ceremony was a special occasion, allowing the CSIAP to express its  gratitude and seek blessings for prosperity and success in the  new space. The CSIAP was honored to have its entire team in attendance, which made the event even more memorable. As the provincial office moves forward in the new location, the CSIAP remains committed to fostering strong relationships with beneficiary farmers including stake holders and implementing agencies, and continuing the high standards of service and collaboration that the all has come to expect from the project. The new office is designed to accommodate the CSIAP’s  growing team with an upgraded space that meets project’s evolving needs.

The CSIAP is leading to the rapid development of agro-economy at provincial level

The Climate Smart Irrigated Agriculture Project (CSIAP) is designed to improve the productivity and climate resilience of smallholder agriculture in 11 selected districts: Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Kurunegala, Puttalam, Kilinochchi, Mulativu, Trincomalee, Batticaloa, Ampara, Monaragala and Hambantota situated in dry zone in Sri Lanka by focusing on three key components: (a) agricultural production,  (b) agricultural marketing and (c) water for agriculture. This PDO is planned to be achieved through investments in the following activities: (i) modernization and improved management of irrigation, drainage and flood protection systems; (ii) implementation of participatory water management plans; (iii) adoption of climate-smart agricultural and water use practices and technologies; and (iv) enhanced value addition and improved access to storage and marketing.  The project area covers 47 Agrarian Service Center Divisions, 258 Grama Niladhari Divisions, and around 70000 farmer families. The project has been addressing the key problem of the vulnerability of agriculture systems in climatic hot spot areas of the country since its inception in 2019.

   Please click    North Central Province                                                 North Western Province                                                      Northern Province                        

                                  Eastern Province                                                              Uva Province                                                             Southern Province to watch videos produced to show the progress achieved in each province where the CSIAP is being implemented.

Climate Resilience through Crop Diversification in Northern Province

Water availability motivated me to cultivate continuously ; farmer Sanjaya in UP

Rain shelter Cultivation empowered me to be successful; farmer Dharmasiri in NWP

Mechanization of Post-Harvest Activity and Value Addition after harvesting

 

Modernization in Paddy transplanting by farmer I. Kannathasan in Mullaitivu

Groundnut Cultivation at Puthukudiyiruppu ASC in Mullaitivu District

Saving Rs 5000 per day while cultivating

Even if there are no fish in the lake, we can continue our life now

 

Farmer Meena’s story on Compost Production and Organic Farming

 

Favorable result of adopting the Parachute Seeding Method when cultivating

CSA Home Gardening by farmer Nadun Suresh at Lahugala in Eastern Province

Leadership and Team Building Programmes commenced for District Level Officers

Two Out Bound Training Programmes on Leadership and Team building for Agriculture Development Officers, Agriculture Instructors, Agriculture Technical Assistants, Technical Officers, Draftsman, Soil Tester, Work Supervisors and Development Officers from Department of Agrarian Development, Provincial Department of Agriculture and Department of Irrigation was organized by Deputy Project Director’s Office of the Climate Smart Irrigated Agriculture Project (CSIAP ) at Ree-Cha Organic Resort, Iyakkachchi, Kilinochchi recently.

These programmes, in which even the project staff participated, consisted of  Orientation & Introduction; (45 Minutes), Characteristics of Leadership concepts (01 hour), Out Bounce Activities: (05 hours & 30 minutes) and Summary, feedback from participants & Closing remarks: (30 minutes). Inaugurating the event as a Chief Guest, Mr. A. G. C. Babu, Deputy Project Director, CSIAP-Northern Province expressed the CSIAP project interventions and crucial roles of the participants & purpose of the Training programme.  Mr. S. Nilojan, Acting Institutional Development & Capacity Building Specialist, CSIAP- Northern province explained the goal of these programmes, guidelines and basic instructions.  

Conducting these training programmes, Mr. B. Sribavan, Humen Recourse Development Officer, District Secretariat - Jaffna discussed the theme of the training programme, course content and major outcome of the programme and presented Leadership & Teambuilding concepts, Types of leadership, Importance of leadership, Skills and  Characteristics of Leaders while Mr. S. Kalatharan, Development Officer, Pradeshiya Sabha – Nallur, facilitated the session with brainstorming activities. During these programmes, participants were fully engaged in the “Team Up” activity and learned how to organize a team properly. Participants were involved in different learning activities such as Cane balancing with the floor, Ball passing among team members, Human tunnel, Tower building, Hula Hoop Activity, Risk zone recovery, Number training and Rope chain training, etc. Later, they have an opportunity to gain knowledge on  Communication (Non- Verbal, Non- Violence), Collaboration, Critical thinking, Creativity, Initiative, Decision making, Out of box thinking, Flexibility, Productivity, Self Confidence, Self-evaluation, Resource management and  Skill identification etc.  

The WB discusses the way forward in proposed activities for next 18th month

The World Bank Officials visited the Project Management Unit of the Climate Smart Irrigated Agriculture Project (CSIAP) this morning (14th) to discuss the way forward in proposed activities during the period of project extension from July 2024 to December 2025.

Representing the World Bank, Senior Agriculture Specialist Dr. Athula Senarathne, Consultant Mr. S. Manoharan and Consultant Mr. Sarath Wickramarathne attended this meeting. Eng. R. M. B. Rajakaruna, Project Director led the CSIAP team with Mr. R. P.M. Dissanayake, Deputy Project Director- Southern Province and subject-related specialists of the PM. Deputy Project Directors of North Western, North Central, Eastern, Northern and Uva provincial offices of the CSIAP joined the meeting via Webex.

The areas of focus would include:
CSA program
a. Agronomic improvements to be scaled up
b. New developments of farmer training school(s)
c. Proposed CSA Center at the MOAPI

Agribusiness and value chain development program
a. Brainstorming discussion on agribusiness and value chain development activities for identifying an innovative program
b. Possibility of getting international expert support

2. Institutional development and capacity building program
a. Next steps of CMP development and implementation
b. Progress of issuing a public administration circular and cabinet paper on CMCs
c. Workshops and awareness programs - Implementing Street dramas, organization of a workshop for DSs, National workshop for heads of institutions

3. Integrated water management in cascade systems and strengthening Fos
a. Prepare a combined training program by Water Resource Management and ID&CB teams and with the support of the other relevant PMU staff and government officers to strengthen the capacity of the FOs.

4. Digital agriculture developments and MIS
a. Next steps of MIS development
b. Utilization of MIS effectively for monitoring and project impact evaluation
c. Other areas of digital development

5. Other relevant matters
a. Amalgamation of Uva and Southern Province and organization of project activities in these provinces during the extension period; recruitment of vacant staff positions

This discussion is a continuation of the dialogue the World Bank started on actions agreed during the recent implementation support mission and the subsequent meeting the World Bank had with the CSIAP’s staff on the allocation of funds for respective project components.

Photograph by Nikeshala Kodithuwakku, PMU, CSIAP 

The CSIAP takes the initiative to prepare the Zonal Land Use Plans for 61 cascades

 The Climate Smart Irrigated Agriculture Project (CSIAP) follows the cascade management approach in implementing its activities. For this purpose, the CSIA project establishes Cascade Management Committees (CMCs) for all the cascades in the project area.  Accordingly, the CSIAP has already established 54 CMCs and another 7 CMCs are to be established. For the protection and development of cascades, these CMCs develop Cascade Management Plans (CMPs) which include cascade profiles and cascade development plans. It has also identified the necessity of including Zonal Land Use Plans in the relevant CMPs.  The Department of Land Use Policy Planning (LUPPD) accepted the CSIAP’s request to prepare Zonal Land Use Plans which include land suitability assessment for 61 cascades in which the CSIAP is being implemented.  As an initial step, a workshop was organized with the participation of LUPPD officers of relevant project districts and relevant officers of the CSIAP to discuss and finalize the guidelines for the preparation of the Zonal Land Use Plans. This two-day workshop was held at Four Points Resort, Anuradhapura recently, with the participation of 65 officers from both institutions.

The first day of the workshop was held at the Four Point Resort and matters relating to the historical aspect of the tank cascade system in Sri Lanka, the roles and responsibilities of CMCs and the process of preparing CMPs were discussed. In the afternoon the guidelines for preparation of Zonal Land Use Plans were discussed with group work to finalize the guidelines. The second day of the program was scheduled a field visit to the Meehondawewa cascade to identify various components of it and find out various degradation issues arisen in the cascade due to human and non-human activities. The field visit was also facilitated by an expert on the subject. The workshop was very successful and it will help all the participants to perform the assigned task effectively.

Making framers aware of Seasonal Paddy Field Electric Fence in Kilinochchi

In order to boost agricultural productivity and safeguard paddy cultivation from damages caused by wild animals, the Climate Smart Irrigated Agriculture Project (CSIAP) organized an awareness programme at the Department of Agrarian Development, Kilinochchi for farmers in Kilinochchi with the participation of Officials of Agrarian Service Centers (ASCs) in Kilinochchi. This programme emphasized the importance of implementing effective protective measures to be taken against wild animals and focusing on installing and maintaining electric elephant fences.

Key Points of this programme
1. Addressing Humen Elephant Conflicts:
Farmers were made aware of the adverse effects of wild animals, especially elephants causing damage to seasonal paddy cultivation. This session highlighted the severity of wild animals attacks and the urgent need to take protective measures to ensure the safety of crops.

2. Importance and Functionality of Seasonal Electric Fences:
The advantages of using seasonal electric fencing to prevent elephant encroachment were highlighted. Farmers were informed of the operational aspects, tariff management, and maintenance protocols associated with electric fences through a PowerPoint presentation. This detailed overview is aimed at equipping farmers with the knowledge needed to effectively use this electric fence in their fields.

3. Expert Facilitation and Coordination:The program was facilitated by Dr. Janaka Jayawardana, Environmental Social Safeguard Specialist, CSIAP who provided valuable insights into environmental safeguards and sustainable agricultural practices. Mr. A.G.C. Babu, Deputy Project Director, Northern Province (NP), guided to ensured the smooth execution of the event. Ms. S. Kesiga, Environment Protection Officer, CSIAP-NP, coordinated the electric fence initiative, and
pointed out the collaborative efforts of various stakeholders and Mr. A. Yogeshwaran, Social Safeguard Officer, CSIAP- NP supported the successful implementation of this programme.

4. Collaborative Engagement and Support
Active participation of key Agricultural Officials, including the Assistant Commissioner of the Department of Agrarian Development and the Deputy Director of Agriculture, Department of Agriculture, Kilinochchi were seen. Their presence reinforced the commitment of governmental bodies to support local farmers in adopting innovative solutions for crop protection.

5. Future Initiatives
The Seasonal Paddy Cultivation Protection Fence Training of Trainers (TOT) will be implemented by the Centre for Conservation and Research (CCR) under the guidance of Dr.Prithvirajh Fernando. This programme focuses on training local trainers to educate and assist farmers in their respective communities and ensure widespread use and effective management of electric fences.

Conclusion
The awareness programme on the Seasonal Paddy Field Electric Fence marks a significant milestone in empowering farmers of Kilinochchi and Mullaitivu. By fostering knowledge exchange and providing practical solutions to Humen Elephant Conflicts, the CSIAP is paving the way for Sustainable Agricultural practices that promise enhanced productivity and security for local farmers. The collaborative efforts of the CSIAP, governmental bodies, and local communities are instrumental in driving this transformative initiative forward.

Written by S. Kesiga, Environmental Safeguard Officer, CSIAP, Northern Province.

The wrap-up meeting of the CSIAP's Implementation Support Mission held at ERD

The wrap up meeting of Implementation Support Mission, which involves summarizing the work done by the Climate Smart Irrigated Agriculture Project (CSIAP), highlighting key achievements, discussing lessons learned, and planning for any necessary follow-up actions, was held this morning at the Department of External Resources. This meeting ensures that all aspects of the project are reviewed, and that team members and stakeholders are aligned on the outcomes and next steps. This approach promotes transparency, learning, and continuous improvement of the project.

Mr. Samantha Bandara, Additional Director General, Department of External Resources  chaired this meeting along with Ms. Nalani Amaratunga, Additional Director General, Department of National Budget, Mr. Asiri Ranaweera, Director, Department of Treasury Operations , Mr. P.H. Chandima, Director, Department of Project Management and Monitoring , Mrs. Vijini Gunawardena, Deputy Director, Department of National Planning and Ms. Kausi Jayasinghe, Assistant Director, World Bank Division of Department of External. Representing the World Bank, Dr. Athula Senarathne, Senior Agriculture Specialist was also present.

Dr. Sheu Salau, Task Team Leader of the CSIAP and Mission Leader of the World Bank, Mrs. Lathisha. P. Liyanage, Additional Secretary (Development), Ministry of Agriculture and Plantation Industries and Ms. Himali Bogodagedara, Director -World Bank Division of Department of External Resources remotely joined the meeting.

The 12th National Project Steering Committee Meeting of the CSIAP commenced

The 12h National Project Steering Committee (NPSC) Meeting of the Climate Smart Irrigated Agriculture Project (CSIAP) is being held this morning (22^nd ) at the Ministry of Agriculture and Plantation Industries (MoA&PI). The NPSC meeting, which was chaired by Ms. Latheesha Liyanage, Additional Secretary (Development) of the MoA&PI, is vital for ensuring that the CSIAP’s initiatives are strategically guided, well-coordinated, and effectively implemented and contributing to the overall project’s development and progress.

The NPSC, which is  set up at the Ministry of Agriculture to take the overall responsibility in executing the CSIAP, will consist of key officials of the major stakeholder agencies of the central government, and provincial government,  mainly to provide policy guidance to the project and to ensure achieving CSIAP’s objectives. The World Bank Officials and Chief Secretaries of provinces where the CSIAP is being implemented joined the meeting remotely. The CSIAP team was led by Eng. R.M.B. Rajakaruna along with the Project Director, Provincial Deputy Project Directors and Subject Specialists in this meeting.

Photograph by Nikeshala Kodithuwakku. PMU, CSIAP

MoAPI reviews monthly progress of the CSIAP

The Monthly Progress Review meeting of the Climate Smart Irrigated Agriculture Project (CSIAP), which serves as a critical checkpoint where the Ministry of Agriculture and Plantation Industries, evaluates the CSIAP’s progress, addresses any issues and aligns their efforts to ensure the project stays on track, was held today (20th) at the Ministry of Agriculture and Plantation Industries (MoAPI).  This meeting was chaired by Mr. Janaka Dharmakeerthi, Secretary with Ms. Latheesha Liyanage, Additional Secretary (Development),  Ms. Anuradha Dharmasena, Director,  (Development)  of the MoAPI.  The CSIAP team was led by Eng. R.M.B. Rajakaruna, Project Director.

Photograph by Nikeshala, Kodithuwakku, PMU, CSIAP

30 Nutritious and Delicious One-Dish-Meals that can be prepared easily

Uplift household-level nutritional security by maximum use of Home Garden production and uncommon vegetables

 In the current context of Sri Lanka, achieving a balanced meal is challenging, which leads to food insecurity (UNICEF, 2023). Therefore, to minimize this issue a research team from the Department of Applied Nutrition of Wayamba University of Sri Lanka conducted a study to design One-Dish Meals (ODMs) for using underutilized and uncommon vegetables and grains such as pumpkin, winged bean, mung bean, cowpea and green leafy vegetables. The study aimed at designing nutritious and high-satiety response ODMs at affordable prices. The ODM concept ensures proper nutrition in a single meal through a balanced ratio of calories, protein, fat, and carbohydrates, including plant-based vitamins and minerals (One-Dish-Meals-of-South-Asia, 2015).

After the successful results of sensory and satiety response evaluations done by the Wayamba University team, it was tried to expand to a broader area in Sri Lanka. The Ministry of Agriculture and Plantation Industries (MoA&PI) seeks to implement this intervention with the collaboration of the Wayamba University of Sri Lanka (WUSL) under the Climate Smart Irrigated Agriculture Project (CSIAP) which is financed by the World Bank.

Therefore, a Training of Trainers (ToT) was conducted with the resource persons from the WUSL, under the guidance of MoA&PI, and implemented by the CSIAP with the multi-sectorial collaboration in Sri Lanka. Out of 93 participants (18 male & 75 female), 14 participants were from the educational sector, 05 participants from the health sector, 69 participants from the agricultural sector, and 05 participants from other relevant institutions. A practical ToT session was conducted recently, at the In-Service Training Center, Gannoruwa.

The ODM concept directly ensures the following:

* Food affordability     
* Food accessibility          
* Food availability        
* Food Utilization of the Poor People. 

At the end of the ToT program, participants were able to understand the maximum use of underutilized vegetables, and the use of uncommon vegetables to the ODM, and gained knowledge on dietary diversity and enhancement of household nutrition. 

3o One-Dish Meals prepared and demonstrated are below

1-Waya Pumpkinach Melange | 2-Waya Pumpkinasia Patch | 3-Waya Murungasia Rice | 4-Waya Ashybean Sizzle | 5-Waya Beetanash Mix  |          6-Waya Pumpkileeks Savory | 7-Waya Cowpeanach Combo | 8-Waya Leeky Pea Carota |  9-Waya Ashleekin Medley | 10-Waya Leeky Cowpeanash | 11-Waya Long Lasiea | 12-Waya Chickpea Delight |  13-Waya Drumstick Bliss | 14-Waya Sweetpotato Savor | 15-Waya Veggie Burst |16-Waya Juneplums Medley | 17-Waya Split Pea Delight | 18-Waya Okra Medley | 19-Waya Star Bean Mix | 20-Waya Daikon Bliss | 21-Waya Brinjal Bounty | 22-Waya Brinjal Moringa Stir | 23-Waya Goober Soy Delight | 24-Waya Peanut Crunch | 25-Waya Baby Jackfruit Delicacy |26-Waya Moringasia Blend | 27-Waya Lasia Lotus Rice | 28-Waya Kohlrabi Stick | 29-Waya Munggo Sweet Mix | 30-Waya Vigna Jacky Mix  

Written by  Rashmi Navanjana, Project Trainee, CSIAP

The World Bank reviews the overall progress of the CSIAP at the PMU

The overall progress Review Meeting to assess achievements, address any remaining issues, and pave the way for a successful project conclusion of the Climate Smart Irrigate Agriculture Project was held at the Project Management Unit (PMU) of the CSIAP, Colombo this morning(03rd). Having witnessed the CSIAP’s activities and its impact in Southern, Uva, North Central and Eastern provinces, the World Bank Officials gathered at the PMU under the leadership of Task Team Leader (TTL) of the CSIAP & Mission Leader Dr.  Sheu Salau with Consultant Mr. S. Manoharan, Consultant Mr. Sarath Wickramaratne, Environmental Safeguard Consultant Ms. Sithara Athapatthu, Senior Agriculture Specialist Dr. Athula Senarathne, Senior Environmental Specialist Ms. Nadeera Rajapaksha, Procurement Specialist Ms. Heenaben Yatin Doshi and Voice Secondee Ms. Sima Ramrattan from the Republic of Suriname. This meeting serves as a forum for the CSIAP to converge, align, and strategize, ensuring that projects stay on track, issues are addressed promptly, and goals are achieved efficiently.

The CSIAP’s Project Director Eng. R. M.B. Rajakaruna welcomed the World Bank Officials and overall progress was presented afterwards by the MIS. Deputy Project Directors of six provinces, Specialists and Officers of the CSIAP were present at this meeting. 

Photographs by Nikeshala Kodithuwaku, PMU, CSIAP