The World Bank Officials brief outcome of progress tours in CSIAP areas

A comprehensive briefing was conducted today (13th) at the Project Management Unit, following progress tours in North Central, Northern, Eastern, Southern and Uva provinces where the Climate Smart Irrigated Agriculture Project is being implemented by World Bank Officials who reviewed the current status of the project, identifying achievements, addressing concerns, and evaluating next steps in ensuring timely completion. The Task Team Leader (TTL) of the CSIAP & Mission Leader Dr.  Sheu Salau of the World Bank assessed key areas of progress, reviewed project milestones, and addressed any existing challenges impacting the timeline.

During the briefing, CSIAP’s Project Director Mr. S.M. Saman Bandulasena emphasized the importance of implementing project activities that benefit the community, maintaining quality and adhering to deadlines. Senior Agriculture Specialist Dr. Athula Senarathne, Consultant Mr. S. Manoharan and Consultant Prof. V.K. Ravichandran, Monitoring & Evaluation Consultant Mr Jagath Seneviratne and Value Chain and Agribusiness Development Consultant Mr Sanjeewa Rodrigo of the World Bank and Deputy Project Director, Mr. H.M.P Bandara, Subject Specialists and Officers of the CSIAP.

Photograph by Nikeshala Kodithuwakku, PMU, CSIAP

CS Home Gardening & Farmer Training, success stories from CSIAP Farmers in EP

Rehabilitation of Agro wells, success stories from CSIAP Farmers in EP

 

Dry Chilli Production & Agronomic Intervention, success stories from Farmers in EP

 

Agronomic Intervention, success stories from CSIAP Youth Farmers in EP

Rehabilitation of Irrigation System, success stories from CSIAP Farmers in EP

Mr. S.M.Saman Bandulasena assumes duty as the Project Director of the CSIAP

Mr. S.M. Saman Bandulasena, a reputed and well-experienced retired Special Grade officer of the Sri Lanka Administrative Service, assumed the role of Project Director for the Climate Smart Irrigated Agriculture Project (CSIAP). Mr. Bandulasena takes responsibility for overseeing the entire CSIAP’s activities, ensuring alignment with the project’s objectives and fostering collaboration among stakeholders to achieve project milestones. From now onwards, the new Project Director steers the CSIAP with his expertise towards its intended goals to ensure the project’s success while maintaining the highest standards of quality and efficiency.

Mr. Bandulasena has held various positions such as Assistant Commissioner of Elections, Senior Assistant Commissioner of Elections, Divisional Secretary, Additional District Secretary, Secretary to Provincial Ministry, District Secretary, Chief Secretary  and Senior Additional Secretary to the President since he joined the administrative service in 1998.

The World Bank’s 13th support mission to the CSIAP visited Eastern Province

The World Bank Team of the 13th Implementation Support and Review Mission of the Climate Smart Irrigated Agriculture Project (CSIAP) arrived in Eastern Province to evaluate the implementation and performance of the Climate Smart Irrigated Agriculture Project. The World Bank’s supervision is critical for maintaining accountability, enhancing transparency, and ensuring the effectiveness of the CSIAP. Representing the World Bank, the Task Team Leader (TTL) of the CSIAP & Mission Leader Dr.  Sheu Salau with Consultant Mr. S. Manoharan and Consultant Prof. V.K. Ravichandran visited Eastern Province today (04th) to review the implementation of CSIAP to achieve developmental goals and maximize the impact of financial assistance from the World Bank. This mission is essential for ensuring the CSIAP meets its objectives and adhering to the agreed timelines, budgets, and guidelines. Key elements such as assessment of progress, problem identification, stakeholders’ engagements, compliance checks and capacity building were reviewed during this mission.

Dr. Sheu and his colleagues witnessed the Rehabilitation process of the Neelapanikan Tank, the function of the Groundnut Pod Separator Machine provided to the Thiriyai Producer Society, cultivation under Agrowell with a Sprinkler Irrigation System & Insect Proof Net and Maha Cultivation of Maize in grow bags at Thiriyai. During this mission, the World Bank Officials participated in a farmers' business school training programme at Thiriyai and awarded certificates to farmers from Thiriyai & Kattukulam Producer Societies who completed training classes at Farm Business School (FBS). After the ceremony, farmers shared their experiences in the FBS training with the World Bank Team and posed for a group photograph with them too.

Finally, the Progress Review Meeting was held to observe subject-wise progress at the Uppuweli Agrarian Service Center, Trincomalee.  Marking the World Bank Supporting Mission, “Journey of CSIAP EP from 2019 - 2024", a publication written on the CSIAP achievements from the inception of the project,  was handed over to World Bank Teams by Institutional Developments and Capacity Building Specialist Mr. S. Naveendradas and Monitoring & Evaluation Officer Ms. K. Karthiga. The overall progress of the CSIAP’s activities achieved in Eastern Province was presented through Management Information Systems (MIS) by Monitoring & Evaluation Officer Ms. K. Karthiga. Mr. H.B. Anees, Deputy Project Director of the CSIAP in Eastern Province guided and facilitated this World Bank Mission in Eastern Province with his staff.

Photographs by Nikeshala Kodithuwakku, PMU, CSIAP

The World Bank’s 13th support mission to the CSIAP visited Uva Province

The World Bank Team of the 13th Implementation Support and Review Mission of the Climate Smart Irrigated Agriculture Project (CSIAP) observed the progress of the project in Monaragala District today (03rd). Climate Smart Irrigated Agriculture Project (CSIAP).  The Task Team Leader (TTL) of the CSIAP & Mission Leader Dr.  Sheu Salau with Consultant Mr. S. Manoharan and Consultant Prof. V.K. Ravichandran of the World Bank look into the implementation and outcomes of initiatives, identify challenges, gaps, or areas for improvement and ensure that resources are being used effectively. 

The World Bank Team witnessed Field Cannels, Tanks to be rehabilitated, Cultivation Fields, farmers using Solar Pumps  and a farmer selling value-added products. The World Bank Team had opportunities to meet farmers benefiting from the CSIAP. Mr. D.M.L. Bandaranayake, Deputy Project Director of the CSIAP in Southern and Uva Provinces facilitated this World Bank Mission in Southern with his staff.

Photographs by Nikeshala Kodithuwakku, PMU and Thamindu Sandaruwan, SP&UP, CSIAP 

The World Bank’s 13th support mission to the CSIAP commenced in Southern

The World Bank Team of the 13th Implementation Support and Review Mission of the Climate Smart Irrigated Agriculture Project (CSIAP) commenced this morning (02nd) in Southern Province to monitor, assess, and evaluate the progress of the Climate Smart Irrigated Agriculture Project (CSIAP).  This mission allows the World Bank Officials to observe the implementation and outcomes of initiatives, identify challenges, gaps, or areas for improvement and ensure that resources are being used effectively. 

The World Bank Team led by Task Team Leader (TTL) of the CSIAP & Mission Leader Dr.  Sheu Salau with Consultant Mr. S. Manoharan and Consultant Prof. V.K. Ravichandran witnessed Rehabilitated Tanks, Electric Fencing, Spillways, Field Cannels, Sluice Gates, Cultivation Fields and a Cascade Management Committee Meeting in areas in Southern Province where the CSIAP is being implemented. The World Bank Team had opportunities to meet farmers benefiting from the CSIAP. Finally, both Southern & Uva Provinces' Progress Review Meeting was held to observe subject-wise progress at the Deputy Project Director’s Office in Southern & Uva Provinces in Thanamalwila. Mr. D.M.L. Bandaranayake, Deputy Project Director of the CSIAP in Southern and Uva Provinces facilitated this World Bank Mission in Southern with his staff.

Photographs by Nikeshala Kodithuwakku, PMU and Thamindu Sandaruwan, SP&UP, CSIAP 

World Bank Officials meet Secretary of Agriculture to discuss the CSIAP's progress

The World Bank Officials led by Task Team Leader (TTL) of the Climate Smart Irrigated Agriculture Project (CSIAP) & Mission Leader Dr.  Sheu Salau and his team met Mr. D. P. Wickremasinghe, Secretary to the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, Land and Irrigation this morning (29^th) to express their views on the progress of the CSIAP’s, emphasizing milestones achieved and strategies for addressing challenges to achieve project development objectives.

During this meeting, the World Bank reiterated its commitment to working closely with the ministry to ensure the success of the CSIAP. The next project review will take place in six months. Senior Officials of the ministry and Mr. Sumith Chandana, Project Director, CSIAP attended this meeting with Mr. H. M. P. Bandara, Deputy Project Director, Subject Specialists and Officers of the project.

Photograph by Nikeshala Kodithuwakku, PMU, CSIAP 

The 13th Implementation Support and Review Mission of the CSIAP commenced

The World Bank Officials visited the Project Management Unit of the Climate Smart Irrigated Agriculture Project (CSIAP) this morning (28th) to assess the overall development progress of the CSIAP and its effectiveness in delivering project development objectives. Representing the World Bank, Task Team Leader (TTL) of the CSIAP & Mission Leader Dr.  Sheu Salau led the World Bank Team. Mr. Sumith Chandana, Project Director attended this meeting with the CSIAP team of Deputy Project Directors, Subject Specialists and Officers.

Photographs by Nikeshala Kodithuwakku, PMU, CSIAP

Micro Irrigation Systems are introduced to 3787 farmers at a Cost of Rs. 589 Mn

 The Climate Smart Irrigated Agriculture Project, financed by the World Bank is being implemented under the purview of the Ministry of Agriculture is promoting micro irrigation strategy at a cost of 589 million rupees with 3787 farmers engaged in cultivation practices in the project area. The CSIAP operates its activities in 47 Agrarian services divisions in 11 districts within 6 provinces namely North West, North Central, North, East, South and Uva with the aim of increasing the agriculture and water productivity in their farms by building the climate resilience of the farmers who are vulnerable to climate change impact, has provided micro irrigation systems to enhance the water productivity of farmlands.

Micro irrigation systems such as Sprinkler irrigation systems, Drip irrigation systems, Micro jet and Rain hose systems were provided to 549 farmers in the North Western Province, 840 farmers in the North Central Province, 693 farmers in the Northern Province, 502 farmers in the Eastern Province, 691 farmers in Uva Province and 512 farmers in the southern province.

By using micro irrigation, the water required by the plant is given near the root system at proper intervals. The project farmers are able to receive more yield from their farms using micro irrigation, despite the prevailing water scarcity in the project area due to prolonged drought. Besides, farmers have the convenience of applying fertilizer to the crop through this irrigation system itself and farmers are able to cultivate crops throughout the year and get more income from off-season cultivation.

The CSIAP has already rehabilitated 1142 agro wells so far and obtained a yield of 3082 metric tons through cultivating 1112 hectares of land under these rehabilitated wells. The project also establishes sprinkler or drip irrigation systems using solar water pumps in these cultivation fields, thereby reducing the emission of Greenhouse Gases (GHG) into the atmosphere. Saving the cost of fuel by using solar water pumps is another benefit to the farmers. CSIAP wishes to reveal that, 707 hectares of land are currently being cultivated using micro irrigation systems, within the project area.

Agriculture Devision, CSIAP

Changing from a Traditional Farmer to a Modern Agricultural Innovator

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