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.