A three-day field visit to assess the ongoing activities and project progress in EP

A team of the Project Management Unit of the Climate Smart Irrigated Agriculture Project (CSIAP) led by Mr. S.M. Saman Bandulasena, Project Director, embarked on a three-day field visit in Eastern Province to assess the ongoing activities and progress of the CSIAP. This visit, held from 27^th to 29^th this month, aimed to evaluate the implementation status, identify challenges, and engage with stakeholders to ensure the project's objectives are being met effectively.

Objectives of the visit: 
* To monitor and evaluate the implementation of project activities.
* To assess the impact of the project on the target community.
* To identify challenges and areas for improvement.
* To engage with stakeholders for feedback and future planning. 

 The PMU included Climate Smart Agriculture Specialist Mr. Frank Jayasinghe, Water Management and Monitoring Specialist Eng. N.A.I.U.K. Nissanka, Environmental and Social Safeguard Specialist Mr. Gamini Subasinghe, Information, Education and Communication & Information and  Communication Technology Specialist Mr. Samantha Mallawaarachchi and Gender Officer Ms. Sharmila Shanmuganathan to inspect key project sites in Ampara, Batticaloa and Trincomalee and interact with beneficiaries and local officials. Provincial Staff of the CSIAP in Eastern Province led by newly appointed Deputy Project Director Mr. R. Umakanthan and former Acting Project Director Mr. H. B. Anees join the PMU team for this tour.  This visit provides a firsthand look at the progress made so far, highlighting key achievements and areas needing further attention.  

This field visit reaffirms the commitment to delivering measurable outcomes and ensuring the long-term success of the CSIAP. Commencing the field visit in Ampara, The Project Director said “We are committed to ensuring the success of this initiative, and field visits like these allow us to understand ground realities firsthand. The insights gained will help us refine our approach and ensure that we are on track to achieving our goals.”

The PMU team had a discussion about the rehabilitation of Podiwewa with farmers from Kawantissa Govi Samitiya in Hulannuge Village,  Lahugala to address the current condition of the tank, understand the needs and concerns of the farming community, and plan necessary improvements to ensure a sustainable water supply for agriculture and other purposes. 

Project Director met the CSIAP Farmer Ms. Inoka Bulegoda in Hulannuge, who underwent the training programme of Humanuge Farmer Business School conducted by the CSIAP,  is selling high-quality value-added products such as rice flour, maize flour and kurakkan flour that brings convenience, nutrition, and exceptional taste. Mr. Bandulasena pointed out the importance of value-added products and asked her to focus on local and international markets. 

 As part of the CSIAP’s ongoing efforts to support environmental sustainability and contribute positively to its community, the CSIAP is embarking on a tree planting program that aims to restore green spaces and contribute to our environment's overall health and beauty. A total of 360 trees consisting of Kumbuk, Mee and Karanda to be planted represent a step towards a cleaner, greener future for our children and future generations. 

 The Project Director and his team met local farmers and farm organizations at Kandahindagama, Lahugala . The discussion was incredibly insightful, and it was a privilege to hear directly from those who are at the heart of our agricultural community. During this meeting, Farmers and CSIAP  discussed several important topics related to sustainable farming practices, challenges faced by local farmers, and potential solutions for improving agricultural productivity and community resilience. The CSIAP was particularly impressed by the dedication and passion of everyone involved in advocating for the betterment of our agricultural sector. 

Farmer Mr. W. K. D Nandasena in Hulannuge, who received Insect-Proof nets, Poly Mulching, an Agro-well, and Micro Irrigation, has achieved remarkable success in chilli cultivation through input givens and the adoption of Climate-Smart Agriculture Practices. He earned Rs 388,350 by producing 400kg of chillies within three months, spending only Rs 3600 to reach this figure. In an inspiring example of collaboration and community development, Agriculture Instructor Mr. A. M. T. Jaliya has been working closely with this farmer to enhance his agricultural practices and improve crop yields. This event underscores the importance of continued support for farmers and the critical role of agricultural programs in fostering growth, sustainability, and economic development in rural areas. The successful cultivation also serves as an inspiration for other farmers in the area, demonstrating the potential of small-scale agriculture when supported by the right resources.

In a heartwarming story of resilience and entrepreneurship, a local female farmer Ms. D.M. Gnanawathi in Hulannuge, has found success with her roadside vegetable stall, offering fresh, locally grown produce to the community. Starting out with a small selection of homegrown vegetables, Ms. Gnanawathi, who underwent Farmer Business School Training conducted by the CSIAP  has turned her roadside stall into a popular stop for residents seeking fresh, affordable options. From leafy greens to root vegetables, she provides high-quality, sustainable produce that supports both local agriculture and healthy living. Her initiative not only showcases the strength and determination of women in agriculture but also highlights the growing trend of farmers connecting directly with their communities, cutting out the middleman and ensuring freshness at competitive prices.

The PMU Officials and local farmers gathered for the observation of the completed Kunjanodai Anicut in Pothuwil, highlighting its importance in ensuring long-term water security for the region. The project is expected to increase crop yields and improve the livelihoods of farmers who rely on this resource for irrigation. This anicut, built by the CSIAP at a cost of Rs 36.69 M, has been strategically placed to enhance water flow and reduce the risk of floods, benefiting the local community in multiple ways. With its capacity to regulate river flow, it helps prevent soil erosion, recharge groundwater levels, and support sustainable farming practices. 

 

In a remarkable display of innovation and hard work, local farmer Mr. R. Surendra in Rottai village, Pothuwil, a beneficiary of the CSIAP, has successfully cultivated chillies, showcasing the positive impact of agricultural support programme conducted by the CSIAP in Ampara District. The cultivation, observed by the Project Director highlights the farmer’s dedication to adopting modern farming practices and techniques that have greatly increased both yield and quality.  Through the support received from the CSIAP, which included an electric pump, Insects Proof Nets, Dip Irrigation System and Chilli Seeds, the farmer has transformed his farming methods and achieved outstanding results. The CSIAP Officials were on-site to observe the farm's progress, praising the farmer's efforts and the success of the initiative.

A meeting chaired by Mr. Chinthaka Abeywickrama, District Secretary to discuss the current progress of the CSIAP was, held in the District Secretariat in Ampara. The purpose of this discussion was to review the status of the project, evaluate deliverables, and ensure that it is on track to meet the outlined objectives and timelines. The Project Director explained the activities implemented in the district, Upcoming Milestones and Deliverables. Provincial Officials were also present

The above field visit provided an in-depth understanding of the project's progress and its impact on the community. While significant achievements have been made, addressing the identified challenges will be crucial for the project's long-term success. Continuous engagement and adaptive strategies will help ensure sustainable development and positive outcomes for all stakeholders.

Heartfelt thanks for stepping into the Acting Deputy Project Director Role in EP

The Climate Smart Irrigated Agriculture Project (CSIAP) wants to extend its heartfelt gratitude to Mr. H.B. Anees, Deputy Director (Planning) of District Secretariat, Ampara for stepping up and taking on the covering role of the Deputy Project Director of the CSIAP in Eastern Province from 30th September 2024 to 23rd January 2025. His willingness to take on this responsibility has not only ensured the smooth functioning of the CSIAP activities in the province but also highlighted his exceptional managerial skills and commitments. His dedication, adaptability, and leadership have been remarkable during this time. 

Mr. Anees’s ability to manage the role's demands with such confidence, professionalism, and grace is truly commendable. Whether guiding the team, making critical decisions, or simply being a source of support and encouragement, he excelled in every aspect. He not only demonstrated that the Eastern Province team stayed on track to accomplish CSIAP’s objectives, but he also handled challenges with grace and professionalism. His ability to lead with such confidence and competence has been an inspiration to everyone. 

The Outgoing Deputy Director’s hard work and commitment have not gone unnoticed, and the CSIAP is incredibly grateful for the effort he puts into ensuring the continued success of ground-level project activities during his time. The impact he has made while covering this role has been invaluable, and the CSIAP is so grateful for his contributions. The CSIAP thanks him once again for stepping up and going above and beyond to make a difference.  

The CSIAP facilitates Agribusiness and Value Chain Development for farmers in EP

      FGD with Arunalu Govi Women Society, FGD with Gomarankadawala Producer Association and FGD with Karadiyanaru Producer Association

As part of the initiative to establish commercially viable business entities from the producer associations identified by the Climate Smart Irrigated Agriculture Project   (CSIAP), a team including Mr Sanjeewa Rodrigo, Agribusiness & Marketing  Consultant, Mr Jagath Seneviratne, M&E Consultant representing the World Bank and  Mr. D. V. Bandulasena, Institutional Development & Capacity Building Specialist and Dr Kumudini Gunasekare, Agribusiness & Market Linkage Development Specialist representing the PMU, CSIAP engaged in focused group discussions (FGDs) with one Producer Society,  “Arunalu Diriya Govi Women Society” in Kithulothuwa and two Producer Associations (PAs) namely Gomarankadawala PA, Karadiyanaru PA  in hotspot areas during a two-day field visit on January 16th and 17th, 2025 to the eastern province.  

 The primary goal of these FGDs was to identify the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT) faced by these associations, and to gather their perceptions and preferences on transforming these PAs into legally recognized, commercially viable business entities. A key assessment tool prepared by the consultants was used to rate the associations based on predetermined criteria, providing valuable insights for the next steps.  

These discussions were organized and facilitated by Mr. H. B. Anees, Acting Deputy Project Director, Mr. S. Navendrathas, ID&CB Specialist, Dr. S. M. Hussain, CSA Specialist, Ms. K. Karthiga and M&E Officer along with Agriculture Facilitators at the Deputy Project director’s Office of the CSIAP in Eastern Province. 

Dr. Kumudini Gunasekare, Agribusiness & Market Linkage Development Specialist, PMU, CSIAP

CSIAP's Top Officials monitor the status of ongoing activities in Polonnaruwa

 The Deputy Director’s Office in the North Central Province of the Climate Smart Irrigated Agriculture Project organized a two-day observation tour in Hingurakgoda of Polonnaruwa district for a team of specialists from the Project Management Unit (PMU) led by Mr. S. M. Saman Bandulasena, Project Director to monitor project progress in the district. This was the first time the Project Director arrived in Polonnaruwa alone with Climate Smart Agriculture Specialist Mr. Frank Jayasinghe, Senior Engineer Mr. G. R.A. Godamunne  and Environmental & Social Safeguard Specialist Mr. Gamini Subasinghe. This tour allowed the PMU team to observe ongoing activities, identify issues, engage with stakeholders, collect data, boost morale and build relationships.  

The Project Director discussed with farmers representing Moragaswewa Farm Organization to develop Mahasengama as a Climate Smart Cascade village. Mr. Bandulasean pointed out the importance of developing the paddy fields near the Moragaswewa tank as a tourist attraction. Increasing parachute & inter-season cultivations and how to increase crop diversification in Yala 2025 were raised during the discussion. Finally, the Project Director and other CSIAP officers planted trees too.  

The PMU teams observed the cultivation field of farmer Mr. R.M.M. Jayasinghe who cultivated B Onions in paddy fields using his agro well with fellow farmers as a group during the Maha season. The Project Director explained the importance of increasing productivity as teams by using agro-well with solar pumps.

A special meeting was held at the Hingurakgoda Divisional Secretariate with the participation of farmers and officials of implementing agencies. Repairing agri roads, agri inputs given by the CSIAP, cultivating new plots of land, developing channels, home gardens, agro-wells and tank rehabilitation were discussed during this meeting.  Mr. R.P.M. Dissanayake, Deputy Project Director of the CSIAP in North Central Province presented the progress.

The CSIAP team observed the home garden belonging to farmer Ms. H. W. M. Chandrani at Hatharaskotuwa. The Project Director stepped into the vibrant home garden with a sense of curiosity and admiration. It was a well-maintained space and a testament to the dedication and passion of the family who nurtured it. The CSIAP team was satisfied with the progress achieved by her. The project has given mango plants, grow bags, Seeds and chicks to this farmer.  

The CSIAP team arrived at the chilli cultivation field of farmer Raveeshan located at Aluth Oya in Sinhagama . The Eastern Province of the CSIAP  proudly guided this farmer toward the rows of thriving chilli plants. The plants stood tall and healthy, their branches heavy with vibrant red chillies. This farmer, who had been trained at the Farmer Training School, Thirappane has earned Rs 24000 from 30 kg of Chilies and has obtained insect-proof net and drip irrigation from the project. As walking through the field, the Project Director discussed market trends, selling opportunities, and ways to expand the chilli production. Arunalu Diriya, a women farmer organization, which produces rice, met the CSIAP team at  Kithuluthuwa. Increasing rice production and obtaining water for cultivation were discussed. The Project Director stated that rice is an important agricultural crop with significant economic, nutritional, and cultural importance. Increasing rice cultivation provides numerous benefits that impact local farmers, regional economies, and the country as a whole, he further added. Mr. R. P. M. Dissanayake, Deputy Project Director of the CSIAP in North Central Province organized and facilitated the observation tour with his provincial staff. 

Story by Samantha Mallawaarachchi, IEC & ICT Specialist and photographs by Nikeshala Kodithuwakku, PMU, CSIAP

The World Bank guides the Ambanpola PA to improve its marketing activities

Mr. Sanjeewa Rodrigo Agribusiness & Marketing Consultant of the World Bank met members of the Ambanpola Producer Association in Kurunegala district to guide and support them in developing its marketing activities during the second day of the two-day workshop on the Preparation of Action Plan 2025 for the CSIAP being held at the Irrigation Training Institute, Galgamuwa today (11th).

Market Access Facilitation, Capacity Building, Institutional Support and Infrastructure Development were discussed here. This holistic approach helps this Producer  Association increase competitiveness, improve incomes and achieve sustainable growth. 

This discussion was held under the direct supervision of Mr. S.M. Saman Bandulasena, Project Director, along with Dr. Kumuduni Gunasekara, Agri-Business & Market Linkage Development Specialist (PMU), Mr. D.V. Bandulasena, Intuitional Development and Capacity Building Specialist (PMU) and Hemantha Dissanayake, Intuitional Development and Capacity Building Specialist (NWP) of the Climate Smart Irrigated Agriculture Project.

A provincial-wise group discussion began to finalise the Action Plan 2025 of CSIAP

Subject Specialists and Officers at the Project Management Unit and provincial offices along with Provincial Deputy Project Directors started discussing to finalise the Action Plan 2025 of the Climate Smart Irrigated Agriculture Project (CSIAP) under the supervision of Mr. S.M. Saman Bandulasena, Project Director,  in the second half of the first day of two-day workshop on Preparation of Action Plan 2025 being held at the Irrigation Training Institute, Galgamuwa.

Climate Smart Agriculture Technology for Catchment Development in Sri Lanka

Mr. Rasika Thusitha Kumara, Social Mobilize Specialist (Climate Smart Agriculture) from Palm Foundation in Vavuniya delivered a special lecture on Climate Smart Agriculture Technology for Catchment Development in Sri Lanka during the two-day workshop on Preparation of Action Plan 2025 for the CSIAP held at Irrigation Training Institute at Galgamuwa today (09th) with the Tamil interpretation given by Ms. Sharmila Shanmuganathan, Gender Development Officer, Project Management Unit, CSIAP.

A two-day workshop on Preparation of Action Plan 2025 commences at ITI

                         Mr. Bandulasena                                      Mr. Manoharan                                                 Mr. Senevirathne                                     Mr. Rodrigo

To accomplish the objectives of the Climate Smart Irrigated Agriculture Project (CSIAP) by the end of 2025, a two-day workshop on Preparing the Action Plan 2025 commenced at the Irrigation Training Institute, Galgamuwa, this morning (09th). Welcoming all participants, Mr. S.M. Saman Bandulasena, Project Director, CSIAP stated the project’s goals to be achieved and how project staff work together towards objectives. Mr. S. Manoharan, Senior Consultant of the World Bank, delivered a lecture on Planning the CSIAP’s Activities (Irrigation, Water Management & Project Completion) for 2025, Mr. Jagath Seneviratne, Monitoring & Evaluation Consultant of the World Bank delivered a lecture on Monitoring & Evaluation of CSIAP and preparation for Project Completion, and Mr. Sanjeewa Rodrigo Agribusiness & Marketing Consultant of the World Bank delivered a lecture on New Agribusiness and Marketing Strategy for the CSIAP.

The preparation of the provincial plan at the levels of the deputy project director's offices and the finalization of the overall action plan will be discussed tomorrow. Group Works for the Preparation of the Subject-wise Plan and the Preparation of the Provincial Plan will be conducted during this workshop.Provincial Deputy Project Directors, Subject Specialists and Officers of the CSIAP attended this workshop.

The CSIAP's EP Office commences its work with ‘Clean Sri Lanka'

In line with the “Clean Sri Lanka” national initiative, the official ceremony for the commencement of duties of the Climate Smart Irrigated Agriculture Project (CSIAP) in Eastern Province was held in the Deputy Project Director’s Office of the CSIAP in Trincomalee under the patronage of Action Deputy Project Director Mr. H. B. Anees, with the participation of the project staff. This marks a significant step in CSIAP’s commitment to promoting environmental sustainability, responsible waste management, and cleaner public spaces across the nation.

The CSIAP's NP Office commences its work with ‘Clean Sri Lanka'

 In line with the “Clean Sri Lanka” national initiative, the official ceremony for the commencement of duties of the Climate Smart Irrigated Agriculture Project (CSIAP) in Northern Province was held in the Deputy Project Director’s Office of the CSIAP in Kilinochchi under the patronage of Deputy Project Director Mr. George Babu, with the participation of the project staff. This marks a significant step in CSIAP’s commitment to promoting environmental sustainability, responsible waste management, and cleaner public spaces across the nation.

The CSIAP's NCP Office commences its work with ‘Clean Sri Lanka'

In line with the “Clean Sri Lanka” national initiative, the official ceremony for the commencement of duties of the Climate Smart Irrigated Agriculture Project (CSIAP) in North Central Province was held in the Deputy Project Director’s Office of the CSIAP in Anuradhapura under the patronage of Deputy Project Director Mr. R. P. M Dissanayake, with the participation of the project staff. This marks a significant step in CSIAP’s commitment to promoting environmental sustainability, responsible waste management, and cleaner public spaces across the nation.

The CSIAP's UP & SP Offices commence their work with ‘Clean Sri Lanka'

In line with the “Clean Sri Lanka” national initiative, the official ceremony for the commencement of duties of the Climate Smart Irrigated Agriculture Project (CSIAP) in Southern and Uva Provinces was held in the Deputy Project Director’s Office of the CSIAP in Thanamalwila under the patronage of Deputy Project Director Mr. D. M. L.  Bandaranayake with the participation of the project staff. This marks a significant step in CSIAP’s commitment to promoting environmental sustainability, responsible waste management, and cleaner public spaces across the nation.

The CSIAP commences its work with the inauguration of the ‘Clean Sri Lanka'

The Climate Smart Irrigated Agriculture Project (CSIAP) commenced its work on the very first day of the year 2025 at the Project Management Unit today (01st) with the ‘Clean Sri Lanka’ programme inaugurated at the Presidential Secretariat under the patronage of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake. The ‘Clean Sri Lanka’ aims to create a morally and environmentally sustainable nation by fostering a cleaner and more ethical society. This programme envisions a broad national effort, transcending political and communal differences, to instil attitudinal, behavioural, and qualitative changes among citizens. Its goal is to create a nation enriched with new values, ensuring better living standards for all its citizens under the vision of ‘A Prosperous Nation – Beautiful Lives’. The Clean Sri Lanka pledge was then administered by the CSIAP staff and listened to the President's news year message from the PMU.

 Mr. S. M. Saman Bandulasena, Project Director, CSIAP, wished CSIAP Staff a prosperous new year and said; I am confident in our team’s ability to rise above challenges and achieve remarkable results in 2025. Let’s continue to work with determination and unity, knowing that every step forward brings us closer to our  CSIAP’s goals. I trust in your abilities and your collective strength as a team. Let’s stay resilient, keep moving forward, and thank you for your hard work, dedication, and unwavering commitment demonstrated last year. I respectfully remind you of the service rendered by former CSIAP staff too.

Later Project Director, Mr. D. V. Bandulasena, Intuitional Development and Capacity Building Specialist, Mr. A. Z. J. Singarayer, Senior Technical officer and Ms. Kaumadie Galmangoda, Programmer Officer for Climate Smart Agriculture lit up oil lamps, and milk rice and oil cakes were served to the staff.

Photograph by Nikeshala Kodithuwakku, PMU, CSIAP