The Inspiring Story of Mr. W. G. Nandadewa and Family in Climate Smart Farming

Farming is a hardworking industry where dedication and commitment often yield amazing outcomes. In agriculture, age is not a limitation—intention and perseverance matter most. This is clearly seen in the story of senior farmer Mr. W. G. Nandadewa, aged 60, who continues to work tirelessly in the agricultural sector with the same vigour as a young farmer.

 A Family United by Agriculture
Mr. Nandadewa, based in Ranawarnawa under the Weeravila Agrarian Centre Division, is a shining example of lifelong commitment to farming. His wife, Mrs. M. Karunawathi (age 58), provides unwavering support and courage, managing her own climate-smart home garden with assistance from the Climate Smart Irrigation Agriculture Project (CSIAP). Their shared passion for agriculture has inspired their son, Mr. W. G. Dinesh Chathuranga (age 33), who has also embraced farming under his father’s guidance.

AF Ms. Nuwanthi exchanges ideas with the farmer

 Embracing Sustainable Farming Practices
Over many years, Mr. Nandadewa’s hard work and dedication have made him a highly experienced farmer. Recently, CSIAP provided him with a compost kit to produce organic compost fertiliser for his cultivation. Alongside the kit, he received specialised training in compost fertiliser production, enabling him to reduce his reliance on chemical fertilisers. Currently, Mr. Nandadewa cultivates pumpkins on half an acre of land using his own compost fertiliser. This sustainable approach not only benefits his crops but also sets a positive example for other farmers in the community. He is eagerly anticipating his maiden harvest, confident in the fruits of his labour.

Mentorship and Support
Mr. Nandadewa’s success is also attributed to the valuable guidance and mentorship from Mr. H. J. A. Malaka, Agriculture Instructor at Mattala, who has worked closely with him. He expresses deep gratitude to Agriculture Facilitator (AF) Ms. K. A. A. Nuwanthi and the entire CSIAP team for their continuous support and encouragement throughout his farming journey.

Story and photographs by K.A.A. Nuwanthi, Agriculture Facilitator, SP, CSIAP

Empowering Youth in Agriculture: The Story of Dinesh’s Long Bean Cultivation

The Climate Smart Irrigation Agriculture Project (CSIAP) is consistently committed to promoting and supporting young farmers across its project areas. As part of this mission, the CSIAP makes every effort to identify passionate and determined individuals who are eager to embrace modern, climate-smart cultivation practices. In the Southern Province, the Deputy Project Director’s Office of CSIAP identified one such individual: Mr. W.G. Dinesh Chathuranga, a dynamic 33-year-old farmer from Ranawarana, within the Weerawila Agrarian Service Centre Division. Dinesh was inspired to pursue farming by his father, Mr. W.G. Nandadewa, who is also a beneficiary of the CSIAP. 

Cleaning up weeds

 A Journey of Dedication and Learning
Dinesh’s strong commitment and determination have set him on the path to becoming a successful farmer. His current long bean (Mea) cultivation stands as a testament to his perseverance and passion, especially as this marks his first experience as a young farmer. He was first identified through a CSIAP awareness programme conducted in his area. Recognising his potential, the project enrolled him in a three-day residential training at the Climate Smart Farmer Training School in Thirappane, where he gained in-depth knowledge of climate-smart agricultural practices and technologies. To further build his capacity, Dinesh also received specialised training in compost fertiliser production, which enhanced his ability to maintain sustainable and eco-friendly cultivation practices. 

Support from Mentors and the CSIAP Team

The farmer was being guided by AF Ms. Nuwanthi 

Dinesh benefited greatly from the guidance and mentorship provided by Mr. H.J.A. Malaka, Agriculture Instructor at Mattala, who worked closely with him. Through the Farmer Business School programme conducted by Mr. Malaka, Dinesh was trained to approach his cultivation not just as a livelihood but as a viable business opportunity. In addition, Dinesh expresses deep gratitude to Agriculture Facilitator Ms. K.A.A. Nuwanthi and the wider CSIAP team for their ongoing support and encouragement throughout his journey.

Resources for Success
To ensure the success of his cultivation, CSIAP provided Dinesh with key agricultural inputs, including an insect-proof net and a drip irrigation system. With these resources, he successfully cultivated long beans on a quarter-acre plot of land.

Looking ahead
Dinesh is now eagerly awaiting his maiden harvest, a milestone that marks the beginning of a promising future in agriculture. The CSIAP extends its best wishes to Dinesh as he continues to grow as a climate-smart farmer and entrepreneur. His journey is an inspiring example for other young people to follow, proving that with the right support, training, and determination, success in farming is not only possible but rewarding.

 Story and photographs by K.A.A. Nuwanthi, Agriculture Facilitator, SP, CSIAP

The success of farmer Prabash: from struggle to sustainability through the CSIAP

 The Climate Smart Agriculture Project (CSIAP) is committed to transforming young farmers into successful agripreneurs by offering technical and infrastructural support. One inspiring example is Mr. H. A. Prabash Kumara, a 41-year-old farmer from Bathalaara village, located in the Nugayaya Grama Niladhari Division under the Wellawaya Agrarian Service Centre Division. Thanks to his determination and the strategic support from the CSIAP, Mr. Prabash has transformed his farming life and now serves as a role model for others in his community.

Farmer Mr. Prabash Kumara

 Before CSIAP: Struggles with Water and Profitability
“Before CSIAP, I struggled to cultivate my five acres of land,” recalls Prabash. “The biggest issue was water scarcity, and I made barely enough to cover labour costs, with no real profit.”

 Turning Point with the CSIAP Support
Everything changed when the Deputy Project Director’s Office of the CSIAP in Uva Province intervened. The project team identified Prabash’s needs and provided critical support: an agro-well to address chronic water shortages, a sprinkler irrigation system for his turmeric cultivation and an insect-proof net to protect his chilli crops. “These interventions were a real boost for me to move forward,” he says. With improved water access and crop protection, Prabash began cultivating: 1.5 acres of paddy, 3.5 acres of intercropped fields with pumpkin, mango, orange, gotukola, gherkin, tomato, and banana and long-term crops like guava and coconut. He proudly uses only rainwater and the agro-well water for his farming needs and even supplies water to five neighbouring families to help them continue their cultivation.

Managing his livestock

Sustainable Farming and Community Impact
Prabash has embraced Integrated Pest Management (IPM) by using sticky containers to reduce insect damage, avoiding harmful chemicals and promoting healthier produce. He has also established his own plant nursery to meet the seedling demands of his crops. Transportation and sales of his produce are handled by himself, ensuring better market access and profit margins. With his thriving farm, he now provides employment to 12 individuals from Sinhala, Tamil, and Muslim communities, promoting social cohesion and inclusive development. In addition to crop farming, Prabash raises 15 goats and a donkey, using their droppings to produce compost fertiliser, which now makes up 50% of his fertilisation needs. He plans to expand his operations further with polytunnel cultivation, which will create more employment opportunities.

Farmer Mr. Prabash with AF Ms. Kasurika

Gratitude and Recognition
Prabash expresses his deep gratitude to the CSIAP, especially to Ms. W. M. Kasurika, Agriculture Facilitator in Wellawaya, for her unwavering guidance and support throughout his farming journey. He also extends his sincere thanks to Mr. D.V.C. Nishans, former Agriculture Instructor in the Wellawaya area and Mr. D. M. Sashika Priyankara, present Agriculture Instructor, whose technical expertise and dedicated assistance played a crucial role in the successful cultivation of his crops. The combined support and encouragement from three officers have been instrumental in his transformation into a successful agripreneur.

Today, Prabash earns a net profit of Rs. 200,000 per month, a remarkable turnaround from his earlier struggles. His journey is a testament to how targeted support, sustainable practices, and personal determination can change lives and uplift communities.

Farmer Mr. Prabash Kumara spoke with heartfelt gratitude, emphasizing how the CSIAP had transformed his life. “Thanks to CSIAP, my life has turned around, and now I help others grow with me,” he said, reflecting a deep sense of purpose and commitment to his community.

Photographs by Nuwan Dileepa, Monitoring and Evaluation Officer, SP&UP, CSIAP
Story by Samantha Mallawaarachchi, IEC&ICT Specialist, PMU, CSIAP

The Field Visit Report on the Bundala Wewa Rehabilitation (Phase II – CSIAP)

 
A field visit was conducted on 19 May 2025 to the Bundala Wewa Tank, part of the Wilmanna Cascade, under the Bundala Wewa Rehabilitation (Phase II) initiative of the Climate Smart Irrigated Agriculture Project (CSIAP). The objective of the visit was to assess the ongoing rehabilitation works, review environmental and social safeguard compliance, and monitor overall progress.

 The following officials participated in the visit:

• Dr. Sithara Attapattu, Consultant – Environment Safeguard, World Bank
• Ms. Sharmila Shanmuganathan, Social Safeguard and Gender Development Officer, PMU, CSIAP
• Mr. H.P.T. Sandaruwan, Environment Safeguard Officer, UP, CSIAP
• Mr. T.D. Bandara, Social Safeguard Officer, UP, CSIAP
• Technical Team, UP, CSIAP

 Bundala Wewa Tank, located within a wildlife-protected area, is undergoing rehabilitation under CSIAP Phase II to support sustainable agriculture for fifteen (15) beneficiary farmers cultivating 12 acres annually. All necessary approvals have been secured from the Department of Wildlife Conservation (DWLC), and the beneficiary farmers did not lose their Yala paddy cultivation due to the tank rehabilitation, as the tank bund had already been damaged for the past three years.

 The rehabilitation of the Bundala Wewa Tank was undertaken by W M Siri Construction, with physical works having commenced on 2^nd May 2025. Bundala Wewa Tank — the final reservoir in the Wilmanna Cascade — is now at the heart of a transformative journey. Fed by five upstream tanks before draining into the sea, this once-deteriorating irrigation source is being rehabilitated under CSIAP Phase II to improve the livelihoods of 15 farmers and ensure sustainable cultivation for years to come.

During the visit, the team observed that:

• 
  Construction Progress: Canal works are underway but were temporarily halted due to heavy, unseasonal rainfall. The contractor has adapted by storing materials mid-way within the wildlife boundary due to vehicle access limitations.
• Environmental Management: The site saw minor vegetation clearance; however, vegetation burning was observed and must be immediately addressed. A commendable highlight is the creation of a 30-ft wide temporary wildlife water well within the tank—an excellent step toward wildlife-friendly rehabilitation.
• Wildlife Sensitivity: Bundala Wewa lies within a protected zone managed by the DWLC. Elephant and wildlife activity is common, and tank water is being managed with conservation in mind. No artificial drawdown was necessary due to pre-existing bund damage.
• Safety & Supervision: Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) standards are being followed, with the Quality Assurance Inspector also serving as a temporary Safety Officer.

Farmer Challenges & Community Engagement:
For three consecutive Yala seasons, farmers were unable to cultivate due to a damaged bund, leading to economic hardship and flood damage. Though compensation isn't required this season, animal intrusions and lack of designated grazing areas continue to affect agricultural lands.

Yet, community involvement remains strong:

• A Social Audit Committee (SAC) is active onsite, including two very committed female members who monitor daily progress.
• SAC maintains a logbook with regular updates and participates in quality control, especially during key construction tasks like concreting.
• Farmers, having successfully completed their Maha crop, are optimistic about resuming year-round cultivation post-rehabilitation.

 Noteworthy Practices

• A wildlife water well to sustain fauna during construction
• Regular updates to SAC and visible female leadership in monitoring
• Community appreciation and support for the project
• Transparent environmental and safety compliance

Recommendations Going Forward

• Prevent Vegetation Burning: Contractors must be advised and monitored closely to halt this harmful practice.
• Strengthen Environmental Oversight: Regular visits by safeguard officers are essential to uphold E&S standards.
• Maintain the Wildlife Water Feeding Well: This temporary structure must remain until rehabilitation is complete.
• Enhance SAC Capacity: Additional training, especially on grievance handling, will improve local oversight and community trust.
• Sustain DWLC Coordination: Open channels with wildlife authorities are key to ensuring eco-sensitive implementation.
• Bundala Wewa’s story is one of resilience of land, water, wildlife, and people.

 Please click the Field Visit Report to read more.

Written by Ms. Sharmila Shanmuganthan, Social Safeguard and Gender Development Officer, PMU, CSIAP

Field Visit Report on the Murunga Wewa Rehabilitation (Phase II – CSIAP)

A field visit was conducted on 19 May 2025 to the Murunga Wewa Tank, part of the Wilmanna Cascade, under the Murunga Wewa Rehabilitation (Phase II) initiative of the Climate Smart Irrigated Agriculture Project (CSIAP). The objective of the visit was to assess the ongoing rehabilitation works, review environmental and social safeguard compliance, and monitor overall progress.

 The following officials participated in the visit:

• Dr. Sithara Attapattu, Consultant – Environment Safeguard, World Bank
• Ms. Sharmila Shanmuganathan, Social Safeguard and Gender Development Officer, PMU, CSIAP
• Mr. H.P.T. Sandaruwan, Environment Safeguard Officer, UP, CSIAP
• Mr. T.D. Bandara, Social Safeguard Officer, UP, CSIAP
• Technical Team, UP, CSIAP

 Murunga Wewa Tank, located within a wildlife-protected area, is undergoing rehabilitation under CSIAP Phase II to support sustainable agriculture for nine (09) beneficiary farmers cultivating 30 acres annually. All necessary approvals have been secured from the Department of Wildlife Conservation (DWLC), and beneficiary farmers have agreed to forego the 2025 Yala season to facilitate uninterrupted rehabilitation work.

The rehabilitation of the Murunga Wewa Tank was undertaken by CJ Construction, with physical works having commenced on 29 April 2025. During the visit, the team observed that:

•  Site Setup: A site office has been established, with machinery and laborers present; however, work was paused due to recent heavy rains.
• Construction Progress: Originally planned for completion in August 2025, the timeline has been extended to September due to unexpected rainfall over the last months.
• Environmental Compliance: Elephant and crocodile activity is common. DWLC regulations are strictly followed, including limiting work hours and retaining 30% of tank water for wildlife. A temporary elephant fence has been installed.
• Road Access: The road to the site remains in poor condition. DWLC has restricted road upgrades to protect the sensitive ecosystem.
• Site Conditions: No trees were removed; minor vegetation clearance was noted. Borrow pits and construction materials were observed; IA test reports are pending.
• Community Involvement: Farmers and SAC members have been engaged from the outset. SAC members were trained on material quality and site supervision. Due to wildlife threats, female SAC members face challenges in on-site participation.
• Livelihoods: An artificial drawdown was conducted. Farmers have requested compensation in the form of green gram seeds, which will be supplied in June.
• Good Practices: Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) measures are in place, and the site logbook is being properly maintained.

Recommendations:

• Provide Livelihood Compensation: Expedite the distribution of green gram or alternative seed support by June 2025.
• Adjust Work Schedule: Re-plan construction to maximise dry weather windows.
• Enhance DWLC Coordination: Maintain daily communication to ensure environmental compliance.
• Safeguard Documentation: Clearly record and justify expenses (e.g., elephant fencing) for accountability and reimbursement.

The Murunga Wewa rehabilitation is progressing despite environmental and logistical challenges, with strong community engagement and adherence to environmental safeguards. The farming community appreciates the project’s support and anticipates full resumption of cultivation following project completion.

The Environment and Social Safeguard Officers provided guidance on addressing these concerns through community consultations and improved grievance redress mechanisms.  Recommendations were made to strengthen monitoring of safeguard compliance and ensure timely communication with stakeholders. The team commended the efforts of the contractor and project staff but emphasised the importance of maintaining standards in line with CSIAP guidelines and World Bank safeguard policies.

 Please click the Field Visit Report to read more.

Ms. Sharmila Shanmuganthan, Social Safeguard and Gender Development Officer, PMU, CSIAP

A Farmer’s Triumph: Farmer Mrs. G. Leelawathi’s journey through the CSIAP

Mrs. Leelawathi is managing her cultivation

This is the inspiring story of Mrs. G. Leelawathi, a 64-year-old farmer and member of the “Dehemi” Producers Society. She resides in Jadura village in the Ranawarnawa Grama Niladhari Division, under the Weerawila Agricultural Service Centre in Sri Lanka’s Southern Province. Through determination, innovation, and support from the Climate Smart Irrigated Agriculture Project (CSIAP), Mrs. Leelawathi transformed her life and livelihood through agriculture.

Engaged in traditional farming alongside her husband Mr. K.A. Somathilaka, a farmer, Mrs. Leelawathi cultivates crops during both the Yala and Maha seasons. Her journey with the CSIAP began in 2022, when she sought agricultural guidance. Since then, I have supported her closely by offering technical knowledge, monitoring her fields, and helping her adopt modern farming techniques to enhance her economic stability.

Farmer Mrs. G. Leelawathi

The CSIAP regularly organises capacity-building programs to improve the skills and knowledge of farmers in the region. Under the guidance of Mr. H.J.A. Malaka, Agricultural Instructor (AI) in Mattala area, training sessions were conducted on topics such as:

• Organic fertiliser and liquid fertiliser production
  
• Climate-smart agriculture practices
• Vegetable and fruit cultivation
• Home gardening techniques

Mr. Malaka worked diligently to educate Mrs. Leelawathi  on good agricultural practices and provided technical guidance to ensure successful cultivation. His dedicated efforts in guiding farmers have been instrumental in advancing the project's development objectives, and his commitment is truly appreciated. Mrs. Leelawathi also participated in the Farmer Business School programs, gaining valuable insights into the marketing of agricultural products. Recognising her commitment and talent, the project provided her with an insect-proof net, drip irrigation system, poly-mulch for ¼ acre, and a composting kit.

AI Mr. Malaka and AF Ms.Nuwanthi with the farmer

After receiving comprehensive training, including Climate Smart agriculture Practices, she carefully prepared the land, installed the drip irrigation system, and set up the insect-proof net. She began by cultivating the MICH-01 chilli variety. The first crop, which combined chemical fertilisers (applied via drip irrigation) with organic fertilisers, significantly outperformed conventional chilli crops. According to Mrs. Leelawathi:

• The insect-proof net raised internal temperatures, reducing pest infestations and plant diseases.
• The drip irrigation system ensured efficient water use and direct fertiliser application.
• The poly-mulch helped retain soil moisture and suppress weeds, further reducing labour and irrigation costs.
• The composting kit enabled her to produce her own compost fertiliser, which she used effectively in her cultivation. This not only reduced her dependency on external inputs but also improved soil fertility and contributed to sustainable farming practices

Her first harvest yielded 650–750 kg of chilli, with a production cost of around Rs. 25,000 and a return of approximately Rs. 150,000—a substantial profit that demonstrates the value of climate-smart agriculture. Mrs. Leelawathi’s story is a testament to the transformative power of knowledge, innovation, and dedication. Her success serves as a model for other farmers in the area.

 Story and photographs by K.A.A. Nuwanthi, Agriculture Facilitator, SP, CSIAP

The CSIAP Safeguard Progress Report - April (Phase II - 2025) Submitted to the WB

We are pleased to announce that the April 2025 Monthly Safeguard Progress Report for the Climate Smart Irrigated Agriculture Project (CSIAP) – Phase II – has been successfully submitted to the World Bank, in line with the Agreed Action Points discussed during the recent World Bank Mission (April 1–10, 2025).

This comprehensive report outlines key updates on environmental and social safeguard compliance and monitoring efforts across all project implementation areas. It reaffirms our ongoing commitment to: Sustainable irrigation infrastructure development, Livelihood protection, Stakeholder engagement, Biodiversity conservation and Grievance redress mechanisms.

Report Highlights:

• Summary of the 2025 Annual Budget and Work Plan – Safeguard Sector Allocations
• Implementation status of Solar-Powered Movable Seasonal Paddy Field Protected Electric Fences and current status of new requirements
• Tree Planting Programmes at pre-schools and across catchment development areas
• Environmental and Social Management Plan (ESMP) implementation updates
• Operation of the Grievance Redress Mechanism (GRM)
• Code of Conduct (CoC) and awareness sessions for Contractors, Farmer Organisations (FOs), Social Audit Committees (SACs), and Implementing Agencies
• Grievance Redress Mechanism (GRM) Operations
• Summary of actions agreed upon during the April 2025 World Bank Mission
• Identification of key safeguard issues and corresponding mitigation measures

In addition, the report captures lessons learned, good practices, and province-wise monitoring summaries from the CSIAP implementation areas. The report also documents lessons learned, good practices, and province-wise monitoring summaries from across the CSIAP target areas.

 Access the full report via the link :🔗 Safeguard Progress Report(Phase II - 2025)

 Obtain the relevant annexes here :🔗Annexes – April 2025 Report

 "Please go to the Publications section of the CSIAP website: http://www.csiap.lk/, then navigate to the Safeguard Documents > Other Safeguard Documents, and look for the report listed there." 

Written by Ms. Sharmila Shanmuganthan, Social Safeguard and Gender Development Officer, PMU, CSIAP

Preschool Tree Planting Programme launched under the CSIAP Week in Eastern

The CSIAP is delighted to launch the Preschool Tree Planting Programme under CSIAP Week, marking a meaningful step towards nurturing a love for nature in our youngest generation. As part of the CSIAP Week celebrations, a Preschool Tree Planting Programme was launched at Galakadawala Preschool on 09 May 2025, under the patronage of Mr. Saman Bandulasena, Project Director of the Climate Smart Irrigated Agriculture Project (CSIAP).

 Planting a tree is more than just placing a seed in the soil—it is sowing the values of responsibility, care, and respect for the environment. Today, our preschool children, guided by their teachers and parents, have taken part in an act that symbolizes hope, growth, and a greener tomorrow. The event witnessed the enthusiastic participation of 52 children and 6 teachers from both Galakadawala and Gomarankadawala Preschools. In a significant step towards promoting environmental awareness among young learners, 60 Tom E JC mango plants and 60 coconut seedlings were distributed to children to be planted at their homes.

By giving each child a mango or coconut seedling,  the CSIAP encourages hands-on learning and strengthens the bond between families and nature. These small hands planting tiny saplings will one day grow into strong trees, just like our children, growing into responsible citizens of the world. The highlight of the event was the ceremonial tree planting at the preschool premises by the CSIAP official,s including Project Director Mr. Bandulasena and Mr. Sampasivam Naveendrathas, the newly appointed Deputy Project Director of CSIAP for the Eastern Province.

This meaningful programme was coordinated and organised by Mr. T. Sekaran, Social Safeguard Officer of the CSIAP in  Eastern Province, with the aim of officially launching the CSIAP Week in the province. The event emphasised both environmental stewardship and community engagement, aligning with CSIAP's broader goals. Agriculture Facilitators from Gomarankadawala and Pankulam and parents of preschool children also took part, further reinforcing the message of cultivating a greener future through collective action and early education.

Story and photographs by T. Sekaran, Social Safeguard Officer, Eastern Province, CSIAP.

Ensuring Safety First: Landmine Clearance at Vavetti Kulam Tank Site, Mullaitivu

As part of the ongoing rehabilitation under the Climate Smart Irrigated Agriculture Project (CSIAP), an antipersonnel landmine was discovered at the Vavetti Kulam tank site in Mullaitivu District. Immediate safety protocols were enacted, and the site was promptly secured to prevent harm. The incident was reported without delay on 11 April 2025 to the Project Management Unit (PMU)’s Safeguard Team, the Project Director, and the World Bank’s Safeguard and Task Teams. In response, the World Bank Safeguard Team provided specific guidance to mitigate risks and ensure full compliance with safeguard standards. The following measures were implemented:

• Pre-screening and Scanning: All high-risk sites, particularly those near forested or formerly conflict-affected areas, must undergo thorough pre-screening to detect potential hazards and prevent future delays.
• Mine Clearance Certification: No rehabilitation activities may resume without an official clearance certificate from accredited mine action authorities. The Vavetti Kulam site has since received formal certification from The HALO Trust.
• Safety Screening and Stakeholder Engagement: Hazard assessments and structured safety briefings are now mandatory to safeguard workers and surrounding communities.
• Awareness Programs: Comprehensive sessions on landmine awareness and Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) protocols will be conducted for contractors and Social Audit Committee members at all CSIAP sites.

 Before recommencing rehabilitation activities, The HALO Trust completed a final clearance and completion survey at Vavetti Kulam. The resulting mine clearance report was submitted to the PMU and the World Bank for official record. As a final precaution, awareness and safety training will be held for all site workers and Social Audit Committee members, underscoring CSIAP’s commitment to ensuring safety and community involvement. This incident highlights the critical importance of conflict-sensitive planning and robust risk management in post-conflict development initiatives. The full documentation—including certificates, correspondence, and photographs—is available in the official project records.

Please click Identified Antipersonnel Landmines at the Vavetti Kulam Tank Site in Mullaitivu District  to read it, and click the Clearance Certificate to read it.

Written by Ms. Sharmila Shanmuganathan, Safeguard Division, PMU, CSIAP

Submission of Bi-Annual Safeguard Progress Report – Phase II (2025)

The Climate Smart Irrigated Agriculture Project (CSIAP) is pleased to announce the successful submission of its Bi-Annual Safeguard Progress Report for Phase II of the 2025 implementation year to the World Bank. This submission complies with the Environmental and Social Framework (ESF) requirements set forth by the Bank’s safeguard policies.

The comprehensive report outlines significant progress and updates on environmental and social safeguard compliance and monitoring across all project areas. It highlights our continued commitment to sustainable irrigation infrastructure development, livelihood protection, stakeholder engagement, biodiversity conservation, and robust grievance redress mechanisms.

The CSIAP extends its sincere gratitude to all stakeholders and partners whose collaboration has been instrumental in achieving this milestone

Highlights of the report include:

• Environmental and Social screening of 179 irrigation schemes
• Progress on tank rehabilitation and cascade management
• Clearances from the Forest Department and the Department of Wildlife Conservation
• Livelihood impact assessments and mitigation strategies
• Active functioning of Social Audit Committees and Grievance Redress Mechanisms
• Community participation and gender-inclusive development
• Success stories include solar-powered electric fences for crop protection
• Implementation of the Code of Conduct to prevent Gender-Based Violence
• Environmental and Social Impact Management Plan (ESMP) Monitoring with the Photo evidence.

The report also documents lessons learned, good practices, and province-wise monitoring summaries across the CSIAP’s target areas. The full report is now accessible through our website under the "Publications" section. 

In addition to that, please click  The Bi-Annual Safeguard Progress Report on 20th March 2025  to read the report and click  Annexes of the above report to refer.

By Sharmila Shanmuganthan, Safeguard Division, PMU, CSIAP

The CSIAP is accelerating its activities to advance project progress in the NWP

The Climate Smart Irrigated Agriculture Project (CSIAP) has intensified efforts to expedite its ongoing tank rehabilitation programme in the North Western Province (NWP). A special progress review meeting on tank rehabilitation work with contractors was held this morning (May 8) at Mahagethara Holiday Resort in Kurunegala, chaired by Mr. S.M. Saman Bandulasena, Project Director of the CSIAP. Mr. H.M.P. Bandara, Deputy Project Director for the NWP, warmly welcomed participants and outlined the meeting’s objectives, emphasizing the importance of collaboration, accountability, and adherence to timelines in achieving project milestones.

During the session, Mr. Bandulasena, Project Director of the CSIAP reiterated the urgency of completing all rehabilitation works within the stipulated timeframe. He stressed the pivotal role of contractors in ensuring the successful implementation of this crucial initiative, which aims to enhance climate resilience and agricultural productivity in the region. The meeting was organised and facilitated by Mr. Bandara and his dedicated provincial team, reflecting their continued commitment to the timely delivery of the project’s objectives. Senior officials from the Department of Agriculture Development in Kurunegala and Puttalam also attended the meeting, contributing their insights and support to the tank rehabilitation initiative.

Mr. R.M. Wijerathna, a 57-year-old farmer from Koskotagolla, Rambe, actively participated in on-site Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA) training under the CSIAP project. In addition to this, he received further training at the CSA Farmer Training School in Thirappane. With support from the project, Mr. Wijerathna was provided with a solar pump and a micro-irrigation system to enhance his agricultural practices. before the interseason period, he received groundnut and green gram seeds, as well as insect-proof nets to support intercropping. He also cultivates Cavendish bananas with assistance from the project. His successful adoption of CSA practices caught the attention of Mr. Bandulasena, Project Director of CSIAP, who visited his field during the NWP’s progress review to witness the farmer’s achievements firsthand.

Mr. G.B. Chandana, a 51-year-old farmer from Moragoda, Rambe, has successfully cultivated tomatoes with the significant support of the CSIAP He was provided with a micro irrigation system, poly mulch, tomato seeds, insect-proof netting, and GI pipes, which greatly enhanced his cultivation practices. Mr. Chandana also received practical training both onsite and at the CSA Farmer Training School in Thirappane, equipping him with valuable knowledge and skills in climate-smart agriculture. 

Mr. H.G.V.G. Nimal Karunarathna, a 61-year-old farmer from Moragoda, Rambe, received essential support from the CSIAP to successfully cultivate capsicum and chili. The project provided him with a micro irrigation system, poly mulch, and insect-proof netting with GI pipes, along with capsicum and MICH1 chili seeds. To further enhance his skills, Mr. Karunarathna participated in onsite CSA training as well as formal training at the CSA Farmer Training School in Thirappane. The farmer is exchanging views on his cultivation with Mr. S.G.I.P. Karunarathna, the Agriculture Instructor in Rambe, who consistently provides guidance and support.

Mr. S.G.I.P. Karunarathna, Agriculture Instructor in Rambe, conducts the Farmer Business School Training Programme on behalf of the CSIAP for members of the Other Field Crops Producer Society in Potthuwepitiya, Mahawewa. Mr. Karunarathna makes his utmost effort to develop the business and marketing skills of CSIAP farmers, contributing significantly toward achieving the project's development objectives. In addition to his work on capacity building, he also provides invaluable technical guidance and support to help farmers in Rambe cultivate successfully. The CSIAP sincerely appreciates the dedicated service he continues to provide to uplift the farming community.

A special thanks to Ms. Imesha Disanayake, Agriculture Facilitator in Rambe, for her dedication and tireless efforts toward the betterment of farmers. Her consistent presence at the ground level and strong rapport with the farming community have been instrumental in driving progress toward our project development objectives. We also extend our sincere appreciation for providing the necessary information and photographs that contributed to the writing of this article. 

By Samantha Mallawaarachchi, IEC & ICT Specialist, PMU, CSIAP