Borrower’s Implementation Completion Report Presented at the World Bank Office

A detailed report on the Preparation of the Borrower’s Project Completion Report of the Climate Smart Irrigated Agriculture Project (CSIAP) was presented to the  World Bank officials at  the World Bank Office today (29th). The report was prepared by Teams Pvt Ltd, and Prof. Wimal Gunawardena, Chairman of the company, presented the comprehensive findings. 

Participation of World Bank Delegation and Key Officials
The World Bank delegation included Ms. Nevena Ilieva (Operations Adviser), Dr. Sheu Salau (Senior Agriculture Economist/Task Team Leader [TTL] for CSIAP), The World Bank delegation included Ms. Nevena Ilieva (Operations Adviser), Dr. Sheu Salau (Senior Agriculture Economist/Task Team Leader [TTL] for CSIAP), Ms. Thiruni Liyanage (Co-TTL / Senior Water Specialist), Mr. Athula Senaratne (Senior Agriculture Specialist), Ms. Anula Harasgama (Senior Financial Management Specialist), Mr. Shanek Fernando (Senior Social Development Specialist), Mr. Seenithamby Manoharan (Senior Consultant – Agriculture and Rural Development), Ms. Sithara Attapattu (Consultant), Mr. Jayantha Ganesh (Consultant), Mr. Sarath Wickramaratne (Institutional Development Consultant), Mr. Jagath Seneviratne (Monitoring and Evaluation Consultant), Mr. Sanjeewa Rodrigo (Value Chain and Agribusiness Consultant), and Ms. Thanuja Androvita Gamage (Team Assistant). Ms. Saumya Srivastava (Agriculture Specialist and CSIAP ICR Author) joined the mission remotely.

The CSIAP Leadership and Project Team Engagement
On behalf of the Climate Smart Irrigated Agriculture Project (CSIAP), Mr. Saman Bandulasena, Project Director, together with the Deputy Project Directors, Subject Specialists, and other key project officers, participated in the session. Their presence reflected the strong institutional commitment to ensuring the successful completion and evaluation of the project. Senior officials from Teams Pvt Ltd, the consulting firm responsible for preparing the Borrower’s Completion Report, were also in attendance. 

The Final Implementation Support Mission of the CSIAP Commences

The final implementation support mission of the Climate Smart Irrigated Agriculture Project (CSIAP) commenced this morning (28th) at the World Bank Office under the patronage of Dr. Sheu Salau, Senior Agriculture Economist and Task Team Leader (TTL) for CSIAP. The mission, which runs from October 26 to November 10, 2025, aims to assess the project’s overall physical and financial progress as it approaches completion on December 31, 2025.

Key Objectives of the Mission
The mission will:
(i) review the progress of ongoing tank rehabilitation contracts and other civil works, including downstream development, and assess any potential risks of non-completion;
(ii) evaluate the status of critical actions identified during previous missions, particularly the farmer-level database and the borrower’s completion report;
(iii) oversee the handover of activities that form the foundation for the upcoming Integrated Rurban Development and Climate Resilience Project, with a focus on Cascade Management for Small Tanks; and
(iv) follow up on the preparation of the World Bank’s Implementation Completion Report (ICR). 

The World Bank Mission Team
The mission team included Ms. Thiruni Liyanage (Co-TTL / Senior Water Specialist), Mr. Athula Senaratne (Senior Agriculture Specialist), Ms. Anula Harasgama (Senior Financial Management Specialist), Mr. Shanek Fernando (Senior Social Development Specialist), Mr. Seenithamby Manoharan (Senior Consultant – Agriculture and Rural Development), Ms. Sithara Attapattu (Consultant), Mr. Jayantha Ganesh (Consultant), Mr. Sarath Wickramaratne (Institutional Development Consultant), Mr. Jagath Seneviratne (Monitoring and Evaluation Consultant), Mr. Sanjeewa Rodrigo (Value Chain and Agribusiness Consultant), and Ms. Thanuja Androvita Gamage (Team Assistant). Ms. Saumya Srivastava (Agriculture Specialist and CSIAP ICR Author) joined the mission remotely.

Engagement with CSIAP and Government Institutions
The CSIAP team, led by Mr. Saman Bandulasena, Project Director, comprised Deputy Project Directors, Specialists, and Officers. Specialists and officers from the Project Management Unit (PMU) of CSIAP delivered thematic presentations before the World Bank officials. During the mission period, the team intends to visit areas where the CSIAP is being implemented and meet with relevant staff from the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, Lands, and Irrigation; the Department of Agriculture; the Department of Agrarian Development; the Department of External Resources; the National Planning Department; and the Project Management Unit.  

Recognition of the CSIAP’s Founding Leadership
Meanwhile, at the project’s kickoff meeting held at the Department of National Planning held on 28th last month, Additional Director General Ms. S. A. Batagoda extended her sincere appreciation to Mr. S. Manoharan, Senior Consultant of the World Bank and the founding Task Team Leader of the CSIAP. She commended him for his visionary role in conceptualising and designing the project, as well as for laying a strong and strategic foundation that has enabled the CSIAP to progress steadily and deliver meaningful results for farming communities in climate-vulnerable hotspot areas.

The CSIAP Introduces QR Code for Easy Access to Cascade-Related Resources

Enhancing Access to Knowledge through Digital Innovation
The Climate Smart Irrigated Agriculture Project (CSIAP) has introduced a QR code system to provide convenient access to cascade-related print and electronic materials through the CSIAP website. This initiative is designed to promote transparency, knowledge sharing, and easy accessibility among project stakeholders, researchers, policymakers, and the general public.

Supporting the Cascade-Based Implementation Approach
With the commencement of the project’s second phase, CSIAP has shifted its full focus toward implementing all interventions through the cascade approach. This model emphasizes localized planning, integrated water and land resource management, and strong community participation, ensuring that development interventions are sustainable and responsive to grassroots needs.

Easy Access to Information and Project Resources
By scanning the QR code, users can instantly access a wide range of materials, including technical studies, progress updates, multimedia content, and success stories from cascade interventions implemented across different provinces. This digital feature simplifies information sharing while strengthening CSIAP’s communication outreach and stakeholder engagement.

Recognizing Sri Lanka’s Globally Important Agricultural Heritage
The QR-enabled knowledge platform also highlights Sri Lanka’s Ellanga System, or Tank Cascade System, which has been designated a Globally Important Agricultural Heritage System (GIAHS) by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. This recognition underscores the global significance of Sri Lanka’s traditional cascade systems and reinforces the importance of preserving and promoting this unique agricultural heritage through modern, accessible knowledge-sharing tools.

The CSIAP Conducts Transect Walk to Strengthen Future CM Planning

A transect walk has been designed under the Climate Smart Irrigated Agriculture Project (CSIAP) to collect essential data for developing future work plans of the Cascade Management Committees (CMCs). This hands-on approach enables the collection of vital information on natural resource use, water resources, and geographical features of cascades—forming the foundation for a practical and sustainable management plan. The main objective of the transect walk is to create a detailed cascade profile that will support the development of a comprehensive management plan to enhance water productivity and ensure the long-term sustainability of the cascade ecosystem.  

Field Exercise in the North Central Province
Recently, the Deputy Project Director’s Office of CSIAP in the North Central Province organised a transect walk at the Ranorawa Cascade. The event brought together nearly 80 participants, including officials from the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, Land and Irrigation, the Divisional Secretaries’ Offices of Nochchiyagama and Mahawilachchiya, the Department of Forest Conservation, Department of Wildlife Conservation, Department of Archaeology, Department of Land Use Policy Planning, Farmer Organisations, and representatives from CSIAP. 

Participants gathered at the Agrarian Service Centre (ASC), Ranorawa, under the patronage of Mr. Saman Bandulasena, Project Director, CSIAP. Mr. R. P. M. Dissanayake, Deputy Project Director of the CSIAP for North Central Province, explained the objectives and methods of the transect walk to the participants before the commencement.

Crossing the Cascade: Observations and Data Collection 
The participants were divided into four groups, each starting from a different location to ensure full coverage of the Ranorawa Cascade: Group 1, from Talawa Ela; Group 2, from Meegasdigiliya Tank; Group 3, from the Agrarian Service Centre, Ranorawa; and Group 4, from the Cascade Boundary.

Throughout the walk, the groups observed, studied, and collected data on the following key aspects: Soil variations and geographical features, Agricultural lands and mangrove ecosystems, Environmental degradation and tank-based ecosystem status, Wildlife presence (both harmful and harmless), Agricultural land use patterns, Misuse of forest reserves and related livelihood activities, Socioeconomic conditions of the local community and Damages caused by various constructions. At the end of the field activity, all four groups reconvened at the Agrarian Service Centre, Ranorawa, to present their findings and share field experiences.

Building a Scientific Cascade Management Plan
Using the data and observations gathered during the transect walk, CSIAP aims to develop a scientific and practical cascade management plan. This plan will address critical issues related to hydrology, geology, geography, livelihood development, and local economic interconnections. It will also take into account existing and proposed constructions, ecosystem status, cropping patterns, irrigation management challenges, and command area linkages. Based on this information, new and detailed cascade maps will be created to support data-driven planning.

The Value of a Cascade Profile
Using this information from the Transeck walk, CSIAP will develop a new series of cascade maps and profiles that highlight the interconnections between catchments and tank networks—providing a comprehensive understanding of the Ranorawa Cascade’s dynamics. A cascade profile is a vital management tool that illustrates the relationships among natural, agricultural, and human systems within a cascade. It helps identify resource use patterns, environmental challenges, biodiversity status, and socioeconomic realities of surrounding communities. This profile serves as a common reference for multiple agencies, encouraging collaboration and informed decision-making. It also supports farmers and local authorities by offering clear insights into land use, water availability, and ecosystem health.

Building Awareness and Cooperation
Beyond data collection, the transect walk promotes awareness and cooperation among stakeholders. It provides an opportunity for local politicians, policymakers, stakeholder institutions, and farming communities to understand the condition of their cascades and recognise the importance of proactive conservation measures. Through shared learning, the initiative strengthens coordination among institutions and communities, ensuring that natural resources are managed collectively and responsibly.

Towards Sustainable Rural Development
Through such scientific and community-driven initiatives, the Climate Smart Irrigated Agriculture Project continues its mission to empower Cascade Management Committees, enhance rural livelihoods, and promote the sustainable management of natural resources. The CSIAP’s long-term vision is to ensure that rural communities thrive in harmony with nature—protecting, conserving, and improving their village environments for generations to come.

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

Two-Day Workshop on Developing CMC Handbook Commences at Hanthana

Mr. Wickramarathna conducting the workshop

A two-day residential workshop aimed at developing the Handbook on Cascade Management Committee (CMC), organized by the Climate Smart Irrigated Agriculture Project (CSIAP), commenced today (01st) at the Rathnasiri Wickramanayake National Training Centre (RWNTC), Hanthana. The event was held under the patronage of Mr. Saman Bandulasena, Project Director, CSIAP. The workshop brings together Provincial Deputy Project Directors, Institutional Development and Capacity Building (IDCB) Specialists, and selected specialists from the Project Management Unit (PMU) of the CSIAP, to collaboratively design a comprehensive reference guide for strengthening CMCs across project areas. 

Purpose and Scope of the Proposed CMC Handbook
The proposed CMC Handbook serves as a practical guide to strengthen the planning, coordination, and management of cascade systems. It provides a common framework and reference point for all stakeholders engaged in cascade conservation and development. Drawing on field experience and expert knowledge, the handbook promotes an integrated, landscape-based approach that balances environmental sustainability with community and institutional needs. 

Key Objectives of the CMC Handbook
Specifically, the handbook aims to:

• Provide clear guidance to CMC members, government officials, partner agencies, Farmer Organisations (FOs), and Community-Based Organisations (CBOs) on their roles, responsibilities, and operational procedures in managing cascade landscape systems.

  

  Mr. Bandulasena addressing the audience

• Strengthen collaboration and coordination among government agencies, farmer organisations, local communities, and development partners to achieve shared objectives in cascade and landscape management.
• Promote coordinated action among relevant government agencies, local authorities, and communities to ensure efficient use of resources and avoid duplication of efforts.
• Enhance institutional capacity of CMCs and partner organisations to effectively plan, monitor, and evaluate cascade-related interventions.

Technical Facilitation and Expert Guidance 
Serving as the workshop facilitator, Mr Sarath Wickramaratne, Senior IDCB Consultant at the World Bank, guides participants through interactive sessions, discussions, and technical inputs. His expertise is expected to enrich the process of developing a practical and implementable handbook that will empower CMCs to effectively manage cascades, promote participatory decision-making, and ensure the sustainability of irrigated agriculture systems. 

Emphasis on Institutional Strengthening and Community Participation

Speaking at the opening session, Project Director Mr. Bandulasena highlighted the importance of institutional strengthening and community participation in cascade management, emphasising that the forthcoming handbook will serve as a key tool in building resilient and inclusive agricultural communities.  The two-day programme will comprehensively cover key aspects of Cascade Management Committees (CMCs), including their organisational structures, clearly defined roles and responsibilities, decision-making frameworks, accountability and governance mechanisms, as well as their integration with relevant provincial- and national-level institutions. The outcomes of this workshop are expected to lay a strong foundation for the development of standardised practices and operational guidelines, thereby enhancing the effectiveness and efficiency of CMCs in supporting CSIAP’s overarching objective of promoting climate-smart and sustainable agricultural development.

 

World Bank Review Mission Emphasizes the Importance of CMCs and Guideline Development 

Dr. Salu addressing participants during the mission

Dr. Sheu Salau, Task Team Leader of the Climate Smart Irrigated Agriculture Project (CSIAP), highlighted the role of the Cascade Management Committees (CMCs), their functions, and the need to develop comprehensive guidelines, as well as the associated requirements, during the World Bank Review Mission held at the Project Management Unit (PMU) earlier this year. The discussion took place in the presence of CSIAP’s Deputy Project Directors, Specialists and Officers, led by Project Director Mr. Saman Bandulasena, along with members of the World Bank team, including Ms. Anula Harasgama, Senior Financial Management Specialist, Ms. Thiruni Liyanage, Co-TTL and Water Resources Management Specialist; Dr. Athula Senaratne, Senior Agriculture Specialist; Mr. Seenithamby Manoharan, Senior Consultant for Agriculture and Rural Development; Ms. Saumya Srivastava , Agriculture Specialist and CSIAP ICR Author.

The CSIAP Highlights Farmers’ Innovations at Regional Trade Fairs and Exhibitions

Promoting Farmer Innovation Alongside World Tourism Day
The Climate Smart Irrigated Agriculture Project (CSIAP) recently participated in a series of Trade Fairs and Exhibitions held in Trincomalee, Anuradhapura, and Kurunegala. These events were organised in parallel with World Tourism Day celebrations, providing a strategic platform to introduce CSIAP and its farmers’ innovations while engaging both local and international audiences. The exhibitions were conducted in districts where the CSIAP is currently being implemented, enabling the project to highlight its on-ground achievements and farmer innovations.

Objectives of the CSIAP Participation
The primary objective of the CSIAP’s participation was to provide farmers with a valuable opportunity to demonstrate their agricultural capabilities, showcase climate-smart products, and directly sell their produce. The exhibitions also aimed to facilitate linkages between the CSIAP farmers and potential buyers. Hotels, resorts, villas, and other tourist accommodation providers were specifically invited to visit the exhibitions to explore sourcing opportunities and to strengthen market connections between the agriculture and tourism sectors.

Provincial Collaboration and Exhibition Venues
The Trade Fairs and Exhibitions were organized by the Eastern, North Central, and North Western Provincial Councils in their respective districts. The events were held at key locations to ensure high public visibility and participation:

• Eastern Trade Fair and Exhibition at the McHeyzer Playground, Trincomalee

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• North Central Trade Fair and Exhibition at Kubichchankulama, Anuradhapura

• North Western Trade Fair and Exhibition at the premises of the North Western Provincial Council, Kurunegala 

These venues attracted large crowds, including local residents, tourists, students, and representatives from the private sector.

Engaging Displays and Knowledge Sharing
The CSIAP booths featured an engaging range of displays that attracted significant attention from both local and foreign visitors. A model cascade system designed by the project became a key highlight, particularly appealing to schoolchildren and international visitors. Informative posters and visual materials showcased the project’s diverse interventions, including Climate Smart Agriculture practices, tank rehabilitation, agro-ecological landscape resilience planning, water management strategies, and the Climate Smart Farmer Training School.

Additional displays highlighted marketing linkages introduced under the project, environmental and social safeguards, women’s contribution to the agriculture sector, and efforts to improve household nutrition. Together, these exhibits effectively communicated CSIAP’s holistic approach to sustainable and inclusive agricultural development.

Strong Leadership and Institutional Support
Mr. Saman Bandulasena, Project Director of the CSIAP, visited all three Trade Fairs and Exhibitions along with specialists and officers from the Project Management Unit. His presence underscored the project’s commitment to supporting farmer-led market engagement initiatives.

The success of the exhibitions was further strengthened by the dedicated contributions of Mr. S. Naveendradas, Deputy Project Director for the Eastern Province; Mr. R. P. M. Dissanayake, Deputy Project Director for the North Central Province; and Mr. H. M. P. Bandara, Deputy Project Director for the North Western Province. Their leadership, together with the efforts of provincial and field staff, ensured effective coordination and impactful participation across all three events.

Strengthening Market-Oriented Climate-Smart Agriculture 
Overall, the CSIAP’s participation in these regional Trade Fairs and Exhibitions successfully enhanced the visibility of climate-smart agriculture, strengthened farmer-buyer linkages, and reinforced the project’s contribution to sustainable rural livelihoods and tourism-linked market development.