Rebirth of Jandurawewa – Empowering 55 Farm Families in Ranawaranawa

Rehabilitated Jandurawewa

The Climate Smart Irrigated Agriculture Project (CSIAP), implemented by the Ministry of Agriculture, has made a substantial impact on farming communities across Sri Lanka’s dry zone. One of the most transformative interventions of the project has been the rehabilitation of traditional irrigation tanks, which are a vital source of water for agriculture in these climate-vulnerable areas. Through the restoration and strengthening of these tanks, the CSIAP has significantly improved the availability and reliability of water for paddy cultivation. As a result, paddy cultivation—which is highly dependent on a reliable water source—has seen notable improvements in both yield and consistency. Farmers, who once faced frequent crop failures due to water scarcity, now have access to adequate irrigation throughout the cultivation cycle.

Weeding in the paddy field

This consistent water supply has enabled them to grow healthy, high-yielding paddy crops during both Yala and Maha seasons. This, in turn, has enhanced their income-generating capacity and contributed to uplifting their overall living standards. This intervention not only strengthens agricultural productivity but also supports the long-term resilience and economic stability of smallholder farming families in climate-vulnerable areas. As a direct result, farming families in the project areas have experienced a significant boost in agricultural productivity and income generation. Increased harvests not only ensure food security at the household level but also allow farmers to sell surplus produce in local markets, thereby strengthening the rural economy.

In the heart of Ranawaranawa, under the Weerawila Agrarian Service Centre Division in Hambantota, lies the Jandurawewa tank – a once-neglected irrigation source that has now become a lifeline for 55 farming families. Spanning 48 acres, these farmers had long struggled with water scarcity, managing to cultivate paddy only during one season each year.

However, everything changed with the intervention of the

A paddy field being covered by a solar-powered electric fence

Climate Smart Irrigated Agriculture Project (CSIAP). Through a comprehensive tank rehabilitation program—including bund improvement, spillway construction, and desilting—an investment of Rs. 8.2 million revitalized the tank. As a result, farmers are now able to cultivate both Yala and Maha seasons, doubling their productivity and significantly improving their livelihoods.  To further support the farming community and ensure the sustainability of agricultural activities, the project implemented a solar-powered electric fence system around the paddy fields. This initiative was specifically designed to address the growing issue of crop damage caused by wild animals. The solar-powered system provides a cost-effective and environmentally friendly solution, operating independently of the national grid. As a result, farmers now experience fewer crop losses and can cultivate their fields with greater confidence and security.

Upon completion of the rehabilitation, the tank was officially handed over to the Parakum Farm Organisation for ongoing management and maintenance. Beyond paddy farming, the organisation has also tapped into an innovative income stream by cultivating lotus flowers in the tank, generating approximately Rs. 12,000 per month during the peak flowering season and around Rs. 7,000 per month during the off-season, contributing to the organisation’s financial sustainability and promoting diversified agricultural practices. The CSIAP didn’t stop there. Understanding the importance of year-round farming, the project also provided mung bean, chili, and groundnut seeds for inter-seasonal cultivation. These interventions have opened new avenues of income for farming families in the area.

Nirosha and Jayasena farmer family

Among the beneficiaries are Mr. P. K. D. Jayasena and Mrs. R. M. Nirosha, a husband-and-wife farming duo who have witnessed a transformation in their livelihood. Sharing their journey, they said:“Before the tank rehabilitation, we struggled with severe water shortages and could only cultivate paddy during one season. Now, we cultivate two full seasons without issue and even grow a variety of vegetables such as Solanum torvum (Tibbatu), Thai Eggplant (Thalana Batu), Winged Bean (Dambala), Tomato, Long Beans (Ma Karal), Maize (Bada Iringu), and Cucumber.

Previously, our annual income was around Rs. 300,000 from the Paddy Cultivation. Now, we earn Rs. 1.7 million, with expenses totaling only Rs. 670,000. Vegetable farming alone adds another Rs. 1,586,000  to our income in 2024.” Mrs. Nirosha, who received training at the Farmer Training School in Thirappane on Climate Smart Agriculture Practices and Technologies, also benefited from a sprinkler irrigation system and financial support for a polytunnel, provided by the CSIAP. The couple expressed their deep gratitude to the CSIAP and the dedicated staff of the Deputy Project Director’s Office in Southern and Uva Provinces. They also extended special thanks to Mr. D.M.L. Bandaranayake, Deputy Project Director, for his continuous encouragement and support.

Beyond income gains, the success of paddy cultivation has led to broader socio-economic improvements. With better earnings, farmers are now able to invest in education, health, housing, and farm inputs—raising their standard of living and creating more resilient livelihoods. Women and youth, in particular, are finding new opportunities in post-harvest processing and agri-entrepreneurship supported by the project.

The
Jandurawewa tank rehabilitation has enabled year-round cultivation, diversified income sources, and improved the resilience and prosperity of local farm families. The project stands as a model for integrated water resource management and community-driven agricultural development.

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

The CSIAP Officials Inspect Channel Lining and Agri Road Constructions in SP

As part of its efforts to improve rural livelihoods, the Climate Smart Irrigated Agriculture Project (CSIAP) has constructed concrete channel linings alongside agricultural roads in farming areas of the dry zone where the project is being implemented. These channel linings help prevent water wastage by reducing seepage, ensuring that more water reaches farmers’ fields, especially during dry periods. At the same time, the adjoining roads have been improved to make it easier for farmers to access their lands, transport agricultural inputs, and carry their produce to markets. , thereby strengthening climate-resilient farming systems in climate-vulnerable hotspot areas. This combined development of irrigation and road infrastructure brings multiple benefits: it saves water, improves farm productivity, reduces transport costs, and strengthens the overall resilience of farming communities to climate change. By connecting farms more effectively to irrigation water and local markets, the CSIAP is not only improving agriculture but also helping to build a better future for rural families across the dry zone of Sri Lanka.

To monitor the progress and ensure quality standards, a team from the Project Management Unit (PMU) visited the Southern Province today (02nd) to inspect the ongoing construction activities under Phase II of the project. The visiting team included Ms. Aruni Premathilake, Environmental and Social Safeguard Specialist; Mr. Samantha Mallawaarachchi, IEC & ICT Specialist; and Ms. Sharmila Shanmuganathan, Social Safeguard and Gender Development Officer. They were joined by Mr. T.D. Bandara, Gender Development Officer, and Mr. Chandana Pathirana, Technical Officer from the office of the Deputy Project Director for the Southern and Uva Provinces. During the field visit, the officials reviewed the construction of channel linings and agri-roads, interacted with site supervisors and contractors, and ensured compliance with environmental and social safeguard measures. The visit also served to gather community feedback and assess the benefits of the infrastructure for local farming families.

As part of its mission to enhance the resilience and productivity of Sri Lanka’s irrigated agriculture, officials of the Climate Smart Irrigated Agriculture Project (CSIAP) conducted an inspection visit to multiple channel lining and agricultural road construction sites within the Bandagiriya Agrarian Service Centre Division, which falls under the Malala ara cascade system. These infrastructure developments aim to ensure consistent water availability for cultivation and improve access to remote agricultural fields, thereby empowering farming communities to engage in year-round paddy cultivation.

Infrastructure Development in Arabadda
In the Arabadda area, a 1,525-meter-long channel lining, along with an agricultural access road is currently under construction. This initiative, valued at Rs. 46 million, is being carried out by Liyanage Constructions Company. Once completed, the project will directly benefit 192 farming families who cultivate around 300 acres of paddy fields. The availability of a lined irrigation channel and a stable access road will allow these farmers to effectively carry out agricultural activities in both the Yala and Maha cultivation seasons, reducing dependency on unpredictable rainfall and addressing past challenges caused by water scarcity and poor infrastructure.

Major Construction Works in Kokara
A larger-scale intervention is ongoing in the Kokara area, where Adambawa and Sons Company is constructing 3,200 meters of irrigation channel lining and 1,500 meters of agri road. This project, valued at Rs. 45 million, is designed to enhance the water distribution network and transportation facilities for farmers in both Kokara and Arabadda. The improved irrigation infrastructure will support the efficient delivery of water to paddy lands, while the upgraded road network will ease the transport of inputs and harvests, thereby improving market access and reducing post-harvest losses. 

Uplifting Agriculture in Thammannawa
In Thammannawa, a strategic project being implemented by Pearl Construction Company involves the construction of 2,100 meters of channel lining and 1,000 meters of agri road at a total cost of Rs. 58.9 million. This infrastructure upgrade is expected to significantly benefit 150 farmer families, enabling them to cultivate 300 acres of paddy in both major cultivation seasons. Notably, farmers in Thammannawa previously faced acute water shortages and were only able to engage in cultivation during the Maha season. With the new channel lining ensuring efficient water flow and retention, farmers will now be able to cultivate during both Yala and Maha, thereby increasing their productivity and household income.

Support to Farmers in Anukkanwewa
Further strengthening the agricultural potential of the region, C J Construction Company has undertaken a smaller yet impactful project in Anukkanwewa, constructing 400 meters of channel lining along with an agri road, at an estimated cost of Rs. 19.7 million. This intervention is also expected to benefit farmlands in neighboring Thammannawa, by enhancing water conveyance and field accessibility across the two areas.

Engagement with Farmer Organisations
During the inspection, the CSIAP officials met with Mr. U.H. Nimal Jayathilaka, the Chairman of the Thammannawa and Anukkanwewa Farmer Organization. Mr. Jayathilaka shared valuable feedback and expressed his appreciation for the timely interventions. He noted that the infrastructure upgrades not only provide long-term solutions to irrigation challenges but also uplift the morale of the farming community by opening new opportunities for consistent agricultural production and livelihood improvement.

The tour was effectively coordinated and facilitated by Mr. D.M.L. Bandaranayeke, Deputy Project Director for the Southern and Uva Provinces, who played a key role in organizing site visits and ensuring the smooth execution of the itinerary. His guidance and support were instrumental in providing the visiting officials with a comprehensive understanding of the ongoing project activities and community impacts within the province.

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

SLCSAC Hosts a Workshop to Develop National Competency Standards for CSA

The Workshop Introduction and NVQ Presentation by Ms. Theja Malkanthi 

In a significant move towards formalising agricultural vocational training in Sri Lanka, the Sri Lanka Climate Smart Agriculture Centre (SLCSAC) conducted a comprehensive workshop today at the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, Lands and Irrigation to develop a National Competency Standard for Climate Smart Irrigated Agriculture (CSA) Practices. The workshop brought together key stakeholders, including representatives from the Tertiary and Vocational Education Commission (TVEC), Ministry officials, agriculture experts, curriculum developers, and training providers, with the objective of aligning Climate Smart Agriculture training programmes with the National Vocational Qualification (NVQ) framework. 

Currently, the Farm Business Development Course and Climate Smart Agriculture Practices Course—conducted under the World Bank-funded Climate Smart Irrigated Agriculture Project (CSIAP)—offer vital knowledge and skills to farmers across 11 districyts in the dry zone. These courses are delivered through the Farm Training School in Thirappane and Farm Business Schools established at farmer sites, primarily at Agrarian Service Centres. While these programs have significantly enhanced the vocational competencies of participating farmers, they are not yet aligned with the NVQ framework, and therefore lack formal accreditation, limiting their value at both national and international levels.

Welcoming participants to the workshop by Ms. Udula Sedara

Addressing this gap, today's workshop focused on formulating a National Competency Standard that would provide the foundation for recognising CSA training under the NVQ framework. Once adopted, this standard would enable training institutions to offer NVQ-certified courses, increasing the credibility, transferability, and employment potential of the skills acquired by farmers.

The initiative is also expected to support Sri Lanka’s broader goals of sustainable agriculture, climate resilience, and food security by equipping rural communities with skills that are officially certified and market-relevant. The development of this competency standard will undergo further review and validation in consultation with industry stakeholders and technical experts before it is finalised and endorsed by the Tertiary and Vocational Education Commission (TVEC).

The workshop was held in collaboration with the TVEC, the apex body for vocational education and training in Sri Lanka. Marking the importance of this initiative, Dr. Dilrukshi Herath, Assistant Director of NVQ at TVEC, participated in the event, representing the national authority responsible for implementing and monitoring the National Vocational Qualification (NVQ) framework.

The main objectives of the workshop were:

1. To raise awareness of the availability of CSA-related training programs or any bridge programs currently operating under the National Vocational Qualification (NVQ) system, and to explore how these may be aligned with the Sri Lanka Qualification Framework (SLQF).
2. To aware the availability of a National Competency Standard (NCS) for CSA-related courses and, if unavailable, to explore how existing courses conducted at the Farm Training School in Thirappane and through Farmer Business Schools can be mapped and accredited through the national system.
3. To develop and formulate a structured CSA course tied to specific job functions, with the goal of producing a recognized National Competency Standard and Curriculum. This would allow the program to operate as a demand-driven, accredited course that meets the needs of both learners and the agriculture sector.

Dr. Sanjeewa Rodrigo

The SLCSAC was established under the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, Land and Irrigation (MALLI), operating within the Agri Technology Division of the MALLI. It serves as the institutional mechanism to sustain and scale up the impactful initiatives pioneered by the Climate Smart Irrigated Agriculture Project (CSIAP). As part of its inaugural activity, SLCSAC has embarked on the process of obtaining National Vocational Qualification (NVQ) accreditation for Climate Smart Agriculture (CSA) training courses—an essential step toward formalizing agricultural competencies and promoting vocational excellence. The Centre, currently headed by Acting Focal Point Director Dr. Vindhaya Basnayake, is mandated to deliver NVQ Level 1 to 4 certified programs in the future.

The design and coordination of the NVQ accreditation process for SLCSAC were led by Dr. Sanjeewa Rodrigo, Agribusiness and Value Chain Specialist for the World Bank and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO). Speaking at the event, Dr. Sanjeewa Rodrigo noted, “This is a transformative step towards professionalizing climate-resilient farming. By aligning our training efforts with national qualifications, we ensure that our farmers receive the recognition they deserve and this workshop marks a pivotal moment in bridging the gap between practical agricultural training and formal vocational certification. “By developing a recognised competency standard, we are empowering farmers and building a resilient agricultural workforce for the future.”, he further added.

The Keynote Address on Climate Smart Agriculture (CSA) practices, National Vocational Qualification (NVQ), and the Sri Lanka Climate Smart Agriculture Centre (SLCSAC) was delivered by Dr. Athula Senarathne, Senior Agriculture Specialist at the World Bank. A speech on CSIAP Sustainability and Capacity Building Programming with a Focus on Resource Mobilisation was delivered by Mr. Saman Bandulasena, Project Director of the Climate Smart Irrigated Agriculture Project (CSIAP). Additionally, the Workshop Introduction and NVQ Presentation was delivered by Ms. M.P. Theja Malkanthi, former Assistant Director (NCS Development & Curriculum Development) at National Apprentice and Industrial Training Authority (NAITA). Dr. Dilrukshi Herath, Assistant Director (National Vocational Qualification Division), TVEC, elaborated on the contributions of the TVEC to the training programmes on Climate Smart Agriculture conducted by the SLCSAC.  

Supporting this initiative, Development Officers from MALLI's AgroTech Division—Ms. Udula Sedara, Ms. Hashini Peiris, and Ms. M.L.F. Shifani —played a key role in organizing the event, with logistical arrangements efficiently managed by Mr. Mahela Kumarasiri. High-level officials from the Department of Agriculture, University of Peradeniya, Tertiary and Vocational Education Commission, Meteorological Department, Agriculture Research Station in Mahailluppallama, Paddy Research Institute in Bathalagoda, Natural Resources Management Centre, the World Bank, CSIAP, and the private sector also attended the workshop.

Written and photographed by Samantha Mallawaarachchi, IEC & ICT Specialist, PMU, CSIAP.

Tree Planting Initiative under CSIAP Takes Root in Northern Province

In celebration of World Environment Day and as part of the project's ongoing commitment to sustainable agriculture and environmental stewardship, the Deputy Project Director’s Office of the Climate Smart Irrigated Agriculture Project (CSIAP) in the Northern Province successfully organized a tree planting activity on 05 June 2025 in Kilinochchi. The event was conducted under the Mallikairu Cascade Plan, aiming to promote ecological sustainability and enhance green cover in irrigated farming areas.

A total of 300 trees—including Karanda and Kumbuk species—were planted in strategic locations within the Kattakaduwa area of the Parayan Tank, Pidaripallam Tank, and Uppuvil Tank. These sites are located under the jurisdiction of the Akkarayan Agrarian Service Center (ASC) in the Kilinochchi District. The activity was carried out in collaboration with local farming communities, project officers, and regional agricultural authorities, under the patronage of Mr. George Babu, Deputy Project Director of the CSIAP in the Northern Province.

This initiative aligns with CSIAP’s core objectives to: Promote climate-resilient agricultural practices, Enhance green cover in agricultural landscapes, Support biodiversity conservation and Create awareness among farming communities about environmental protection.

During the event, Deputy Director Mr. George Babu emphasised the importance of integrating tree planting into climate-smart agricultural systems, stating: "Trees play a vital role in protecting water resources, enriching soils, and safeguarding livelihoods—especially in the face of climate change."

The CSIAP remains committed to enhancing the resilience of Sri Lanka’s agricultural sector through environmentally sound initiatives like this. This initiative not only commemorates World Environment Day but also reinforces the project's broader goals of climate resilience, watershed conservation, and environmentally sustainable agriculture.

Story by  Ms. S. Kesiga, Environmental Safeguard Officer, Northern Province, CSIAP

The wrap-up Meeting of the CSIAP Commences at the MALLI with WB Officials

The Wrap-up Meeting of the World Bank-funded Climate Smart Irrigated Agriculture Project (CSIAP) commenced today at the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, Lands and Irrigation (MALLI), bringing together senior officials from the World Bank, the Ministry, and the CSIAP project team to review the project’s implementation progress and finalize the next steps.

 The meeting marks the conclusion of the World Bank Technical Support Mission held from June 11–17, 2025. The session was chaired by Mr. D. P. Wickramasinghe, Secretary of the Ministry, with the World Bank delegation led by Mr. Tomas Ricardo Rosada Villamar (Practice Manager). Other key participants included Dr. Sheu Salau (Task Team Leader – TTL), Thiruni Liyanage (Co-TTL and Senior Water Resources Management Specialist), Dr. Athula Senaratne (Senior Agriculture Specialist), Mr. Seenithamby Manoharan (Senior Consultant for Agriculture and Rural Development), Mr. Jagath Seneviratne (Consultant for Monitoring & Evaluation), and Mr. Sanjeewa Rodrigo (Consultant for Agribusiness & Marketing).

Purpose of the Wrap-Up Meeting
The wrap-up meeting marks the culmination of a World Bank Technical Mission or project review, serving several vital functions:

• Presentation of Mission Findings: The World Bank team shared preliminary findings, assessments, and recommendations from their mission.
• Review of Project Progress: Achievements, challenges, and the status of project components were discussed in detail.
• Discussion of Agreed Actions: A list of agreed actions was finalized for implementation before project closure.
• Stakeholder Engagement: The meeting provided a platform for active engagement among Ministry officials, World Bank representatives, and project staff.

Project Achievements and Next Steps
Dr. Sheu Salau announced that the CSIAP has been honored with the prestigious South Asia Vice President’s Award this year, congratulating the entire team on this outstanding achievement.

Looking ahead, under Phase II of CSIAP, 173 tanks are scheduled for rehabilitation in 2025. Of these, 15 tanks may see work extend beyond December if rainfall exceeds expectations. All tanks are currently under rehabilitation, with Dr. Salau confirming that the required funds are fully committed and no cancellations are anticipated during the current mission. 

Agreed Actions and Strategy

The following key actions and strategies were agreed upon:

• Complete Procurement: All RFQ items and related activities to be completed by July 30, 2025.
• Utilize GOSL Funds: Any operational cost increases beyond committed IDA funds will be covered by the Government of Sri Lanka funds.
• Minimize Variation Orders: Avoid or minimize VOs; if necessary, VOs must be proactively issued by DPD offices in consultation with DAD and PID by July 31, 2025.
• Finalize Training: All planned training activities (worth USD 0.72 million) to be completed by November 30, 2025.
•  Monthly Billing: Contractors to ensure monthly submission of bills.
• Additional Support: DAD and PID will receive extra support for suspension handling and bill processing through two consultations (2 days per week), and a vehicle will be hired at each DPD office until October 31, 2025.

The meeting was also attended by Ms. Anuradha Dharmasena (Director, Development, MALLI), Mr. Saman Bandulasena (Project Director), as well as specialists and officers of the CSIAP.

Story by: Ms. Sharmila Shanmuganthan, Social Safeguard and Gender Development Officer, PMU, CSIAP
Photograph by: Ms. Gayani Dassanayake, PMU-CSIAP

A remarkable success through Watermelon Cultivation by a farmer in Kilinochchi

The CSIAP celebrates the World Environment Day in Trincomalee, EP

Planting a tree on the preschool premises

In celebration of World Environment Day— the United Nations' principal platform for encouraging global awareness and action to protect our planet— the Deputy ProjectDirector’s Office of the Climate Smart Irrigated Agriculture Project (CSIAP) in the Eastern Province recently organized a successful tree planting activity and educational programme at Kattukulam Navalar Preschool in the Trincomalee District.

This inspiring initiative brought together preschool children, teachers, parents, and local community members to raise awareness about environmental conservation and promote sustainable green practices. To mark the occasion, a tree was ceremoniously planted on the school premises, symbolising our shared responsibility to restore and protect the environment. In addition, 26 coconut saplings were distributed among the school children, encouraging them to plant and nurture these trees in their own gardens— a meaningful step towards fostering a lifelong commitment to environmental stewardship.

 Mr. T. Sekaran, Social Safeguard Officer of the CSIAP in the Eastern Province and coordinator of the event, delivered an engaging lecture on environmental issues, emphasizing the importance of tree planting and the significance of World Environment Day. He was ably assisted by Mr. S.H.S. Eshan, Environmental Safeguard Officer, and Ms. U. Sameeha, Agriculture Facilitator (Kuchchaveli & Pulmoddai), who helped organize and facilitate the programme.  Their efforts were carried out under the guidance and leadership of Mr. Sampasivam Naveendranthas, Deputy Project Director of the CSIAP in the Eastern Province.

Through this impactful effort, the CSIAP reaffirms its dedication to protecting the planet and nurturing a greener, healthier future for all. Every tree planted today is a step towards restoring our ecosystems and combating climate change.

Let’s continue to nurture nature— because there is “Only One Earth.”

Story by T. Sekaran, Social Safeguard Officer, CSIAP in the Eastern Province