CSIAP Sri Lanka

The Climate Smart Irrigated Agriculture Project (CSIAP) continues to take proactive measures to enhance the productivity and climate resilience of smallholder farmers in vulnerable agricultural areas. As part of this mission, CSIAP is being implemented in selected areas across the country, including the Southern and Uva Provinces, where agriculture remains the backbone of rural livelihoods and is particularly susceptible to the impacts of climate change. To ensure the effective implementation of project interventions and to monitor ongoing activities, the Deputy Project Director’s Office in the Southern and Uva Provinces maintains a consistent presence on the ground. A dedicated team, led by Deputy Project Director Mr. D. M. L. Bandaranayake, works tirelessly to oversee project progress, engage with farmer communities, and address implementation challenges in real time. Their efforts are crucial in driving forward the CSIAP’s goal of building a more sustainable and climate-resilient agricultural sector.

A high-level field observation was carried out to assess the current status of project activities and to gather firsthand insights from the field yesterday (17th). The monitoring team included Mr. D. M. L. Bandaranayake, Mr. Thisara Bandara (Social Safeguard & Gender Development Officer for Southern and Uva Provinces), Ms. Sharmila Shanmuganathan (Social Safeguard & Gender Development Officer ), and Mr. Samantha Mallawaarachchi (IEC & ICT Specialist) from the Project Management Unit. This visit reflects the team's continued commitment to effective implementation and inclusive development in the agriculture and water sectors, especially for communities most vulnerable to climate challenges.

During the field visit, the team inspected several sites below.

Transforming Rural Livelihoods Through Tank Rehabilitation: Siyambalagaswewa in Weerawila

Siyambalagaswewa, a medium-sized irrigation tank nestled in the Weerawila area of Hambantota District, has long served as a lifeline for smallholder farmers in the area. Historically, this tank supported 30 farming families, enabling them to cultivate approximately 40 acres of paddy and field crops. However, limited water availability meant that cultivation was restricted solely to the Maha season, leaving land and labour underutilised for the rest of the year.

Recognising the potential of Siyambalagaswewa to improve agricultural resilience and rural livelihoods, the CSIAP undertook a comprehensive rehabilitation of the tank. With an investment of Rs. 25 million, the project aimed to modernise the tank's infrastructure and expand its irrigation capacity. The rehabilitation work was implemented by Nethmi Construction Company under the guidance and supervision of the relevant government authorities.

The scope of rehabilitation work included:

Bund Rehabilitation: Strengthening and restoring a 650-meter-long tank bund including the construction of Rip Rap, which enhances the tank’s water retention capacity and ensures its structural integrity.
Agricultural Access Road: Construction of a 250-meter-long agri-road, providing improved access to farmlands, especially during the rainy season, and facilitating the transportation of inputs and harvest.
Irrigation Structures: Rehabilitation of one sluice and one spill structure, crucial for efficient water regulation and safety during high inflow periods.

Impact on Farming Practices and Livelihoods
The most profound impact of this intervention has been on cropping intensity and income generation. Before the rehabilitation, farmers could only cultivate during the Maha season, relying on limited and uncertain rainfall. Post-rehabilitation, the availability of reliable irrigation water has enabled these farmers to cultivate during the Yala, Maha, and Mid-season periods, effectively transforming them into year-round cultivators.

This shift has resulted in:

Increased household income through multiple harvests.
Better food security, both at the household and community levels.
Improved quality of life for the farming families.
Higher land productivity, making optimal use of available resources.

Enhancing Irrigation Efficiency through a Lined Channel Construction

To improve the efficiency and reliability of irrigation for the local farming community, a 270-meter-long lined irrigation channel was constructed downstream of the Siyambalagaswewa. The primary objective of this intervention was to ensure the smooth and efficient conveyance of water from the tank to the agricultural fields, thereby reducing water losses caused by seepage and evaporation, issues commonly associated with unlined or poorly maintained channels. This vital infrastructure development initiative was spearheaded by the Samagi Farmer Organisation, which played a central role in coordinating construction activities, mobilising local labour, and ensuring that the channel was built to technical standards. The project received substantial financial support of Rs. 3.9 million from the CSIAP, reinforcing efforts to promote sustainable agricultural practices and improve water management systems in the area.

The construction of this lined channel is expected to bring numerous long-term benefits. By providing a durable and well-structured water conveyance system, it will minimise water wastage, ensure timely delivery to fields, and reduce maintenance costs related to erosion and leakage. Additionally, the improved irrigation system will enhance crop productivity, bolster the resilience of local agriculture to climate variability, and support better livelihoods for the farming community. This successful collaboration between the Samagi Farmer Organisation and CSIAP stands as a model of community-driven infrastructure development, aimed at achieving sustainable agricultural growth and effective water resource management.

Protecting the Crops from Wild Animals
In addition to improving irrigation infrastructure, the CSIAP addressed a critical concern faced by the local farming community — crop damage caused by wild animals. To protect the cultivated lands and ensure safe harvesting, a 2.067-kilometer-long solar-powered electric fence was installed around the command area in 2023. It covers 40 acres of paddy land cultivated during both the Maha and Yala seasons. The CSIAP invested Rs. 1.24 million in the erection of this environmentally friendly fence in the Siyampalagaswewa tank area. The Samagi Farmer Organization has taken over the responsibility of maintaining the fence, showcasing community participation and the sustainability of the intervention.

In its continued efforts to support and safeguard smallholder agriculture, the CSIAP has not only focused on improving irrigation infrastructure but also addressed another pressing issue faced by the local farming community — frequent crop damage caused by wild animals. To mitigate this threat and ensure the safety of cultivated lands, CSIAP facilitated the installation of a 2.067-kilometre-long solar-powered electric fence around the command area of the Siyambalagaswewa tank in 2023. This strategic intervention now protects 40 acres of paddy fields cultivated during both the Maha and Yala seasons, significantly reducing the risk of crop loss and improving farmers’ confidence in their agricultural investments.

The environmentally friendly fence was erected for Rs. 1.24 million, reflecting CSIAP’s commitment to sustainable and eco-conscious solutions. Importantly, the Samagi Farmer Organisation has assumed full responsibility for the maintenance and upkeep of the fence — a testament to the strong sense of community ownership and the long-term sustainability of the initiative. This integrated approach — combining infrastructure development with proactive crop protection — underscores CSIAP’s holistic strategy in enhancing the productivity, resilience, and livelihoods of rural farming communities.

Conclusion
The rehabilitation of Siyambalagaswewa stands as a successful model of climate-smart agriculture in action. It not only enhances agricultural productivity but also strengthens the economic resilience of rural communities, promotes sustainable resource use, and fosters community-led solutions to long-standing challenges. Through strategic infrastructure development, integrated planning, and community engagement, CSIAP continues to play a pivotal role in transforming agriculture and rural livelihoods in the Hambantota District and beyond.

Rehabilitation of Murungawewa in Bandagiriya ASC, Hambantota: A Step Toward Year-Round Cultivation
As part of ongoing efforts under the CSIAP to strengthen agricultural resilience and improve water management in the dry zone, the Murungawewa tank, situated in the Bandagiriya Agrarian Service Centre (ASC) division of Hambantota District, is undergoing comprehensive rehabilitation. The project is expected to directly benefit 10 farmer families, enabling the cultivation of 30 acres of farmland that have long been dependent on limited seasonal rainfall. The total cost of the rehabilitation amounts to Rs. 33.24 million, and the construction activities are being undertaken by C. J. Constructions Company.

Scope of Rehabilitation Work
The rehabilitation work involves multiple critical components aimed at enhancing the tank's water storage and distribution capacity:

Construction of a 510-meter-long bund to strengthen the tank’s structural integrity and prevent seepage and erosion.
Building a new 21-meter-long spill to manage excess water discharge safely during heavy rains, thereby protecting surrounding lands and infrastructure.
Installation of a new sluice gate, which will enable improved water control and facilitate timely irrigation scheduling.
Desilting of 6,500 cubic meters of accumulated sediment from the tank bed significantly increases its water storage capacity.

All of these tasks, which are being diligently carried out by C. J. Constructions Company, are also responsible for the desilting operation. These interventions are designed not only to restore but also upgrade the tank’s functionality to meet future climatic and agricultural demands

A Sacrifice for a Sustainable Future
Traditionally, farmers in this area have only been able to cultivate during the Maha season due to the scarcity of water. However, with the completion of the current rehabilitation, farmers will soon be able to engage in three full cultivation seasons, significantly increasing productivity and income levels. This year, for the first time in many years, the area received adequate rainfall, raising hopes among the farming community for Yala cultivation. However, recognising the long-term benefits of the tank rehabilitation, the farmers voluntarily agreed to forgo Yala season cultivation to facilitate artificial drawdown of the tank—an essential step to allow rehabilitation works to proceed uninterrupted.

Appreciation for the Farming Community
The CSIAP acknowledges and sincerely appreciates the cooperation, foresight, and sacrifice demonstrated by the farmers. Their decision to prioritise long-term water security and sustainable agriculture over immediate cultivation exemplifies strong community spirit and resilience. This collaborative approach between the farming community and the project team reflects the core values of CSIAP—climate-smart planning, sustainable resource use, and community-led development. Upon completion, the rehabilitated Murungawewa tank will stand as a symbol of what can be achieved when development efforts are supported by the very people they aim to serve.

A Farmer’s Transformation: Jinasiri Sudusinghe’s Journey to Prosperity through CSIAP

In the quiet village of Kuda Gammana 07, nestled within Senapura in the Weerawila Agrarian Service Centre Division of Hambantota District, lives a humble yet determined farmer—Mr. Jinasiri Sudusinghe, 67 years old. Today, he stands as a symbol of resilience, growth, and the transformational power of modern agriculture. Cultivating his land alongside his four sons and employing 15 daily wage labourers, Mr. Sudusinghe’s journey from hardship to success is a testament to the life-changing impact of the Climate Smart Irrigated Agriculture Project (CSIAP).

Life Before CSIAP: The Struggles of a Committed Farmer
For years, Mr. Sudusinghe toiled on his land, committed to his role as a food producer, but his efforts were hindered by severe limitations. He lacked access to adequate financial resources to purchase essential agricultural inputs such as seeds, fertilisers, and irrigation equipment. Equally challenging was the absence of any formal training or exposure to modern, climate-resilient agricultural practices. Despite his dedication, farming remained a subsistence activity for Mr. Sudusinghe. He and his family lived with uncertainty, unable to predict yields, cope with water shortages, or access knowledge that could unlock the full potential of their land.

The CSIAP’s Arrival: A Turning Point
Everything changed when the Climate Smart Irrigated Agriculture Project was introduced to his village. Recognising the untapped potential in farmers like Mr. Sudusinghe, the CSIAP stepped in with a package of integrated support designed not only to improve productivity but also to promote sustainable, climate-resilient farming practices.

Under the project, Mr. Sudusinghe received:

A solar-powered irrigation pump with a full solar panel setup, reducing reliance on grid electricity
A sprinkler irrigation system and drip irrigation system to optimize water use
An insect-proof net house to protect crops and extend growing seasons
High-quality vegetable seeds to diversify and intensify his crop production

Perhaps most importantly, the project provided access to formal training. His four sons were enrolled in the Climate Smart Farmer Training School at Thirappane, where they received in-depth instruction on sustainable agricultural practices, pest and disease management, water-saving irrigation, and crop diversification. Upon completing their training, they passed on their knowledge to Mr. Sudusinghe, enabling the entire family to shift toward smarter, more efficient farming.

New Crops, New Methods, and a New Life
Today, the Sudusinghe family cultivates eight acres of land, including three acres dedicated to paddy. They grow a diverse range of crops such as Capsicum, Bitter Gourd, Luffa, Pumpkin, Mango, Chillies and Rice. The introduction of improved irrigation systems has allowed them to make better use of available water, even with their field located at a significant distance from the nearest tank. Previously, Mr. Sudusinghe spent approximately Rs. 25,000 per month on electricity to pump water to his fields. With the CSIAP-provided solar pump, his electricity bill has dropped to Rs. 8,000 per month—a dramatic reduction that reflects both cost savings and environmental sustainability. Though he still uses grid electricity to support pumping over the long distance, the solar system now bears the bulk of the energy burden.

Doubling Income and Supporting a Community
Before the CSIAP intervention, Mr. Sudusinghe’s farming income averaged Rs. 200,000 per month. Today, thanks to improved practices, increased crop diversity, and reduced operating costs, his monthly income has doubled to around Rs. 400,000. His success has not only elevated the standard of living for his own family but also created employment opportunities in his village. He now employs 15 daily workers, providing steady income to other families in the community and contributing to the local rural economy

A Heartfelt Message of Gratitude
Standing in his thriving field, surrounded by his sons, farmhands, and a rich tapestry of crops, Mr. Dhinasiri Sudusinghe reflects with gratitude:
“ the CSIAP didn’t just help me grow more crops—it gave me and my sons a future. We are stronger, more knowledgeable, and more hopeful. My heartfelt thanks to the CSIAP for uplifting our lives and showing us what’s possible.”

A Model for Climate-Smart Agriculture in Sri Lanka
Mr. Sudusinghe’s story is more than just a personal triumph—it serves as an inspiring model for what can be achieved when technology, training, and support meet commitment and community spirit. Through the CSIAP’s timely intervention, one farmer's life has been transformed, and a ripple effect of prosperity has begun to spread across his village.

Rising from Struggles to Stability: Nadeesha and Chamara’s Success through the CSIAP

A devoted young couple whose lives have been remarkably transformed through the CSIAP. Once burdened by difficulties and uncertainty, they are now recognised as successful and self-reliant farmers in their community. Ms. R. M. Nadeesha (37) and her husband Mr. L. B. Chamara (39), who live in Kuda Gammana 07, of Senapura, which falls under the jurisdiction of the Weerawila Agrarian Service Centre Division in Hambantota District, are no strangers to hardship. For many years, they faced the harsh realities of small-scale farming without proper resources or support. Their determination to work their land never waned, but the burden of insufficient income, poor access to irrigation, and lack of technical knowledge cast a long shadow over their dreams of building a secure future through agriculture.

Before CSIAP: The Burden of Farming Without Support
In those early days, the couple’s struggles were relentless. They often found themselves investing more in cultivation than they earned in return. Rising input costs, unpredictable weather, poor irrigation facilities, and limited exposure to modern farming techniques placed their livelihoods at constant risk. There were moments of deep discouragement when they wondered if all their hard work would ever pay off. They lacked not just equipment, but hope.

A Turning Point: When CSIAP Reached Their Village
Everything began to change when the CSIAP was introduced in their village. The project was designed to support rural farming families like theirs—families with potential, but who lacked the tools and knowledge to thrive in a changing climate. Recognising their enthusiasm and willingness to learn, CSIAP selected Nadeesha and Chamara as beneficiaries of a holistic support package that included:

A solar-powered pump and solar panels significantly reduce their dependency on costly grid electricity
A drip irrigation system improves water use efficiency for their crops
Access to quality seeds suitable for local conditions
Hands-on training at the Climate Smart Farmer Training School in Thirappane, where they learned about sustainable farming practices, crop diversification, efficient water use, and pest management under climate-smart principles

This was more than a project—it was a lifeline.

Starting Fresh with Skills and Confidence
Equipped with new tools and newly acquired knowledge, Nadeesha and Chamara started afresh. No longer relying on traditional methods alone, they implemented everything they had learned and began cultivating with renewed energy and purpose. The transformation was both immediate and profound.
Today, the couple cultivates a diverse range of crops, including: Maize, Tomatoes, Capsicum, Ladies’ Fingers (Okra), Drumsticks (Moringa), Spiny Gourd and Bitter Gourd. Their strategic approach to crop planning, informed by their training, has allowed them to make better use of limited land and water, increasing yields while minimising waste. Their irrigation efficiency has improved dramatically thanks to the drip system, and the solar pump has reduced their monthly electricity bill, which was once a major burden.

A Dramatic Improvement in Income and Quality of Life
The impact of the project has been tangible and significant. Before CSIAP’s support, the couple earned an average of Rs. 80,000 per month—barely enough to cover household and farming expenses. Now, their monthly income exceeds Rs. 130,000, allowing them not only to cover costs comfortably but also to save, reinvest, and plan for the future. With their improved financial status, Nadeesha and Chamara have enhanced their standard of living, ensured better education and nutrition for their children, and gained newfound respect in their community as successful, climate-smart farmers.

Empowering a Woman Farmer’s Voice
For Ms. Nadeesha, the journey has been deeply personal. As a woman in agriculture, she now feels more empowered, knowledgeable, and confident. She plays an active role in decision-making on the farm and in managing finances. She serves as a role model for other women in her village, proving that with access to the right opportunities, women farmers can not only participate but also lead in climate-smart farming.

A Message of Gratitude and Hope
“The CSIAP gave us more than seeds and equipment—it gave us hope,” says Nadeesha. “We were once lost in uncertainty, struggling to keep going. But today, we stand proud as successful farmers. We thank CSIAP deeply for helping us rise, learn, and build a future we never thought was possible.”

Conclusion: A Story Worth Replicating
The story of Nadeesha and Chamara reflects the success of CSIAP’s mission: to uplift rural farming families through sustainable, climate-smart agriculture.
They are a compelling example of how investing in knowledge, sustainable technology, modern tools, and financial relief and inclusive training can transform not only fields but entire futures. Their success highlights the critical role that targeted development projects like CSIAP can play in strengthening climate resilience, empowering rural families, and building a food-secure future for Sri Lanka. Their journey is not just their own—it’s a story that inspires other families in their community to believe that change is possible. They are not beneficiaries any more—they are ambassadors of change.

Story and photographs by Samantha Mallawaarachchi, IEC & ICT specialist, CSIAP

Posted by CSIAP Sri Lanka Read full article Published Date : 2025-07-18

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