CSIAP Sri Lanka

The World Bank Officials of the 14^th Implementation Support Mission of the CSIAP, visiting areas where the CSIAP is being executed,d were warmly welcomed by the CSIAP’s beneficiary farmers in Northern Province. This mission is designed to ensure that pthe roject is progressing as planned, identify challenges, and provide technical assistance where necessary. Dr. Sheu Salau (Senior Agriculture Economist/Task Team Leader (TTL) for the CSIAP), Ms. Thiruni Liyanage (Co-TTL /Water Resources Management Specialist), Dr. Athula Senaratne (Senior Agriculture Specialist), Ms. Saumya Srivastava (Agriculture Specialist and CSIAP ICR Author), Mr. Seenithamby Manoharan (Senior Consultant, Agriculture and Rural Development), Jagath Seneviratne (Monitoring & Evaluation Consultant) and Mr. Sanjiva Rodrigo (Value Chain and Agribusiness Consultant) of the World Bank joined the mission.

Here's a breakdown of what it typically involves:

Monitor project progress: Assess whether the project is on track with timeline, budget, and outcomes.
Identify and resolve problems: Detect any issues early on in terms of environmental/social safeguards. and work with the client to resolve them.
Ensure compliance: Verify that the project complies with World Bank policies (such as financial management, procurement, environmental and social safeguards etc.).
Strengthen capacity: Provide technical assistance or training to the implementing agencies when needed.
Document findings: The mission usually produces an Aide-Memoire summarising findings, recommendations, and agreed-upon next steps, followed by a Management Letter if necessary.

Typical Activities During a Mission

Field visits to project sites
Meetings with implementing agencies and beneficiaries
Review of financial records and procurement documentation
Discussions on risks and mitigation strategies

The World Bank Officials number of sites in Kilinochchi to observe the CSIAP progress as follows.

The CSIAP support for Farmers in Kilinochchi to boost Paddy Cultivation with Modern Equipment.As part of ongoing efforts to strengthen paddy cultivation in the Kilinochchi District, three paddy transplanters, three power weeders, transplanting trays, and quality paddy seeds have been provided to Union Viluthukal Young Farmers Club, Konawil, Kilinochchi. This initiative is aimed at improving agricultural efficiency and productivity during both the Yala and Maha seasons. The support also includes guidance and resources for maintaining transplanting nurseries, ensuring that farmers are equipped with the knowledge and tools needed to adopt modern and sustainable farming practices. These interventions are expected to significantly reduce labour costs, improve crop yield, and promote timely transplanting in the district.

The CSIAP completed rehabilitation works of the Kudithankiyakulam tank in Oddusuddan, covering a total command area of 54 acres and handed it over to farmers. This programme aimed at improving water resource management and community infrastructure. The scope of work included the construction of a bund, bathing steps, sluices, water channels, and access roads. These efforts are part of a broader initiative to enhance irrigation efficiency, ensure a reliable water supply, and improve accessibility for local communities. The project is expected to significantly contribute to sustainable agricultural practices and community well-being. The World Bank team met and exchanged views with farmers in the area.

The CSIAP offered laser levelling facilities to farmer Mr. N. Sivaskaran (age 49) to use in his paddy field in Oddusuddan. Laser levelling in paddy fields is a modern agricultural technique used to precisely level the land using a laser-guided system. It’s especially beneficial for rice cultivation, in which uniform water distribution and field conditions are crucial. Laser levelling uses a laser transmitter, a receiver mounted on a levelling blade, and a tractor to ensure that the entire field is levelled within a few centimetres of accuracy. The system adjusts the blade height in real-time based on the laser signals. Benefits of Laser Leveling in Paddy Fields are Uniform Water Distribution, Water Saving, Better Crop Establishment, Improved Fertilizer Efficiency, Higher Yields and Reduced Labor &Time. An Alternate Wetting and Drying (AWD) method was installed in farmer Mr. N. Sivaskaran’s paddy field. AWD installation alongside laser levelling, that's a powerful combo for rice cultivation.

To mark the commencement of the Karuvelankandalkulam downstream works, a commemorative plaque was unveiled by Dr. Sheu Salau. Both World Bank officials were warmly welcomed and escorted to the worksite with a traditional pageant. The World Bank team, along with senior officials from the CSIAP, the implementing agency, and local farmers, ceremoniously laid the foundation stones. The downstream construction will include two sluices, a 1,200-meter-long water channel, and a siphon—key components designed to enhance water flow management and ensure efficient downstream conveyance.

In a positive development for agricultural land in Oddusuddan, 69-year-old farmer Mr. V. Rubanathan has successfully cultivated watermelon and bitter gourd. This success is largely attributed to the use of high-quality seed varieties and an efficient sprinkler irrigation system provided by the project. The combination of premium seeds and modern watering techniques has resulted in improved crop yields, healthier plants, and more sustainable farming practices. Additionally, effective water flow management has ensured efficient conveyance downstream, further supporting the overall productivity of the land.

A 2.5 km long solar-powered electric elephant fence has been successfully erected in Thattaya Malai and Perisalamban - a major stride in mitigating human-elephant conflict (HEC). This eco-friendly initiative now protects 600 acres of farmland and directly benefits over 2,000 families across four Divisional Secretariat Divisions. More than just a barrier, this solar-powered system safeguards both lives and livelihoods while fostering peaceful coexistence between humans and elephants. It stands as a powerful example of community-led conservation and sustainable living, paving the way for a safer, greener future for all.

Mr. Ananda Ruban, a 45-year-old farmer, was provided with several agricultural inputs to support successful year-round cultivation. These included an Insect-Proof Net, Agro Well, Sprinkler System, Inter-Cultivator, and Roller Seeder. To further enhance productivity and promote sustainable farming practices, high-quality seeds of Groundnut, Chilli, Watermelon, Capsicum, and Onion, along with Onion Bulbs, were also distributed.

Mr. S.M. Saman Bandulasena, Project Director, along with specialists from the Project Management Unit, were also present. The World Bank Mission was organized and facilitated by Mr. George Babu, Deputy Project Director of the CSIAP in the Northern Province, with the support of his provincial staff.

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

Posted by CSIAP Sri Lanka Read full article Published Date : 2025-04-07

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