Dumbara Haritha Saviya Project Launches Landmark Paddy Field Consolidation Programme at Rajangana
Rajanagana, Sri Lanka — October 2025
Sri Lanka’s journey toward modern, efficient, and climate-resilient agriculture took a bold step forward this week as the Dumbara Green Empowerment Project officially launched the Paddy Field Consolidation Programme at Rajangana Yaya 18.
Under the leadership of Hon. Dr. Susil Ranasinghe, Deputy Minister of Irrigation and Lands, and Mrs. Chandika V. Ethugala, Additional Secretary and National Project Director of the Dumbara Green Empower Project, the initiative aims to revolutionize rice cultivation by improving land use efficiency, irrigation management, and mechanization.
Why It Matters?
For decades, Sri Lanka’s paddy fields have been divided into small, irregular plots, which limit productivity. The new programme merges these plots into larger, well-planned fields — complete with dedicated access roads and systematic irrigation channels.
The first phase at Rajangana consolidates 108 acres of land, benefiting 69 farming families and more than 740 individuals. This effort marks a major stride in transforming Sri Lanka’s traditional rice farming into a climate-smart agricultural model, ensuring higher yields and improved livelihoods for rural communities.
From Local Pilot to National Model
The concept builds upon a successful pilot project previously implemented at Nachchaduwa in collaboration with the Japanese Institute of Irrigation and Drainage (JIID). Following its success, the Government of Sri Lanka now plans to expand the initiative across all operational areas under the Dumbara Green Empower Project, and eventually, throughout the country.This expansion underscores Sri Lanka’s commitment to sustainable agriculture, resource efficiency, and inclusive rural growth.
Towards a Greener, Smarter Future
According to Mrs. Chandika V. Ethugala, this initiative strengthens climate-resilient agriculture in the Knuckles watershed region, safeguarding vital water sources for both irrigation and household use downstream.
“This is not just a land programme,” Mrs. Ethugala emphasized. “It’s about securing water, livelihoods, and sustainability for future generations.”
Through innovative farming practices, better irrigation planning, and technology-driven field management, the Dumbara Green Empower Project seeks to promote environmental stewardship and economic resilience among Sri Lanka’s rural communities
Key Highlights
- 108 acres of fragmented paddy land consolidated
- 69 families from the Sri Vijaya Farmers’ Organization participating
- 740+ beneficiaries expected to gain from improved irrigation and access
Looking Ahead
The Dumbara Green Empower Project envisions scaling up this model to other regions, supporting national goals for food security, climate adaptation, and sustainable development. With strong government support and international collaboration, the project sets thefoundation for a smarter, greener agricultural future for Sri Lanka.
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