Giradurukotte is located in the Badulla District of Uva Province. The Mahaweli Development Project was Sri Lanka’s main Agrarian Development project. It initially began in 1970 and was accelerated in 1979. Its objectives included generating hydroelectric power, eliminating unemployment, agricultural development, and establishing industries based on agricultural products. Farmers from various regions were brought and settled in the Giradurukotte area, which belongs to the Mahaweli C zone. They were settled on undeveloped land where malaria was widespread. There was no water supply to the land, no housing, roads, or hospitals. Damage from wild animals and snakes increased.

As of Today, three generations of farmers have lived in that area, but their lands have become smaller. Issues like land fragmentation, water mismanagement, and indebtedness persist. An overview of the project reveals contradictions: while it modernized agriculture, it also entrenched state control, marginalizing smallholders. The transfer of many lands to private companies has also contributed to worsening this situation. The objectives they hoped for have still not been achieved, and the lives of the settled farmers have become unstable. Authorities have been unable to prevent the interference of middlemen, who claim that water is needed for hydroelectricity while not providing adequate water, making it impossible to cultivate crops.

MONLAR is mobilizing the Peasants groups through Agroecology, envisioning true Agrarian Development. Introducing participatory water management, diversified cropping, and eco-friendly practices to address structural inequalities.

• DATE : 12th of September 2025
• STARTING TIME : 7.00 AM
• DISTANCE FROM NICD: 110km
• TRAVELLING TIME: 2 hours 30 minutes
• Maximum number of participants is 60
• Breakfast will be provided at NICD or hotel
• Lunch will be provided on the site, local food and fruits will be provided by the community.