The Role of Women in Climate Smart Agriculture (Csa) in Sri Lanka

Agriculture can be identified as a sector that is more affected by climate change in time and space. Climate-smart agriculture (CSA) has been introduced to the world to avoid these conditions, and women's contribution is also significant. This research paper examines women's role in CSA in the dry zone of Sri Lanka. Accordingly, the main objective of this research is to identify the nature of women's role in CSA. This study was conducted in an ecological approach using qualitative and quantitative data. The data were collected through semi-structured interviews, in-depth interviews, field visits, books, research papers, magazines, and online resources related to the study. Also, 1:50,000 digital maps and geographical data were used to generate maps. The sample was taken from the Samanalabedda Grama Niladhari Division (GND) in Siyabalanduwa Divisional Secretariat Division (DSD), Monaragala District. The purposive sampling method was adopted under the non-probability sampling method. Through this research, it was found that female headed farming household heads are using several practices of CSA such as mulching, roof rainwater harvesting, and construction of agricultural wells and tube wells. These practises have had a positive influence on poverty reduction, agricultural productivity, and food supply. However, women face challenges related to land access, limited financial resources, disparities in agricultural inputs and technologies, and socio-cultural norms. To address these issues, gender-responsive policies, increased access to resources, capacity-building, and measures to promote gender equality and women's empowerment are required. As a summary, by overcoming these obstacles, CSA can effectively contribute to poverty reduction, improved livelihoods, and climate resilience in Sri Lanka's dry zone. Accordingly, it is clear that not only in the world but also in Sri Lanka, women make a considerable contribution to CSA.