As global water scarcity intensifies, driven by factors like climate change, population growth, and rising food demand, the agricultural sector faces growing pressure to produce more with less. Paddy fields, among the most water-intensive cropping systems, receive increasing attention. Enhancing water use efficiency in rice cultivation is, therefore, essential to ensure sustainable agricultural development, food security, and climate resilience, especially in water-stressed regions.

In response to these challenges, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) has been implementing the project “Promoting Productive Water Use and Efficient Water Management in Paddy Fields”, funded by the Government of Japan. The project, carried out in Sri Lanka and Zambia, pilots improved irrigation and water management practices for rice, a staple crop and vital livelihood source for rural communities.

Through pilot sites, the project tested adaptive water management approaches against conventional methods to assess impact on water savings, yields, and profitability. These technical activities were complemented by targeted capacity development and farmer-led learning to foster long-term adoption and upscaling.

To share the project’s outcomes and insights, a set of three technical briefs have been published, to present concrete data, lessons learned, and actionable recommendations for advancing sustainable paddy field management.

To learn about the piloting of irrigation water monitoring systems in Sri Lanka, read the brief. “Piloting irrigation water monitoring system for paddy fields in Sri Lanka” Download the publication here >>>

To explore the role of tailored training and farmer engagement in improving water efficiency and sustainability, read the brief “Capacity-building for multifunctional and value-added paddy production and water management in Sri Lanka” Download the publication here >>>

To discover the productivity and resilience gains from improved paddy farming practices, read the brief “Farming practices for enhanced water management in paddy fields in Sri Lanka” Download the publication here >>>