The Climate Resilience Research Center (CRRC), in partnership with FutureWater and Practica, is implementing “Smart Sprayer: Efficient Terrace Irrigation in Nepal” in Putalibazar and Bheerkot municipalities of Syangja District. The project aims to address the growing challenge of dry-season water scarcity faced by smallholder farmers, particularly in terrace-based farming systems of the mid-hills.

CRRC and Practica, held a meeting with the International Water Management Institute (IWMI) on 18 February 2026 at IWMI’s office in Manbhawan, Lalitpur. The meeting focused on knowledge exchange around irrigation innovations and the Smart Sprayer’s potential to improve water-use efficiency for smallholder farmers.

The CRRC team and Jan Nederstigt from Practica were welcomed by Dr. Manohara Khadka, Country Representative of IWMI, along with Dr. Safa Fanaian, Mr. Shisher Shrestha, and Mr. Jibesh K.C. Following a brief introduction, the CRRC team presented the Smart Sprayer project and addressed questions related to its operation, efficiency, and field-level performance.

During the meeting, IWMI shared insights from its ongoing work on water-lifting systems and solar pump technologies. Dr. Khadka also introduced several emerging irrigation technologies planned for future implementation in Nepal and highlighted the Water–Energy–Food–Ecosystem (WEFE) Nexus Leadership Program, which is being integrated into academic curricula to strengthen capacity in sustainable resource management.

The discussion further explored possible business models for later phases of the Smart Sprayer project and included a comparison between the Smart Sprayer and conventional irrigation technologies including drip and sprinkler irrigation. While IWMI does not currently have dedicated funding to support implementation, the team acknowledged the potential of the Smart Sprayer and expressed interest in continued knowledge sharing and collaboration through related projects.

Overall, the meeting provided a valuable platform for technical exchange and reinforced links between research institutions and field-based innovation for sustainable irrigation in Nepal.