Dr. D.G.C. Jeewani, Assistant Director of Agriculture (Research)

• Jeewani, D.G.C., M. D. L. C. Nishantha, J. Wenhui, L. Tianxiang, N. Wenzhi, W. Zhonghua. 2019, High throughput mapping and transcriptome analyses revealed the controlling gene of blue wheat grains, Tropical Agriculture (Accepted for publication).

• Jiahuan Wang., D.G. C. Jeewani, Zhonghua Wang. 2019. Composition and morphology of cuticular waxes on the spikes, flag leaf blades and flag leaf sheaths of wheat (Triticum aestivum), International Journal of Agriculture and Biology.21:1249-1255, doi: 10.17957/IJAB/15.1018.

•  Kodithuwakku P., D.G.C. Jeewani, L.M.H.R. Alwis, H.M.S.K. Herath. 2019. Screening of Arachis hypogaea (Groundnut) breeding lines for seed size and short duration under rain fed conditions, In proceeding of the International Research Conference 7-9 February, Uva Wellassa University, Sri Lanka. 293p (Abstract)

• Lijiang Hou., Aihua Zhang, Ruochen Wang, Peng Zhao, Dongzhi Zhang, Yujie Jiang, D.G. C. Jeewani, Xiaoming Wang, Zhongfu Ni, Shenbao Xu. 2019. Brassinosteroid regulates root development with highly redundant genes in hexaploid wheat, Plant and Cell Physiology. pcz088, https://doi.org/10.1093/pcp/pcz088.

• Jiang W., T. Liu, W. Nan , D.G.C. Jeewani, Y. Niu , C. Li , Y. Wang , X. Shi , C. Wang , J. Wang , Y. Li, X. Gao , Z. Wang. 2018. Two Transcription Factors TaPpm1 and TaPpb1 Co-Regulate the Anthocyanin Biosynthesis in Purple Pericarp of Wheat, Journal of Experimental Botany. 69 (10) 2555-2567. DOI: 10.1093/jxb/ery101.

• Jeewani D.G.C., M.D.L.C. Nishantha. 2018. Blue Wheat: Genetics, Healthy Value, and Food Processing, Scholars journal of Agriculture and Veterinary Sciences. 5（4）230-235. DOI:10.21276/sjavs.2018.5.4.7.

•  Nishantha, M.D.L.C., Z. Xian, D.G.C.  Jeewani, X. Guangwei, B. Jianxin, N. Xiaojun, S.Weining. 2018. Direct Comparison of β-Glucan Content in Wild and Cultivated Barley. International journal of food properties. 21(1) 2218-2228. DOI: 10.1080/10942912.2018.1500486

• Nishantha M.D.L.C., D.G.C. Jeewani, N. Xiaojun  and S. Weining. 2018. Beta- Glucan: An Overview of it properties, Health benefits, Genetic background and Practical Applications, Scholars journal of Agriculture and Veterinary Sciences. 5（3）130-140. DOI:10.21276/sjavs.2018.5.3.2

• Nishantha M.D.L.C., Z. Xian, D.G.C. Jeewani, X. Guangwei ,B. Jianxin, N.Xiaojun, S.Weining. 2018. Comparative Analysis of β-Glucan Content in Wild and Cultivated Barley. The Indian Journal of Agricultural Sciences. 88(7) 1092-8.

• Wenzhi Nan., Shandang Shi., D.G.C. Jeewani, Li Quan, Xue Shi., Zhonghua Wang. 2018. Genome-Wide Identification and Characterization of wALOG Family Genes Involved in the Branch Meristem Development of Branching Head Wheat, Genes. 9, 510, doi:10.3390/genes9100510

• Jeewani D.G.C. and Wang Z., 2017. Recent Advances in Anthocyanin Biosynthesis in Colored Wheat, Research journal of biotechnology. 12(6)57-62.

• Jeewani D.G.C. and Wang Z., 2017.  Grain Color Development and Segregation of Blue wheat, Research journal of biotechnology.12 (11) 40-45.

• Amarasinghe, Y.P.J., D.G.C. Jeewani, M.T. Gunasena, W.M.P.N. Dilusha, R.A.A. Ranatunga, G. Wijesinghe, G.T.N. Gunasekara and R.W. Pushpakumara. 2016. A promising early maturing confectionary type groundnut variety (Arachis hypogaea L.) well adaptable to local cropping systems in Sri Lanka. Annals of the Sri Lanka Department of Agriculture. 18:74-77.

• Jeewani, D.G.C., A.W Gamini, M.H.U. Siriwardhana , D. Weerasekara , K.A.N.M. Kasthuriarachchi, G. Wijesinghe and C.H. Piyasiri. 2013. The promising groundnut (Arachis hypogaea l.) lines resistant to bud necrosis disease. Annals of the Sri Lanka Department of Agriculture. 15:59-65.

• Jeewani D.G.C., S.P. Bandara , N.P.S. De Silva , D. Weerasekara  and W.S. Arunakanthi .2012. A Promising groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) line developed through hybridization and selection. Annals of the Sri Lanka Department of Agriculture. 14:41-46.

• Jeewani D.G.C., 2011. Enhancing Oilseed Production through Improved Technology in Sri Lanka. In Enhancing oilseed production through improved technology in SAARC Countries, pp.153-167. N. Akter, K.S. Varaprasad and A. K. Azad (eds.). SAARC Agriculture Centre (SAC), Bangladesh.

• N.H.R. Premalal (Research Assistant)

• Development of high yielding disease tolerant white/black seeded sesame
• Breeder’s seed production of sesame

• Genetics and plant breeding of oil crops
• Rice genetics and breeding

• Perera, I., Ayaka Fukushima, Tatsuki Akabane, Genki Horiguchi, Saman Senseweera and Naoki Hirotsu. 2019. Expression regulation of myo inositol 3-phosphate synthase 1 (INO1) in determination of phytic acid accumulation in rice grain, Scientific reports,9:14866. doi.org/10.1038/s41598-019-51485-2
• Perera, I., Ayaka Fukushima, Mako Arai, Kenta Yamada, Seiji Nagasaka, Saman Seneweera and Naoki Hirotsu. 2019. Identification of low phytic acid and high Zn bioavailable rice (Oryza sativa L.) from 69 rice accessions of the world rice core collection, J of Cereal Science, 85:206-213. doi.org/10.1016/j.jcs.2018.12.010

• Perera, I., Saman Seneweera and Naoki Hirotsu. 2018. Manipulating the Phytic Acid Content of Rice Grain Toward Improving Micronutrient bioavailability, Rice, 11:4 DOI 10.1186/s12284-018-0200-y

• Perera, U.I.P., K.K.J. Chandika and D. Ratnasekera. 2017. Genetic variation, character association and evaluation of mungbean genotypes for agronomic and yield components, J of National Science Foundation, 45 (4): 347 – 353.

• Naoki Hirotsu, Kazuhiro Ujiie, I. Perera, Ayano Iri, Takayuki Kashiwagi and  Ken Ishimaru. 2017. Partial loss-of-function of NAL1 alters canopy photosynthesis by changing the contribution of upper and lower canopy leaves in rice, Scientific Reports 7: 15958.DOI:10.1038/s41598-017-15886-5

• Ratnasekera, D., U.I.P. Perera and A.P.T. Subashi. 2015. Impact of Soil Seed Bank Dynamics on Weedy Rice Distribution and Farmer Involvement in Management: Case Study in Marata District, Sri Lanka, Journal of Agri Search 2(4): 251-256.

• Zhuoxian He, Xiaoqi Jiang, D. Ratnasekera, Fabrizio Grassi, U.I.P. Perera and Bao-Rong Lu. 2014. Seed-mediated gene flow promotes within-population genetic variation of weedy rice: Implications for weed management, PLOS ONE 9(12): e112778.doi:10. 1371/journal.pone.0112778.

• U.I.P. Perera and R.W. Pushpakumara. 2014. Multivariate Analysis of some Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) accessions based on quantitative characteristics. Journal of Agri Search 1(4):201-205.

• Perera, U.I.P., D. Ratnasekera, S.G.J.N Senanayake, S. de Z. Abeysiriwardena. 2014. Genetic Parameters and Correlations of Yield Attributing Characteristics of Weedy Rice in Sri Lanka, Journal of National Science Foundation, 42 (4): 311-319.

• Ratnasekera, D., U.I.P. Perera, Zhuo Xian He, Senanayakage G.J.N. Senanayake, Gamage,  A.W. Wijesekara and Xiao Yang and Bao Rong Lu. 2013. High level of variation among Sri Lankan weedy rice populations, as estimated by morphological characterization. Weed Biology and Management. 14: 68-75.

• Subashi, D., Ratnasekera and U.I.P. Perera. 2013. Morphological variability pattern of Sri Lankan weedy rice – an ecological appraisal, Journal of Hill Agriculture 4(1): 8-15.

• Perera, U.I.P., AP Bentota, D. Ratnasekara and G. Senanayake. 2013. Heterosis in F1 generations of two indica rice crosses for growth and yield characteristics. Journal of Agricultural Sciences, Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka. 8(3): 136-141.

• Bentota, A.P., D. Ratnasekera, S.G.J.N. Senanayake and U.I.P. Perera. 2013. Genetic variability, genetic advance and correlation for yield, yield components and some agronomic traits in weedy rice (Oryza sativa L. f spontanea) in Sri Lanka Proceedings of 7th International Rice Genetics Symposium, Manila, Philippines. P451

• Perera, U.I.P., D. Ratnasekera and S.G.J.N Senanayake. 2013. Distribution variation, cultural practices and farmer involvement in weedy rice management in Matara district. Proceedings of the 10th Academic Sessions of the University of Ruhuna, Sri Lanka

• Perera, U.I.P., D. Ratnasekera, S.A.P. Madurangi, S.G.J.N. Senanayake, AP Bentota and G.A.W. Wijesekara. 2012. Genetic Divergence of Sri Lankan weedy rice based on quantitative morphological traits. Tropical Agriculturist, Sri Lanka.  160: 41-54.

• Perera, U.I.P., A.P. Bentota, D. Rathnasekera and S.G.J.N. Senanayake. 2012. F1 heterosis and genetic effects for agronomic characteristics related to yield in two indica rice crosses, Sri Lanka-India Conference on Agro Biotechnology for sustainable Development (ABSD), Colombo, Sri Lanka. pp 80.

• Perera, U.I.P., D. Ratnasekera and S.A.P. Madurangi. 2012. Diversity and in-situ morphological characterization of weedy rice in selected locations of Sri Lanka. Proceedings of the International Forestry and Environmental Symposium 2012, University of Sri Jayawardhanapura, Sri Lanka. pp 35.

• Perera, U.I.P., D. Rathnasekera, S.A.P. Madurangi, S.G.J.N. Senanayake and A.P. Bentota. 2012. Distribution and Diversity of Weedy Rice (Oryza sativa f spontanea) populations in Matara district. Proceedings of the International symposium on Agriculture and Environment (ISAE, 2012) Faculty of Agriculture, University of Ruhuna, Sri Lanka.

• Madurangi, S.A.P., D. Ratnasekera, U.I.P. Perera and S.G.J.N. Senanayake. 2011. Resistance of weedy rice (Oryza sativa f. spontanea) to Brown plant hopper: Nilaparvata lugens (stal) in Sri Lanka. International Symposium (ISAE 2011), Faculty of Agriculture, University of Ruhuna. pp 127.

• Perera, U.I.P., D. Ratnasekera, S.G.J.N. Senanayake. 2010. Morphological Diversity of Weedy Rice accessions Collected in Ampara. Proceedings of the 15th International Forestry and Environmental Symposium, University of Sri Jayawardhanapura, Sri Lanka.

• C.S. Mapitiya Gamage/Research Assistant

• Varietal improvement of cowpea for different climatic condition.
• Varietal improvement of cowpea for rain-fed conditions.
• Varietal improvement of soybean.
• Varietal improvement of horse gram.

• Millawithanachchi, M.C., D.P.P. Liyanage, B.N. Samaranayake and A.P. Bentota. 2019. Assessment of agricultural biodiversity through participatory approach. Annals of the Sri Lanka Department of Agriculture.21.

• Samaranayake, B.N., M.C. Millawithanachchi, N.T. Prathapasinghe and A.S.Wijewardhana. 2018. A New Cowpea Variety (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.) Suitable for Dry and Intermediate Zones of Sri Lanka – ANKCP 02. Annals of the Sri Lanka Department of Agriculture. 20.

• Millawithanachchi, M.C., V. A. Sumanasinghe, A.P. Bentota, B.N. Samaranayake and N.T. Prathapasinghe. 2016. Performances of different breeding methods based on the estimated genetic parameters in F4, F5 and F6 generation advancements of cowpea (vigna unguiculata (l). Walp). Annals of the Sri Lanka Department of Agriculture.18.

• Samaranayake, B.N., M.C. Millawithanachchi, N.T. Prathapasinghe and R.A.A. Ranathunga. 2016. ANKCP 01: a new cowpea (vigna ungiculata (l.) Walp.) Variety for cultivation in dry and intermediate zones of Sri Lanka. Annals of the Sri Lanka Department of Agriculture.18.

• Liyanage, D.P.P., M.C. Millawithanachchi, B.N. Samaranayake, L.G. Malanie and L.M. Abeywikrama. 2015. Constraints of rainfed finger millet cultivation in monaragala district in Sri Lanka. Annals of the Sri Lanka Department of Agriculture. 17th annual session: 375 (Poster abstract)

• Millawithanachchi, M.C., B.N. Samaranayake, N.T. Prathapasinghe, T. Somarathne, A.P. Bentota.2014. Genetic variability heterosis, narrow sense heritability and correlation of yield and related characteristics of cowpea (vigna unguiculata (l). Walp). Annals of the Sri Lanka Department of Agriculture.18.

• Millawithanachchi, M.C., B.N. Samaranayake, D. P. P. Liyanage, N.T. Prathapasinghe and A.P. Bentota. 2014. Evaluation of Horse gram (Macrotyloma uniflorum (Lam.)Verdc.) accessions in Maha season of Dry Zone of Sri Lanka. SLCARP International Research Symposium.

• Sumanarathne, J.P., B.N. Samaranayake and K. Premathilake. 2013. Development of inter-specific hybrid for increasing productivity of pine gourd (Momordica dioica Roxb.exWilld) for commercial cultivation (Awarded as best poster in ASDA 2013). 

• K.D. Nandasena/Research Assistant

• Collection and evaluation of wood apple, Beli and citrus germplasm
• Evaluation of banana accessions
• Morphological characterization of wood apple
• Evaluation of local and exotic mango germplasm
• Rejuvenation of older plantations of mango
• Performance of mango under high density planting

1. Wijithawarna, W.A., R.A.A. Ranathunga, R. Premalal, G.T.N. Gunasekara and K.D.Nandasena. 2018. Comparison of okari nut (terminalia kaernbachii) with ceylon armond (terminalia catappa) as an oil and a nut tree species under Sri Lankan climatic conditions. Annals of the Sri Lanka Department of Agriculture. 20
2. Wijithawarna, W.A., S.H.S.A. De Silva, I.K. Warshamana, A.G. Chandrapala, I. Gunathilaka and N.D.Ranawaka. 2014. Studies of different drainage systems for cultivation of papaya in Non Calcic Brown Soils in Sri Lanka. Annals of the Sri Lanka Department of Agriculture. 16:285
3. Wijithawarna, W.A., S.P. Nissanka, S.H.S.A. De Silva and N.D. Ranawaka. 2013. Development of rapid multiplication technique for dragon fruit (Hylocereous spp.). Annals of the Sri Lanka Department of Agriculture. 15:335.

• Wood apple goodness. Daily News and e-paper 15^th August 2016 page 33.

• S. Chandana/Research Assistant

• Hybrid variety development of Spine gourd
• Okra crop improvement
• Moringa variety development for pods and leaves
• Ela-batu crop improvement

• Hermaphrodite flowers generation and Hybrid variety development of Dioecious vegetable crops.

• Hermaphrodite flowers generation and Hybrid variety development of Dioecious vegetable crops.

1. ඩී.වීරසේකර, තුඹ මලින් හැඩවුන ගෙවත්තක අසිරිය ,දක්ෂිණ කෘෂි නවෝදය 2018. දකුණු පලාත් කෘෂිකර්ම අමාත්‍යාංශය.පි‍ටු: 28-29.

2. Jeewani, D.G.C., A.W. Gamini, M.H.U. Siriwardhana, D. Weerasekara, K.A.N.M. Kasthuriarachchi, G. Wijesinghe and C.H. Piyasiri. 2013. The promising groundnut lines resistance to bud necrosis disease. Annals of Sri Lanka Department of Agriculture. 15:59-67.

3. Weerasekara, D., R.C. Jagadeesha, R.M. Hosamany, M.C. Vali, I.K. Kalappanavar and P.M. Salimath. 2009. Combining ability and heterosis of yield and yield related characters in Okra. Annals of Sri Lanka Department of Agriculture. 11:173-183.

4. Weerasekara, D., R.C. Jagadeesha, R.M. Hosamany, M.C. Vali, I.K. Kalappanavar and P.M. Salimath. 2008. Combining Ability of yield and yield components in Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus (L.)Moench), Karnataka J. Agric. Sci. 21(2): 187-189.

5. Weerasekara, D., R.C. Jagadeesha, R.M. Hosamany, M.C. Vali, I.K. Kalappanavar and P.M. Salimath. 2007. Heterosis for yield and yield components in Okra, Indian society of vegetable science. 34(1): 106-107.

6. Weerasekara,D., Xu Xing Zong, OukKyu Han, Xin Wang Wang, ShiyaHirashima, Takao Komatsusaki, Norihiko Tomooka and Dunkon Vaughan. 2002. Exploration and collection of wild Vigna, Vicia and Glycine species in Nagano prefecture, Japan. 9^th -12^th October 2001. 18:19-33.

7. Weerasekara, D. and Sumanarathna, J.P. 2001. An unexploited vegetable crop – Thumba karawila (Momordica dioica Roxb. ex wild). Annals of Sri Lanka Department of Agriculture. 3:403.

• Seed establishment methods on weed emergence in selected OFCs
• Critical weed free periods and estimation of yield losses in OFCs cultivation

• Millawithanachchi, M.C., D.P.P. Liyanage, B.N. Samaranayake and A.P. Bentota. 2019. Assessment of agricultural biodiversity through participatory approach. Annals of the Sri Lanka Department of Agriculture 21: – (Research Paper will be       Published in Forthcoming Tropical Agriculturist. 167:

• Liyanage, D.P.P., L.G. Malanie, A.P. Karunathilaka and L.M. Abeywikrama. 2018. Current status, constraints and potentials of rainfed finger millet cultivation in Moneragala District in Sri Lanka. University proceedings. Faculty of Agriculture, University of Ruhuna, Kamburupitiya, Sri Lanka. 111-113.

• Liyanage, D.P.P., S.K.H.K. Rasika and S.D Wanniarachchi. 2018. කුරක්කන් වගාවේ අස්වැන්න කෙරේ කාබනික පොහොර යෙදීම මගින් ඇති කල හැකි බලපෑම, දක්ෂිණ කෘෂි නවෝදය,       කෘෂි තාක්ෂණික සඟරාව, 47 පිටුව.

• Rasika, S.K.H.K., D.P.P. Liyanage and S.D Wanniarachchi. 2018. Effects of Different Compost Levels on Growth and yield Performance of Finger Millet (Eleusine Coracana L.) Under DL5 Agro-Ecological Zone of Sri Lanka (Abstract). 5th International Conference on Agriculture 2018. (AGRICO 2018)

• Rasika, S.K.H.K., D.P.P. Liyanage and S.D. Wanniarachchi. 2017. Effects of Different Compost Levels on Soil Chemical Properties of finger millet cultivated lands under DL5 Agro-Ecological Zone of Sri Lanka (Abstract) . Agri Fish Conference.

• Liyanage, D.P.P., D.R. Wenaka, D.L.Wathugala, H.R.C. Niroshani and S.D.S. Yapa. 2016. Critical period of weed control in big onion (allium cepa l.) Under two different agro-ecological zones of Sri Lanka, Annals of the Sri Lanka Department of Agriculture 18th annual session , 121-124.

• Liyanage, D.P.P., D.R. Wenaka, D.L.Wathugala,       H.R.C. Niroshani and S.D.S. Yapa. 2016. Critical period of weed control in big onion (Allium cepa l.). under two different agro-ecological zones of Sri Lanka. Tropical Agriculturist. 164: 121-135.

• Liyanage, D.P.P., L.G. Malanie, W.A.C. Ruwan and D.L.D. Lakmali. 2016. Determination of critical weed free period for peanut cultivation in Hambantota area in Sri Lanka. University proceedings. Faculty of Agriculture, University of Ruhuna, Kamburupitiya, Sri Lanka.

• Liyanage, D.P.P., M.C. Millawithanachchi, B.N. Samaranayake, L.G. Malanie and L.M. Abeywikrama. 2015. Constraints of rainfed finger millet cultivation in Monaragala District in Sri Lanka. Annals of the Sri Lanka Department of Agriculture. 17: 375 (Poster abstract).

• Liyanage, D.P.P., D.R. Wenaka, D.L. Wathugala       and S.D.S. Yapa. 2015. අවාරයේ ලොකුලූනු වගාවේ වල් පැලෑටි පාලනය මගින් අස්වනු හානි වලක්වා ගැනීම, ගොවිකම් සඟරාව,47 කාණ්ඩය, 03 කලාපය.

• Millawithanachchi, M.C., B.N.Samaranayake, D. P. P. Liyanage, N.T. Prathapasinghe       and A.P. Bentota. 2014. Evaluation of Horse gram (Macrotyloma uniflorum (Lam.) Verdc.) accessions in Maha dry zone of Sri Lanka. SLCARP international research symposium.

• Millawithanachchi, M.C., D. P. P. Liyanage       and A.P. Bentota. 2014. Documentation Agrobiodiversity of Rainfed Villages in Thanamalwila using of a community biodiversity register.       SLAAS Proceedings of 70th annual session: Part01: 01(Poster abstract).

• Amarasinghe, Y.P.J., W.M.N.D. Gunathilaka and D.P.P. Liyanage. 2013. Cultivation of other field crops under rainfed Monaragala and Hambantota districts of Sri Lanka: status, constraints and climate change mitigation. Annals of the Sri Lanka Department of Agriculture.377.

• Millawithanachchi, M.C., D. P. P. Liyanage, A. P. Bentota, H. Samarthunge and N. T. Prathapasinghe. 2012. Farmer participatory varietal evaluation of finger millets in the Monaragala district of Sri Lanka. University proceedings. Faculty of Agriculture, University of Ruhuna, Kamburupitiya, Sri Lanka. 274-276.

• Millawithanachchi, M.C., D. P. P. Liyanage, A. P. Bentota, H. Samarthunge and N. T. Prathapasinghe. 2012. Use of transect walk and diversity fair to identify natural resources, crop diversity, constraints and requirements for rainfed farming: A study at Thanamalwila.       University proceedings. Faculty of Agriculture, University of Ruhuna, Kamburupitiya, Sri Lanka.       280-282.

• Millawithanachchi, M.C., D. P. P. Liyanage, A. P. Bentota, H. Samarthunge and N. T. Prathapasinghe. 2012. Genetic diversity assessment of local finger millet accessions based on morphological characteristics. University proceedings. Faculty of Agriculture, University of Ruhuna, Kamburupitiya, Sri Lanka.   277-279.

• Dharmasena, C.M.D. and D.P.P. Liyanage. 2004. Managing earthworms in the Hambantota District, Krushi . 23,24: 54- 58.

• S. S. W. Samarasekara / Technical Assistant

• Growth and yield performances of selected OFCs in Conservation Agriculture
• Intercropping legumes with Finger millet
• Intercropping of selected OFCs with Banana
• Evaluation of variants of Banana produced through in-vitro mutagenesis
• Evaluation of Fusarium wilt resistant/less susceptible Banana for yield and quality
• In-vitro plant regeneration through male flowers of ‘Kolikuttu’ Banana and filed evaluation

• Shirani, D.A., S.H.C.K. Dharmarathna, A.W. Gaminie and D.A.B.N. Amarasekara. 2019. In-vitro multiplication of gac fruit (Momordica cochinchinensis (Lour.) Spreng.). Annals of Sri Lanka Department of Agriculture. 21: 128-132.

• Shirani, D.A., K.A.C. Niroshani, P.D. Abeysinghe and S. Abeysinghe. 2019. In-vitro screening of ethyl methanesulfonate (EMS) treated shoot tips of banana for fusarium wilt using fungal co-cultivation. (Poster publication) at RISTCON 2019, University of Ruhuna.

• Shirani, D.A., K.A.C. Niroshani, R. H. T. Ishara and P.D. Abeysinghe. 2018. Development of embryogenic callus cultures of kolikuttu banana variety Agra. (Poster publication). Annals of Sri Lanka Department of Agriculture. 20:157.

• Shirani, D.A., K.A.C. Niroshani, P.D. Abeysinghe and S. Abeysinghe. 2018. In-vitro screening of ethyl methanesulfonate (EMS) treated shoot tips of banana for Fusarium wilt using crude culture filtrates of different Fusarium oxysporum isolates. Paper presented at RISTCON 2018, University of Ruhuna.

• Shirani, D.A., G.C. Prasadi. 2018. Production of quality planting materials of orchids (Sinhala article). Published in “Govikam Sangarawa. 48(4): 6-11.

• Shirani, D.A., K.A.C. Niroshani and P.D. Abeysinghe. 2017. In-vitro screening of kolikuttu banana (silk) for fusarium wilt (Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. cubense). Annals of Sri Lanka Department of Agriculture. 19(2):274-279.
• Shirani, D.A., B. R. Ubeysinghe and M.K.T.K. Amarasinghe. 2017. In-vitro regeneration of Phalaenopsis orchid through flower stalk. Paper presented at National Symposium of Floriculture Research at RBG, Peradeniya on 31st Oct. 2017.
• Ranawake, P.I., D.A. Shirani and S.J.B.A. Jayasekara. (2016). Effect of natural extracts and Plant Growth Regulators on Dendrobium orchids. Proceedings of 15th Agricultural Research symposium. 269-273.
• Shirani, D.A., K.A.C. Niroshani and A.W. Gaminie and P.D. Abeysinghe. 2016. Determination of optimum dosage of the mutagen Ethyl Methanesulphonate (EMS) for mass treatment of shoot tips of banana variety ‘Agra’.  Sri Lanka Journal of Food and Agriculture. 2(2):1-9.
• Shirani, D.A., K.A.C. Niroshani, J.S. Mutumali and D.S. Kadawatharachchi. 2016. Some Low Cost Options on In-vitro Propagation of Dendrobium Orchids. Paper presented at National Symposium on Floriculture Research at Royal Botanic Garden, Peradeniya. on 19th  December, 2016.
• Shirani, D.A., W.G.M. Surangi and D.S. Kadawatharachchi. 2015. Gypsophila paniculata: A potential floricultural crop for Low Country Wet Zone. Paper presented at National Symposium on Floriculture Research at Royal Botanic Garden, Peradeniya on 21st December, 2015.
• Samanthi, J.A., H.M.P.S. Kumari, H.A.L.H.K. Herath, D.A. Shirani and M.M. Nugaliyadde. 2013. Development of in-vitro establishment and multiplication technology from gerbera flower buds. Annals of the Sri Lanka Department of Agriculture. 15:305-309.
• Shirani, D.A. and Samanthi, J.A. 2012. A simple mass propagation protocol for Baby’s breath (Gypsophila paniculata L.) Annals of the Sri Lanka Department of Agriculture. 14:125-133.

• Shirani, D.A., E.R.  Chandimal and S.K.  Wettasinghe. 2011. Yield and Runner Production of Tissue Cultured Planting Materials of Strawberry (Fragaria x ananassa) Variety ‘Chandler’. Annals of the Sri Lanka Department of Agriculture. 13:105-112.
• Dheerasinghe, D.M.U.I., D.A. Shirani, P.E. Kaliyadasa and J.A.  Samanthi,  A Protocol for In-vitro Propagation of Hybrid Limonium. Paper presented at National Symposium on Floriculture Research at Royal Botanic Garden, Peradeniya, Sri Lanka. on 16th December 2011.
• De Silva, W.A.N.T., D.A.  Shirani and P.E.  Kaliyadasa. 2010. Study on in-vitro Rooting and Acclimatization of Baby’s breath (Gypsophila paniculata L.). Published at National Floriculture Symposium. 25th January 2011. Royal Botanical Garden, Peradeniya.

• Jayasinghe, H.A.S.L., D.A. Shirani and P.E. Kaliyadasa. 2010. Induced Mutation and Development of Media Protocol for Plant Regeneration from Mutated Calli of Lily (Lilium longiflorum L.). Published at National Floriculture Symposium. 25th January 2010. at Royal Botanical Garden, Peradeniya.

• Shirani, D.A., W.A.R.  Dhammika and H.M.P.  Pushpika. 2009. Use of Gibberellic Acid (GA3) for runner production of strawberry (Fragaria x ananassa Duch.) var. Chandler. (Poster presentation). Annals of the Sri Lanka Department of Agriculture. 11:239-240.

• Shirani, D.A., J.A.  Samanthi and M.M.  Nugaliyadde. 2008. Tissue Culture techniques for seed potato production and its achievement in Sri Lanka. Poster presentation at Global Potato Conference 9-12, New Delhi, India. Published in Abstracts GPC, 2008 pp.64.

• Shirani, D.A., M.M.  Mubain, J.A Samanthi and H.Thayamini Seran. 2008.  Effect of different levels of sugar and incubation temperature on microtuberization of potato (Solanum tuberosum L.). Proceedings of the International Potato Symposium. 149-156.

• Shirani, D.A. and Samanthi, J.A. 2008. Effect of jasmonic acid on microtuber production of potato (Solanum tuberosum L.). Proceedings of the International Potato Symposium. 143-148.

• Shirani, D.A., S. Bhat, R. S.  Bhat and Kuruvinashetti. 2007. Cloning of Trypsin Inhibitor Gene from Cowpea and Yard Long Bean and Transformation of Tobacco.  Tropical Agricultural Research. 19:1-9.

• Shirani, D.A., S. Bhat, R. Bhat, M.S. Kuruvinashetti, P.U.  Krishnaraj, H.M.  Vamadevaiahi and K. Krishnamurthy. 2006. Cloning of Trypasin Inhibitor Gene from Soybean and Transformation into Tobacco. Annals of Sri Lanka Department of Agriculture. 8: 219-227.

• Shirani, D.A. 2005. Cloning and Characterization of Serine Protease Inhibitor Genes (SPIs) from plants. M.Sc. Thesis. University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad 580005, India.

• Dasanayake, E.M., W.G.S.  Perera and D.A. Shirani. 2004. Identification of common viruses in strawberries (Fragaria ananassa) and development of suitable detection methods. In Competitive Contract Research Grant Programme. Proceedings Presentations of Completed Research Projects 2004. Eds. H.P.M. Gunasena, M.P. Dhanapala and Tilakawardhane.

• Shirani, D.A. and I. Szarejko. 1998. Efficiency of barley anther cultures derived from M1 plants after gamma irradiation and MNH treatment. Japanese Journal of Crop Science. 67: (Extra Issue 2) 442-443.

• Pathirana, R. and Shirani, D.A. 1995. Doubled haploid methodology and induced mutations for the improvement of sesame and rice in Sri Lanka. Radiation-induced mutations and other advanced technology for the production of seed crop mutants suitable for environmentally sustainable agriculture. Report of the second FAO/IAEA research coordination meeting held at the National University, San Jose-Heredia, Costa Rica. 6-10 Nov, 1995.

1. Cultivation of Baby’s breath (Sinhala) in “Lankadeepa “14^th of July, 2015

1. Strawberry planting material production (Sinhala) in “Divaina” on 29^th of July, 2008.

1. “Use of Tissue Culture Technique in seed potato production (Sinhala) in “Divaina” on 15^th May 2007.

• W.V.M.N. Vithanage/Agriculture Instructor

• Nitrogen and Zinc on growth and yield of groundnut
• Organic materials on N fertilizer use efficiency
• Growth and yield performances of selected OFC s in Conservation Agriculture Collaborative programme)
• Intercropping legumes with finger millet (Collaborative programme)

• Millawithanachchi, M.C., G.A. Jinadasa, J. Ponnamperumaarachchi, M.A.I. Rasanthi, U.A.J. Rathnayake , U.H.K. Waidyanatha , S.M.C.N. De Silva , Y.J.Pathma , Y.M.C. Haroshan and K.K.J. Chandika . (2017). Ld 253: A short duration (85 days) variety with white long grain and high quality rice. Annals of the Sri Lanka Department of Agriculture. 19 (1): 288 -306.

• Ratnayake, U.A.J., K.D.N. Weerasinghe, W.A.U. Vitharana, C.M.Naverathna and G.D. Amaarasinghe. (2017). Mulching as an adaptation technology for rice farmers to combat the weed problem under water scarce conditions. ‘A case study in Nilwala downstream, Matara district, Sri Lanka’. Presented at 7th International Conference on Building Resilience; Using scientific knowledge to inform policy and practice in disaster risk reduction, ICBR2017, 27 – 29 November 2017, Bangkok, Thailand. (Elsevier publication)
• Ratnayake, U.A.J., K.D.N. Weerasinghe, W.A.U. Vitharana and K.K.C. Jayamini. (2017). Potential of Eppawala Rock Phosphate (ERP) as a Phosphorus Fertilizer for Rice Cultivation in Acid Sulphate Soils in Matara district. (2017).Twenty ninth annual congress, Postgraduate Institute of Agriculture ,University of Peradeniya.

• Ratnayake, U.A.J., K.D.N. Weerasinghe, W.A.U. Vitharana and K.K.C.Jayamani.(2017): Use of Eppawala rock phosphate for rice cultivation in acid sulphate soils in Matara district. Annals of Sri Lanka Department of Agriculture (ASDA).19 (2):260-264
• Ratnayake, U.A.J., K.D.N. Weerasinghe, W.A.U. Vitharana and K.K.C.Jayamani.(2017). Influence of selected soil amendments on soil reaction (pH) of acid sulphate soils and it’s impact on Rice.Annals of Sri Lanka Department of Agriculture (ASDA).19 (2):336.
• Rathnappriya, R.H.K. (2015). Determination of the grey water footprint of rice cultivation in “nilwala” downstream -. A Research Report Submitted in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements of the Advance Course in agricultural engineering For the Degree of Bachelor of Science in Agriculture Faculty of Agriculture, University of Ruhuna, Mapalana, Kamburupitiya (External Supervisor)

• Ratnayake, U.A.J., W.A.U. Vitharana , K.D.N. Weerasinghe and G.D.Amarasinghe . (2015).Agro Technological Approach for Reclamation Of Acid Sulphate Soil (ASS) In Paddy Eco System In The Nilwala River Valley In Matara. Annals of Sri Lanka Department of Agriculture.

• Kumara, T.M., S.M.W. Ranwala, G.A. Jinadasa, U.A.J.Ratnayake , J.Ponnamperuma arachchi. (2014). Development of an organic liquid application for paddy using some selected plant species and cow dung .Symposium proceedings of the 34th annual sessions, Institute of biology, Sri Lanka. Abstract, pg.25.Publisher: Institute of biology, Sri Lanka

• Weerasinghe, K.D.N., Senaka Basnayake, N.M.S.I. Arambepola, Udaya Rathnayake, Champa Nawaratne. (2014). A local level technology and policy intervention approach to restore paddy ecosystems in the Nilwala downstream, affected due to Nilwala flood protection scheme, Southern Sri Lanka. Procedia Economics and Finance, Elsevier. 18C: 336-344.

• Weerasinghe, K.D.N., Senaka Basnayake, N.M.S.I. Arambepola, Champa Navarathne, Udaya Rathnayake and M.K.N.K. Chandrasekara. (2014). Policy search for restoration of paddy ecosystems in the Nilwala downstream area affected due to Nilwala flood protection scheme, southern Sri Lanka. In input Paper: Prepared for the Global Assessment Report on Disaster Risk Reduction 2015. Global Assessment Report on Disaster Risk Reduction (GAR), The united Nations Office for on Disaster Risk Reduction (UNISDR).

• Weerasinghe, K.D.N., Senaka Basnayake, N.M.S.I. Arambepola, Udaya Ratnayake, Bao Thanh, Le Ann Ngoc, Champa Nawaratne and Susantha Jayasinghe. (2014). A local level technology and policy intervention to main stream climate information application to restore paddy ecosystems. Case studies in the Nilwala downstream, southern Sri Lanka and Makong Delta, southern Vietnam (Conference Proceedings: Disaster Management Conference2014. 24-26 September 2014, BMICH Colombo, Sri Lanka.

• Thamara, M.P., D.P. Kumara, U.A.J. Ratnayake, W.R. Ramakrishna Parama and R. Krishnamanohar.(2008). Effect of fertigation on vegetative growth of China Aster (Callistephus chinensis (L.) Nees under open condition, Mysore Journal of Agricultural Sciences.

• Thamara, M.P., D.P. Kumara, U.A.J. Ratnayake, V.R. Ramakrishna Parama and R. Krishnamanohar.(2008). Effect of fertigation on flower yield and quality of China Aster (Callistephus chinensis (L.) Nees under open condition, Mysore Journal of Agricultural Sciences.

• Ratnayake, U.A.J. (2008). Impact of Non-edible Oil Cakes on Soil Nutrient Dynamics and Yield of Maize (Zea mays (L)).- Thesis of MSc, Department of Soil Science And Agricultural Chemistry, University of Agricultural sciences, Bangalore.

• Soil Science Society of Sri Lanka., Manual of soil sampling and analysis. (2007). Special Publication No.10, ISBN- 978- 955- 8124- 09—3. (Co-Author for Chapter 2.)

• Beuselink, A., S.D. Bowatte, S. Ekanayake, S.A. Kulasooriya, R. Priyantha, Puype, U.A.J. Ratnayake, G.Seneviratne, D. Siriwardana, K.T’Joen and L.H.J. Van Holm. (1995).The use of INM in lowland condition, Efficient use of sustainable biological nutrient management system-Research report 1991-1995,BNF project ,IFS –Kandy.

• L.H.J. Van Holm, G. Seneviratne and U.A.J. Ratnayake. (1995).The effect of rice straw on N fertilizer efficiency in Rice straw. Fourth annual report, Sri Lanka- Belgium Coorporation , 1994-95, Institute of Fundamental Studies Sri Lanka –Kandy,.

• Van Holm, L.H.J., G. Seneviratne, C. Puype, S. Bowatte and U.A.J. Ratnayake. (1994) . Effect of straw incorporation on soil N pool in submerged Rice, (1994). Symposium on biological di-Nitrogen fixation associated with Rice, Dhaka, Bangladesh. (Co-author)

• Ratnayake.,U.A.J. (1994). Effect of Rice straw and Urea application on lowland Rice, under field condition,. Thesis of Basic degree.

• රත්නායක, යූ. ඒ. ජේ., එම්. පී. තමරා. 2016. මිහිමඬලේ ජීවය රැක ගන්න, රසායනික ද්‍රව්‍ය අවමව භාවිතා කර පස සුරකින්න.දක්ෂිණ කෘෂි නවෝදය සමරු කලාපය.2016.දකුණු පලාත් කෘෂිකර්ම අමාත්‍යාංශය.43-44.

• රත්නායක, යූ. ඒ. ජේ. එම්. පී. තමරා. 2014. “බත් පතේ සැඟව ඇති ප්‍රෝටීන සහ පිටිකල කිරි මායාව” 2014.දකුණු පලාත් කෘෂිකර්ම අමාත්‍යාංශය. 48-51.

• රත්නායක, යූ. ඒ. ජේ., එම්. පී. තමරා. 2005. “ලක් පොළොවට එප්පාවලින් සුපර් පොස්පේට්”, “රුහුණු කෘෂි”-2005, ශ්‍රී ලංකා කෘෂිකර්ම විද්‍යාලය- අඟුණකොළපැලැස්ස. 39-42.

• රත්නායක, යූ. ඒ. ජේ., එම්. පී. තමරා. 2004. “පාංශු සාරත්වය සුරකින පාංශු කාබනික ද්‍රව්‍ය”, “රුහුණු කෘෂි”-2004, ශ්‍රී ලංකා කෘෂිකර්ම විද්‍යාලය- අඟුණකොළපැලැස්ස.48-51.

• M.V.P. Jayasundara/Research Assistant

• Proximate analysis and fatty acid profile of sesame varieties and promising lines
• Breaded/formed onion rings and it’s nutritional composition and sensory properties
• Quality characteristics of big onion varieties and promising lines
• Processing conditions and different banana types for banana snacks and chips

• Liyanage, I.R., R.A.A. Ranathunga and G.T.N. Gunasekara. 2018. Formulation and evaluation of nutritious vege-fingers by using different formulation of Pulses and Oil seeds pulp. International Symposium on Agriculture and Environment Proceeding, 148-151.

• Liyanage, I.R., G.T.N. Gunasekara, M.V.P. Jayasundara, E.K.E.C Nayana and H.N.K Gunathilake. 2018.  Assessment of Physical Properties and Bulb Pungency in Cluster Onions Grown in Sri Lanka. Annals of the Sri Lanka department of Agriculture 20: 107-110.

• Liyanage, I.R., R.A.A. Ranathunga, G.T.N. Gunasekara and M.V.P. Jayasundara. 2018. Development of a Nutritious vege-sausage Using Pulses & Oil Seeds and determination of its Properties. Annals of the Sri Lanka department of Agriculture 20: 116-121.

• Liyanage, I.R., G.T.N. Gunasekara, M.V.P. Jayasundara, D.R.S. Niroshani, E.K.E.C. Nayana and H.N.K. Gunathilake. 2018. Physical,nutritional and cooking Properties of mungbean Grown in Sri Lanka. Annals of the Sri Lanka department of Agriculture.20: 128-132.

N.P. Liyanage, Assistant Director of Agriculture (Economics)

Supporting staff

• J.W. L. Surangi/Development Officer
• V.G.S. Nilantha/Economic Assistant         

Current Research programme

• Profitability analysis of banana cultivation in paddy lands in Uda Walawa area
• Factors affecting sesame cultivation in major growing areas of Sri Lanka
• Present status of “Thumba karivila” cultivation in Hambantota and Monaragala districts.

Research interests

Production and marketing of Other Field Crops

Publications

• Liyanage, N. P., S. Mathangaweera, W. M. U. Palipana, V. G. S. Nilantha and J. W. L. Surangi. 2019. Evaluation of livelihood improvement of women engaged in “Helabojun” outlets. Annals of Sri Lanka Department of Agriculture 2019.21:9 (full paper will be published in the Tropical Agriculturist Vol: 167 of 2019).
• Liyanage, N. P. and Warnakulasooriya H.U,. 2013. Financial viability of third season greengram Cultivation in Hambantota district. Annals of Sri Lanka Department of Agriculture.15:351-355.

Research reports submitted to the Director SEPC, DOA

• Use of recommended practices and recommended varieties in groundnuts production in Monaragala and Mullaitivu Districts. 2013.
• Role of Women on Green Gram Production in the Hambantota district of Sri Lanka 2016
• Factors affecting adoption of recommended groundnut varieties in major ground nut growing districts of Sri Lanka 2016.
• Challenges in adoption of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) practices in vegetable cultivation in Hambantota district, Sri Lanka 2017.
• Technology adoption in groundnut cultivation in Sri Lanka. 2018.
• Determinants of farm productivity among spine gourd (Momordica dioica roxb) farmers in southern dry zone of Sri Lanka 2018.