The China-Sri Lanka Joint Research and Demonstration Centre (JRDC) for Water Technology, the largest water research institute in South Asia, was inaugurated at the University of Peradeniya on 26 March. 

This state-of-the-art institute is furnished with advanced technology and machinery to detect harmful substances in drinking water, which are responsible for numerous ailments such as chronic kidney diseases which are rapidly spreading in the agricultural zones of the country. 

This institute is a gift from the People's Republic of China.

The JRDC will conduct water related research utilising cutting edge technologies and offer amenities for both local and international experts interested in conducting studies on drinking water. Additionally, the JRDC is accountable for providing post-graduate courses to university students and introducing and installing state of the art water treatment machines to ensure access to clean drinking water in challenging regions.

The governing body of this institution is composed of the Vice Chancellor of the Peradeniya University, the Secretary to the Ministry of Water Supply, and the Chief Professor of the Chinese Academy of Science.