This is a report based on the Inaugural meeting held in 2001 that discussed the Ruhuna Benchmark Basin Activities. This report records the debate between the fifty-nine participants representing various government agencies, NGOs, international Water Management Institute, and the media on the development of a plan for collaboration among partners and stakeholders on research and development activities. It examines the concept of the benchmark basin and the Ruhuna basin, water management and related activities being carried out by stakeholders, the benefits of a Benchmark Basin Programme, and future goals and operations to be taken on by the stakeholders and other partners.