Gujarat Leads in Daytime Electricity for Agriculture, Aims for Full Coverage by 2026

Gujarat is setting a national example by ensuring daytime electricity for agricultural purposes, with Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel committing to providing all farmers with irrigation power during the day by March 2026. The success of the Kisan Suryoday Yojana (KSY) showcases the state’s farmer-centric governance approach, aligned with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision. Emphasizing good governance, CM Patel highlighted the importance of transparent and efficient delivery of farmer-oriented schemes to support the nation’s agricultural backbone. The KSY, launched in 2020, has brought daytime electricity to 17,018 villages in Gujarat, benefiting nearly 19.69 lakh farmers. This initiative optimizes solar energy usage and eases pressure on the power grid by aligning agricultural power supply with daylight hours. Initially operating in two shifts, the scheme now follows a single-shift daytime model from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., enhancing irrigation efficiency, safety, and productivity in rural areas. Currently, 98% of substations in the state operate during the day, with efforts underway to transition the remaining 231 villages. The state government has invested Rs 5,353.62 crore in this transition, establishing new substations, laying transmission lines, and enhancing distribution networks. Looking ahead, Gujarat Energy Transmission Corporation Limited (GETCO) plans to add five substations and strengthen the transmission network by 2026–27. The scheme’s impact is evident, with farmers reporting improved irrigation, reduced water wastage, enhanced safety, and time savings. Jayesh Patel, a farmer from Kankrol village, highlighted the positive changes brought about by daytime power, improving productivity and transforming lives.