Solar-powered irrigation is revolutionizing agricultural practices in Gujarat’s tribal and remote areas. Thousands of farmers in districts like Narmada, Dang, and Tapi are experiencing enhanced water access, reduced reliance on diesel and electricity, and the ability to grow multiple crops yearly under the PM-KUSUM scheme. In Gujarat, 256 solar power plants with a total capacity of 695 MW have been operationalized under PM-KUSUM Component-C, leading to the solarization of around 2.97 lakh agricultural pumps, with Rajkot district leading with 81 MW installed capacity.
Moreover, over 21,000 solar water pumps are functioning in Gujarat, including in remote tribal regions with historically limited irrigation infrastructure. Farmers like Ramu Waghmare from Umarpada village in Dang district have seen significant improvements. Previously reliant solely on monsoons for agriculture, the installation of a solar pump on his farm now provides continuous water supply from sunrise to sunset, enabling cultivation of multiple crops annually.
Farmers in Tapi district are also benefiting from solar-powered irrigation. Gavji Vasava from Gavan village noted that earlier farming was restricted to the monsoon season. With solar-powered irrigation, farmers can now grow crops throughout the year, including fodder crops, leading to additional income through livestock rearing. In Narmada district, Ishwar Vasava from Juna Mosda village shared how reliable irrigation through the scheme has allowed him to harvest three crops annually, significantly improving his family’s economic situation.
State Energy Minister Rushikesh Patel highlighted that the PM-KUSUM scheme is not only enhancing agricultural productivity but also contributing to environmental conservation by reducing diesel consumption. The scheme comprises three components—A, B, and C—aimed at providing energy and water security to farmers. Component-B focuses on installing standalone solar agricultural pumps in remote areas without grid electricity, supporting the replacement of diesel pump sets.
