In yet another push towards efficient use of solar power, the Haryana government unveiled a new project that provides 85% subsidy for solar-powered micro irrigation projects. This project was announced by Haryana CM Manohar lal Khattar in 36 administrative blocks that have seen their groundwater table getting highly depleted.
Micro irrigation is an important way of monsoon-proofing our agriculture. Thanks to micro irrigation, farmers are not left at the mercy of the seasons.
However, micro irrigation projects require electricity. This can sometimes be a challenge especially for farmers working in remote areas where electric supply is erratic.
Thanks to these new solar-powered micro irrigation projects, a farmer can harness the energy of the sun to generate power for their farming irrigation needs.
This project in Haryana has been launched under the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY) by the Canal Area Development Authority (CADA).
The Central government of India has an initiative called “More Crop, Per Drop”. The aim is to increase the yield of crop per hectare through efficient irrigation systems and policies.
The main issue is that Haryana doesn’t have a single full-time river. Moreover, ground water in a lot of places in Haryana is brackish and saline.
This micro-irrigation project will connect farms with nearby canals and the solar-powered pumps will help provide the energy required to operate the project. Moreover, the project will also be connected to the nearest 11KV electric line to ensure that farmers have access to both solar power as well as traditional grid power.
Currently, this micro-irrigation project is expected to cover 923 farmers in 15 villages of 13 districts. With a cost of ₹24.65 crores, the solar-powered micro irrigation project aims to cover 1972 hectares over the next year.
Thanks to this project, farmers across Haryana will now have access to water from canals without having to depend on their groundwater. Moreover, the project can run efficiently without hindrance as its based completely on solar power.
This solar-powered micro irrigation project will help Haryana in efficiently utilizing its fresh water for agriculture without any wastage. Moreover, with solar power being used, the project is financially affordable and also helps conserve the environment.
How to Apply or get Subsidy on Solar-powered Micro Irrigation projects:
You just need to visit the the website of Department of Renewable Energy, Haryana or Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojna, Govt of India.
