J&K Approves Solarization of 4,000 Agri Pumps, Aims to Boost Agriculture Sustainability

Jammu and Kashmir administration has recently given the green light to solarize 4,000 agricultural water pumps, tapping into solar energy for farming. The decision, made during a meeting led by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and attended by Chief Secretary Atal Dullo, aligns with the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha Evam Uthaan Mahaabhiyan (PM-KUSUM) scheme.

Under PM-KUSUM, grid-connected solar power plants with capacities ranging from 1 kW to 15 kW will be established. This initiative, announced by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), aims to boost the income of Indian farmers. Additionally, the scheme seeks to provide subsidies to farmers for the installation of solar irrigation pumps to enhance cultivation practices.

Farmers will receive a 60% subsidy for installing solar irrigation pumps, with an additional 30% of the total cost provided as a government loan.

Also Read:- Garuda Aerospace Aims to Make Gujarat a Drone Hub with 1 Cr Kisan Drone Donation

Farmers participating in the scheme can use the solar power generated for irrigation needs. Excess solar power can be sold to distribution companies, with compensation based on tariffs set by the Jammu and Kashmir State Electricity Regulatory Commission. Beyond environmental benefits, solarizing agri pumps ensures a reliable source of irrigation through solar-powered pumps, reducing reliance on traditional electricity sources.

Also Read:- 7,597 FPOs Registered in India, Achieving 75% of Govt's 10,000 Target by 2024

The spokesperson emphasized that this initiative addresses revenue losses faced by distribution companies, which currently subsidize irrigation pumps at Rs 0.66 per unit of electricity, compared to the average tariff of Rs 3.50 per unit. This action will not only encourage eco-friendly farming methods but also aids farmers and deals with economic issues in the energy sector.

Also Read:- Haryana: DRIISHYA Unveils 26 Special Drones for Farming to Increase Productivity