Solar-based lift irrigation will be implemented across the state: Agriculture Secretary

Ranchi: Since the day it took charge, the incumbent government has been envisioning the development of a thriving agriculture-based rural economy. This vision of Chief Minister Hemant Soren was reflected in the budget announced for the financial year 2021-22, wherein the government rolled out multiple schemes to boost the agriculture sector in the state. Implementation of renewable energy projects for irrigation proved to be a game-changer for the farmers in Jharkhand.

The lift irrigation system was one such initiative. This was primarily targeted at the farmers who cannot afford diesel pumps or other traditional boring systems. Secretary, Agriculture and Animal Husbandry Abu Bakar Siddiqui visited Simdega district on Tuesday to take part in Kissan Samvad programme. During his visit, he interacted with the farmers present there and received their feedback on different solar lift irrigation projects being implemented there. During the interaction, farmers reflected on their experiences of using solar lift irrigation systems for farming and advantages. Also, they thanked the administration for implementing such an innovative project.

During the event, farmers informed him that earlier they were majorly active during monsoons. Fields would be greener during the paddy season. During the remaining part of the year, witnessing activities in farm fields was a rare sight. They were unable to produce any other crop apart from paddy due to the lack of an irrigation facility. With the help of a solarbased lift irrigation system, we have started cultivating two to three crops in a year. 

Our income has increased many folds. After listening to the experiences of farmers, Secretary Abu Bakar Siddiqui said that the incumbent government is committed to the welfare of farmers and multiple schemes are being rolled out in this regard. He said, “Utilising renewable energy projects for irrigation will help in creating a thriving agrobased economy. Looking at projects implemented by the Simdega district administration and listening to farmers’ experiences solar-based lift irrigation can be a game-changer for farmers across the state. And soon we will implement this project across the state.” In Simdega, a solar-based lift irrigation system has been developed across multiple parts of the district.

Solar-based lift irrigation system is providing irrigation facilities to thousands of farmers and transforming the lives of poor farmers. More than 250 solar-based irrigation schemes have been implemented across different parts of the district, out of this, more than 175 schemes have been taken for solar lift irrigation. One solar lift irrigation system can be used for irrigating 10 acres of land. Simdega is one of the most backward districts of Jharkhand. Farmers had to work during monsoons and during the remaining part of the year, they would migrate to other parts of the state or the country in search of livelihood. With the installation of a modern renewable energy-based irrigation system, the migration rate in the district has also reduced. They are now participating in a different kind of vegetable production as well. During the event, Deputy Commissioner Simdega Sushant Gaurav, PD ATMA Krishna Bihari and other officials were present.