Odisha Governor Kambhampati pushes for solar-powered irrigation, calls for wider PM-KUSUM adoption
Bhubaneswar, June 17
Odisha Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati on Wednesday emphasised the need for wider adoption of solar-powered irrigation pumps, saying the initiative would reduce irrigation costs for farmers, enhance their incomes and contribute to the State's renewable energy goals, the release said.
The Governor made the remarks during a comprehensive discussion with senior officials of the Water Resources Department at New Abhishek Hall in Lok Bhavan.
Urging officials to promote solar-powered irrigation systems among farmers, Kambhampati said surplus power generated through such systems could be supplied to the grid, creating an additional source of income while supporting sustainable agriculture and clean energy initiatives.
Referring to the PM-KUSUM scheme, he advised the department to intensify awareness campaigns and devise strategies to facilitate the transition from conventional electricity-powered pumps to solar-powered alternatives.
During the meeting, officials presented a detailed overview of the department's activities, including surface and groundwater resources, major and minor irrigation projects, groundwater development, command area development, year-wise irrigation achievements, irrigation potential created and proposed, infrastructure development initiatives, climate-resilient measures, the roadmap for 2047 and plans for the sector.
The Governor commended the Odisha Government for earmarking Rs 14,500 crore for the Water Resources Department in the State Budget, describing it as a significant step towards strengthening irrigation infrastructure and ensuring water security for farmers. He said the enhanced allocation would enable the department to effectively implement its programmes and accelerate the development of Odisha's irrigation network.
Kambhampati also suggested exploring fish farming opportunities in tail-end areas of irrigation systems where water may not adequately reach agricultural fields. Such initiatives, he noted, could provide an additional source of income for farmers and serve as a model for rural livelihood enhancement. While fisheries development primarily falls under the Fisheries Department, he said the Water Resources Department could play a supportive role by facilitating water availability.
During the interaction, the Governor sought information on in-stream storage structures, major and minor irrigation projects and their irrigation potential. He appreciated the department's efforts towards water conservation and management and discussed the State Government's Resettlement and Rehabilitation Policy.
Stressing the importance of the timely completion of ongoing irrigation projects, Kambhampati said expeditious execution would help maximise benefits for farmers and rural communities.
Principal Secretary, Water Resources Department, Shubha Sarma, senior departmental officials and officers of Lok Bhavan were present at the meeting.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Finally a focus on sustainable and cost-effective farming. But I hope this doesn't become another top-down scheme that doesn't reach the actual tiller. The Governor's suggestion about fish farming in tail-end areas is very thoughtful - chhote kisanon ke liye additional income ka accha opportunity ho sakta hai. Fishery + solar = double benefit for small farmers! 🐟☀️
Good to see Odisha's focus on renewable energy in agriculture. Rs 14,500 crore budget is no joke - let's hope it translates into real benefits. But ground reality check: many farmers in western Odisha still struggle with basic electricity for pumps. Solar is great, but first ensure existing infrastructure works properly. Also, what about battery storage for cloudy days? These details matter on the ground.
As someone from coastal Odisha, I've seen how expensive diesel pumps are for small farmers during dry seasons. Solar pumps with grid connectivity can be a game-changer - imagine farmers earning from surplus power! But training is crucial. Our rural youth need proper skill development for maintenance. Also, please ensure panels are protected from cyclones - we know what Fani did! 🙏
Visionary move! Solar irrigation + fish farming in tail-end areas = innovation at its best. But execution is everything in Odisha. I hope the Resettlement and Rehabilitation Policy mentioned is fair to displaced farmers from irrigation projects. Also, climate-resilient measures should include drought-proofing strategies. Let's not just talk big numbers - make it work for the anna data (farmers)!
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