SPECIAL CORRESPONDENT
JAMMU, Jan 19
In the days of no rainfall, farmers find themselves compelled to rely on pumpsets powered by electricity, leading to increased electricity bills and heightened concerns. While solar pumpsets offer a solution, their affordability remains a significant hurdle. The cost of a solar pumpset with a 5-horsepower motor is nearly more than Rs 3 lakhs, making it inaccessible for most ordinary farmers.
However, the Jammu and Kashmir government has now come to the aid of farmers, making it easier for them to embrace solar technology. Farmers can now install solar pumps at an 80 per cent subsidy. The initiative, facilitated by the Jammu and Kashmir Energy Development Authority in collaboration with the Agriculture Department, aims to uplift the farming community.
In the Marh block alone, 15 solar pumpsets have been successfully installed in farmers’ fields, with 40 applications already approved. Soon, these approved applicants will also benefit from solar pumpsets in their fields.
Pardeep Kumar, a resident of Pariyal village in the Marh block, expressed satisfaction as he has already installed a solar pumpset in his field. Most farmers are showing interest in solar pumpsets ranging from 3-horsepower to 7.5-horsepower.
For a 5-horsepower solar pump, farmers need to bear only Rs 65,000 in expenses, as the government covers the remaining cost. This comprehensive scheme has brought relief to farmers who have long demanded access to solar pumpsets.
Pawan Kumar, a farmer, shared that solar pumps have been available to farmers in Punjab for quite some time. Now, with the introduction of this scheme in Jammu and Kashmir, farmers can finally benefit. The use of solar pumpsets will help farmers save on electricity costs.
Surinder Kumar expressed gratitude for the long-awaited scheme, emphasizing the positive impact it will have on farmers.
An Agricultural Officer highlighted the Department’s active support in the entire process, from helping farmers fill out application forms to overseeing the submission of documents. Farmers interested in applying for solar pumpsets can contact the local agriculture officer, providing land records and Aadhar cards. Once the application is approved, farmers need to submit a demand draft for the remaining amount after deducting the subsidy.
