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.

He said, “Utilising projects for Irrigation will help in creating a thriving agro-based 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.