In a significant push towards sustainable agriculture and clean energy, Odisha Governor Dr. Hari Babu Kambhampati has called for the large-scale adoption of solar-powered irrigation pumps across the state.
Addressing senior officials of the Water Resources Department during a review meeting at Lok Bhavan’s New Abhishek Hall on Wednesday, the Governor emphasised that solar energy-based irrigation is key to cutting costs, boosting farmer incomes, and advancing the state’s renewable energy goals.
The Governor highlighted that widespread use of solar pumps would not only reduce the irrigation expenses of farmers but also enable them to generate surplus electricity that can be fed into the grid, creating an additional revenue stream. “This initiative will strengthen sustainable farming practices and support clean energy efforts,” he said.
Dr. Kambhampati urged officials to intensify awareness campaigns on the PM-KUSUM scheme and prepare a robust strategy to replace conventional electricity-powered pumps with solar alternatives. He stressed the need for aggressive promotion of solar irrigation systems among farmers to maximise adoption.
Strong Budget Backing and Future Roadmap
The Governor lauded the Odisha government for allocating a record ₹14,500 crore in the state budget for the Water Resources Department, describing it as a major step towards strengthening irrigation infrastructure and ensuring water security for farmers.
Officials presented detailed updates on surface and groundwater resources, major and minor irrigation projects, command area development, irrigation potential created, climate-resilient measures, and the department’s 2047 roadmap.
Governor Kambhampati also suggested exploring aquaculture opportunities in tail-end areas of irrigation systems where water does not reach agricultural fields adequately. He noted that integrating fisheries with water management could provide farmers with supplementary income and serve as an excellent model for rural livelihood development.
He directed officials to ensure timely completion of all ongoing irrigation projects so that farmers and rural communities reap maximum benefits at the earliest. The Governor appreciated the department’s efforts in water conservation and management while also reviewing the government’s rehabilitation and resettlement policies.
Principal Secretary, Water Resources, Shubha Sharma, and other senior officials attended the meeting.
