Awareness raising workshop for farmers on KUSUM component A in Jodhpur
The 3rd KVK Training on KUSUM Comp A, focussing on AgriPV was organised by GIZ India in collaboration with ICAR-CAZRI, develoPPP, ProSoil on 26th June, 2024. Around 35 farmers attended the workshop. The work shop was followed by a site visit to the Agri PV plant at the ICAR-CAZRI.
The workshop aimed to raise awareness among farmers in the region about the KUSUM scheme, emphasizing its economic benefits, emphasising AgriPV’s potential in arid and barren regions. Additionally, it sought to address practical challenges and showcase success stories of current beneficiaries of the scheme.
The Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha Evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan (PM-KUSUM) Component A scheme, launched by the Government of India, is designed to promote the use of solar energy among farmers. It aims to provide financial security to farmers by enabling them to generate electricity for their own consumption and sell the surplus to the grid. This initiative not only aims to reduce farmers' dependence on crop yield for income, but also contributes towards reducing carbon emissions, thus fostering sustainable agricultural practices.
Mr. OP Yadav, Director of IACR Kazri, emphasized that farmers are the focal point of the country, stressing that without the development of farmers, the development of the nation cannot be expected. He underscored that the emphasis on the economic growth of farmers is crucial for the comprehensive development of India.
Farmers provided insightful suggestions to enhance the implementation of the KUSUM Comp A, bringing focus towards improving financing options for AgriPV adoption. Key recommendations by farmers included inclusion of KUSUM Comp A scheme into the Agriculture Infrastructure Fund (AIF) to facilitate easier financing at lower interest rates. Farmers also stress the need for subsidies to support the installation of solar plants, especially for small farmers.
Regarding upcoming technology in AgriPV, adoption of wind brake systems to reduce dust deposition and transmission losses was widely accepted as solution to high operations and maintenance costs in the region. The farmers suggested bolstering of grid capacity, enhancing grid connectivity, while ensuring that farmers are central stakeholders throughout the process. They also emphasized on the importance of tailored awareness and training programs in local languages to foster widespread adoption of renewable energy solutions.
The third KVK training session in Jodhpur was a major success for everyone involved, providing valuable insights and encouraging significant collaboration toward advancing AgriPV in the country.