Maharashtra Achieves Guinness Record with Solar Agricultural Pumps

Maharashtra's Remarkable Solar Pump Achievement

In a significant advancement toward clean energy and sustainable agriculture, Maharashtra has set a Guinness World Record by installing 45,911 off-grid solar agricultural pumps within just 30 days. This remarkable feat highlights the state's leadership in adopting renewable energy, particularly within the agricultural sector, and its commitment to reducing dependence on conventional power sources.

This achievement positions Maharashtra as the second globally, following China, in terms of the speed and scale of solar pump deployment by a single administrative region.

Carried Out Under PM-KUSUM and State Schemes

The record-breaking installation was executed under the PM-KUSUM (Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan) Component B Magel Tyala Saur Krushi Pump Yojana, a state-level solar irrigation initiative. These schemes aim to:

• Provide affordable, clean, and reliable irrigation to farmers
• Reduce grid electricity demand
• Empower marginal and small farmers with energy independence

Government Leadership and Commitment

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis praised this achievement, reaffirming Maharashtra's goal to become a national leader in solar-powered agriculture. He noted that over 7.47 lakh solar pumps have been installed in the state to date, with a new target set to exceed 10.45 lakh installations. Solar pumps significantly reduce grid dependency, enhance farmer productivity, and promote climate-resilient farming practices.

This record complements broader efforts under the India Renewable Energy Roadmap and supports the national commitment to achieving net-zero emissions.

Strong Execution and Accountability

According to MSEDCL Chairman Lokesh Chandra, the record was made possible through:

• Efficient scheme design and centralized planning
• Transparent vendor empanelment and allocation
• Strict service-level agreements and monitoring of installations
• Fast complaint resolution, where vendors must address farmer complaints within 3 days or face escalation

Each pump's capacity varies from 3 HP to 7 HP, depending on the farmer's land size and irrigation needs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is the significance of Maharashtra's solar pump installation?
Answer: Maharashtra's installation of over 45,911 solar pumps in 30 days showcases its commitment to renewable energy and sustainable agriculture, aiming to enhance farmer productivity and reduce reliance on grid power.

Q2. How does the PM-KUSUM scheme benefit farmers?
Answer: The PM-KUSUM scheme provides affordable and reliable irrigation solutions, reduces grid electricity demand, and empowers small and marginal farmers with energy independence through solar technology.

Q3. What are the future targets for solar pump installations in Maharashtra?
Answer: Maharashtra aims to exceed 10.45 lakh solar pump installations, building on its current success of over 7.47 lakh installations to promote sustainable agriculture.

Q4. How does the installation process ensure accountability?
Answer: The process includes strict service-level agreements, efficient planning, and a complaint resolution system that requires vendors to address farmer complaints within three days.

Q5. What capacities do the solar pumps installed in Maharashtra have?
Answer: The installed solar pumps in Maharashtra have capacities ranging from 3 HP to 7 HP, tailored to meet the irrigation needs based on the size of the farmers' land.

UPSC Practice MCQs

Question 1: What record did Maharashtra achieve in solar pump installations?
A) 30,911 pumps in 30 days
B) 45,911 pumps in 30 days
C) 50,000 pumps in 60 days
D) 40,000 pumps in 45 days
Correct Answer: B

Question 2: Which scheme is responsible for the solar pump installations in Maharashtra?
A) PM-KUSUM
B) Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana
C) National Rural Livelihood Mission
D) Atal Pension Yojana
Correct Answer: A

Question 3: How many solar pumps does Maharashtra aim to install in total?
A) 5 lakh
B) 10.45 lakh
C) 15 lakh
D) 20 lakh
Correct Answer: B

Question 4: What is the maximum time for vendors to resolve complaints from farmers?
A) 1 day
B) 3 days
C) 5 days
D) 7 days
Correct Answer: B

Question 5: What is the primary purpose of solar pumps for farmers?
A) Increasing crop prices
B) Reducing grid dependency
C) Enhancing soil quality
D) Providing subsidies
Correct Answer: B