A Quick Assessment of the Mukhyamantri Saur Krishi Vahini Yojana (MSKVY) in Maharashtra-IRMA

A Quick Assessment of the Mukhyamantri Saur Krishi Vahini Yojana (MSKVY) in Maharashtra-IRMA

Solar irrigation in India aims to tackle issues of irrigation access and groundwater overexploitation. Many Indian farmers rely on rainfall, leaving them susceptible to climate fluctuations and restricting their crop choices. Solar irrigation presents an opportunity to expand irrigation access for farmers lacking grid connections or costly diesel pump sets, all while mitigating groundwater extraction through net metering.

To comprehend the choices and transitions of farmers concerning solar irrigation, agent-based modeling (ABM) was employed. The research indicates that sustainable shifts are feasible, but entrenched agricultural practices and environmental constraints hinder progress. Through case studies in various regions, specific challenges and potential outcomes are highlighted.

For solar irrigation to bring about substantial change and crop diversification, sociotechnical transformations are imperative. This entails revising agricultural and energy policies to align with local circumstances and implementing ABM appropriately. By doing so, a substantial and enduring impact on groundwater sustainability and farmer incomes can be achieved. This report offers valuable insights into the intricacies of implementing solar irrigation in India, underscoring the necessity for tailored strategies to attain desired objectives.