Bhubaneswar, June 18: Odisha Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati on Wednesday stressed the importance of expanding the use of solar-powered irrigation pumps across the state, stating that the initiative would reduce irrigation costs for farmers, increase their incomes, and support Odisha’s renewable energy targets.
The Governor made these observations during a detailed review meeting with senior officials of the Water Resources Department at New Abhishek Hall in Lok Bhavan.
Highlighting the benefits of solar-powered irrigation systems, Kambhampati said farmers could not only meet their irrigation needs but also generate additional income by supplying surplus electricity to the power grid. He noted that such a model would strengthen sustainable agriculture while contributing to clean energy development.
Referring to the Prime Minister’s KUSUM (PM-KUSUM) scheme, the Governor urged officials to intensify awareness campaigns and formulate effective strategies to encourage farmers to shift from conventional electric pumps to solar-powered alternatives.
During the meeting, officials presented a comprehensive overview of the department’s activities, including the status of surface and groundwater resources, major and minor irrigation projects, groundwater development initiatives, command area development programmes, irrigation achievements, infrastructure expansion, climate-resilient measures, and the department’s long-term roadmap up to 2047.
The Governor lauded the Odisha Government’s decision to allocate ₹14,500 crore to the Water Resources Department in the State Budget. He described the enhanced allocation as a major step towards strengthening irrigation infrastructure and ensuring water security for farmers across the state. He expressed confidence that the increased funding would accelerate the implementation of key projects and improve Odisha’s irrigation network.
Kambhampati also suggested exploring fish farming opportunities in tail-end areas of irrigation systems where water does not adequately reach agricultural fields. He said such initiatives could create additional livelihood opportunities for farmers and serve as a model for rural economic development. While fisheries development falls under the Fisheries Department, he noted that the Water Resources Department could facilitate water availability to support such activities.
The Governor sought updates on in-stream storage structures, ongoing major and minor irrigation projects, and their irrigation potential. He appreciated the department’s efforts in water conservation and management and also reviewed the State Government’s Resettlement and Rehabilitation Policy.
Emphasising the need for timely completion of ongoing irrigation projects, Kambhampati said faster execution would maximise benefits for farmers and rural communities across Odisha.
The meeting was attended by Principal Secretary of the Water Resources Department Shubha Sarma, senior departmental officials, and officers from Lok Bhavan.
