The first solar lift irrigation project in Punjab at village Jugiaal is proving to be a boon for the lands falling in Kandi area.

The project is propelling the farmers to shun the traditional crop cycle and go in for the innovations in the agricultural sector thus increasing their income, the deputy commissioner (DC) Hoshiarpur, Isha Kalia said. Kandi comprises areas falling along the Shivalik foothills in Hoshiarpur, Gurdaspur, Nawanshahr and Ropar districts.

She said that through this solar lift irrigation project (solar powered community lift and micro irrigation project worth Rs 40.93 Crore, the water for irrigational purposes is being provided to the 1700 acres (664 hectares) land belonging to 1200 farmers of the 14 villages in Talwara and Hajipur areas.

The DC said that this project ensures supply of water to the lands of farmers through drip as well as the fountain irrigation system leading to the conserving of water. This innovative initiative of the government is encouraging the farmers to shun the traditional crop cycle and go in for innovative techniques in the agricultural field.

Kalia further said that the capacity of the project is to ensure that 15.7 cusec water through drip technology reaches through Kandi canal to the fields of the farmers. She also elaborated that 14 villages are being provided 100 percent water through drip and fountain system as per their need.

Divulging more, the DC further said that the solar panel has the capacity to generate 1100 kilowatt electricity daily.

She also said that those farmers of kandi area who were facing tough times due to the scarcity of water have now embarked upon the cultivation of turmeric, ginger, mustard, vegetables, pulses, wheat, maize, lemon grass and horticulture thus marching on the road to progressive farming. She also divulged that the progressive farming entails less usage of the water in comparison to the paddy.

The sub-divisional officer (Talwara), Keshav Kumar said 46 motors are running on the solar panel and one motor is of 20-25 horse power with the capacity to lift 70-75 meter (head) water.

He also said that 3798 solar panels have been installed to operate these submersible motors whereas the project has been divided into 378 micro parts to ensure its smooth functioning with 18 water distribution lines connected.