Special Article: On the Occasion of Silver Jubilee Celebrations

Solar Sujla Yojana in Dhamtari District – A New Dawn of Prosperity for Farmers

Dhamtari, Sept 2025 : Launched by the Chhattisgarh Government in 2016–17, the Solar Sujla Yojana has today written a new chapter of prosperity in the lives of farmers across the state. In particular, the scheme has become a lifeline for farmers in Dhamtari district. Earlier, when farming was largely dependent on rainfall and irrigation facilities were scarce, crop yields were low. Now, solar-powered pumps using the energy of the sun have become a reliable means for year-round farming.

A New Light in Farmers’ Lives

So far, 3,068 solar pumps have been installed in Dhamtari district by the Chhattisgarh State Renewable Energy Development Agency (CREDA). With the help of these pumps, farmers are now able to cultivate paddy, wheat, maize, pulses, oilseeds, vegetables, and fruits on a large scale. Instead of seasonal farming, villages are now cultivating throughout the year, doubling farmers’ incomes and bringing positive changes in their lifestyles.

Farmers Speak – Solar Pumps Bring New Hope

• Amrit Lal from Goregaon village shared, “Earlier, we could farm only during monsoons as electricity lines had not reached our fields. With solar pumps, I now grow paddy and vegetables throughout the year. My income has increased, and I can provide better education for my children.”
• Lakshminath from Chipli village said, “Using diesel pumps for farming was expensive, and fuel prices kept rising. Now, with sunlight powering my irrigation, there is no cost at all. This scheme is a blessing for small farmers like us.”
• Rameshwar, a young farmer from Bhothli village, expressed, “Earlier, we had to leave farming and search for jobs outside. Now, thanks to solar pumps, farming has become profitable again.”
• Many women farmers are cultivating vegetables and selling them in nearby towns, earning enough each month to support their families without having to migrate.

A Boon for Small and Marginal Farmers

Under this scheme, farmers receive up to 90% subsidy from the government and contribute only the remaining share. Additionally, surface solar pumps with capacities of 3 to 5 HP are being installed along anicuts, stop dams, and check dams with a 97% subsidy. This has been especially beneficial for small and marginal farmers living near water sources.

Targets and Achievements

In FY 2024–25 (Phase-07), Dhamtari district was allotted a target of 400 solar pumps, against which 252 applications were received and are under approval and installation by CREDA. For FY 2025–26 (Phase-09), the district received a target of 205 solar pumps, of which 165 have already been installed, with the rest in progress.

Economic and Social Transformation

The scheme has given a new direction to agriculture in the district. Farmers are now cultivating in both Kharif and Rabi seasons. With increased yields, their financial condition has improved significantly. Not only has their income doubled, but additional production has also created more employment opportunities in villages. Farm labor, transport, and allied agricultural activities have reduced unemployment substantially.

A Step Towards Environment and Sustainable Development

Solar-powered pumps are highly eco-friendly. While diesel and electric pumps increased both pollution and costs, solar pumps are pollution-free, cost-effective, and provide a long-term solution. The scheme represents a strong step towards sustainable development and a green revolution.

On the occasion of Chhattisgarh’s Silver Jubilee celebrations, it can rightly be said that the Solar Sujla Yojana is not just a tool for irrigation but a symbol of energy, confidence, and prosperity for farmers. Their stories show how sunlight is not only illuminating fields but also brightening lives.

This scheme is not only taking agricultural production to new heights but is also making a vital contribution to rural economy and environmental conservation. In the coming years, with its expansion, the state’s agriculture sector will reach new milestones, and farmers will move faster on the path of prosperity.