Low-cost Mobile Solar Operated Lift Irrigation System : A Case Study

Abstract

Effective and judicious use of irrigation water contributes a lot for the management of crop growth and increase in productivity. In the light of increasing demand for irrigation in the state of Assam(India) and to cover the non irrigated area as well as to continue the supplies for the irrigated command area, it becomes imperative to look for a holistic and people centric Low Cost Innovative Irrigation technique. Irrigation water can be assured at every crop field provided we set our mind and put concerted efforts to address it. This paper highlights the Irrigation scenario in Assam with a case study on Low Cost Solar Operated Mobile Lift Irrigation in Assam, for its continuance and contribution towards growth in Agricultural Productivity. This innovation in Irrigation Sector can cause Social transformation by bringing in the development of Agriculture and other allied Sectors. An attempt was also made to establish the economic and operational benefits of the system by making a comparison amongst the different lift Irrigation Schemes in the State. The study advocates for utilization of the non conventional solar energy for irrigating the multiple crops by lifting the surface water sources in the State of Assam by using the Low Cost Solar Operated Mobile Surface Lift Irrigation System. The paper also presents the financial analysis and Key Performance Indicators of the System with a highlight on its diversified application for disaster preparedness and mitigation on the part of Stakeholder Departments with a primary aim to increase Irrigated agriculture productivity