Introduction: This case study explores the transformative impact of a Solar Water Pump intervention on the income and livelihood of Deenu S/O Buddha, a farmer residing in Hamzapur village, Nuh, Haryana. Deenu, who had been practicing traditional agricultural techniques for over 25 years, faced numerous challenges, including erratic rainfall and climate changes, which significantly impacted his crop production and income. This case study demonstrates how the implementation of a Solar Water Pump, facilitated by the HDFC Bank Parivartan and S M Sehgal Foundation, effectively addressed Deenu’s water-related issues and led to a substantial increase in his agricultural productivity and income.
Background: Deenu, the sole breadwinner for a family of nine, relied on agriculture as his primary livelihood. However, in recent years, he experienced suboptimal production due to delayed irrigation caused by a lack of water availability. Consequently, crop damage and low yields resulted in diminished income, which greatly demotivated Deenu and other farmers in the village. Recognizing the shared concern, a Village Development Committee meeting was organized in September, where Deenu learned about the benefits of Solar Water Pump technology and expressed his interest in adopting it as a solution.
Implementation and Selection Process: Through the HDFC Bank Parivartan – CSR project, in collaboration with S M Sehgal Foundation, a rigorous selection process was conducted. Deenu was chosen as a beneficiary for the solar water pump based on the mutual consent of the Village Development Committee members. To contribute to the asset’s value, Deenu promptly paid a beneficiary contribution of INR 88,500. Subsequently, the solar water pump was installed on his field, ensuring a consistent and reliable source of irrigation.
Results and Impact: With the solar water pump in operation, Deenu’s water-related issues were resolved, and timely irrigation was no longer a bottleneck. Leveraging this technology, he successfully irrigated his 6 acres of land, resulting in a remarkable 10% increase in total crop production. Additionally, Deenu capitalized on the solar water pump’s potential by offering irrigation services to neighboring farmers at a rate of INR 1000 per acre per irrigation session. This allowed him to irrigate an additional 25 acres of land, generating an income of INR 25,000 to date. The intervention not only benefited Deenu directly but also contributed to the irrigation of an additional 12 acres of land, promoting sustainable natural resource management.
Future Aspirations and Conclusion: Buoyed by the positive outcomes, Deenu now aspires to expand his agricultural endeavors by cultivating vegetables and cash crops in a larger area using the solar water pump. Furthermore, he aims to motivate other farmers in the community to adopt this technology, emphasizing its potential to enhance productivity and income. Deenu also plans to generate additional income by renting out the solar water pump for irrigation purposes, further supporting his livelihood and contributing to the economic growth of the community.
In conclusion, the introduction of a solar water pump has significantly transformed Deenu’s agricultural practices, addressing water-related challenges, and substantially increasing his crop production and income. This case study exemplifies the importance of sustainable interventions, such as solar-powered irrigation systems, in enhancing farmers’ livelihoods and fostering rural development.
(Story by Bachchu Singh – Field Assistant, and Kailash Gupta – Project Associate)
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