An impactful
awareness raising workshop for farmers on 'KUSUM Component A' was organized on July
4th, 2024 at ICAR-ATARI, Zone-I, Ludhiana. The event, was held in
collaboration with GIZ India. A total of 87 participants including farmers and
Subject Matter Specialists (SMS) participated from six Krishi Vigyan Kendras
(KVKs) viz. Ludhiana, Fatehgarh Sahib, Moga, Barnala, Jalandhar and Sangrur.
The workshop commenced with a welcoming address by Dr.
Preeti Mamgai, followed by introductory remarks from Sh. Ranjit Jadhav, a
representative of GIZ India. Dr. Parvender Sheoran, Director of ICAR-ATARI,
Ludhiana, extended a warm welcome to all participants and encouraged farmers to
adopt renewable energy sources. Sh. Y.V.K. Rahul from GIZ India highlighted the
key features of PM KUSUM Component A, while Senior Scientist Dr. Jugraj Singh
from PAU, Ludhiana, provided valuable insights on opportunities in the Agro
Photo voltaics system. The GIZ India team presented various installation and
business models through videos and presentations, aiming to foster farmers'
interest in the PM KUSUM scheme (Component A). Sh. Nayyab Mittal, Manager from
the Punjab Energy Development Agency, also contributed in providing valuable
insights on schemes of state government for promotion of renewable energy
sources in agricultural activities.
The primary focus of the discussions
was on promotion of the establishment of solar power plants on farmland,
enabling farmers to generate additional income. The workshop highlighted
the potential benefits and practical aspects of integrating solar energy into
agricultural practices, contributing to a sustainable and economically viable
farming sector. The event was a significant step towards empowering farmers
with the knowledge and resources to adopt renewable energy solutions, thereby
enhancing their livelihoods and promoting sustainable development in the agricultural
sector.
