Smart Solar-Powered Irrigation and Pesticide Management for Sustainable Agriculture in Karnataka, India

TERI implemented smart solar-powered agricultural pumping and pesticide management systems in Karnataka, India, representing a major advancement in promoting sustainable and affordable farming solutions for small and marginal farmers. Funded by EKOenergy, Finland, the initiative addressed critical challenges in irrigation and pest management by introducing clean, renewable energy technologies. By leveraging smart solar-powered water pumps, innovative pesticide management systems (sprayers and insect traps), and smart soil moisture measuring equipment, the project provided cost-effective and reliable alternatives to conventional grid-based electricity and traditional spraying methods, thereby reducing input costs, saving water resources, and protecting the environment. Implemented across the villages of Kesarhatti, Mudaldinni, and Sultanpur in Raichur district, the project directly benefited over 2,000 farmers and positively impacted approximately 10,500 people across two Gram Panchayats. The initiative was carried out in close collaboration with local Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), which played a key role in mobilizing communities, facilitating technology adoption, and ensuring effective implementation at the grassroots level. By enhancing access to sustainable technologies, the project improved agricultural productivity, strengthened farmers’ resilience, and promoted eco-friendly farming practices. Overall, the initiative contributed significantly to advancing climate-resilient agriculture and supporting long-term rural development in the region.