Nearly 60% of Indians work force in engaged in farming. But due to the non-availability or irregular electricity supply in many areas, irrigation becomes difficult even if the land is fertile as it depends majorly on rainfall only. Solar energy can save not only electricity but also save the crops by providing supplementary irrigation. Solar Powered Irrigation System (SPIS) can make irrigation possible even in remote areas. The pumps are available for various types of irrigation, including paddy fields, horticulture farms, vegetables, etc.

Borlaug Institute for South Asia (BISA) with the support of GIZ has been organising capacity building trainings on Solar Powered Irrigation System (SPIS). By training Agriculture Extension Workers (AEWs) and progressive farmers and encouraging the adoption of SPISs by farmers through information on subsidy, access, and benefits of SPISs, the rate of technology adoption will be increased. Mahatma Phule Krishi Vidyapeeth (MPKV), Rahuri situated in the state of Maharashtra is one of the leading institute in the country involved in education, research, and extension in agriculture.

MPKV, Rahuri has joined hands with BISA, Jabalpur to train the staff of the University and farmers associated with the University on Solar Powered Irrigation System (SPIS). Till today 282 staff and farmers have been trained in 10 batches. The feedback from the trainees has been excellent. This collaboration will definitely help in spreading the awareness of SPIS among the farmers. Many trainee farmers have already submitted to the applications for SPIS through the schemes of Government of India.