Maharashtra Sets Guinness World Record for Solar Pump Deployment in Agriculture

In a major leap toward clean energy and sustainable agriculture, Maharashtra has set a Guinness World Record by installing 45,911 off-grid solar agricultural pumps in just 30 days. The feat underscores the state’s leadership in renewable energy adoption, particularly in the agricultural sector, and its commitment to reducing reliance on conventional power sources. This achievement also places Maharashtra second globally after China in terms of the speed and scale of solar pump deployment by a single administrative region.

Carried Out Under PM-KUSUM and State Schemes

The record-breaking installation was conducted under,

• PM-KUSUM (Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan) Component B
• Magel Tyala Saur Krushi Pump Yojana, a state-level solar irrigation initiative

These schemes aim to,

• Provide affordable, clean, and reliable irrigation to farmers
• Reduce grid electricity demand
• Empower marginal and small farmers with energy independence

Government Leadership and Commitment

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis praised the achievement and reaffirmed Maharashtra’s goal to become a national leader in solar-powered agriculture. He noted that,

• Over 7.47 lakh solar pumps have been installed in the state so far
• The new target is to cross 10.45 lakh installations
• Solar pumps help reduce grid dependency, enhance farmer productivity, and promote climate-resilient agriculture
• This record complements broader efforts under the India Renewable Energy Roadmap and supports the national commitment to net-zero emissions.

Strong Execution and Accountability

According to MSEDCL Chairman Lokesh Chandra, the record was possible due to,

• Efficient scheme design and centralized planning
• Transparent vendor empanelment and allocation
• Strict service-level agreements and monitoring of installations
• Fast complaint resolution: Vendors must address farmer complaints within 3 days or face escalation
• Each pump’s capacity varies from 3 HP to 7 HP, depending on the farmer’s land size and irrigation needs.

Notably, GK Energy alone was responsible for 17% of the installations, highlighting private sector involvement in public initiatives.