Record Achievement
Maharashtra’s Solar Irrigation Record Milestone: Maharashtra achieved a notable renewable energy milestone by installing 45,911 off-grid solar agricultural pumps in just 30 days. The feat earned recognition from Guinness World Records, marking a major national step toward clean irrigation. The initiative reflects the state’s accelerated move to reduce dependence on conventional electricity for farming.
Static GK fact: Guinness World Records was founded in 1955 and remains a global authority for documenting record achievements.
Government-Led Acceleration
The deployment was carried out under PM-KUSUM Component B and the Magel Tyala Saur Krushi Pump Yojana, amplifying rural energy access. This scale makes Maharashtra the fastest-growing solar agriculture state in India and places it second globally after China for rapid pump deployment by a single administrative region. The schemes reinforce both irrigation security and renewable transition objectives.
Static GK Tip: PM-KUSUM was launched in 2019 to promote solar pumps and decentralised solar power in agriculture.
Administrative Backing
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis highlighted the transformational role of PM-KUSUM in supporting solar-based farm infrastructure. Maharashtra has already crossed 7.47 lakh solar pump installations and targets 10.45 lakh under its long-term adoption plan. Leaders emphasise that shifting to solar irrigation reduces grid pressure and enhances sustainable agricultural productivity.
Implementation Efficiency
MSEDCL Chairman Lokesh Chandra credited the success to transparent vendor selection and strict scheme monitoring. Complaints from farmers must be addressed within three days to maintain accountability. Solar pump capacity is allocated based on land size, typically ranging from 3 HP to 7 HP. GK Energy contributed nearly 17% of installations during the record-setting month.
Static GK fact: One horsepower (HP) equals 746 watts, a common measure used in pump capacity classification.
Long-Term Irrigation Shift
Maharashtra is adopting a forward-looking strategy prioritising off-grid solar pumps for future agricultural connections. This approach aims to ensure reliable irrigation while reducing strain on traditional power networks. The policy supports long-term climate resilience and enhances energy independence for farmers across the state.
Static GK Tip: Maharashtra is India’s second-largest state by area, making irrigation infrastructure crucial for its agricultural output.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
Maharashtra’s Solar Irrigation Record Milestone:
| Topic | Detail |
| Solar pumps installed | 45,911 in 30 days |
| Recognition | Guinness World Record |
| Key schemes | PM-KUSUM Component B; Magel Tyala Saur Krushi Pump Yojana |
| Total pumps in state | Over 7.47 lakh installed |
| Target | 10.45 lakh solar pumps |
| Key officials | Devendra Fadnavis; Lokesh Chandra |
| Installation contribution | GK Energy ~17% |
| Pump capacity range | 3 HP to 7 HP |
| Complaint resolution window | Three days |
| Policy direction | Prioritising off-grid solar irrigation systems |
