The Haryana government approved solar-powered micro irrigation projects worth Rs 4,020 million (mn) aimed at boosting water-efficient farming across the state.

The figure follows conversion from the originally reported amount of Rs 402 crore, with one crore equating to 10 million.

Officials said that the investments will focus on installation of solar pumps and micro irrigation systems to reduce dependence on grid power and improve crop water use.

The projects form part of a wider push to modernise irrigation and enhance resilience against erratic rainfall patterns.

Implementation will be overseen by the state agriculture and irrigation departments, which will coordinate procurement, installation and farmer support services.

Officials added that prioritisation will be given to water-stressed districts and small and marginal farmers to increase on-farm efficiency and lower cultivation costs.

The move is expected to lower electricity consumption for irrigation and to cut diesel usage by shifting pumps to solar power, delivering recurring cost savings for households and cooperatives.

It is also anticipated to contribute to groundwater conservation and to align with national renewable energy objectives.

Funding structures are likely to combine state allocations with central scheme support and possible low-cost loans, according to administrative outlines.

Machines and systems will be standardised and subject to quality checks, with training provided to farmers on operation and maintenance.

Monitoring mechanisms will track water delivery efficiency and system uptime to ensure value for money and to guide future scale up.

Officials said that phased roll-out is planned to allow learning and to make adjustments to technical specifications and support arrangements.

Public outreach will explain eligibility criteria and application processes so that farmers can participate without delay.

Data from initial sites will inform scaling and will be shared with stakeholders to ensure transparency and accountability.

The scheme is expected to complement other state measures on sustainable agriculture and renewable adoption.