Solar Energy for Sustainable Agriculture: Building Knowledge, Strengthening Livelihoods

By Fr Bento D’Souza & Ms Ankita 

A five-day capacity-building programme on “Boosting farmers’ income and reducing carbon footprint through solar intervention in agricultural practices” was conducted from September 15–19, 2026 at Pimpalgaon Landga, Ahilyanagar, Maharashtra. The programme was organised by TERI EIACP Resource Partner on Renewable Energy and Climate Change in collaboration with Don Bosco Gramin Vikas Kendra (BGVK) and supported by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC), Government of India.

The programme brought together 40 women farmers for an interactive learning experience focused on the role of renewable energy in agriculture. It aimed to build awareness and practical understanding of how solar energy can be integrated into farming practices to support livelihoods, reduce dependence on conventional energy sources and contribute to more environmentally sustainable agriculture.

The programme was inaugurated on September 15 by Ms Apurva Malik from TERI and Fr Ajay D’Monte from BGVK. The inaugural session highlighted the importance of making knowledge about renewable energy accessible to rural communities and creating opportunities for farmers to explore clean energy solutions relevant to their agricultural needs.

Throughout the five days, participants took part in sessions, discussions and knowledge-sharing activities led by resource persons including Mr Rohan Shelke, Mr Ransingh and others. The sessions explored the benefits and applications

 of solar energy in agriculture, including its potential for irrigation and other farm-related activities. Participants were introduced to different solar-based solutions and gained a better understanding of how these technologies can help reduce recurring energy expenses while supporting more sustainable farming practices.

The training also created awareness about government schemes and support available for solar interventions in agriculture, enabling participants to better understand the opportunities available to them. The discussions encouraged farmers to consider renewable energy not only as an environmental solution but also as a means of strengthening agricultural livelihoods.

A key aspect of the programme was its focus on women farmers. By providing access to information and practical knowledge on emerging agricultural technologies, the training encouraged participants to engage more confidently in conversations and decisions related to sustainable farming and energy use.

The programme concluded with a valedictory ceremony, marking five days of learning and exchange. Mrs Pallavi Shukla from TERI addressed the participants, congratulated them on successfully completing the programme and encouraged them to take the knowledge gained during the training back to their farms and communities. She also distributed certificates to the participating women farmers, recognising their active involvement throughout the programme.

The five-day programme served as a platform to connect renewable energy, sustainable agriculture and rural livelihoods, while equipping women farmers with knowledge that can support more informed and environmentally conscious agricultural practices.