Farmers are becoming 'Urjadatas' alongside 'Annadatas', says Union Minister Pralhad Joshi

Union Minister for New and Renewable Energy, Pralhad Joshi, addressed the pre-event ceremony of the 7th Agri-Voltaics World Conference 2026 in New Delhi. He remarked that the farmer, who has always fed the nation, is now also illuminating it by generating energy.

Applauding agri-voltaic technology, the minister explained that farmers can earn income in three ways from a single acre of land: through the sale of crops, the sale of electricity, and savings on diesel. This technology can serve as a major source of income security for small and marginal farmers.

Highlighting the progress of the PM-KUSUM scheme, he noted that approximately 2.9 million pumps are now powered by solar energy. He emphasized that the government's goal is to empower small farmers, cooperatives, and panchayats while ensuring that land ownership remains with the farmers.

Mr. Joshi stated that India added 55.29 gigawatts of non-fossil fuel energy capacity last year. He stressed the need for research to select the right technology according to different crops and climates, noting that trials are being conducted at institutions like the BAIF in Pune.

The minister urged the industry to develop structures that do not hinder the operation of tractors and harvesters. He added that India's experience is highly relevant for countries in the Global South, where small farms and abundant sunlight are common.

During the event, an Agri-Voltaics Pitch Hub based on the theme 'Farm to Fork Innovation' was announced. The conference will be held from October 21 to 23, 2026, at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, where experts from around the world will discuss the integration of agriculture and solar energy.