NABARD GM bats for solar pump-sets
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, August 22 2016:
National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) General Manager AC Srivastava has stated that introduction of solar water pump-sets in the State can ensure a reliable source of water for irrigation purposes which can enhance the State's agricultural productivity even though it requires a little bigger investment.
Even though the Scheme for Promotion of Solar Water Pumping Systems for Irrigation and Other Purposes was launched on November 4, 2014, none of the North Eastern States have introduced solar water pumping systems so far except Assam.
The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) and NABARD have jointly set a target of introducing 30,000 water pump-sets in a year.
The target can be achieved if there is cooperation among the public and financial institutions, Srivastava said.
Farmers who have 200 acres, SHGs, joint liability groups, NGOs, farmers/producers organisations and farmers clubs can apply for loans from banks or financial institutes registered with RBI under the scheme and avail subsidies of 25 per cent to 40 per cent given by NABARD.
The scheme was launched by the Government of India with the primary objective of ensuring a reliable source of irrigation and at the same time conserve environment.
The Government has also been planning to organise extensive awareness programmes about the scheme throughout the country.
Loans taken under the scheme should be re-paid within 10 years, Srivastava said while interacting with media persons by the sideline of a workshop held today at Classic Hotel Grande here.
Chief Secretary O Nabakishore, RBI Imphal Chief General Manager Thangjamon Hazel, MNRE Scientist Arun and ICM Director Dr N Ranjana attended the workshop as presidium members.
Speaking at the workshop, Nabakishore remarked that introduction of water pump-sets for irrigation in Manipur would not be very successful.
It takes a prolonged period for authorities to sanction a loan and majority of the people of Manipur do not have the habit of re-paying loans in time.
Unlike other States of India, ground water is not used for irrigation in Manipur, said the Chief Secretary.
NABARD General Manager AC Srivastava opened the workshop with a welcome address.