Assessment of green energy for vegetable cultivation in tribal areas of Koraput district, Odisha in the Eastern Ghats region

Abstract

Undulating topography and lack of irrigation compel tribal farmers of Koraput district in Odisha to leave their agricultural fields fallow during post-monsoon season. Using a solar irrigation system can be an appropriate alternative for farmers to go for vegetable cultivation during the post-monsoon season using stored subsurface water in stonepitched jhola kundi (shallow dug well). In this study, 60 stone-pitched jhola kundis were constructed, and solar-powered irrigation pumps were installed in 2022 and 2023 to irrigate the farmer's fields. The diameter of these jhola kundis varies between 4.0 to 6.2 m, whereas depth ranges from 3.0 to 7.8 m. These jhola kundis are equipped with a one-horsepower (hp) surface-mounted solar-operated pump. The harvested water irrigates a nearly 145-ha area covering 207 farmers. Vegetable cultivation enhances farmers' monthly income from ` 4644 to 19676 and holds the potential for further income growth. At the same time, it helps increase the crop diversity index values to as high as 0.85. There is a saving of 48336 kWh-1 power per annum, considering 70% pump efficiency. Further, it helps reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 280 kg per ha of CO per annum. Therefore, the promotion of this technique will not only help to 2 achieve assured irrigation to crops but also protect the environment by reducing the emission of greenhouse gases.