Farmers should explore crops that need less water: SPDCL CMD

During a recent press briefing, the chairman of the State Power Distribution Company Limited (SPDCL) emphasized the need for farmers to adopt water‑efficient crops as rainfall patterns become increasingly unpredictable. He pointed out that traditional water‑intensive crops are putting pressure on dwindling groundwater reserves, especially in semi‑arid districts. By encouraging the cultivation of millets, pulses, and oilseeds, the CMD hopes to reduce irrigation demand and improve long‑term farm sustainability while still maintaining reasonable yields for local markets.

In the same visit, the CMD conducted unannounced field inspections of the agricultural power infrastructure across the Shadnagar division. These checks focused on the condition of distribution transformers, the reliability of supply during peak irrigation periods, and the presence of any illegal connections that could cause voltage drops. The inspections revealed that most substations are operating within acceptable limits, but a few villages reported intermittent outages that could affect pump performance. SPDCL officials promised to address these gaps promptly, citing the importance of stable electricity for modern farming practices.

The combined message underscores a broader strategy to align energy provision with water conservation goals. By ensuring that farmers have dependable power for efficient irrigation methods, such as drip or sprinkler systems, the state aims to lower overall water consumption. The CMD also called for greater collaboration between agricultural extension services and the power utility to disseminate best practices. This approach is expected to help farmers adapt to climate stress while safeguarding the region’s limited water resources.