Everything to know about the community-managed solar lift irrigation system (CMSLI)
Across rural India, farmers—especially in tribal and drought-prone regions—struggle with unreliable rainfall, expensive irrigation, and depleting groundwater. The Community-Managed Solar Lift Irrigation (CMSLI) system offers a solution by combining renewable energy, collective ownership, and efficient water use. What is CMSLI? CMSLI uses solar-powered pumps to lift water from surface sources like rivers, ponds, and canals. The water is stored in tanks and distributed through pipelines or drip irrigation systems. Unlike individual solar pumps, these systems are collectively owned and managed by Water User Associations (WUAs) , ensuring equitable access for small and marginal farmers. A typical CMSLI system includes: Solar photovoltaic (PV) panels Electric pumps powered by solar energy Storage tanks and pipelines Community governance for operations and maintenance Why CMSLI Matters Climate Resilience: Over 60% of India’s farmland relies on rain. CMSLI provide...