Union Minister for New and Renewable Energy Pralhad Joshi said renewable energy is becoming a key driver of climate-resilient agriculture, energy security, and rural prosperity in India, as the country works to link clean energy with agrifood systems.
Addressing an inter-ministerial dialogue jointly organised by the International Renewable Energy Agency and the Food and Agriculture Organization, Joshi said India carries a major global responsibility, supporting one-sixth of the world’s population while running large food security programmes and one of the fastest-growing renewable energy markets.
He said Indian farmers, traditionally known as Annadata or food providers, are now emerging as Urjadata, or energy providers, through decentralised renewable energy solutions. Distributed clean energy, he added, is improving energy access, boosting farm productivity, cutting emissions, and strengthening rural livelihoods.
Joshi said government schemes integrating solar power into agriculture have reduced diesel use and irrigation costs. By late 2025, nearly one million standalone solar pumps had been installed, and over 1.1 million grid-connected pumps solarised, adding more than 10.2 GW of capacity.
He also highlighted policies that allow farmers to sell surplus solar power and convert farm waste into bioenergy. Looking ahead, he said India is preparing a new phase of agriculture-focused solar programmes and is ready to deepen global partnerships.
