Page 89 - Azerbaijan State University of Economics

THE JOURNAL OF ECONOMIC SCIENCES: THEORY AND PRACTICE, V.82, # 2, 2025, pp. 79-95

SUMMARY AND CONCLUSIONS
Solar water pumping systems become popular among farmers in West Bengal, a region
with increasing potential for solar-powered irrigation. The analysis identified three
important factors in choosing solar-powered irrigation: institutional support, economic
and technical benefits. Regarding institutional support, it was found that this included
government subsidies (notably the PM-KUSUM) as well as loans and credit facilities
from banks and cooperatives, which had the greatest impact on adoption decisions. The
reduction of recurring costs and the long-term financial sustainability of solar systems
are also crucial factors that have significantly contributed to the success of solar
systems. Additionally, some related features, as the simplicity, user-friendly operation,
and availability of after-sales service also contributed to the success of adopting the
systems. The financial, institutional, and technical dimensions must be aligned to
enhance the widespread and sustainable adoption of solar irrigation. These results are
consistent with earlier studies in states such as Gujarat and can be used to inform
policies and interventions tailored to the region.

CHALLENGES AND POLICY RECOMMENDATIONS
However, several challenges are still beaking the adoption of SWPS in West Bengal.
High upfront costs continue to deter many small and marginal farmers, even with the
availability of subsidies. Awareness about the benefits of solar irrigation remains
limited, especially in remote and underserved areas. Fragmented landholdings also
reduce the feasibility of individual installations, while delays in subsidy
disbursements and limited institutional coordination limit the implementation.
Moreover, scarce technical support and unreliable maintenance services affect
farmers' confidence. In this sense, policy measures must include the development of
region-specific financial models such as low-interest loans or group-based ownership
structures. Strengthening local institutions and decentralizing the implementation
process through Panchayati Raj institutions can improve outreach and efficiency.
Capacity-building programs and services, should focus on both training and increased
awareness about its potential. Additionally, a strong network for after-sales services
must be developed to ensure the maintenance support. Ultimately, better alignment
between central schemes, such as PM-KUSUM, and state-level operational strategies
is a request for enhancing uptake and impact.

FUTURE RESEARCH DIRECTIONS
Future research should deepen and broaden the understanding of solar water pumping
system adoption through comparative studies across different agro-climatic zones in
India, assessing how socio-economic and institutional variables vary regionally.

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