In the quiet village of Ratanpura, Devki Devi is fondly called "Solar Wali Didi." She has become a symbol of innovation and resilience. Her journey was anything but easy. Married at a young age, she battled poverty and supported her children. However, the ambition in her never faded.

She joined a self help group in her village. There she came to know about solar irrigation pumps. Determined to bring change to her village, Devki refused to let the high cost of the pump deter her. Support from the Aga Khan Rural Support Programme (India) (AKRSP(I)) was instrumental in providing her with essential equipment like solar panels, a motor, and a Variable Frequency Drive (VFD). A chance lottery win reduced her financial burden, allowing her to move forward with confidence.

She also secured a loan from Rang De, an organization known for supporting rural entrepreneurs, to construct a pump house. This marked a significant milestone in her journey, as it enabled her to establish a functional and sustainable irrigation system.

Transforming Lives Through Solar Irrigation

Devki’s solar irrigation initiative has become a lifeline for Ratanpura’s farmers. She extended her solar pump facility at competitive rates to the farmers in her village. Her services now support 56 farmers, irrigating over 25 acres of farmland. The impact of her work goes far beyond agriculture—it’s about transforming lives.

By offering irrigation at affordable rates, Devki has addressed the persistent problem of water scarcity while improving crop yields. Her solar-powered system not only reduces energy costs but also promotes an environmentally sustainable solution that benefits the entire community.

A Blueprint for Rural Entrepreneurship

Devki’s business is much more than a personal success story; it’s a model for others in rural India to follow. Her strategic approach includes:

1. Affordable Services: Providing irrigation at rates that local farmers can afford.
2. Community Engagement: Collaborating with farmers to understand their needs and introduce sustainable farming techniques.
3. Sustainable Energy Solutions: Utilizing solar energy to lower operational costs and maintain reliable services.

By reinvesting in her enterprise and expanding her offerings, Devki aims to create long-term solutions for water management and inspire other women in her community to take up entrepreneurial challenges. 

Beyond Business: A Story of Hope and Empowerment

For Devki, her solar irrigation enterprise is about more than generating income. It’s about uplifting her community, empowering women, and creating a future where resources are utilized responsibly. Her efforts have turned Ratanpura from a water-starved village into a thriving hub of agricultural productivity.

Devki Devi’s story is a powerful example of how one person’s vision can bring about meaningful change. Her solar irrigation initiative has reshaped the lives of farmers in her village and proven the value of renewable energy in addressing pressing challenges.

Let’s champion renewable energy and support rural changemakers like “Solar Wali Didi!”