Solar panels above, crops below: Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan inaugurates the 7th Agrivoltaic World Conference at Bharat Mandapam

Union Minister Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan inaugurated the 7th Agri-Voltaic World Conference, recently held in Mandapam, Odisha, India. The event was themed "Solar Panels Above, Lush Crops Below," highlighting an inclusive model that integrates modern agriculture with renewable energy. The primary objective of the conference was to bring together experts, researchers, and policymakers from the global agriculture and energy sectors to discuss solutions that enhance land-use efficiency while preserving the environment.

In his address, Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan highlighted the pivotal role of this technological revolution. He noted that agri-voltaics, also known as co-located solar and agriculture, presents a new dimension for India. In this model, solar panels are installed at an elevated height to allow sufficient light to reach the crops below, enabling healthy growth. This approach not only increases agricultural income but also provides farmers with the option to generate electricity, leading to a sustained rise in their earnings.

Delegates from various countries shared their success stories at the World Conference. Mandapam was selected as the venue due to its tradition of environmentally balanced farming and the growing need to adopt the latest technologies. Organizers stated that the conference outlined comprehensive plans to directly deliver technology to farmers and provide them with training. This initiative will strengthen the Indian agricultural system's resilience to climate change and have a positive impact on energy security.

The event in Mandapam affirmed that agriculture and energy production are not competitors but complements. When the right balance between technology and tradition is achieved, the benefits extend to all sections of society. Concluding his remarks, Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan thanked all participants, stating that such initiatives will help India become a global leader in the agriculture and energy sectors. The discussions at this conference are expected to inspire national policy formulation, thereby improving the standard of living for farmers and strengthening the country's energy security. The Mandapam event was not merely a conference but an inspiring platform for the future of farming.