Agri-Photovoltaics (AgriPV) in India
- Context: The 2026–27 Budget increased funding for the PM-KUSUM scheme to ₹5,000 crore, highlighting a stronger focus on solar energy for farmers, aiming to improve energy access, water security, farmer incomes, and reduce carbon emissions.
- Expanding solar projects on farmland raises concerns about reducing agricultural output, making it important to balance energy generation with food production.
About AgriPV
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- Agri-photovoltaics (AgriPV) combines solar power generation with farming on the same land.
- Solar panels are installed in ways that allow crops to grow underneath or between them.
Importance of Crop Selection
- Shade-tolerant crops grow well under panels
- Sunlight-demanding crops are suited between panel rows
- Suitable crops vary by region (e.g., vegetables, spices, millets, fruits)
Current Facts- In India, natural gas is primarily used to produce ammonia, which in turn is used to produce fertilizers. In FY26, about 30% of India’s LNG supply was used for the production of fertilizers
Business Models for Farmers- Farmers can own systems and sell surplus electricity
- Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs) can develop collective projects
- Private developers may lease land and share revenue
- Government agencies can also set up projects
AgriPV is Important for India
- Supports India’s solar target (300 GW by 2030) and net-zero goal (2070)
- Reduces land-use conflict between farming and solar projects
- Helps farmers earn additional income while continuing agriculture
Environmental and Economic Benefits
- Reduces water loss (evapotranspiration)
- Improves soil moisture retention
- Protects crops from extreme weather
- Cuts diesel use and supports rural enterprises
- Enables services like cold storage and food processing
PRARAMBH 2026- Context: The Union Finance Minister recently inaugurated the PRARAMBH 2026 initiative.
About PRARAMBH 2026
- PRARAMBH stands for Policy Reform and Responsible Action for Mission Viksit Bharat.
- It is a nationwide awareness campaign focused on the Income Tax Act, 2025, aimed at educating citizens about its provisions, effective from April 1, 2026.
- A multi-channel outreach program spanning print, TV, radio, outdoor media, digital platforms, and social media.
Key Features of PRARAMBH 2026Extensive Outreach
- Provides taxpayer-oriented resources including guidance notes, brochures, tutorial videos, FAQs, educational content, and engagement activities like the MyGov Quiz.
- Brochures and materials are available in 10 regional languages in addition to Hindi and English for broader reach.
- Introduction of ‘Kar Saathi’, an AI-enabled chatbot to help taxpayers with queries on the new Act, rules, and procedures.
- Upgraded platform with enhanced usability, simpler navigation, and faster service delivery for taxpayers.
Current Facts- The right to vote in India is a statutory right under Article 326 and the Representation of the People Act, and compulsory voting is neither a fundamental duty nor a legal duty.
- In India, natural gas is primarily used to produce ammonia, which in turn is used to produce fertilizers. In FY26, about 30% of India’s LNG supply was used for the production of fertilizers
