From March 15–17, under Community-based Renewable Energy Project (CbREP) initiative Phase 4, CEMSOJ handed over solar irrigation pumps to and conducted orientation on the use thereof for Tharu women farmers’ groups in Bardiya district, south-western Nepal advancing both renewable energy adoption and women’s economic empowerment.

In partnership with Tharu Women’s Upliftment Center (TWUC), four solar irrigation pumps were distributed to the following groups strengthen climate-resilient and sustainable agriculture:

🌱 Two 1HP Surface Monoblock Solar Irrigation Pumps were handed over to:
• Bebari Women Farmer’s Group, Ward 10, Gulariya Municipality
• Upahar Women Farmer’s Group, Kothiya (Ward 8), Gulariya Municipality

🌱 Two 2HP Deep Boring Solar Irrigation Pumps were handed over to:
• Milan Women Farmer’s Group, Ward 4, Madhuwan Municipality
• Indigenous Ferawa Women Farmer’s Group, Ward 4, Madhuwan Municipality

TWUC is distributing eight more irrigation pumps and orientation on their use for various women’s groups this week and in the coming days. Beyond infrastructure support, this initiative promotes a transition to clean, renewable energy solutions that reduce dependence on fossil fuels and lower irrigation costs for farmers. By harnessing solar power, women farmers now have more reliable and climate-friendly access to water enabling them to increase crop productivity, diversify farming practices, and strengthen food security at the household and community levels.

Importantly, the project places women at the center of agricultural decision-making. Through capacity-building and hands-on training, women farmers are not only users of technology but also leaders and managers of sustainable farming systems, contributing to greater economic independence and stronger collective action.

This initiative was made possible through the generous support of Pawanka Fund and facilitated through Asia Indigenous Peoples Network on Extractive Industries and Energy (AIPNEE) and Right Energy Partnership with Indigenous Peoples (REP).

Click here to see pictures from the orientation, handover and inauguration of the project.