How Haryana's Savitri Jandu Is Transforming Rural Agriculture With Solar Power

For Savitri Jandu, farming was never just about cultivation. It was about resilience, responsibility, and finding ways to secure the future. Coming from a rural farming background and now associated with the leadership of J Infratech Limited, her journey reflects a powerful intersection of agricultural sustainability and renewable energy. By implementing solar energy in her region, she has not only transformed how land can be used but also expanded what women farmers can imagine for themselves and their communities.

Savitri's story is not simply about technology. It is about belief, awareness, and the willingness to step into unfamiliar spaces with confidence.

When Solar Power Became Part of Her Agricultural Vision

Savitri Jandu’s shift toward renewable energy was shaped by years of observing the realities farmers face. “This realisation came when I started observing the long-term challenges faced by farmers, rising input costs, dependence on diesel, and uncertainty of income due to weather and market conditions,” she shared in an interview with SheThePeople.

Over time, she began to see solar energy not merely as a source of power, but as a way to make farming more resilient, stable, and future-ready. The PM KUSUM scheme played a decisive role in deepening that understanding. It showed her that agricultural land has the potential to generate both food and clean energy without compromising either.

“That was the moment I felt solar power could naturally become an integral part of my agricultural journey,” she said.

Stepping Into a Technical, Male-Dominated Space

Renewable energy is often seen as a technical and male-dominated sector. But Savitri’s confidence came from the lessons farming itself teaches.

“I have always believed that learning, leadership and innovation are not defined by gender or background,” she said. Farming had already taught her resilience and problem-solving, whether dealing with weather, resources, or markets. With that confidence, she stepped into the solar sector believing that if men can do it, women can do it too.

She also believes women bring a broader perspective. Women often think not only about immediate outcomes but about family security, community well-being, and sustainability. This belief helped her move forward without hesitation.

A Landmark Moment for Her Village and Women Farmers

Setting up the first PM KUSUM solar project in her region was more than an infrastructure milestone. For her village, Modakheda, it became a powerful symbol of what rural India is capable of achieving. It demonstrated that with the right intent, awareness, and government support, clean energy initiatives can be successfully implemented at the grassroots level.

For women farmers, the meaning was even deeper. “It sent a strong message that we are not limited to traditional roles as cultivators,” she said. Women are equally capable of adopting modern technology, managing large-scale projects, and contributing directly to national priorities such as renewable energy and sustainability.

The project also brought Hisar into the national conversation on green energy and inspired many farmers, especially women, to explore sustainable opportunities with confidence.

A Defining Moment at Rashtrapati Bhavan

Meeting the President of India, Droupadi Murmu, at Rashtrapati Bhavan was a deeply affirming experience for Savitri Jandu. It reinforced her belief that rural communities, and especially rural women, are increasingly being acknowledged for their contribution.

“It made me realise that women working at the grassroots are no longer confined to the margins of development,” she said. Instead, they are emerging as leaders and change-makers in India’s growth story.

The experience strengthened her sense of responsibility and inspired her to continue contributing to nation-building through sustainable practices and community-led development.

Redefining Land as a Multi-Dimensional Asset

Solar integration has completely reshaped how she views agricultural land. Earlier, land was seen primarily as a source of agricultural produce. Today, she sees it as a multi-dimensional asset capable of supporting livelihoods while advancing sustainability.

Integrating solar energy has provided a stable and predictable additional income, something crucial in a sector affected by climate and market uncertainties. It has also reduced dependence on diesel and fossil fuels, contributing directly to lower carbon emissions.

“With responsible planning, the same land can ensure economic security for farmers while fulfilling our responsibility toward the environment and future generations,” she explained.

Creating Opportunities for Rural Youth

One of the most meaningful outcomes of the project has been the employment and skill development it has generated locally. Young people from her village now work in installation, maintenance, security, and technical operations.

“It has reduced the need for migration to cities and given local youth the confidence that meaningful and respectable opportunities can exist close to home,” she said.

Beyond employment, the initiative has fostered pride and ownership among villagers, as they contribute to a project that benefits both their community and the environment.

Her Message to Women Hesitant to Adopt New Technology

Many women hesitate to adopt new technology due to fear or lack of support. Savitri’s advice is simple and direct: do not underestimate yourself or your ability to learn.

“Every new step begins with belief and the willingness to try,” she said. She encourages women to seek information, ask questions freely, and make use of government schemes designed to support farmers, including women.

From her experience, when women take initiative, they adapt quickly and emerge as confident leaders within their communities.

A Vision for Women-Led, Energy-Self-Reliant Villages

Looking ahead, Savitri Jandu envisions a rural India where women lead from the front—not only as farmers but also as entrepreneurs and producers of clean energy. She believes renewable energy can become a reliable and common source of income, enabling farmers to be energy self-reliant while remaining environmentally responsible.

“When women are empowered with access to technology and opportunities, villages will not merely support India’s growth, they will actively drive it,” she said.

Her journey shows that sustainability is not an abstract concept. It begins on the ground with farmers, with women, and with the belief that the same land can nourish both people and the future.