
How Farmers Can Save Water & Reduce Pumping Costs
25-04-2025
Water is one of the most valuable resources in agriculture and also one of the most mismanaged. For Indian farmers, especially those reliant on groundwater, efficient water use isn’t just about sustainability; it directly impacts operational costs, crop yield, and long-term viability. With increasing input costs and erratic rainfall, reducing pumping costs while ensuring optimal water usage has become a pressing need.
At Aqua Group, we understand the unique challenges of Indian agriculture. For decades, our pumps have supported farmers across the country in managing water efficiently. In this blog, we explore proven strategies farmers can adopt to save water and reduce the costs associated with pumping without compromising productivity.
1. Know Your Water Requirement
The first step in saving water is knowing how much you need. Over-irrigation is a common issue, especially in regions where electricity is subsidized or free. However, this practice leads to waterlogging, nutrient leaching, and unnecessary pumping.
Using scientifically recommended irrigation schedules based on crop type, soil condition, and weather patterns can significantly reduce water usage. For instance, switching from calendar-based irrigation to soil moisture-based irrigation ensures water is applied only when necessary.
2. Switch to Micro-Irrigation Systems
Drip and sprinkler systems have revolutionised water use in agriculture. These methods deliver water directly to the root zone, minimizing evaporation and runoff losses. Micro-irrigation not only reduces water consumption by up to 50%, but also improves fertilizer use efficiency when combined with fertigation techniques.
Government schemes like PMKSY (Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana) promote micro-irrigation with attractive subsidies. Aqua Group’s pumps are well-suited to power these systems, ensuring reliable, low-energy performance.
3. Select the Right Pump for the Job
Choosing the correct pump is perhaps the most critical factor in reducing pumping costs. Many farmers operate oversized or under-efficient pumps, leading to high electricity bills and frequent breakdowns.
At Aqua Group, we help farmers select pumps based on:
- Borewell depth and diameter
- Water table levels
- Required discharge (litres per second)
- Type of crops grown and irrigation method
Our agricultural borewell pumps are known for their high efficiency and long service life. With a wide range of 4” to 10” borewell submersible pumps, farmers can find the perfect match for their specific needs.
4. Go Solar to Cut Energy Bills
With rising electricity tariffs and the limited availability of power in rural areas, solar pumps offer a dependable alternative. Supported by the PM-KUSUM scheme, farmers can install solar water pumping systems at heavily subsidized rates.
Aqua Group manufactures a wide range of solar-compatible pumps that meet MNRE standards. These include both AC and DC variants, as well as stainless steel solar pumps designed for longevity and corrosion resistance. Solar pumps eliminate recurring electricity costs and also contribute to sustainable farming.
5. Prevent Leakages and Maintain Your System
Even a small leak in a pipeline or valve can result in significant water and energy loss over time. Regular inspection of the entire pumping system right from the pump to the last sprinkler, is essential.
Farmers should ensure:
- Proper alignment and mounting of the pump
- No leakage in joints, valves, and foot valves
- Clean filters and screens to prevent clogging
- Periodic servicing of motor and pump components
Aqua Group’s pumps are designed for easy maintenance and are backed by a strong service network, ensuring that farmers have access to timely support and spare parts.
6. Use Automation and Control Panels
Advanced control panels and automation can help reduce human error and optimize pump usage. Features such as timers, water level sensors, and dry-run protection avoid pump damage and unnecessary operation.
Aqua Group’s control panels are tailored for agricultural use, offering safety features and performance monitoring that enhance efficiency and system life.
7. Monitor Your Water Table and Plan Ahead
Unregulated pumping has caused groundwater levels to drop in several regions. Regular monitoring of water table levels helps in adjusting irrigation schedules and pump settings accordingly. In areas where the water table is falling, farmers should consider switching to less water-intensive crops or more efficient irrigation systems.
Aqua Group also supports community initiatives and water literacy programs that educate farmers about sustainable groundwater usage and conservation practices.
Aqua Group: A Trusted Partner for Efficient Farming
At Aqua Group, we believe that every drop of water counts. With over six decades of experience in water pump industry, we are committed to helping Indian farmers achieve greater efficiency and sustainability.
Our pumps are engineered for rugged use, consistent performance, and long service life, even in the most demanding agricultural environments. Whether it’s solar-compatible models, energy-efficient borewell pumps, or smart control panels, every Aqua product is designed to help farmers do more with less.
If you’re looking to upgrade your irrigation system or want expert guidance in selecting the right pump for your farm, Aqua Group is here to help. Let’s work together to make Indian agriculture more water-wise and economically sustainable.