Envisioning Farm Power Subsidy for Groundwater Irrigation in India for Attaining SDGs

Abstract Groundwater irrigation plays a crucial role in sustaining India's food security and rural livelihood. However, the carbon footprint of its energy (72% coal‐based) requirement is also equally alarming. Under such scenarios, the Farm Power Subsidy (FPS) policy for groundwater irrigation, one of India's costliest public support systems, needs a relook, keeping in view the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Although aimed at bridging social disparities, it is observed that FPS encourages simplification and intensification of the food production system, leading to inter‐state and district scale inequality in income. States implementing FPS, even if experiencing physical water scarcity, are growing water guzzling crops for economic benefits. Conversely, without adequate access to energy, states reeling from economic water scarcity are witnessing low farm incomes. India consumes about a quarter of the world's groundwater for irrigation, and also leads the energy use. Notably, since the mid‐2000s large‐scale implementation of the FPS policy, the CO 2 emission (equivalent) has been rising by 5.77 million tons annually, now surpassing 100 million tons. These outcomes bear testimony to the globally accepted view that those least responsible for causing greenhouse gas emissions are the hardest hit. We suggest repurposing of agricultural policies, without compromising farmers' income, for efficient management of energy and water.