Improving pumpset selection to support intensification of groundwater irrigation in the Eastern Indo-Gangetic Plains

Intensification of groundwater irrigation is central to goals improving food security and reducing chronic poverty faced by millions rural households across the eastern Indo-Gangetic Plains (EIGP) Nepal parts India. At present, levels use access in EIGP lag far behind other areas South Asia despite abundant available resources. A key reason for prevailing constraints dependence on diesel pumpsets accessing groundwater, which are typically unsubsidised therefore expensive purchase operate. To date, efforts reduce costs have focused almost exclusively how incentivise adoption alternative electric or solar-powered pumping technologies, viewed as being cheaper operate less environmentally damaging due their lower operational carbon emissions. In contrast, there has been little attention paid identifying opportunities make existing pump systems more cost effective farmers order support adaptation climate change poverty. this study, we evidence from 116 detailed in-situ tests along with interviews pumpset dealers, mechanics Terai assess why fuel efficiency affected farmers’ selection decisions. We show that can be reduced significantly supporting incentivising (e.g., through equipment advisories, improved supply chains maintenance services spare parts) invest newer low-cost, portable smaller horsepower designs effectively matched local operating conditions than older Indian manufactured engines historically preferred region. Such interventions help unlock potential intensified water EIGP, contributing agricultural productivity resilience extremes while also strengthening capacity emerging low-carbon technologies.