Muzaffarpur: Pime Minister Narendra Modi, in the 125th episode of his radio programme Mann Ki Baat, spoke about the inspiring journey of Devki Devi from Muzaffarpur, Bihar. Popularly known as “Solar Didi,” she has shown how determination and hard work can turn challenges into opportunities. The Prime Minister said her story is an example of courage, perseverance and change through innovation.
Devki Devi’s life was never easy. She grew up in financial difficulties and was married at a young age. With her husband’s unstable income and only half a kattha of land, survival was a daily struggle. But she did not give up. When she learnt about a scheme for solar irrigation pumps, she faced resistance at home and in society. Even her husband doubted the idea. Yet, with her confidence and the support of a self-help group, she installed a solar pump and began a new journey.
Today, her solar pump irrigates nearly 40 acres of farmland and helps around 66 farmers in her village. Earlier, farmers depended on diesel pumps, spending as much as Rs 150 to irrigate a small piece of land. With solar irrigation, the cost has dropped to just Rs 30. Devki Devi earned Rs 1.4 lakh after running the pump for more than 1,100 hours, and the entire farming community benefitted from reduced costs and better crop production.
Her success has brought respect and recognition. Once confined within the walls of her home, Devki Devi is now seen as a leader and role model in her village. Her achievement is being celebrated across the Mithila region, and people proudly call her “Solar Didi.” The Prime Minister said her work is not only helping farmers but also sending a strong message about sustainability, women’s empowerment and the power of community-driven change.
