Solar Based Hydroponic System is a state scheme of the Uttarakhand State Council for Science and Technology (UCOST) under the Department of Science and Technology, Government of Uttarakhand. It grows vegetables and other crops without soil using solar energy, a greenhouse and an Android mobile app. A working model is installed at the UCOST campus in Dehradun, and more than 500 farmers, students, researchers and consumers gain from the project every year.
UCOST conducts regular training sessions and workshops in Dehradun to teach eligible people of Uttarakhand how to use this system. For 2026, the same offline process is being used to share this farming technology with more farmers, students, researchers and entrepreneurs of the state.
Solar Based Hydroponic System - Introduction
The idea behind the scheme is simple. A solar powered greenhouse grows plants in nutrient water instead of soil, while a mobile application helps the user monitor and control the system. Because the whole unit works on solar energy, it can run even in places where electricity supply is a problem.
UCOST developed this system as part of its research work in the state. The system is meant for hill farmers, students, researchers and entrepreneurs who want to try modern farming. Smaller off-grid models can be set up in remote villages so that farmers can earn extra income even without a reliable power connection.
People looking for other state level support can also check the Uttarakhand Govt Schemes List for more options from the state government.
Key Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Scheme Name | Solar Based Hydroponic System |
| Level | State |
| State | Uttarakhand |
| Category | Science, IT and Communications |
| Benefit Type | In Kind |
| Implementing Agency | Uttarakhand State Council for Science and Technology (UCOST) |
| Application Mode | Offline through UCOST training and workshops |
Benefits
Solar Based Hydroponic System gives clear advantages to people who take part in it:
- Less energy and water use: The automated system works on solar power and uses much less water than normal soil farming, so the running cost stays low.
- Better crop output: The greenhouse setup keeps growing conditions steady, which helps improve crop yields.
- Business scope: The same model can be used as a small business by entrepreneurs and researchers, and it can be repeated in other Himalayan states.
- Help for remote villages: Small off-grid models are made for areas with poor electricity supply, so hill farmers can raise their individual income.
- Easy monitoring: Users get an Android mobile application to watch and control the system from their phone.
Eligibility
Participation in the training and workshops is open to people who meet these conditions:
- Residence: The applicant must be a resident of Uttarakhand.
- Category: The applicant must be a farmer, researcher, student or entrepreneur.
Application Process
There is no online application portal for this scheme. Interested people need to join the training sessions and workshops conducted by UCOST in Dehradun. Here is how to take part:
STEP 1 - Visit the UCOST office in Dehradun or check the official UCOST website ucost.uk.gov.in for the upcoming training and workshop dates.
STEP 2 - Contact the UCOST training team and ask about the next batch for the solar-based hydroponic system.
STEP 3 - Register for the session and submit the documents asked by the UCOST team.
STEP 4 - Attend the training and learn how to install, run and monitor the system with the mobile application.
Documents
Applicants need to carry the documents mentioned in the official guidelines of the Uttarakhand State Council for Science and Technology. These usually include proof of identity, proof of Uttarakhand residence and a category certificate where needed.
References
Official details about this project are available on the UCOST website at ucost.uk.gov.in. The scheme is also listed in the Uttarakhand government guidelines document prepared by the Department of Science and Technology (page 86).
FAQ's
Where is the solar-based hydroponic system installed?
The main system is installed at the UCOST campus in Dehradun.
What makes this system different from normal farming?
It grows plants in nutrient water inside a solar-powered greenhouse and uses an Android mobile app to automate the process. This makes farming possible in hill areas and in places with weak electricity supply.
Who can benefit from this project?
Farmers, researchers, students and entrepreneurs who live in Uttarakhand can benefit from this scheme.
How many people get support every year?
More than 500 farmers, researchers, students and consumers benefit from this project every year.
Can this system work in remote areas without electricity?
Yes. Smaller off-grid models are made for remote areas, so farmers can earn income even where power supply is limited.