Ushma and her husband Altaf never imagined becoming pioneers in adopting sustainable energy solutions in their neighbourhoods. When they agreed to set up a biogas plant at their house, they became an inspiration for others to follow their path.

Altaf, a resident of Dausad village in the Neemrana block of Alwar district, is a farmer. He also transports building materials to construction sites on his tractor.  In March 2022, when the project team of Humana People to People India (HPPI) came to the village and explained the benefits of setting up a biogas plant, Altaf was reluctant to avoid bearing the cost of setting up the plant at Rs 25,000. The amount of time and effort required for establishing the plant was also making him hesitant. After numerous discussions and continuous field visits from the HPPI team members, Altaf agreed to set up a biogas plant at his home.

For installing the biogas plant, the HPPI team facilitated the connection between the farmers, skilled mason and the construction workers. After the construction was over, the project provided stoves and fittings along with training for using and maintaining the plant.

The plant’s construction was completed in five days. Within a fortnight, the plant was ready to be fed. Altaf fed the tank with cattle dung and the plant started producing methane gas in a couple of days. With the financial support of the project, the biogas-powered stove and pipe fittings were installed. The family started preparing food on the biogas stove. LPG cylinders, firewood and mud stove are not required anymore.

With a sparkle in her eyes and joy in her voice Ushma said, “I do not even look at the mud stove anymore. Thankfully, I got rid of the smoke. There is no need for me to collect firewood or make cow dung cakes and I have more time to do other things I enjoy.”

What Ushma and Altaf started as an experiment more than a year ago has become a beacon of inspiration for many in the village. After their success, many more people have set up a biogas plant at their homes.