In a world of complex technology, the most powerful solutions are often the simplest. At Krishikaam, we applied this thinking to one of agriculture's oldest problems: access to water. The result is Krishi Jal, a service that uses a technology you see every day—the QR code—to revolutionize irrigation for small farmers.

The Challenge: Sharing a Vital Resource

Many villages have borewells, but they are typically owned by individual farmers. Sharing this resource can be complicated. How do you track usage fairly? How do you handle payments? These questions can lead to disputes and prevent farmers from accessing water when their crops need it most. The process is often manual, inefficient, and based on informal agreements.

The Solution: A Simple Scan

Krishi Jal removes all these complications. We partner with borewell owners and equip their pumps with a smart controller. This controller is linked to a unique, weatherproof QR code placed near the pump. Here’s the magic:

• Scan to Start: A farmer who needs water simply opens the Krishikaam app (or asks their Krishi Mitra to help) and scans the QR code.
• Choose and Pay: The app instantly recognizes the borewell. The farmer selects how long they need water for (e.g., 30 minutes, 1 hour) and pays for that specific duration using UPI. The rates are pre-set and transparent.
• Automatic Control: The moment the payment is successful, our smart controller automatically turns the pump on. When the paid time is up, the pump automatically turns off. It's that simple.

Why a QR Code is the Perfect Tool

"I never thought I could operate a water pump with my phone. I just point my camera, and the water starts. There's no argument, no confusion. I pay for what I use, and my neighbor gets his money instantly. Everyone is happy." - A Krishi Jal User.

The beauty of the QR code is its simplicity and ubiquity. Most people with a basic smartphone are familiar with scanning them. This makes the technology approachable and easy to adopt. It eliminates the need for complex machinery, manual record-keeping, or cash transactions, making the entire process seamless for both the water user and the borewell owner.

By turning a simple black-and-white square into a key that unlocks a vital resource, Krishi Jal is a perfect example of how thoughtful, appropriate technology can create a massive impact. It fosters community collaboration, ensures fair resource distribution, and empowers farmers with the reliability they need to thrive.