The Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan (PM-KUSUM) helps farmers use solar energy for irrigation and earn from surplus power. It is run by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) and was launched in 2019. Here is a simple guide.
Three components
**Component A:** Farmers, groups of farmers, cooperatives and panchayats can set up small solar power plants of up to 2 MW on barren or fallow land, near substations. The power is bought by electricity distribution companies, giving farmers a steady income.
**Component B:** Help for installing standalone solar pumps in areas without a grid connection. These replace diesel pumps.
**Component C:** Solarisation of existing grid connected pumps. Farmers can use solar power for irrigation and sell surplus power to the distribution company. This also includes feeder level solarisation.
How much subsidy
For Components B and C (individual pump solarisation), the central government provides financial assistance of 30 percent of the benchmark cost, and the state government provides at least 30 percent. The farmer pays the rest, which can be partly financed through a bank loan. In north eastern and hilly states and island territories, central help is higher at 50 percent. Some states add extra support, so the farmer’s share differs by state.
Benefits
- Lower or no diesel cost for irrigation.
- Daytime power for pumps.
- Extra income from selling surplus solar power.
- Less pollution.
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Who can apply
Individual farmers, groups of farmers, farmer producer organisations, water user associations and cooperatives can apply under the relevant component.
How to apply
The scheme is implemented through state nodal agencies, usually the state renewable energy development agency or the agriculture department. Farmers should:
- Visit the official PM-KUSUM portal, pmkusum.mnre.gov.in, for links to state portals.
- Apply on the state agency’s website or at the designated office.
- Submit land records, Aadhaar, bank details and other documents asked for.
- Pay the farmer share only through the official channel after approval.
Warning about fake sites
MNRE has repeatedly warned about fake websites claiming to register farmers for PM-KUSUM and collecting money. Check that the website ends in gov.in and never pay to unknown links.
Bottom line
PM-KUSUM can cut irrigation costs and add income. Apply only through your state’s official agency.
Source / स्रोत: Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, PM-KUSUM, Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, Press Information Bureau
