PM Kusum Scheme – The Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan (PM-KUSUM) is a revolutionary scheme launched by the Government of India to provide farmers with solar-powered irrigation pumps. With up to 90% subsidy on solar pump installations, the scheme aims to reduce farmers’ dependence on diesel and electricity while promoting clean energy. The initiative not only cuts down irrigation costs but also empowers farmers to generate extra income by selling surplus solar power to the grid.
What is PM-KUSUM Scheme?
The PM-KUSUM scheme was launched by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) to encourage the adoption of solar energy in agriculture. The scheme focuses on promoting decentralised solar energy and includes financial assistance for installing solar pumps and solarizing agricultural feeders.
Key Objectives:
- Reduce farmers’ reliance on diesel and electric pumps.
- Increase income through surplus energy sale to DISCOMs.
- Promote sustainable agriculture through renewable energy usage.
Main Components of the PM-KUSUM Scheme
The PM-KUSUM scheme is structured into three key components designed to meet different energy needs of farmers. Component A focuses on setting up grid-connected solar power plants on barren or agricultural land. Component B provides stand-alone solar pumps to farmers who do not have access to electricity.
The scheme is divided into three major components, each targeting a specific area of agricultural energy needs:
Component A: Installation of Decentralized Grid-Connected Renewable Energy Plants (up to 2 MW)
Component B: Installation of Stand-alone Solar Agriculture Pumps
Component C: Solarization of existing Grid-connected Agriculture Pumps
Breakdown of Components:
| Component | Description | Capacity/Support | Target Beneficiary |
|---|---|---|---|
| A | Grid-connected solar plants | Up to 2 MW capacity per plant | Individual farmers/cooperatives |
| B | Stand-alone solar pumps | Up to 7.5 HP capacity | Farmers with no grid access |
| C | Grid-connected pump solarization | Existing pump solarization | Farmers already using electric pumps |
Subsidy and Financial Support Structure
Farmers benefit significantly from the heavy financial support provided under PM-KUSUM. The subsidy breakdown is as follows:
| Support Type | Percentage (%) | Who Pays It |
|---|---|---|
| Central Government | 60% | MNRE |
| State Government | 30% | Respective State Govt |
| Farmer’s Contribution | 10% | Direct by the farmer |
*In some states, farmers pay even less than 10%, depending on local subsidy policies.
Eligibility Criteria for PM-KUSUM Scheme
To benefit from the scheme, farmers must meet certain eligibility conditions:
- Must be an Indian farmer (individual or group/cooperative).
- Should own cultivable land.
- Must have a working or non-working grid-connected/diesel pump.
- For Component A, landowners with barren/agricultural land can apply to install solar plants.
How to Apply for PM-KUSUM Scheme
Farmers can apply for the scheme either online or offline, depending on the state’s provisions. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Visit your State Nodal Agency or Renewable Energy Department’s website.
- Look for PM-KUSUM registration or application form.
- Fill in required details like land records, Aadhaar number, bank account details, etc.
- Upload or submit required documents (ID proof, land ownership proof, pump details).
- Wait for verification and further instructions.
Application Process Summary
| Step Number | Action | Required Information |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Register on official portal | Aadhaar, mobile, land details |
| 2 | Submit application form | Pump capacity, usage details |
| 3 | Document verification | Bank details, identity proof |
| 4 | Approval and sanction | Government authority approval |
| 5 | Installation and monitoring | Vendor assigned by authorities |
Benefits of PM-KUSUM Scheme for Farmers
- Massive Cost Savings: With 90% subsidy, farmers invest very little.
- Eco-Friendly Farming: Reduces carbon emissions through clean energy.
- Income Opportunity: Sell surplus solar power to earn extra income.
- Independent Irrigation: No need to rely on erratic electricity supply.
- Long-Term Value: Solar panels have long durability with low maintenance.
States Leading in PM-KUSUM Implementation
Several states have actively implemented PM-KUSUM with special farmer-friendly rules:
| State | Special Provisions | Online Application Portal |
|---|---|---|
| Rajasthan | Extended subsidy up to 95% | rreclmis.energy.rajasthan.gov.in |
| Maharashtra | Special finance tie-ups with banks | mahadiscom.in |
| Haryana | Quick online application & tracking system | saralharyana.gov.in |
| Madhya Pradesh | Large-scale pump installations in rural areas | mpenergy.nic.in |
| Gujarat | DISCOM-led surplus power buyback incentives | geda.gujarat.gov.in |
| Punjab | Priority to marginal and small-scale farmers | punjab.gov.in |
| Uttar Pradesh | Integration with solar rooftop initiatives | upneda.org.in |
| Karnataka | Subsidy includes transformer upgrades | karnataka.gov.in |
Challenges and Improvements
While the PM-KUSUM scheme is a game-changer, certain implementation challenges remain:
- Delayed installations in some regions.
- Awareness gap among farmers regarding application processes.
- Vendor delays in delivering or installing solar systems.
- Financing constraints in contribution amount for small farmers.
To address these, state governments are working with banks, cooperatives, and self-help groups to ease financial burdens and improve outreach.
The PM-KUSUM scheme is a powerful step towards transforming Indian agriculture by integrating renewable energy. With up to 90% subsidy, low input costs, and long-term returns, farmers can achieve both energy security and higher profits. If implemented effectively across all regions, PM-KUSUM has the potential to redefine irrigation practices, reduce dependence on fossil fuels, and enhance rural livelihoods.
FAQs
- What is the total subsidy provided under the PM-KUSUM scheme?
Farmers can receive up to 90% subsidy, with 60% from the central government and 30% from the state government. The remaining 10% is contributed by the farmer. - Can farmers without electricity access apply for the scheme?
Yes, farmers with no grid connection can apply under Component B to install stand-alone solar pumps. - How long does it take for installation after application approval?
Installation timelines vary by state and vendor availability, but generally take between 1 to 3 months after approval. - Can surplus solar power be sold back to the grid?
Yes, under Component A, farmers can sell excess solar electricity to DISCOMs and earn extra income. -
Is there an income or landholding size limit for eligibility?
There is no income cap, but applicants must be verified landowners or leaseholders of cultivable land to apply.