Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha Evam Utthan Mahabhiyan (PM-KUSUM)

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Under the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahbhiyan Yojana (PM-KUSUM Scheme), which was launched by MNRE, farmers will get financial help for the installation of solar irrigation pumps between April 2019 and March 2021. Farmers would get a 60% subsidy each to build their tube wells and pump sets independently.

Overview

Launched in March 2019, the PM-KUSUM Scheme aims to support farmers by:

  1. Promoting renewable energy in the agricultural sector.
  2. Subsidizing the installation of solar irrigation pumps and renewable energy-based power plants.
  3. Reducing dependency on diesel-powered irrigation.
  4. Enabling farmers to generate and sell surplus energy, thereby increasing their income.

Objectives

  1. Facilitate eco-friendly irrigation through solar pumps.
  2. Replace diesel-powered pumps with renewable energy solutions.
  3. Provide farmers a stable income source by enabling them to sell excess electricity.
  4. Promote the use of barren and uncultivated land for renewable energy power plants.

Components of the Scheme

The PM-KUSUM Scheme consists of three components:

Component A:

  • Installation of grid-connected decentralized solar plants and other renewable energy-based power plants.
  • Plant sizes range from 500 kW to 2 MW, with a total target capacity of 10 GW.

Component B:

  • Installation of stand-alone solar pumps with a capacity of up to 7.5 HP (horsepower).
  • Worth up to ₹17.50 lakh per unit, this component is designed for areas without grid power.

Component C:

  • Solarization of grid-connected agricultural pumps with a capacity of 7.5 HP each.
  • Financial support will be provided to solarize 10 lakh grid-connected agricultural pumps.

Benefits

  1. Financial Assistance:
    • 60% subsidy from the Government for solar pump installation.
    • 30% loan on the total cost.
    • Farmers need to pay only 10% of the total cost.
  2. Energy Independence:
    • Farmers can reduce their reliance on diesel pumps.
    • Solar pumps generate renewable and sustainable energy.
  3. Income Generation:
    • Farmers can sell surplus electricity to the Government.
    • Utilization of barren and uncultivated land ensures additional income for landowners.
  4. Eco-Friendly Practices:
    • Reduction in farm pollution.
    • Encourages renewable energy-based cultivation.
  5. Dual Land Use:
    • Solar plants can be installed at a height, allowing cultivation underneath.

Eligibility

Eligible categories for the scheme include:

  1. Individual Farmers: With sufficient land for installation.
  2. Groups of Farmers: Collectively applying for renewable energy projects.
  3. Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs): Registered under relevant laws.
  4. Panchayats: Local governing bodies applying on behalf of farmers.
  5. Co-operatives: Engaged in agricultural or irrigation activities.
  6. Water User Associations: Managing irrigation infrastructure.

Application Process

The application process is online:

Steps to Apply:

  1. Visit the Official Portal:
    • Navigate to the KUSUM Scheme section.
    • Click on the registration option.
  2. Fill the Registration Form:
    • Enter personal details like name, mobile number, and address.
  3. Submit the Form:
    • Attach supporting documents, including Aadhar, land records, and bank details.
  4. Log In for Subsidy Applications:
    • Log in using your credentials and complete the Solar Agricultural Pumpset Subsidy Form.
  5. Deposit Farmer’s Share:
    • Pay 10% of the total cost to the designated supplier.
  6. Implementation Timeline:
    • Once approved, the solar pump is generally installed within 90 to 120 days.

Documents Required

  1. Aadhar Card (as proof of identity).
  2. Land Records: Including Khasra/Khatauni documents.
  3. Bank Account Passbook: For subsidy transfer.
  4. Declaration Form: Stating the intent to use the facility.
  5. Mobile Number for updates and communication.
  6. Passport Size Photograph.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  1. What are the benefits of the PM-KUSUM scheme for farmers?
    Farmers receive a 60% subsidy and can sell surplus electricity generated by solar pumps.
  2. Who is eligible for Component-A of the scheme?
    Individual farmers, groups, FPOs, and Panchayats can apply to install solar plants (500kW to 2MW).
  3. Is there any financial support for solar pumps?
    Yes, the Government provides 90% financial assistance (subsidy + loan + farmer’s share).
  4. Can farmers lease land for renewable energy power plants?
    Yes, farmers can lease barren or uncultivated land for setting up solar plants under Component-A.
  5. Where can I apply for the scheme?
    Applications can be submitted online via the PM-KUSUM State Portal.
  6. How long does it take for the subsidy to be approved?
    The subsidy is typically approved and implemented within 90 to 120 days.

Sources and References

  • Guidelines: Official PM-KUSUM documentation from MNRE.
  • FAQs: Detailed on the Ministry’s website.
  • State Portals: Visit your state-specific PM-KUSUM portal for more details.

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