SEP 17: The Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan (PM-KUSUM) scheme, launched in March 2019 by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), is a landmark initiative designed to provide farmers with clean energy solutions and reduce their dependence on diesel-based irrigation. By subsidizing the installation of solar irrigation pumps and grid-connected renewable energy plants, the scheme is paving the way for a greener, more sustainable rural economy.
Under the scheme, farmers are entitled to receive a 60% subsidy for setting up solar-powered tube wells and pump sets. An additional 30% of the project cost can be availed as a loan, thereby reducing the farmer’s financial burden to just 10% of the total cost. This makes solar technology affordable and accessible for small and marginal farmers.
The benefits of PM-KUSUM are manifold. Solar pumps not only provide eco-friendly irrigation solutions but also ensure reliable access to water for farming. They help farmers cut down on fuel expenses while enabling them to generate surplus solar power. This excess electricity can be sold back to the government, thereby creating an additional stream of income for farmers.
The scheme also envisions the installation of solar plants capable of generating up to 28,250 MW of power, significantly boosting India’s renewable energy capacity. Farmers with barren or unused land can lease it for solar plant development, ensuring a stable income for up to 25 years.
By promoting the use of renewable energy in agriculture, PM-KUSUM not only addresses the issue of pollution but also contributes to climate-friendly and sustainable farming practices. This initiative is a step towards achieving energy security, doubling farmer incomes, and building a self-reliant rural India.
 scheme, launched in March 2019 by the Ministry of New and Renewable){kind=link}