The Indian government, under the PM Kusum Solar Subsidy Yojana 2024, has taken a significant step to support farmers by providing subsidies on solar irrigation pumps. This ambitious program aims to benefit over 3.5 million farmers across the nation. The government has already begun the application process, enabling farmers to transition from diesel or electric irrigation pumps to solar-powered pumps. The scheme offers a substantial subsidy of 90% on solar pumps, allowing farmers to reduce their dependence on diesel and electricity. This initiative not only saves farmers money but also helps them move towards a more eco-friendly method of farming.
If you are a farmer interested in installing a solar pump in your field, it is essential to check if you meet the eligibility criteria for this scheme. In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about the PM Kusum Solar Subsidy Yojana, including its purpose, benefits, eligibility requirements, necessary documents, and the application process. Read on to gain a comprehensive understanding of this scheme and how it can benefit you.
What is the PM Kusum Solar Subsidy Yojana?
The PM Kusum Solar Subsidy Yojana, launched by the central government, is designed to provide farmers with solar-powered pumps for irrigation at a highly subsidized rate. Through this scheme, the government covers 90% of the cost of a solar pump, while farmers are responsible for only 10%. This subsidy applies to solar pumps ranging from 2 HP (Horsepower) to 5 HP. With this initiative, the government aims to assist more than 3.5 million farmers.
The program’s initial phase targets the modernization of approximately 1.75 million diesel and petrol pumps, converting them to solar-powered pumps. This means that farmers who rely on diesel or petrol-powered pumps for irrigation can now switch to solar energy to power their pumps. Solar-powered pumps help farmers avoid the high costs associated with fuel and electricity bills and provide access to free power from a sustainable energy source.
Objectives of the PM Kusum Solar Subsidy Yojana
The PM Kusum Solar Subsidy Yojana has two primary goals: to provide farmers with reliable irrigation solutions and to reduce the high consumption of non-renewable fuels. In many regions, particularly drought-prone areas, farmers face challenges in accessing water for irrigation. Furthermore, diesel pumps have become expensive, making it difficult for farmers to purchase and afford the recurring costs of fuel.
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This scheme addresses these challenges by offering a low-cost, renewable solution in the form of solar-powered pumps. The free electricity generated from solar pumps enables farmers to irrigate their crops without the recurring costs associated with diesel or electricity. This results in increased agricultural productivity, enabling farmers to earn more income and enhance their standard of living.
Key Components of the PM Kusum Solar Subsidy Yojana
The PM Kusum Solar Subsidy Yojana consists of four primary components, each aimed at supporting the distribution and efficient use of solar energy in agriculture:
- Distribution of Solar Pumps: In the initial phase, the government will distribute solar pumps to eligible farmers, with significant support from the central government and the electricity department.
- Construction of Solar Power Plants: To ensure adequate power generation, the government plans to establish solar power plants that will produce sufficient energy to meet the demands of the agricultural sector.
- Tubewell Connections: To ensure a stable energy supply, the government will also provide tubewell connections as needed, helping farmers make full use of their solar-powered pumps.
- Modernization of Existing Pumps: The scheme will replace old diesel or petrol-powered pumps with new solar-powered pumps. This shift promotes the use of renewable energy, reducing fuel consumption and allowing farmers to enjoy the benefits of free electricity.
Benefits of the PM Kusum Solar Subsidy Yojana
The PM Kusum Solar Subsidy Yojana offers numerous benefits to farmers, making it a game-changer in the agricultural sector:
- High Subsidy on Solar Pumps: Farmers can install solar pumps at a subsidized rate, with the government covering 90% of the cost. This makes solar pumps highly affordable, as farmers are required to pay only 10% of the total cost.
- Environmental Sustainability: By reducing the need for diesel, the scheme promotes the use of clean and renewable energy, contributing to lower carbon emissions and promoting eco-friendly farming practices.
- Reduction in Fuel and Electricity Costs: Solar pumps provide farmers with free electricity after installation, helping them avoid recurring expenses on fuel and electricity bills.
- Increased Crop Productivity: With access to a reliable irrigation system, farmers can maintain a steady water supply for their crops, enhancing productivity and ensuring higher yields.
- No Concern Over Rising Diesel Prices: Since solar pumps rely on sunlight, farmers no longer need to worry about fluctuating diesel prices, ensuring that their irrigation process remains uninterrupted.
Application Fee for the PM Kusum Solar Subsidy Yojana
To participate in the PM Kusum Solar Subsidy Yojana, farmers must pay an application fee based on the capacity of the solar pump they intend to install. The application fee varies according to the power capacity and is outlined in the table below:
| Megawatt Capacity | Application Fee (Excluding GST) |
| 0.5 MW | ₹2500 + GST |
| 1 MW | ₹5000 + GST |
| 1.5 MW | ₹7500 + GST |
| 2 MW | ₹10000 + GST |
The payment should be made as a demand draft in favor of the Managing Director of the Rajasthan Renewable Energy Corporation. Farmers should be aware of this cost when applying, as it is essential to complete the application process.
Eligibility Criteria for the PM Kusum Solar Subsidy Yojana
The following groups are eligible to apply for the PM Kusum Solar Subsidy Yojana:
- Groups of farmers
- Cooperative societies
- Water user associations
- Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs)
- Individual farmers across the country
Required Documents for the PM Kusum Solar Subsidy Yojana
To complete the application process, farmers must submit the following documents:
- Aadhar Card: Proof of identity and eligibility
- Residential Certificate: Proof of residence
- Bank Passbook: For subsidy transfer
- Land Ownership Documents: Proof of ownership or lease for the land on which the solar pump will be installed
- Mobile Number: Contact information for verification and communication
- Ration Card: Additional identity proof
- Registration Copy: Proof of membership in eligible groups (if applicable)
- Authorization Letter: In cases where the applicant represents a group or organization
How to Apply for the PM Kusum Solar Subsidy Yojana 2024
Farmers interested in applying for this scheme can follow these step-by-step instructions to complete their application:
- Visit the Official Website: Go to the PM Kusum Solar Subsidy Yojana’s official website at https://pmkusum.mnre.gov.in/.
- Select Your State: On the homepage, select your state from the available options. This selection will customize the application process according to your region.
- Online Registration: Click on the “Online Registration” option to access the application form.
- Fill in the Application Form: Enter essential details such as your name, address, Aadhar number, and mobile number.
- Upload Required Documents: Scan and upload all necessary documents, including proof of identity, bank details, and land records.
- Submit the Form: After carefully reviewing the form, click on the “Submit” button.
- Print the Acknowledgment Receipt: Once submitted, print the acknowledgment receipt for your records.
- Inspection and Approval: After the application is submitted, authorities will review your documents and conduct a physical inspection of your land to verify eligibility. Upon approval, the solar pump will be installed on your farm, allowing you to begin using solar energy for irrigation.
Conclusion
The PM Kusum Solar Subsidy Yojana 2024 represents a significant advancement toward sustainable and affordable agriculture in India. By providing farmers with solar pumps at a 90% subsidy, the government is helping them reduce their dependence on expensive diesel and electricity. This scheme not only supports farmers financially but also aligns with India’s commitment to renewable energy and carbon footprint reduction. The initiative aims to transform the way irrigation is conducted in rural areas, providing farmers with consistent access to water and the opportunity to improve crop yields.
With the PM Kusum Solar Subsidy Yojana, farmers have access to a reliable energy source, greater economic stability, and an environmentally responsible way to irrigate their crops. The government’s support through this scheme is creating a positive impact on the agricultural sector, paving the way for a greener and more prosperous future for Indian farmers.