The PM KUSUM scheme (Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan) is an ambitious government initiative designed to promote solar energy adoption in India’s agricultural sector. It enables farmers to generate their own power, reduce electricity costs, and sell surplus energy to the grid. The scheme also supports solarisation of irrigation pumps and feeder-level solar projects, helping improve energy efficiency and farmer income.
What is the PM KUSUM scheme?
The PM KUSUM scheme provides financial and technical support to farmers for adopting solar energy solutions. Key features include:
- Promotes installation of solar power plants on barren lands
- Supports standalone solar pumps in off-grid areas
- Solarises grid-connected agricultural pumps
- Encourages feeder-level solarisation for sustainable energy supply
- Offers subsidies and financial assistance for farmers
Key objectives of PM KUSUM scheme
The scheme aims to:
- Reduce dependence on conventional electricity for agriculture
- Increase farmers’ income through sale of surplus solar power
- Promote use of renewable energy in rural areas
- Encourage sustainable and environment-friendly irrigation practices
- Support India’s clean energy and carbon reduction goals
Key components of PM KUSUM yojana
| Component | Description |
|---|---|
| Component A | Solar power plants on barren land (up to 2 MW) |
| Component B | Standalone solar pumps for off-grid areas (up to 7.5 HP) |
| Component C | Solarisation of grid-connected pumps |
| Component D | Feeder-level solarisation (new initiative) |
Component A: Solar power plants on barren land (up to 2 MW)
- Farmers or farmer groups can set up solar plants on unused land
- Surplus power can be sold to the grid
- Provides additional income alongside farming activities
- Encourages optimal use of underutilised land
Component B: Standalone solar pumps for off-grid areas (up to 7.5 HP)
- Supports installation of solar pumps in regions without reliable electricity
- Reduces dependency on diesel pumps
- Promotes clean irrigation solutions
- Enhances crop yield and reduces operational costs
Component C: Solarisation of grid-connected pumps
- Converts existing electric pumps to solar power
- Reduces electricity bills for farmers
- Allows feeding surplus power back to the grid
- Supports energy efficiency in agriculture
Component D: Feeder-level solarisation (new initiative)
- Solar power supplied at the feeder level for multiple pumps
- Enables farmers to access solar energy collectively
- Reduces transmission losses and increases grid efficiency
- Encourages community-level energy solutions
PM KUSUM scheme subsidy and financial assistance
- Central and state governments provide subsidies for equipment and installation
- Financial support includes:
- 30–60% subsidy depending on component and region
- Low-interest loans for remaining project cost
- Assistance in connecting solar plants to the grid
- Helps reduce upfront investment for farmers and promotes adoption
How to apply for PM KUSUM scheme
- Visit the official PM KUSUM portal or respective state department website
- Fill out the online application form with farmer and land details
- Select the component relevant to your requirement
- Submit required documents for verification
- Track application status online
State-wise implementation of PM KUSUM scheme
| State | Component implementation status |
|---|---|
| Uttar Pradesh | Components A, B, C fully operational |
| Maharashtra | Components B, C, D operational |
| Rajasthan | Components A, C operational |
| Karnataka | Components B, D operational |
| Gujarat | Components A, B, C operational |
Note: Implementation may vary by state and year.
Documents required for PM KUSUM scheme application
- Farmer’s Aadhaar card
- Land ownership or lease documents
- Bank account details
- Existing electricity connection details (if applicable)
- Project report or application form for selected component
- Any other documents as required by state authorities
Benefits of PM KUSUM yojana
- Reduces electricity expenses for farmers
- Generates additional income from surplus solar power
- Promotes use of renewable energy and sustainable farming practices
- Reduces reliance on diesel-powered pumps
- Encourages efficient use of barren land and irrigation resources
- Supports India’s energy and environmental goals
Conclusion
The PM KUSUM scheme is a transformative initiative that empowers farmers to adopt solar energy, reduce costs, and generate additional income. By integrating renewable energy into agriculture, it supports both economic and environmental sustainability.
Farmers and agricultural entrepreneurs can also explore financial assistance through business loans to invest in solar equipment or irrigation solutions. Understanding the business loan interest rate is essential to plan costs effectively, and using a business loan EMI calculator can help manage repayments efficiently.
