About Scheme

The Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan (PM-KUSUM) Scheme was launched in March 2019 by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE). It aims to promote solar energy in the agricultural sector by helping farmers install solar pumps and grid-connected renewable power plants to reduce dependency on diesel and ensure sustainable irrigation.

Key Features

• Farmers receive a 60% subsidy and 30% government-supported loan for setting up solar irrigation pumps and plants, paying only 10% of the total cost
• Encourages de-dieselized and eco-friendly irrigation through renewable energy sources
• Allows farmers to sell surplus solar power directly to the government to generate additional income
• Supports both individual farmers and groups like FPOs, co-operatives, and panchayats

Details

The PM-KUSUM scheme consists of three components: (A) Installation of decentralized grid-connected solar and renewable energy-based power plants (up to 500 kW to 2 MW each); (B) Installation of standalone solar pumps up to 7.5 HP; and (C) Solarization of existing grid-connected pumps. It aims to build 28,250 MW of solar capacity and provide financial security and energy independence to Indian farmers. Farmers can apply online via the official KUSUM portal, and eligible applicants must deposit 10% of the total setup cost after approval.

Eligibility

Eligible applicants include individual farmers, groups of farmers, Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), Co-operatives, Panchayats, and Water User Associations. Applicants must have valid land ownership documents and a functional bank account. Priority is given to small and marginal farmers with cultivable or barren land suitable for solar installations.

Benefits

Farmers receive a 60% subsidy and a 30% loan for solar pumps or plants, contributing only 10% of the total cost. They can sell surplus power to the government for additional income. The scheme promotes renewable energy, reduces fuel costs, and increases farm profitability while ensuring sustainable irrigation and rural development.

Application Process

Online: Visit the official PM-KUSUM portal https://pmkusum.mnre.gov.in/ . Register with Aadhaar and mobile number, fill in land and bank details, select the scheme component (A, B, or C), upload documents, and submit the form. Upon approval, deposit 10% of the total project cost to the supplier. Installation and subsidy release occur after verification, usually within 90–100 days.

Documents Required

1. Aadhaar Card 2. Land Ownership Documents (Khasra/Khatauni) 3. Bank Account Passbook 4. Income/Declaration Form 5. Mobile Number 6. Passport-size Photograph