The Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan is an important government scheme launched to support Indian farmers. Also known as PM-KUSUM, this initiative focuses on making solar energy a regular part of agriculture. The scheme provides solar pumps and solar plants to farmers so that they can irrigate their fields without depending on costly electricity or diesel.
With the goal of promoting renewable energy in the agricultural sector, Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan aims to help farmers reduce electricity costs and increase their income. It also supports the idea of clean and green energy in villages.
What is the PM-KUSUM Scheme?
The full form of PM-KUSUM is Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan. It is a scheme started by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) to give solar power to farmers for their farming needs. It helps farmers install solar pumps and even set up solar power plants on their land.
This scheme will run till March 2026 and has a target to add 34,800 MW of solar capacity in the country. To support this, the central government has decided to give a total help of more than ₹34,000 crore to the implementing agencies.
Objectives of Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan
Before exploring the main goals of this scheme, it is important to understand what the government wants to achieve through it.
- To reduce the cost of irrigation for farmers by offering an alternative to expensive diesel and electricity.
- To promote the use of solar energy in villages so that farming becomes eco-friendly and less dependent on traditional power sources.
- To increase farmers’ income by giving them the opportunity to sell extra solar power back to the local electricity boards.
- To help India move towards clean energy by encouraging the use of renewable sources like solar power in agriculture.
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Main Components of PM-KUSUM
Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan has three major parts:
Component A: Renewable Energy Based Power Plants (REPPs)
- Farmers, groups of farmers, panchayats, or FPOs can set up solar power plants of 500 kW to 2 MW.
- These plants will be connected to the electricity grid.
- If the farmers cannot arrange money to build the plant, they can allow developers or even their local electricity company (DISCOM) to build it.
- DISCOMs will buy the solar power at a price fixed by the state.
- DISCOMs will also get extra benefits for buying this solar power for five years.
Component B: Standalone Solar Pumps
- Farmers in areas where electricity does not reach can get solar pumps.
- The pump capacity can be up to 7.5 HP.
- The cost of the pump is shared in this way:
- 30% is paid by the central government.
- 30% is paid by the state government.
- 40% is paid by the farmer (with bank loan options).
- In special states like North Eastern states, Himachal Pradesh, and island areas, the central help is 50%.
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Component C: Solarization of Existing Grid-Connected Pumps
- Farmers who already have electricity-based pumps can add solar panels.
- The size of the solar panel can be twice the size of the pump’s power.
- Farmers can use solar energy to run pumps and sell extra power to the electricity board.
- Cost-sharing is the same as in Component B.
Component C (FLS): Feeder Level Solarization
- Instead of giving solar pumps one by one, states can choose to solarize whole electricity lines (feeders) used for agriculture.
- Solar plants are built to provide energy for these feeders.
- Farmers connected to such feeders get free or cheap electricity for irrigation.
- Financial help for this part goes up to 30% (or more in special regions).
Duration of the Scheme
The Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan was launched in March 2019 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The scheme will be active till 31st March 2026. By that time, the government aims to complete all the installations under the scheme.
Who Can Apply for PM-KUSUM?
This scheme is primarily meant for farmers who are interested in using solar energy to support their agricultural needs. It is open to individuals and groups engaged in farming activities.
- Individual farmers
- Group of farmers
- Panchayats
- Co-operative societies
- Farmer producer organisations (FPOs)
- Water user associations (WUAs)
How Farmers Can Get Help from PM-KUSUM
This section highlights how the scheme supports farmers in improving their livelihood by offering solar energy solutions and financial assistance.
Component A:
- Farmers can set up solar plants and sell electricity to DISCOMs.
- If they can’t invest money, developers or DISCOMs can set up the plant.
- In such cases, the farmer gets rent for giving land.
- DISCOMs must inform about the capacity available at their substations.
Component B and C (IPS):
- MNRE decides how many solar pumps will be allowed in each state.
- Once the state agrees and sends a proposal, MNRE gives final approval.
- The work must be completed within 24 months.
- Central Financial Assistance (CFA) up to 40% is given in advance.
- The remaining CFA is given after the work is finished.
Component C (FLS):
- Solar plants are built to power complete feeders.
- DISCOMs get CFA in two stages: 30% after starting, and rest after finishing the work.
Benefits of Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan
This scheme brings several advantages that support farmers in adopting solar energy solutions and reducing their dependence on traditional power sources.
- Using solar energy offers many benefits for farmers, especially in rural and remote areas.
- Farmers can save money by using free solar energy.
- They can earn extra by selling electricity to DISCOMs.
- Crops can be irrigated even in areas without electricity.
- It reduces the use of diesel and helps the environment.
- Solar pumps are easy to maintain.
Why PM-KUSUM is Important
This scheme plays a vital role in promoting clean energy while addressing the economic well-being of farmers.
- India has a large number of farmers who depend on pumps for irrigation.
- Electricity and diesel are costly and not always available.
- Solar energy is free and available in most places.
- The scheme helps increase farm income and reduce pollution.
Challenges in PM-KUSUM
The PM-KUSUM scheme, while visionary in its approach, faces several on-ground hurdles that may affect its smooth execution.
- Some farmers do not know about the scheme.
- In some areas, getting loans is difficult.
- Land availability for setting up solar plants can be a problem.
- Proper maintenance of solar systems is needed.
How to Apply for PM-KUSUM?
To benefit from the PM-KUSUM scheme, farmers need to follow a simple and guided application process. The steps are designed to be user-friendly and transparent.
- Farmers can begin by visiting the official website of their state’s renewable energy department to understand the solar subsidy application process in detail.
- Application forms and detailed guidelines regarding solar subsidies are readily available online on these portals.
- In case farmers face difficulties or need assistance, they can also visit their local DISCOM (Distribution Company) or electricity board office for in-person support and clarification.
The Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan is a big step towards helping farmers become self-reliant. It gives them a chance to use solar energy, save money, and even earn income. The PM-KUSUM scheme not only supports farmers but also helps the country in moving towards clean and green energy. If more farmers become aware of the scheme and use it, Indian agriculture can become stronger and more eco-friendly.
By offering support, subsidy, and simple ways to install solar systems, Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan is truly a campaign that uplifts both the farmer and the environment.
What is Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan?
It is a scheme to provide solar energy tools like pumps and power plants to farmers.
What is PM-KUSUM full form?
PM-KUSUM stands for Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan.
Who can apply for PM-KUSUM?
Farmers, panchayats, FPOs, co-operatives, and water user groups can apply.
What are the benefits of PM-KUSUM?
Farmers can save on electricity bills, earn by selling power, and get better irrigation.
How long will the scheme run?
The scheme is planned to continue till 31st March 2026.
