PM Kusum Yojana: One Scheme and Multiple Benefits

The Pradhan Mantri Kusum Yojana was introduced with an objective – to reduce the financial burden on farmers arising from escalating expenses related to electricity and fuel.

The central government has introduced various schemes providing crucial financial support. One standout initiative is the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan Yojana (PM KUSUM), a new scheme designed to offer subsidies that have the potential to double farmers' income.

Launched in 2019, this scheme comprises three vital components, each one designed to promote the adoption of renewable energy in agriculture.

The first component, known as Component A, is a visionary approach aiming to set up 10,000 MW of decentralized grid-connected renewable energy power plants on barren land. Under this component, farmers and organizations are empowered to establish renewable energy-based power plants with capacities ranging from 500 kW to 2 MW.

This positive thinking initiative allows the utilization of unused land or the construction of stilts over cultivable fields, thereby resulting in a new era of sustainable energy practices in agriculture in India.

Component B consists of the installation of 17.50 lakh standalone solar agriculture pumps, which would assist individual farmers in replacing existing diesel pumps in off-grid areas with solar-powered pumps with capacities of up to 7.5 HP.

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Component-C funds the solarization of 10 Lakh grid-connected agriculture pumps, allowing farmers to use generated solar power for irrigation while selling excess energy to DISCOMs at regulated prices. The scheme was changed based on experience learned during its first year of execution.

The objective of PM Kusum Yojana

The Pradhan Mantri Kusum Yojana was introduced with an objective in mind – to reduce the financial burden on farmers arising from escalating expenses related to electricity and fuel. Recognizing the need to cut down these costs, the scheme aims to empower farmers to install solar pumps, leveraging subsidies to mitigate expenses while simultaneously promoting electricity generation and facilitating irrigation.

Under this program, farmers receive subsidies from both the state and central governments. However, the amount of the subsidy may vary depending on the state.

Government Assistance for Installation

Under the PM Kusum Yojana, farmers seeking subsidies for the installation of solar pumps must possess a minimum of 4 to 5 acres of land. This strategic land requirement ensures eligibility and holds the potential for farmers to generate an impressive 15 lakh units of electricity within a single year.

Beyond the immediate benefits of enhanced irrigation capabilities, farmers are unlocking additional revenue streams by selling the surplus electricity generated. To encourage the widespread adoption of renewable energy practices, the central government extends substantial support by allocating up to 45 per cent of the total expenditure as a subsidy to eligible farmers.

The overall aim of PM Kusum Yojana is clear – to increase farmers' income through the provision of financial assistance, promoting sustainable energy solutions, and paving the way for a more prosperous agricultural sector.

Application Procedure for PM Kusum Yojana

PM Kusum Yojana aims to make the application process accessible and user-friendly, ensuring that farmers can seamlessly gain the benefits of this newly launched scheme. Farmers willing to avail the benefits of the scheme can start their application through various methods mentioned below:

State Farmer Portal

The primary way to apply for application is the farmer portal of the respective state. Farmers can visit their state's designated portal, where they will find a dedicated section for PM Kusum Yojana applications. This user-friendly platform streamlines the process, allowing farmers to submit their applications with ease.

Official Ministry of Energy Website

As an alternative, applicants can choose to apply through the official website of the Ministry of Energy. The website provides comprehensive information about the PM Kusum Yojana, including guidelines and the application procedure. Farmers can navigate through the portal to submit their applications online, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

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Toll-Free Helpline - 1800-180-333

For those seeking guidance or clarifications, a toll-free helpline is available at 1800-180-333. Farmers can call this number to obtain information about the PM Kusum Yojana, the application process, eligibility criteria, and any other related queries.