Uttar Pradesh Government Aims to Install 30,000 Solar Pumps at Rs 434 Crore in 2023-24 Under PM KUSUM Yojana

Under the visionary leadership of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, the state administration has launched an ambitious plan to deploy over 30,000 solar photovoltaic irrigation pumps in order to satisfy Uttar Pradesh's huge energy demands while emphasizing sustainable energy solutions.

In a significant move towards sustainable agriculture and rural development, the Uttar Pradesh government has announced its ambitious plan to install 30,000 solar pumps across the state during the fiscal year 2023-24. This initiative carried out under the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan (PM KUSUM) Yojana, is expected to transform the agricultural landscape in Uttar Pradesh while promoting renewable energy adoption.

The total estimated cost of this project stands at Rs 434 crore, with the majority of the funding allocated for the procurement and installation of solar pumps. Under the PM KUSUM Yojana, the government provides financial assistance to farmers for installing solar-powered irrigation pumps, thereby reducing their reliance on conventional electricity sources and diesel generators.

Under the visionary leadership of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, the state administration has launched an ambitious plan to deploy over 30,000 solar photovoltaic irrigation pumps in order to satisfy Uttar Pradesh's huge energy demands while emphasizing sustainable energy solutions.

The Chief Minister's Office (CMO) announced in an official statement that the Uttar Pradesh government is fully committed to meeting this aim for the fiscal year 2023-24. A large investment of Rs 434 crore will be made for this purpose, with the state and national governments evenly sharing the financial burden of Rs 217.84 crore each.

The Uttar Pradesh New and Renewable Energy Agency (UPNEDA) has been assigned to carry out this massive project. According to the official release, a state-of-the-art clean energy-based irrigation system would be given to farmers across all 75 districts through this initiative, assisted by the installation of surface and submersible solar pumps.

The Yogi government's goal of installing 30,000 solar photovoltaic irrigation pumps aligns with the parameters established by the Government of India's Ministry of New and Renewable Energy. These recommendations state that a subsidy of 60% of the benchmark installation cost of standalone solar pumps with capacities up to 7.5 HP will be awarded. The centre and state will each contribute 30% to this grant.

Farmers who want to take advantage of the benefits of solar pumps can do so through the Agricultural Infrastructure Fund by securing a bank loan. Surprisingly, both the state and federal governments have committed to pay 3% of the total interest rebate of 6% on these loans, lowering the financial strain on farmers, according to the official announcement.

Also Read:Empowering Farmers: Krishak Jeevan Jyoti Yojana Provides 6000 Units of Free Electricity

Furthermore, the statement noted that the installation of these solar pumps is a key step toward encouraging farmers to embrace eco-friendly and cost-effective energy options. This initiative has the potential to make a significant contribution to environmental conservation by reducing carbon emissions within the region and minimizing the tremendous threat of climate change.

It is also expected to result in lower irrigation costs for farmers as they gradually lessen their dependency on energy and diesel for agricultural activities. According to the announcement, the selection procedure for farmers eligible to engage in this transformative project would be on a first-come, first-served basis.

How to Apply

According to the release, a revised action plan was recently revealed, which included UPNEDA overseeing the installation of various solar pump variants, including 1800 W 2 HP DC and AC surface and submersible pumps, 3000 W 3 HP DC-AC submersible pumps, 4800 W 5 HP AC submersible pumps, 6750 W 7.5 HP AC submersible pumps, and 9000 W 10 HP AC submersible pumps.

To take advantage of this ground-breaking program, interested individuals must register on the Agriculture Department's website, www.upagriculture.com. Following registration, farmers can choose the pump specifications and categories they want to apply for. Following that, tokens will be distributed to farmers on a first-come, first-served basis.

Farmers must provide a Rs 5000 online token deposit as part of the application process. The statement stressed that solar pump installation subsidies will be awarded based on district-specific targets, reiterating the government's commitment to providing a greener and more sustainable future in Uttar Pradesh.

The Uttar Pradesh government's proactive approach towards sustainable agriculture and renewable energy aligns with the broader vision of the PM KUSUM Yojana, which aims to provide clean and affordable energy solutions to farmers while reducing the environmental impact of agriculture.

This initiative not only strengthens the state's commitment to sustainable development but also sets an example for other regions in India to follow suit. It is anticipated that the successful implementation of this project will pave the way for a greener and more prosperous future for Uttar Pradesh's farming community.