The Uttar Pradesh government is continuously striving to make farmers self-reliant and energy-efficient. In this regard, solar pumps are being provided under the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan (PM-KUSUM) scheme. The Agriculture Department has clarified that today, December 15th, is the last day to book solar pumps under this scheme. Only farmers who make the payment within the deadline will be eligible for this government benefit.

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Scheme Objective and Need

The main objective of the PM-KUSUM scheme is to provide farmers with an alternative and clean energy source for irrigation. Dependence on traditional diesel pumps and expensive electricity has been a major problem for farmers. Adopting solar pumps will not only reduce pollution but also lower the overall cost of farming in the long run. This will also help increase farmers’ income.

How Much Subsidy Will Farmers Receive?

Under this scheme, farmers are being provided with a subsidy of up to 60 percent on the total cost of the solar pump. The remaining amount will have to be borne by the farmers themselves, which will have to be deposited through a token amount and the prescribed payment process. The government is striving to ensure that as many farmers as possible can benefit from this facility.

What Types of Solar Pumps are Available?

Under the scheme, solar pumps of different capacities are available for farmers. These include AC and DC surface and submersible pumps ranging from 2 HP to 10 HP. Farmers can select the pump according to their land, water level, and irrigation requirements.

The application process for the solar pump scheme is entirely online. Farmers can register through the agriculture.up.gov.in and agridarshan.up.gov.in portals. Farmers who are already registered must renew their registration. Land-related documents, identity proof, and bank account details must be kept ready at the time of application.

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Installation and Other Important Rules

The solar pump will be installed at the location specified in the application. Proper site preparation and cleaning of the well will be mandatory before installation. For any additional information related to the scheme, farmers can contact the Deputy Director of Agriculture or the Agricultural Protection Officer’s office in their district.