To ensure that farmers in the country are not burdened with debt for farming, the central government is implementing several landmark welfare schemes. The PM-KUSUM scheme is one of these. The primary objective of this revolutionary scheme is to provide farmers with solar pumps to relieve them of the heavy burden of electricity bills.

Through the PM KUSUM scheme, farmers can install expensive solar equipment by paying only 10% of the cost and benefit from free electricity. This article will explain in detail all the benefits of this scheme and how to apply.

What is PM KUSUM

The PM KUSUM scheme was launched in 2019. The scheme aims to connect farmers with solar energy, strengthen their economic situation, and reduce their dependence on diesel, petrol, or electricity. This scheme promotes clean energy, making it environmentally friendly. The main objective of the PM Kusum Yojana is to reduce the cost of agricultural production by providing farmers with solar-powered irrigation pumps.

This scheme provides solar pumps to replace diesel pumps. If farmers generate surplus electricity, they can earn money by selling it to the grid, thereby increasing their income. Reducing carbon emissions by encouraging the use of clean energy is also a key objective.

Key Features and Benefits of the PM Kusum Yojana

The PM Kusum Yojana provides long-term benefits to farmers. Farmers can install solar power plants with a capacity of 500 kilowatts to 2 megawatts on their barren or uncultivable land. By selling this solar energy to the grid, they can earn up to ₹25,000 per acre annually. Farmers can install solar pumps instead of diesel and electric pumps.

The key feature of this scheme is financial assistance. The government provides a substantial 60% subsidy, and a 30% loan is arranged through banks. This means that farmers only have to spend 10% of the total cost.

For example, if you have a ₹50,000 pump, you only need to arrange for ₹5,000. Installing a solar pump eliminates the hassle of electricity bills, and switching from diesel pumps to solar pumps reduces fuel costs. Solar panels have a lifespan of up to 25 years, providing long-term benefits to farmers.

Eligibility Criteria for PM Kusum Yojana

All farmers in the country are eligible for the PM Kusum Yojana. Farmers must own or lease agricultural land. Farmers must apply to the state government or the relevant DISCOM (electricity distribution company).

Required Documents

The required documents for the PM Kusum scheme are your Aadhaar card, land ownership certificate, bank account details, passport-size photographs, and a declaration form.

Application Process

To apply for the PM Kusum Yojana, first download the PM-Kusum mobile app or visit your state’s PM Kusum portal. Select the component you wish to apply for. Next, select your state and language. Click on the ‘Apply for PM-Kusum Yojana’ option in the app. When the farmer registration form opens, select an option like Component C, and fill in your name, father’s name, gender, etc.

Select the application category (e.g., farmer, cowshed, water user association) and applicant category (e.g., SC, ST, OBC, general). Enter the district where the farm is located, the complete address, and the type of pump you want. After completing all this, click the Register button. Next, you’ll need to specify the capacity and number of solar pumps.

After entering all the information, you’ll receive the required amount, 10% of which you’ll need to pay to the supplier who will install the solar pumps. Subsidy and loan approval can take 10 to 90 days. You can apply online through your state’s PM Kusum portal or the state agriculture department’s portal, or contact the state electricity distribution company (DISCOM).