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Understanding India's PM-KUSUM Scheme: Accelerating the Renewable Energy Revolution

Writer's picture: TU Rathish MenonTU Rathish Menon

An image depicting the Narendra Modi, Prime Minister of India, in the center with the Indian flag, symbolizing national pride. Surrounding him is a circular frame consisting of interconnected elements. These elements include a representation of a lush green farm, symbolizing agricultural prosperity, and a farmer expressing gratitude in the Indian style. Additionally, a solar water pump is featured, highlighting the integration of renewable energy in farming practices.

The PM-KUSUM Scheme offers a distinctive opportunity for farmers across India to enhance their irrigation capabilities by installing solar pumps, as the Central Government provides generous subsidies of up to 90% for such installations. Additionally, it's noteworthy that even barren land can be utilized for this scheme. Now, let's delve into the process of applying for the PM KUSUM Scheme.



What is the PM Kusum Yojana?

Empowering Farmers with the PM-KUSUM Scheme: A Sustainable Energy Revolution


Introducing the PM KUSUM Scheme (Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha Evam Utthan Mahabhiyan) in March 2019, PM Narendra Modi aimed to bring about a unique transformation in the lives of farmers in rural areas. This innovative scheme offers solar power plants exclusively tailored for agricultural purposes, empowering farmers with clean and sustainable energy solutions.


The PM KUSUM Scheme goes beyond the realm of energy provision. It also endeavors to uplift the economic status of marginalized communities, particularly those residing in backward regions. By focusing on their social and economic welfare, the scheme aims to create a more inclusive and prosperous agricultural sector.


To complement the PM KUSUM Scheme and further enhance the well-being of farmers, the PM launched the Revised Kisan Credit Card scheme. This comprehensive initiative allows farmers to access credit facilities with ease, enabling them to invest in their farms and agricultural activities. Notably, the scheme offers an incredible opportunity for farmers, as they are required to pay only 10% of the solar pump's cost, making it affordable and accessible.


Furthermore, the PM KUSUM Scheme encompasses a holistic approach by prioritizing the education and training of farmers. Through various training programs and support systems, farmers are equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to optimize their agricultural practices. Additionally, the scheme provides essential inputs and resources to ensure farmers have the tools they need to succeed in harnessing solar energy and improving their overall productivity.


In summary, the introduction of the PM KUSUM Scheme under the visionary leadership of PM Narendra Modi has brought about a transformative paradigm shift for farmers. By combining the benefits of solar power, economic empowerment, and comprehensive support systems, the scheme sets the stage for a brighter and more sustainable future for agriculture in India.


PM KUSUM Scheme: Empowering Farmers through Innovative Technology and Sustainable Energy Solutions


The PM KUSUM Scheme sets forth a multitude of objectives, each aimed at revolutionizing the farming sector and promoting sustainability. Key objectives of this visionary scheme include:


Fostering Technological Innovation:


One of the primary goals of the scheme is to equip the farming sector with cutting-edge technology. By providing inventive solutions such as solar pumps, the scheme strives to enhance agricultural practices and productivity, ushering in a new era of efficiency and progress.


Environmental Impact Reduction:


The introduction of solar pumps under the PM KUSUM Scheme presents a compelling opportunity to mitigate the environmental footprint of farming activities. By installing solar pumps, farmers can significantly reduce their reliance on conventional sources of electricity or diesel, thereby curbing harmful emissions and fostering a greener and more sustainable agricultural ecosystem.


Amplifying Energy Generation:


Another pivotal objective of the scheme is to empower farmers with enhanced energy generation capabilities. Unlike traditional diesel-driven pumps, solar pumps harness the power of the sun to generate a surplus of energy. This surplus energy not only meets the agricultural needs of farmers but also holds the potential for them to become energy suppliers. By selling excess power directly to the government, farmers can tap into a new income stream, bolstering their financial stability and prosperity.


In summary, the PM KUSUM Scheme embraces a comprehensive vision with multiple objectives. By integrating innovative technology, reducing environmental impact, and unlocking income opportunities, the scheme endeavors to propel the farming sector towards a more sustainable, prosperous, and self-reliant future.


Eligibility Requirements for the PM KUSUM Scheme: Empowering Farmers towards Sustainable Energy Adoption


To participate in the PM KUSUM Scheme and avail its transformative benefits, certain eligibility criteria must be met. The unique requirements include:


Farmers and Farming Entities:


The scheme welcomes applications from individual farmers, groups of farmers, farmer producer organizations, and water user associations. This inclusive approach ensures that farmers from various backgrounds and associations can actively participate and benefit from the scheme.


No Financial Qualification Barrier:


Unlike traditional schemes that may impose financial qualifications, the PM KUSUM Scheme does not have any financial eligibility criteria. This enables farmers from diverse economic backgrounds to apply without restrictions, promoting equal opportunities and inclusivity.


Solar Power Plant Capacity:


The solar power plant capacity should ideally range from 0.5 MW to 2 MW. This range ensures scalability and enables farmers to select a capacity suitable for their specific needs and resources.


Indian Residency:


To be eligible for the scheme, applicants must be Indian residents. This requirement ensures that the benefits of the PM KUSUM Scheme are directed towards supporting the agricultural community within the country.


Proportional Land Capacity:


The capacity of the solar power plant should be in proportion to the land available or as specified by the distribution corporation, whichever is lower. This ensures optimal utilization of resources while adhering to the guidelines set by the authorities.


Land Requirement:

Approximately 2 hectares of land would be required per MW of solar power plant capacity. This criterion aims to ensure that applicants have sufficient land resources available for the installation and operation of the solar power plants.


Net Worth of Builder:


If the applicant is developing the solar power plant with the assistance of a builder, the builder must have a net worth of at least 1 crore per MW. This condition ensures that the builders involved possess the financial capacity and stability to undertake the project successfully.


By adhering to these eligibility criteria, farmers can seize the opportunity to embrace sustainable energy solutions and become active participants in the renewable energy revolution fostered by the PM KUSUM Scheme.


Unleashing the Benefits of the PM KUSUM Scheme: Empowering Farmers and Fostering Sustainable Agriculture


The PM KUSUM Scheme offers a range of transformative benefits, revolutionizing the agricultural landscape and uplifting the lives of farmers. Noteworthy advantages of this visionary scheme include:


1. Risk-Free Income Generation:


The PM KUSUM Scheme presents farmers with a unique opportunity to earn a risk-free income. By becoming energy suppliers through the surplus power generated by solar pumps, farmers can diversify their revenue streams and achieve greater financial stability. This income source is independent of traditional farming activities, mitigating the risks associated with crop yields and market fluctuations.


2. Curbing Groundwater Overexploitation:


Through the adoption of solar pumps, the scheme plays a crucial role in checking the overexploitation of groundwater. By reducing dependence on conventional power sources such as electricity or diesel pumps, farmers can minimize the excessive extraction of groundwater, leading to sustainable water management practices and the preservation of precious water resources.


3. Consistent Power Supply:


The PM KUSUM Scheme ensures a consistent and reliable power supply to farmers. Solar pumps provide an uninterrupted energy source, eliminating concerns about power outages or availability. This reliable energy supply empowers farmers to optimize their irrigation schedules, enhance crop productivity, and effectively manage their farming operations.


4. Carbon Footprint Reduction in Agriculture:


By embracing solar energy solutions, the PM KUSUM Scheme contributes significantly to reducing the carbon footprint in agriculture. Solar pumps operate without emitting greenhouse gases or harmful pollutants, thereby mitigating environmental impact and fostering sustainable farming practices. This shift towards cleaner energy sources aligns with global efforts to combat climate change and promote a greener future.


5. Alleviating Concerns about Farm Power Subsidy:


The scheme alleviates the concerns of farmers regarding farm power subsidies. With solar pumps, farmers can reduce their dependence on subsidized power sources, ensuring a more self-sufficient and financially sustainable approach to agricultural energy needs. This shift reduces administrative burdens and streamlines the power subsidy system, benefitting both farmers and the government.


In summary, the PM KUSUM Scheme brings forth a plethora of benefits that empower farmers, promote sustainable agriculture, and address pressing environmental concerns. By providing risk-free income, curbing groundwater overexploitation, ensuring reliable power supply, reducing carbon footprint, and easing concerns about farm power subsidies, the scheme paves the way for a more prosperous, resilient, and environmentally conscious farming community.


Revolutionizing Agriculture: The PM KUSUM Scheme's Transformative Impact on Farmers and Sustainable Energy


Component A:


Under this component, the PM KUSUM Scheme envisions the establishment of 10,000 MW of dispersed renewable solar power plants. These grids will be set up by various stakeholders, including:

  • Farmers (both individuals and groups)

  • Cooperatives

  • Panchayats

  • Water user associations

  • Farmer producer organizations

The solar power plants will be strategically located within a 5-kilometer radius of the sub-station, ensuring efficient integration with the existing power infrastructure.


Component B:


This component of the scheme focuses on assisting farmers in the installation of standalone solar pumps valued at Rs. 17.50 lakh. By opting for these solar pumps, farmers can replace existing diesel-powered pumps with a capacity of up to 7.5 HP. This shift towards cleaner energy solutions not only reduces dependence on fossil fuels but also contributes to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly agricultural ecosystem.


Component C:


Component C of the PM KUSUM Scheme is dedicated to the solarization of individual farmers' land and the installation of 10 lakh solar pumps. Under this component, surplus solar power generated by farmers can be sold at a pre-fixed cost to distribution companies across India. This arrangement creates an additional income stream for farmers and encourages widespread adoption of solar energy within the agricultural sector.


By combining these three components, the PM KUSUM Scheme aims to drive renewable energy adoption, enhance agricultural productivity, and empower farmers with innovative and sustainable energy solutions. Through the establishment of solar power plants, installation of standalone solar pumps, and facilitation of surplus power sales, the scheme sets the stage for a more prosperous, self-reliant, and environmentally conscious farming community.

Implementation Strategies for PM KUSUM Scheme: Scaling up Capacity and Pump Installations


To effectively implement the PM KUSUM Scheme and maximize its impact, the following strategies should be employed:


Progressive Scaling in Components A and C:

For Component A, it is crucial to prioritize the implementation of solar power plants to achieve a capacity of 1000 MW. Similarly, in Component C, the focus should be on installing 1 lakh solar pumps. By giving due importance to these targets, the scheme can make significant strides towards renewable energy adoption and farmers' empowerment.


Continual Expansion:


Once Components A and C have been successfully executed, it is essential to continue expanding these components to accommodate higher capacities and pump installations. This expansion should be driven by the demand received from different State Government Agencies, ensuring that the scheme adapts and caters to the evolving energy requirements of the agricultural sector.


Sanctioning Capacity based on Demand:


To ensure efficient allocation of resources, capacity sanctioning to different State Government Agencies should be determined based on the demand received. By closely monitoring and analyzing demand patterns, the scheme can allocate capacities in a targeted manner, optimizing the utilization of resources and meeting the energy needs of different regions effectively.


Rigorous Tendering Process:


The tendering process for the implementation of Components A and C should be conducted with utmost transparency and efficiency. An implementation agency approved by the State Government should be responsible for overseeing the tender process. This ensures that capable and experienced entities are engaged in the execution of the scheme, guaranteeing the delivery of high-quality infrastructure and installations.


By implementing these strategies, the PM KUSUM Scheme can maximize its potential, facilitate rapid capacity expansion, and ensure a smooth and effective implementation process. This approach will enable the scheme to contribute significantly to sustainable energy adoption, rural development, and the overall transformation of the agricultural sector.


How to apply for PM Kusum Yojana: A Step-by-Step Guide to Register and Participate


Follow these simple steps to apply for the PM KUSUM Scheme and embark on a transformative journey towards sustainable energy adoption:


Step 1: Visit the Official Website:


Go to the official website dedicated to the PM KUSUM Scheme and locate the registration section. Click on the registration link to initiate the application process.


Step 2: Access Kusum Yojna:


Upon registration, navigate to the designated section of the website dedicated to the Kusum Yojna. This section will provide you with all the necessary information and resources pertaining to the scheme.


Step 3: Complete the Application Form


Fill out the application form with accurate and relevant details. Ensure that you provide all the required information, including personal details, contact information, and any other specific details requested in the form. Take your time to double-check the accuracy of the provided information before moving on to the next step.


Step 4: Submit Required Documents:


Gather all the necessary documents as specified by the scheme guidelines. These documents may include identification proof, land ownership documents, bank account details, and any other supporting documents required for the application. Ensure that all the documents are valid, up-to-date, and meet the specified requirements. Submit these documents along with the completed application form.


Step 5: Approval and Registration:


Once your application form and documents have been submitted, they will undergo a review process. If approved, you will be registered under the PM KUSUM Scheme, and you will receive confirmation of your participation in the scheme. Keep track of any further instructions or communication from the authorities regarding your registration.


By following these steps, you can successfully apply for the PM KUSUM Scheme and join the ranks of farmers embracing renewable energy solutions and benefiting from the numerous opportunities and advantages offered by the scheme.


Essential Documents for PM KUSUM Scheme Application


To apply for the PM KUSUM Scheme, you will need to gather and provide the following important documents:


Identification Proof:


Submit a copy of your Aadhaar card as a valid identification proof. This document helps establish your identity and ensures accurate record-keeping.


Land Documents:


Include relevant land documents that establish your ownership or leasehold rights to the agricultural land where the solar power plant or solar pump installation is proposed. These documents may include titles, deeds, lease agreements, or any other legally recognized proof of land ownership or usage.


Khasra Khatauni:


Provide the Khasra Khatauni document, which contains details such as land measurements, boundaries, and other land-related information. This document helps verify the specific location and details of the land intended for the PM KUSUM Scheme implementation.


Bank Account Passbook:


Submit a copy of your bank account passbook or statement, reflecting your account details. This document is necessary to ensure that the financial benefits or subsidies under the scheme can be accurately disbursed to the designated bank account.


Declaration Form:


Fill out and submit the declaration form provided by the PM KUSUM Scheme authorities. This form usually includes information about your eligibility, consent for data processing, and compliance with the scheme's terms and conditions.


It is important to ensure that all submitted documents are valid, up-to-date, and comply with the specific requirements outlined by the scheme. Providing accurate and complete documentation helps facilitate a smooth application process and increases the likelihood of approval for participation in the PM KUSUM Scheme.


FAQs


🤔 Can we sell solar energy to the government of India?


😀Absolutely, farmers have the opportunity to sell solar energy directly to the government of India, as mentioned previously.


🤔Who is eligible under Component-A of the PM KUSUM Scheme?


😀Under Component-A of the PM KUSUM Scheme, eligibility extends to all farmers, whether individual or in groups, as well as cooperatives, panchayats, Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), and Water User Associations (UWAs). It is essential that the land where the solar project will be installed is within a 5 km radius of the nearest electricity substation.


🤔Who is eligible under Component-B and Component-C of the PM KUSUM Scheme?


😀Component-B and Component-C of the PM KUSUM Scheme extend eligibility to individual farmers, Water User Associations, and community/cluster-based irrigation systems. These components aim to provide support and benefits to a wider range of farmers and agricultural systems.


𝓠.Under which ministry was the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evem Utthan Mahabhiyan (PM KUSUM) Scheme launched?


𝓐.The Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evem Utthan Mahabhiyan (PM KUSUM) Scheme, launched by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), offers farmers the opportunity to install solar pumps and grid-connected solar and other renewable power plants across the nation.


The primary objective of the scheme is to enhance the country's renewable energy capacity by 25,750 MW by the year 2022. This ambitious target is supported by a total central financial assistance of Rs. 34,422 Crore, which includes service charges for the implementing agencies. It's important to note that the scheme has been extended until 31st March 2026 to ensure its continued impact and effectiveness.


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