Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha Evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan (PM-KUSUM) Scheme

Introduction

The Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha Evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan (PM-KUSUM) is a flagship scheme launched by the Government of India in 2019 under the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE). The scheme aims to empower farmers by providing solar energy solutions, reduce their dependence on diesel and grid electricity, and promote clean and sustainable energy in the agricultural sector.

Objective of PM-KUSUM Scheme

The primary objective of PM-KUSUM is to ensure energy security for farmers, reduce the burden of electricity costs, and promote the use of solar energy for agricultural purposes. It aims to increase farmers’ income by allowing them to sell surplus solar power to the grid, thereby contributing to the goal of doubling farmers’ income by 2024.

Key Components of PM-KUSUM Scheme

The PM-KUSUM scheme is divided into three major components:

Component	Description
Component A	Installation of 10,000 MW of decentralized solar power plants (up to 2 MW capacity each) on barren or unused agricultural land.
Component B	Installation of 17.5 lakh standalone solar-powered agricultural pumps to reduce dependence on diesel pumps.
Component C	Solarization of 10 lakh existing grid-connected agricultural pumps, allowing farmers to use solar power and sell excess electricity to the grid.

Financial Allocation and Target

• Total Budget Allocation:
  • ₹34,422 Crore
• Target Year:
  • 2022 (Extended to 2026 due to COVID-19 pandemic)
• Total Capacity to be Installed:
  • 30.8 GW of solar power

Benefits of PM-KUSUM Scheme

For Farmers:

• Reduced electricity costs for irrigation.
• Increased income by selling surplus solar power to the grid.
• Energy independence and less reliance on diesel pumps.
• Utilization of barren and uncultivable land for solar projects.

For Environment:

• Reduction in carbon emissions by replacing diesel pumps with solar pumps.
• Promotion of clean and green energy in the agricultural sector.
• Conservation of groundwater through efficient solar-powered pumps.

For Government:

• Reduced burden on subsidized electricity for farmers.
• Promotion of renewable energy and sustainable agriculture.
• Contribution to India’s goal of achieving 500 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030.

Implementation Structure

• The implementation structure of the PM-KUSUM scheme is designed to financially support farmers in adopting solar energy solutions for irrigation.
• The Central Government provides a 60% subsidy, while the State Government offers 30% financial assistance, reducing the financial burden on farmers.
• The remaining 10% is contributed by the farmers themselves. Additionally, DISCOMs (Distribution Companies) play a key role by purchasing surplus solar power generated by farmers, allowing them to earn extra income.
• This structure ensures affordable solar infrastructure, reduces dependence on diesel pumps, and promotes renewable energy in the agricultural sector.

Stakeholders Involved	Role
Central Government	Provides 60% subsidy to farmers
State Government	Provides 30% financial support
Farmers’ Contribution	Only 10% of the total cost
DISCOMs (Distribution Companies)	Purchase surplus solar power from farmers

Progress and Achievements (2019-2024)

Year	Solar Capacity Installed
2019-20	2,000 MW
2020-21	5,500 MW
2021-22	9,000 MW
2022-23	15,000 MW
2023-24	21,000 MW (Target Achieved)

States Leading in PM-KUSUM Implementation

• Rajasthan
• Gujarat
• Maharashtra
• Madhya Pradesh
• Haryana

Challenges in PM-KUSUM Implementation

• High installation cost despite subsidies.
• Lack of awareness among farmers about the scheme.
• Limited availability of land for solar plants in some regions.
• Poor infrastructure and grid connectivity in rural areas.

Steps Taken to Overcome Challenges

• Simplified application process through online portals.
• State-level awareness campaigns to educate farmers.
• Support for small and marginal farmers with financial assistance.
• Private sector participation to boost solar infrastructure.

Impact of PM-KUSUM Scheme on Farmers

Impact Area	Positive Outcome
Electricity Cost	Reduced by 60-70%
Farmers’ Income	Increased by 40% due to surplus solar power sale
Diesel Pump Usage	Reduced by 50%
Groundwater Conservation	Improved through solar drip irrigation systems

Future Targets of PM-KUSUM Scheme

• Achieve 30.8 GW of solar power capacity by 2026.
• Solarize 35 lakh agricultural pumps across India.
• Provide sustainable income opportunities for farmers.
• Contribute to India’s target of 500 GW renewable energy by 2030.

Conclusion

The PM-KUSUM Scheme is a revolutionary step towards empowering Indian farmers, promoting clean energy, and ensuring energy security in the agricultural sector. By reducing farmers’ electricity costs, increasing their income, and contributing to India’s renewable energy goals, PM-KUSUM is paving the way for a sustainable and eco-friendly future for Indian agriculture. However, addressing the implementation challenges and increasing awareness among rural farmers is crucial for the successful execution of the scheme and achieving its full potential.

Quick Revision Table

Key Aspect	Details
Launched Year	2019
Ministry	Ministry of New and Renewable Energy
Budget	₹34,422 Crore
Target Capacity	30.8 GW Solar Power
Major Components	A – Solar Power Plants, B – Solar Pumps, C – Grid-connected Pumps
Farmers’ Contribution	10%
Leading States	Rajasthan, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Haryana
Target Year	2026