PM KUSUM Scheme Explained: Solar Benefits for Indian Farmers

🌞 Introduction: What Is the PM KUSUM Scheme?

The PM KUSUM Scheme (Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan) is one of India’s most impactful government solar initiatives designed to support farmers. Launched to promote clean energy and reduce the financial burden of irrigation, this scheme enables farmers to adopt solar pumps, solar power plants, and grid-connected solar systems at highly subsidized rates.

The goal is simple:
✔ Reduce diesel dependency
✔ Lower electricity bills
✔ Increase farmers’ incomes
✔ Empower rural India with solar energy

🌱 Why the PM KUSUM Scheme Is a Game-Changer for Farmers

The scheme provides farmers with a range of powerful benefits:

✔ 1. Huge Subsidy Up to 60–70%

The Government of India offers a massive subsidy on solar pumps and solarization systems, making solar installations highly affordable.

✔ 2. Zero-Cost Irrigation

Farmers can irrigate their land using 100% free solar energy, eliminating dependence on electricity supply or diesel pumps.

✔ 3. Extra Income by Selling Solar Power

Under Component C, farmers can generate solar electricity and sell excess power to DISCOMs, creating a new income stream.

✔ 4. Low Maintenance & Long Life

Solar pumps have minimal maintenance and can last up to 25 years, making them a long-term investment.

✔ 5. Eco-Friendly Farming

Solar energy reduces carbon emissions and encourages sustainable agriculture.

⚡ Key Components of the PM KUSUM Scheme

The scheme is divided into three major parts:

🔹 Component A – Decentralized Solar Plants

Farmers, cooperatives, or panchayats can install solar power plants (500 kW–2 MW) on barren or unused land and sell electricity to the grid.

🔹 Component B – Standalone Solar Pumps

Farmers can install individual solar pumps (up to 7.5 HP) for irrigation with up to 70% subsidy.

🔹 Component C – Solarization of Existing Pumps

Existing grid-connected pumps can be solarized so farmers can use solar power for irrigation and sell surplus electricity to DISCOMs.

💰 Subsidy Details Under PM KUSUM

This makes solar pumps highly affordable and accessible across India.

🧑‍🌾 Who Can Apply for the PM KUSUM Scheme?

• Individual farmers

• Farmer groups

• FPOs (Farmer Producer Organizations)

• Panchayats

• Cooperatives

• Self-help groups

📄 Documents Required

To apply for the KUSUM solar scheme, farmers need:

• Aadhaar Card

• Bank passbook

• Land ownership proof

• Passport-size photo

• Mobile number

• Electricity bill (for solarization)

🖥️ How to Apply for PM KUSUM Scheme: Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these steps to apply easily:

Step 1 – Visit the Official Portal

Go to the MNRE or State Government’s Renewable Energy Department website.

Step 2 – Choose the KUSUM Component

Select Component A, B, or C based on your requirement.

Step 3 – Fill Out the Application Form

Enter personal details, land information, pump details, and bank details.

Step 4 – Upload Required Documents

Step 5 – Verification by Authorities

The application is reviewed by the district or state renewable energy body.

Step 6 – Subsidy Sanction & Installation

Once approved, installation begins through authorized vendors.

🌾 Benefits of Solar Pumps for Farmers

• No fuel cost

• No dependency on power cuts

• Annual savings up to ₹30,000–₹60,000

• Long-term reliability

• Increased crop productivity

• Environment-friendly irrigation

📌 Why Solar of India Supports KUSUM Scheme Implementation

Solar of India helps farmers with:

• Free consultation

• Accurate solar pump sizing

• Assistance with subsidy documentation

• Installation of MNRE-approved solar systems

• After-sales support & AMC

• Hassle-free process from start to finish

Our goal is to ensure every Indian farmer enjoys the benefits of solar energy.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. How much subsidy can a farmer get under PM KUSUM?

Farmers can receive up to 60–70% subsidy depending on the component.

2. What is the cost of a 5 HP solar pump after subsidy?

A 5 HP pump costs around ₹2–2.5 lakh after subsidy, depending on the state.

3. Can small farmers apply?

Yes, both small and marginal farmers are eligible.

4. Are loans available?

Yes, several banks and NBFCs offer loans for the remaining farmer contribution.

5. Is vendor selection important?

Yes, farmers must choose MNRE-approved vendors only.

🏁 Conclusion

The PM KUSUM Scheme is revolutionizing Indian agriculture by providing farmers with affordable, sustainable, and reliable solar energy solutions. With huge subsidies, free irrigation, and extra income opportunities, the scheme empowers farmers and strengthens rural India.

If you’re a farmer or know someone who can benefit, now is the perfect time to adopt solar power.