PM KUSUM Scheme : Are You a Farmer ? : Earn up to 1 Lakh : Who Can Apply For This Scheme? : Comprehensive Guide

PM KUSUM Scheme : Agriculture is the backbone of India’s economy, and farmers play a vital role in ensuring the nation’s growth and sustenance. However, the agricultural sector often struggles with challenges such as underutilized land, high operational costs, and limited access to energy. To address these issues and promote sustainable practices, the Government of India introduced the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha Evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan (PM KUSUM) scheme in 2019.

This initiative aims to encourage farmers to harness solar energy for their agricultural and financial benefit. With the promise of earning ₹60,000 to ₹1,00,000 annually for up to 25 years, PM KUSUM is a revolutionary step toward empowering farmers and fostering renewable energy solutions.

Overview of the PM KUSUM Scheme

PM KUSUM is a government-backed program designed to promote the adoption of solar technology among farmers. The initiative offers dual benefits:

1. Farmers can lease their land for solar power plants or install solar pumps for irrigation.
2. Farmers can sell surplus electricity generated by solar plants to discoms (distribution companies), ensuring a steady source of income.

The program has three primary objectives:

• Reduce the dependence on diesel generators for irrigation.
• Enhance the financial stability of farmers.
• Contribute to India’s renewable energy goals by promoting green energy solutions.

The scheme targets unproductive or fallow lands, transforming them into valuable assets that generate income and support agricultural activities.

Income Potential Under PM KUSUM

Farmers participating in the scheme can earn between ₹60,000 and ₹1,00,000 per year by selling the electricity generated through solar power plants. This income stream is guaranteed for 25 years, making it a long-term financial benefit.

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Additionally, farmers can utilize solar-powered pumps for irrigation, reducing their dependence on conventional diesel generators. This not only saves fuel costs but also minimizes environmental pollution.

Subsidy Structure

To make the scheme more accessible, the government provides a subsidy of 30% of the total cost. This subsidy is shared equally between the central and state governments. Farmers are required to cover 40% of the cost, which can be financed through bank loans with a repayment period of 30 years.

Key Benefits of the PM KUSUM Scheme

1. Financial Independence for Farmers

The scheme ensures a steady income for farmers through the sale of surplus solar electricity. This financial stability enables farmers to reinvest in their agricultural activities or improve their standard of living.

2. Reduction in Fuel Costs

With solar-powered pumps, farmers can eliminate their reliance on diesel generators, which are costly and environmentally harmful. This transition significantly reduces operational expenses.

3. Promotion of Renewable Energy

The scheme aligns with India’s renewable energy goals by promoting the use of solar power in agriculture. It helps reduce the carbon footprint and contributes to combating climate change.

4. Utilization of Fallow Lands

Unproductive lands, often left unused, can be transformed into solar power plants, generating income for farmers while contributing to the energy grid.

5. Subsidized Costs and Easy Financing

The government’s subsidy and financing options make the scheme accessible to small and marginal farmers, ensuring inclusivity and widespread adoption.

Sections of the PM KUSUM Scheme

The PM KUSUM scheme is divided into three main components, each targeting specific areas of development:

Component A: Solar Power Generation

• Farmers, cooperatives, developers, and panchayats can set up solar power plants with a capacity of up to 10,000 MW.
• The electricity generated can be sold to discoms, providing a sustainable income source.

Component B: Solar Pumps in Off-Grid Areas

• Farmers in areas without grid connectivity can install standalone solar pumps.
• These pumps provide reliable irrigation facilities, enhancing agricultural productivity in remote locations.

Component C: Solarizing Grid-Connected Pumps

• About 35 lakh existing grid-connected agricultural pumps will be converted to solar-powered systems.
• This reduces the load on the grid and promotes the use of clean energy.

Eligibility Criteria for PM KUSUM

Farmers and entities interested in participating in the scheme must meet the following eligibility requirements:

1. Land Ownership:
   Applicants must own the land they intend to lease or use for solar power plants. Preference is given to undeveloped lands located in rural areas.
2. Proximity to Electrical Substations:
   The land should be within a 5-kilometer radius of an electrical substation to facilitate grid connectivity.
3. Required Documentation:
   • Proof of land ownership or lease agreements.
   • Bank account details.
   • Identification documents, such as Aadhaar card, voter ID, PAN card, and driver’s license.
   • Address proof and passport-sized photographs.
4. Other Criteria:
   Applicants must submit a self-declaration form and, if applicable, GST registration details.

How to Apply for the PM KUSUM Scheme

Farmers and eligible entities can follow these steps to apply for the scheme:

Step 1: Visit the Official Website

Go to the PM KUSUM Scheme Udyogya website. The application link is available on the portal.

Step 2: Choose an Option

Applicants can choose between two options:

• Leasing their land for solar power plants.
• Installing solar-powered farm pumps for irrigation.

Step 3: Fill Out the Application

Provide all required information, including personal details, land details, and identification documents.

Step 4: Verify Information

Double-check the application for any errors before submission.

Step 5: Submit the Application

After submitting the application, applicants will receive a registration number via message, confirming the completion of the process.

Environmental and Economic Impact

The PM KUSUM scheme has far-reaching benefits for both the environment and the economy.

1. Environmental Benefits:

• Reduction in carbon emissions by replacing diesel generators with solar-powered systems.
• Contribution to sustainable energy goals by increasing solar energy production.

2. Economic Benefits:

• Creation of jobs in rural areas through the installation and maintenance of solar power plants.
• Boost to the rural economy as farmers gain additional income sources.

Challenges and Future Prospects

While the PM KUSUM scheme has immense potential, it faces certain challenges, such as:

• High initial costs despite subsidies.
• Limited awareness among farmers about the scheme.
• Maintenance of solar power systems in remote areas.

To address these challenges, the government can focus on:

• Increasing awareness campaigns to educate farmers about the benefits and application process.
• Simplifying the financing process to make it more accessible.
• Enhancing support for the maintenance and repair of solar systems.

PM KUSUM Scheme – Conclusion :

The PM KUSUM scheme is a transformative initiative that empowers farmers while promoting renewable energy. By offering financial independence, reducing fuel costs, and utilizing unproductive lands, the scheme aligns with India’s goals of sustainable development and energy security.

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Farmers have the opportunity to become energy producers, contributing to the national grid and earning a stable income. With proper implementation and continued government support, the PM KUSUM scheme can revolutionize agriculture and renewable energy in India, ensuring a brighter and more sustainable future for all.