Pradhan Mantri KUSUM Yojana: Government's Initiative to Boost Farmer Income and Enhance Agricultural Efficiency

The Pradhan Mantri Kusum Yojana (PM Kusum) scheme is a significant initiative launched by the Government of India to provide reliable day-time power supply for irrigation, reduce the subsidy burden on distribution companies (Discoms), and provide additional sources of income to farmers. This scheme has multifaceted benefits that aim to transform the agricultural landscape in the country.

Introduction to PM KUSUM Yojana

The Pradhan Mantri Kusum Yojana scheme was introduced by the Indian government in 2019. This initiative was designed to increase the income of farmers and provide seeds for fertilization, as well as de-dieselize the farm sector. The primary goal of the PM KUSUM scheme is to add solar and other renewable capacities of 25750 MW by 2022. With a central financial support of Rs. 34422 Crore, the scheme aims to achieve its objectives through a well-structured approach.

Components of PM KUSUM Scheme

The PM KUSUM scheme is divided into three key components, all of which are crucial for achieving the scheme's objectives.

Component A: Renewable Energy Farmers’ Scholarship Scheme (REFS)

Component A, the Renewable Energy Farmers’ Scholarship Scheme (REFS), aims to install 100,000 kW of standalone solar pump sets and support the installation of 6150 grid-connected solar pumps across the country. This initiative ensures that farmers can benefit directly from the solar power they generate, thereby reducing dependency on diesel and increasing their income.

Component B: Grid-Connected Solar Pump Scheme (GSPS)

Component B, the Grid-Connected Solar Pump Scheme (GSPS), focuses on replacing diesel pumps with grid-connected solar pumps. This strategy not only reduces the operational costs for farmers but also helps in reducing carbon emissions and ensuring a sustainable environment. The scheme has a target of installing 25,000 MW of grid-connected solar pumps by 2022.

Component C: Solarization of electric grid poles (S-GPOLE)

Component C, the Solarization of electric grid poles (S-GPOLE), aims to convert 27,000 km of electricity transmission and distribution lines into solarized poles. This component not only enhances the reliability of the grid but also provides additional solar capacity to the grid, making it a more resilient and sustainable power supply system.

Implementation and Administration

The administrative approval for the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evem Utthan Mahabhiyan (PM KUSUM) Scheme was issued on March 8, 2019. The scheme is designed to provide a reliable source of irrigation and de-dieselize the farm sector, thereby enhancing the overall productivity and income of farmers.

Benefits of PM KUSUM Scheme

The benefits of the PM KUSUM scheme are manifold:

Increased farmer income: Farmers can save on operational costs by using solar pumps instead of diesel pumps, thus increasing their net income. Sustainable power supply: The scheme promotes the installation of solar and other renewable energy sources, ensuring a sustainable and reliable power supply for irrigation. Reduction in carbon emissions: The replacement of diesel pumps with solar pumps significantly reduces carbon emissions, contributing to environmental sustainability. Reliability of irrigation: The initiative aims to provide a reliable source of irrigation, which is crucial for ensuring consistent agricultural productivity.

How to Apply for PM KUSUM Scheme

Interested farmers can apply for the PM KUSUM scheme through the following steps:

Visit the official website: Navigate to the website of the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE). Register your interest: Fill out the online application form with your details and the type of project you wish to undertake. Submit documentation: Provide the required documentation, including proof of land ownership, identity proof, and details of the solar pump or grid-connected solar pump you plan to install. Approve and confirm: The authorities will review your application and confirm the approval. After approval, you will receive the necessary financial support.

Conclusion

Pradhan Mantri KUSUM Yojana is a commendable initiative that addresses the multifaceted challenges faced by rural India. By promoting the use of solar and renewable energy, the scheme not only enhances agricultural productivity but also contributes to the nation's renewable energy goals. For more detailed information and application procedures, refer to the official website of the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy.