PM-KUSUM Scheme: Get Solar Pumps for Farming with Govt Subsidy

 

Introduction

In a country where over 60% of the population depends on agriculture for livelihood, access to affordable and sustainable energy is crucial. Recognizing this, the Government of India launched the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthan Mahabhiyan (PM-KUSUM) scheme in 2019. In 2025, the scheme is playing an even more pivotal role by providing solar pumps to farmers with up to 90% subsidy.

This blog offers a detailed, professional overview of how farmers can benefit from the PM-KUSUM scheme in 2025. We’ll cover:

1.What the PM-KUSUM Scheme is

2.Objectives and benefits

3.Types of components under the scheme

4.How to apply online

5.Documents required

6.Common FAQs

                                                                          

What is the PM-KUSUM Scheme?

The PM-KUSUM scheme is a flagship program of the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), launched to:

Promote solar energy in agriculture

Reduce dependence on diesel-powered pumps

Ensure income security for farmers by enabling them to sell surplus electricity

Key Focus:

To install solar-powered irrigation pumps, grid-connected solar plants, and solarize existing agricultural pumps

Objectives of the PM-KUSUM Scheme

1. Energy Security: Providing farmers access to reliable solar energy for irrigation.

2. Financial Relief: Reducing the cost of diesel and electricity used in farming.

3. Environmental Sustainability: Reducing carbon emissions by promoting clean energy.

4. Income Generation: Allowing farmers to sell surplus power to DISCOMs.

Components of the PM-KUSUM Scheme (As of 2025)

The scheme has three major components:

Component A:

Installation of 10,000 MW of decentralized, grid-connected renewable energy plants on barren/fallow lands.

Farmers can lease land to developers or set up plants themselves.

Component B:

Installation of stand-alone solar pumps up to 7.5 HP.

Mainly for areas without grid access.

Component C:

Solarization of existing grid-connected agricultural pumps.

Farmers use solar energy for daytime irrigation and export surplus electricity.

                                                                             

                                                                         

Subsidy Structure in 2025

The subsidy pattern varies by state but typically follows:

60% subsidy by Central and State Governments

30% loan facility

10% farmer’s share

Example:
If a 5 HP solar pump costs ₹2.5 lakh:

Govt Subsidy = ₹1.5 lakh

Loan = ₹75,000

Farmer Pays = ₹25,000 only

                                                                      

Benefits for Farmers

Zero electricity bills for irrigation

Daytime reliable power supply

Minimal maintenance cost (5-7 years warranty)

Income from selling surplus energy

Reduced carbon footprint

Utilization of barren land

State-Wise Implementation

Some states have scaled up their adoption effectively:

Rajasthan:

Over 45,000 solar pumps installed

Additional land lease income via Component A

Maharashtra:

Special push in drought-prone Vidarbha region

Uttar Pradesh:

Simplified online application portal

Target to solarize 1 lakh pumps in 2025

Karnataka:

Subsidy increased to 90% for SC/ST farmers

How to Apply for PM-KUSUM Scheme

Step-by-Step Process:

1. Visit your State Renewable Energy Development Agency (SREDA) website (e.g., https://rreclmis.energy.rajasthan.gov.in/ for Rajasthan)

2. Register using Aadhaar and mobile number

3. Select pump capacity and component type

4. Upload documents

5. Pay farmer’s contribution (if applicable)

6. Wait for approval and installation

Documents Required

Aadhaar card

Land ownership papers or lease agreement

Bank account details (linked to Aadhaar)

Passport-size photo

Copy of electricity bill (if applicable)

Eligibility Criteria

Must be a farmer (individual/group/co-operative)

Owns agricultural land

In some states, preference is given to SC/ST/small and marginal farmers

Common Challenges & Solutions

ChallengeSolution

Awareness of the schemeLocal agri offices and Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) to conduct camps

Delay in approvalsStates streamlining online portals and reducing paperwork

Maintenance issuesMNRE-approved vendors provide free maintenance for 5 years

Conclusion

The PM-KUSUM Scheme is a golden opportunity for Indian farmers to transition toward sustainable, cost-effective farming practices. With a generous subsidy model, simplified applications, and proven results across states, solar irrigation is no longer a dream—it’s a reality.

If you're a farmer looking to reduce expenses and increase productivity, now is the best time to apply for PM-KUSUM and take control of your farm’s energy future.

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