PM-KUSUM: Solar Energy for Farmers
TOPIC CLASSIFICATION
Subject: Governance | Topic: Renewable Energy & Agriculture Sub-topic: PM-KUSUM Scheme — Solar pumps, grid-connected solar, farmer energy security Prelims Focus: Three components of PM-KUSUM, target capacity, implementing agency, subsidy pattern Mains Focus: Impact on farmer income, groundwater sustainability, energy security, implementation challenges
EXAMINER REASONING
PM-KUSUM (Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan) is a unique scheme linking agriculture, energy, and environment. UPSC tests its three-component structure in Prelims and its role in achieving India's 500 GW renewable target, reducing groundwater over-extraction, and augmenting farmer income in Mains.
Core Concept
PM-KUSUM was launched in 2019 by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) to promote solar energy adoption among farmers. The scheme aims to add solar capacity of 30.8 GW by 2027 and provide energy security to farmers.
Three Components
| Component | Description | Target |
|---|---|---|
| Component A | Grid-connected renewable power plants (0.5–2 MW) on barren/fallow land | 10 GW |
| Component B | Standalone solar agriculture pumps (individual farmers) | 20 lakh pumps |
| Component C | Grid-connected solar pumps (individual/community) — feed surplus to grid | 15 lakh pumps |
Financial Structure
- Central subsidy: 30% of benchmark cost (or ₹30,000 per hp for pumps)
- State subsidy: 30% (varies by state)
- Farmer contribution: Remaining 40% (can be availed via bank loan)
- ₹34,422 crore (Central share: ₹19,300 crore)