Kusum Yojana 2024: PM Kusum Yojana Online Registration, Eligibility and Benefits

Kusum Yojana Apply Online & Registration Form | Kusum Yojana Check Beneficiary Category & Last Date | Kusum Yojana Check Benefits & Features | Selection & Implementation Procedure | Kusum Yojana Check Eligibility & All Details |

The Kusum Yojana is a cool government initiative in India that’s all about promoting renewable energy sources, like solar power, in the agricultural sector. Started in 2018, this scheme is all about helping farmers get financial support to set up solar pumps and generate their own electricity, which they can even sell back to the grid. This article gives you the lowdown on the Kusum Scheme – its goals, who can benefit from it, how to apply, how they select participants, how they make it happen, who’s keeping an eye on things, the important rules to follow, and the key terms you need to know.

Kusum Yojana 

Have you heard of the Kusum Scheme in India? It’s also known as the Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan. This awesome government initiative aims to help farmers use solar power in their fields. Launched in 2018, the scheme offers financial and technical support to farmers for installing solar pumps and grid-connected solar power plants. Isn’t that cool?

The Indian government’s Kusum Yojana is a fantastic program that encourages farmers to use solar power in agriculture. By offering financial and technical assistance, the initiative helps farmers increase their income, lessen their reliance on traditional power sources, and adopt sustainable farming methods. This scheme not only helps farmers but also supports the growth of renewable energy in India. Great job, government.

Highlights of Kusum Yojana 2024

The highlights of this scheme are as follows:- 

Objectives of Kusum Yojana 2024

The Kusum Scheme has several key objectives that drive its implementation. Firstly, it aims to reduce the dependency of farmers on conventional sources of energy, such as diesel, for irrigation purposes. By promoting the use of solar pumps, the scheme aims to provide farmers with a reliable and cost-effective source of energy. This, in turn, helps in reducing the overall carbon footprint and contributes to the sustainable development of the agricultural sector.

Secondly, the scheme aims to increase farmers’ income by enabling them to sell excess electricity generated from solar pumps to the grid. This provides an additional source of revenue for farmers and encourages the adoption of renewable energy sources. Additionally, the scheme also aims to promote decentralized solar power generation, reducing transmission and distribution losses.

The Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthan Mahabhiyan (PM-Kusum) Yojana aims to empower farmers through solar energy adoption. Here are its top 10 objectives:-

• Promote Grid-Connected Solar Power Plants: Encourage farmers to install grid-connected solar power plants on their barren or uncultivated land. These plants will generate electricity and feed it back to the grid, earning farmers income through power purchase agreements.
• Reduce Dependence on Conventional Grid: Reduce farmers’ reliance on the conventional power grid, especially in areas facing frequent power outages, by providing them with a reliable source of electricity for irrigation and other farm operations.
• Supplement Farm Income: Provide farmers with an additional source of income through the sale of electricity generated by their solar power plants or through savings on electricity bills from using solar power for their own needs.
• Promote Sustainable Agriculture: Promote sustainable agriculture practices by reducing farmers’ dependence on fossil fuels and encouraging cleaner energy generation, thereby reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
• Enhance Irrigation Efficiency: Encourage the use of solar-powered water pumps for irrigation, leading to efficient water usage and reduced energy costs.
• Improve Water Security: Contribute to water security by reducing dependence on electricity-powered irrigation pumps, which can be unreliable in areas with erratic power supply.
• Reduce Grid Load: Reduce the load on the national grid by decentralizing power generation through small-scale solar power plants installed by farmers.
• Create Rural Jobs: Create employment opportunities in rural areas during the installation, operation, and maintenance of solar power plants.
• Empower Women Farmers: Empower women farmers by providing them with ownership and decision-making opportunities related to the installation and operation of solar power plants.
• Promote Skill Development: Promote skill development in rural areas by providing training opportunities in solar panel installation, operation, and maintenance.

Beneficiary Category

The Kusum Scheme is open to all categories of farmers across India. Small and marginal farmers, who often face challenges in accessing reliable and affordable energy sources, are particularly encouraged to participate in the scheme. By targeting this beneficiary category, the scheme aims to empower farmers and improve their overall livelihoods.

Application Enrollment Last Dates

The specific enrollment dates for the Kusum Scheme may vary from state to state. Farmers interested in participating in the scheme should visit the official website of their respective state’s nodal agency or the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) website for more information. It is important to note that enrollment for the scheme is time-bound, and farmers are advised to stay updated with the latest announcements and deadlines.

Selection Procedure

The selection of beneficiaries under the Kusum Scheme is done through a transparent and objective process. The nodal agency responsible for the implementation of the scheme assesses the applications received based on predefined criteria, such as land ownership, agricultural activities, and financial viability. The selected farmers are then eligible for financial support to install solar pumps and other related equipment.

Implementation Procedure

The implementation of the Kusum Scheme involves multiple stakeholders, including state nodal agencies, financial institutions, and technology providers. Once the beneficiaries are selected, the nodal agency facilitates the installation of solar pumps and provides the necessary financial support. The scheme also emphasizes the use of indigenous solar panels and pumps to promote domestic manufacturing and reduce dependence on imports.

Supervision Body

The Kusum Scheme is supervised and monitored by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) at the central level. State nodal agencies are responsible for the implementation and monitoring of the scheme at the state level. Regular inspections and evaluations are conducted to ensure the effective utilization of funds and adherence to the scheme’s guidelines.

Key Guidelines

The key guidelines of this scheme are as follows:-

• Financial support is provided for the installation of solar pumps, solarization of existing pumps, and setting up of grid-connected solar power plants.
• Only Indian-made solar panels and pumps are eligible for financial assistance under the scheme.
• Beneficiaries must ensure that the solar pumps are used for irrigation purposes and not for any other commercial activities.
• Proper maintenance and upkeep of the solar pumps are the responsibility of the beneficiaries.
• Beneficiaries are required to provide accurate and up-to-date information during the application process.
• The scheme promotes the use of drip irrigation and other water-saving techniques to optimize the use of solar pumps.
• Beneficiaries are encouraged to form farmer groups or cooperatives to maximize the benefits of the scheme.
• Financial assistance is provided in the form of upfront capital subsidy and interest subvention on loans.
• Beneficiaries are required to contribute a certain percentage of the total cost as their share of investment.
• The scheme provides for the monitoring and evaluation of installed solar pumps to ensure their efficient operation.

Components of the Kusum Yojana

The Kusum Scheme has three main components:-

• Solar Pumps: Under this component, farmers are provided with financial assistance to install solar pumps for irrigation purposes. These pumps are designed to run on solar power, thereby reducing the electricity bills of farmers and ensuring an uninterrupted power supply for irrigation.
• Grid-Connected Solar Power Plants: This component aims to encourage farmers to set up grid-connected solar power plants on their agricultural lands. The surplus power generated by these plants can be fed back into the grid, allowing farmers to earn additional income through the sale of electricity.
• Solarization of Existing Grid-Connected Agricultural Pumps: This component focuses on the solarization of existing grid-connected agricultural pumps. By installing solar panels on these pumps, farmers can reduce their electricity consumption and save on energy costs.

Solar Pumps Subsidy

One of the key features of the Kusum Yojana is the provision of subsidies for solar pumps. Under this scheme, farmers are encouraged to replace their diesel or electric pumps with solar-powered ones. The government provides financial assistance to cover a significant portion of the cost of installing solar pumps, making them more affordable and accessible for farmers.

Solarization of Grid-connected Pumps

In addition to promoting solar pumps, the Kusum Yojana also focuses on solarizing existing grid-connected pumps. By adding solar panels to these pumps, farmers can reduce their dependence on the electricity grid and generate their own clean energy. This not only reduces carbon emissions but also helps farmers save on electricity bills.

Solarization of Tube Wells

The Kusum Yojana also supports the solarization of tube wells, which are commonly used for irrigation purposes in rural areas. By installing solar panels to power these tube wells, farmers can reduce their reliance on diesel generators or grid electricity. This not only reduces costs but also ensures a more reliable and sustainable source of energy for irrigation.

Financial Assistance for Solar Energy Systems

Under the Kusum Yojana, financial assistance is provided to farmers for setting up solar energy systems on their agricultural land. This includes solar power plants, solar water pumps, and other solar energy infrastructure. The aim is to promote the use of clean energy and reduce the carbon footprint of agricultural activities.

Reduced Carbon Emissions

By promoting the use of solar energy in rural areas, the Kusum Yojana contributes to reducing carbon emissions. Traditional methods of irrigation and electricity generation in rural areas often rely on diesel or grid electricity, which are not only expensive but also contribute to air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. By transitioning to solar power, farmers can significantly reduce their carbon footprint and contribute to a cleaner environment.

Increased Income for Farmers

The adoption of solar power through the Kusum Yojana can also lead to increased income for farmers. Solar pumps and solarized irrigation systems reduce the cost of electricity or diesel, resulting in significant savings for farmers. Additionally, surplus solar power generated by farmers can be sold back to the grid, providing an additional source of income.

Water Conservation through Solar Power

Another benefit of the Kusum Yojana is water conservation. By using solar-powered pumps for irrigation, farmers can optimize water usage and reduce water wastage. Solar pumps can be easily switched on and off, allowing farmers to irrigate their fields at the most suitable times, thereby minimizing water evaporation and maximizing water efficiency.

Employment Generation in Solar Energy Sector

The Kusum Yojana not only benefits farmers but also creates employment opportunities in the solar energy sector. The installation, operation, and maintenance of solar pumps, solar power plants, and other solar energy systems require skilled technicians and workers. This helps in generating employment opportunities in rural areas, contributing to rural development and economic growth.

Grid Independence for Farmers

By adopting solar energy systems, farmers can achieve grid independence. They are no longer solely reliant on the electricity grid for their energy needs, which can be unreliable and subject to power cuts. Solar power provides a reliable and sustainable source of energy, ensuring that farmers have access to electricity and water for their agricultural activities, even in remote areas.

Rural Development through Clean Energy

The Kusum Yojana is a significant step towards rural development through the adoption of clean energy. By promoting solar power in rural areas, it not only improves the livelihoods of farmers but also contributes to a sustainable and environmentally friendly future. The use of solar energy reduces dependence on fossil fuels, improves energy access, and enhances the overall development of rural communities.

Benefits of Kusum Yojana 2024

The benefits of this scheme are as follows:-

• Financial Support: Under the Kusum Scheme, farmers receive financial assistance to install solar power plants on their farmland. This helps them generate their own electricity and reduce their dependence on the grid.
• Reduced Electricity Bills: By harnessing solar power, farmers can significantly reduce their electricity bills. The surplus energy generated can be sold back to the grid, further reducing their expenses.
• Additional Income: The Kusum Scheme allows farmers to earn additional income by selling the excess solar power generated to the government or power distribution companies.
• Water Pumping Solutions: The scheme provides farmers with solar-powered water pumps, reducing their reliance on diesel or electricity for irrigation purposes. This helps in conserving energy and reducing costs.
• Environmentally Friendly: Solar power is a clean and renewable energy source. By adopting solar technology, farmers contribute to reducing carbon emissions and mitigating climate change.
• Increased Crop Yield: Access to reliable and uninterrupted electricity for irrigation can lead to increased crop yield and improved agricultural productivity.
• Job Creation: The implementation of the Kusum Scheme creates job opportunities in the solar energy sector, contributing to rural employment and economic growth.
• Energy Security: By generating their own electricity through solar power, farmers become more self-reliant and less vulnerable to power outages or fluctuations in the grid supply.
• Reduced Dependence on Fossil Fuels: The Kusum Scheme encourages farmers to shift from diesel-powered pumps to solar-powered pumps, reducing the consumption of fossil fuels and promoting sustainable energy practices.
• Long-Term Savings: While the initial investment in solar power plants may be higher, the long-term savings in electricity bills and maintenance costs make it a financially viable option for farmers.

Features Of Kusum Yojana 2024

The features of this scheme are as follows:-

• Solar Pumps: The scheme provides subsidies for installing solar-powered irrigation pumps. This helps farmers reduce their dependence on diesel or grid electricity, leading to cost savings and a more sustainable farming practice.
• Solarization of Grid-connected Pumps: Under the Kusum Scheme, farmers can also solarize their existing grid-connected pumps. This enables them to generate their own electricity and sell the surplus to the grid, earning additional income.
• Solarization of Tube Wells: The scheme encourages the use of solar energy for powering tube wells, reducing the burden on traditional power sources and promoting a greener and more efficient irrigation system.
• Financial Assistance: The government provides financial assistance to farmers for installing solar pumps and other solar energy systems. This helps make the transition to solar power more affordable and accessible to farmers across the country.
• Reduced Carbon Emissions: By promoting the use of solar energy, the Kusum Scheme contributes to reducing carbon emissions and mitigating climate change. This aligns with the government’s commitment to clean and sustainable energy solutions.
• Increased Income for Farmers: With solar pumps and other solar energy systems, farmers can save on electricity costs and even earn additional income by selling surplus power to the grid. This helps improve their overall financial stability.
• Water Conservation: Solar pumps and solar-powered irrigation systems are more efficient in water usage compared to traditional methods. By encouraging the adoption of solar energy, the Kusum Scheme promotes sustainable water management practices in agriculture.
• Employment Generation: The implementation of the Kusum Scheme creates job opportunities in the solar energy sector, including installation, maintenance, and manufacturing of solar equipment. This helps boost the rural economy and supports the government’s Make in India initiative.
• Grid Independence: By generating their own electricity through solar power, farmers become less reliant on the grid. This ensures a more reliable and uninterrupted power supply for agricultural activities, even in remote areas.
• Rural Development: The Kusum Scheme aims to bring about holistic rural development by providing clean energy solutions to farmers.

Kusum Yojana Eligibility Criteria 

The applicants will need to follow the below-mentioned points to apply online for this scheme:-

• Residential Eligibility: You need to be a permanent resident of India to apply.
• Solar Power Plant Capacity: You can apply for solar power plants ranging from 0.5 MW to 2 MW capacity under the Kusum Yojana.
• Capacity Allocation: You can apply for a capacity of up to 2 MW based on your land holding or the capacity specified by the distribution corporation, whichever is less.
• Land Requirement: You will need approximately 2 hectares of land per MW for the installation.
• Financial Qualification: No financial qualification is required for the project through your own investment under this scheme.
• Developer Collaboration: If you choose a developer for the project, ensure that the developer’s net worth is Rs 1 crore per MW.

Important Documents 

Some of the important documents required to apply online for this scheme are as follows:-

• Aadhar Card
• Residence Certificate
• Income Certificate 
• Educational Certificates 
• Bank Account Details 
• Latest Passport Size Photos 
• Mobile No
• Email ID 

Kusum Yojana Apply Online 2024 

The applicants will need to follow the below-mentioned points to apply online:- 

• Visit the Official Website of the scheme.
• Click on the “Online Registration” option on the home page.

• Fill in the required information in the application form (Name, Address, Aadhar Card Number, Mobile Number, etc.).
• Click on the “Submit” button.
• After successful registration, submit 10% of the solar pump set cost to the approved suppliers.
• Solar pumps will be installed in your fields within a few days.

Procedure for Filing Grievance

The applicants can follow the below-mentioned points to file a grievance:-

• Visit the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy website.
• Click on “Public Grievance and Complaint Redressal Mechanism.”

• Fill in your Name, Email ID, Address, and Grievance Details.
• Click on “Submit.”

Submitting Feedback

The applicants can follow the below-mentioned points to submit feedback:-

• Visit the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy website.
• Click on the “Feedback” option.

• Enter Name, Email ID, Subject, and Feedback.
• Click on “Submit.”

Solar Rooftop Financial Calculator

The applicants can follow the below-mentioned points to use a calculator:-  

• Visit the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy website.
• Click on “Solar Rooftop Financial Calculator.”

• Select rooftop area, state, consumer category, etc.
• Click on “Calculate.”