This content was recently updated by Sudhir Singh on April 14, 2025 to improve accuracy.
Looking to switch to solar energy for your farm? Learn how to apply for a solar pump subsidy under the PM-KUSUM scheme with this easy step-by-step guide for farmers.
What is the PM-KUSUM Scheme and How It Benefits Farmers
The Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan (PM-KUSUM) is a flagship scheme by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) launched to empower farmers through solar energy. It aims to install solar pumps and grid-connected renewable power systems to reduce farmersтАЩ dependency on costly diesel or unreliable grid electricity.
Under the PM-KUSUM scheme, farmers can:
- Install standalone solar pumps with heavy government subsidies
- Convert existing diesel pumps to solar
- Sell surplus solar power back to the grid, earning extra income
This initiative empowers farmers to lower their irrigation costs while championing sustainable agriculture through the embrace of clean energy.
Who Is Eligible for Solar Pump Subsidy Under PM-KUSUM?
The solar pump subsidy PM-KUSUM is open to a broad section of the rural population, but with specific eligibility criteria to ensure it reaches the right beneficiaries.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Must be an Indian farmer, including individuals, groups, cooperatives, or Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs)
- Should own agricultural land with access to water sources
- Should not already have access to a reliable electricity grid connection for irrigation
- Preference is given to:
- Small and marginal farmers
- Women farmers
- Areas with low irrigation coverage
- Regions dependent on diesel pumps
Types of Pumps Supported:
- Standalone Solar Pumps: 2 HP to 7.5 HP for off-grid areas
- Grid-connected Solar Pumps: Up to 10 HP for grid-tied systems
Farmers must also agree to share a portion of the cost (usually 10%) and allow monitoring by nodal agencies.
Step-by-Step Process to Apply for Solar Pump Subsidy PM -KUSUM
The application process is mostly online and state-specific, with centralized guidance from MNRE. HereтАЩs how to do it correctly:
Step 1: Visit Your State Nodal Agency Portal
Each state has its Renewable Energy Development Agency responsible for PM-KUSUM implementation.
Examples:
- Maharashtra: mahaurja.com
- Rajasthan: rreclmis.energy.rajasthan.gov.in
- Uttar Pradesh: upneda.org.in
- Haryana: hareda.gov.in
Visit your respective stateтАЩs renewable energy website and navigate to the PM-KUSUM application section.
Step 2: Online Registration
Fill out the application form with the following details:
- FarmerтАЩs name, address, Aadhaar number
- Land ownership information
- Bank account details (for subsidy transfer)
- Type of pump and capacity required
- Mobile number and email ID
Upload supporting documents (discussed in the next section).
Step 3: Select Empaneled Vendor
Once registered, youтАЩll receive a list of MNRE-approved vendors who will supply and install the solar pump.
- Contact vendors to get quotes and service agreements
- Choose one based on budget and technical fit
Note: Only empaneled vendors are eligible for subsidy disbursement.
Step 4: Deposit Farmer Share
After vendor selection, youтАЩll be asked to deposit 10% to 30% of the total cost as your share. This varies by state and beneficiary category.
Once the payment is confirmed, the vendor begins the installation process.
Step 5: Installation and Inspection
- The selected vendor installs the solar pump on your land
- State nodal agency officials inspect the setup
- If approved, the remaining 60% to 70% subsidy is paid directly to the vendor by the government
YouтАЩll also receive training on how to maintain the pump and use it efficiently.
Documents Required for PM-KUSUM Solar Pump Application
To ensure your application is processed without delay, keep the following documents ready in PDF or scanned format:
| Document | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Aadhaar Card | Identity verification |
| Land Ownership Proof | Land records, pattadar passbook, or Khasra-Khatauni |
| Bank Passbook Copy | For subsidy transfer and account linkage |
| Latest Electricity Bill (if applicable) | Verifies existing power source |
| Photo of the Site | Where the pump is to be installed |
| Farmer Declaration Form | Agreement to abide by PM-KUSUM terms |
| Caste or Income Certificate (if applicable) | For extra subsidies under reserved categories |
Upload all documents during the online application or submit them physically if asked by local offices.
Costs, Subsidy Rates, and Payment Process Explained
Understanding the financial breakdown helps farmers plan better.
Total Cost Structure:
| Component | Approximate Share |
|---|---|
| Farmer Contribution | 10% to 30% |
| State Government Subsidy | 30% (varies by state) |
| Central Government Subsidy (MNRE) | 30% to 60% |
| Total Subsidy | Up to 90% |
Example: For a тВ╣2.5 lakh solar pump system, a farmer may pay only тВ╣25,000тАУтВ╣50,000.
Subsidy Disbursement:
- Paid directly to the vendor upon installation and inspection
- No need for the farmer to handle the full amount upfront
- Payment done via Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) for farmer share (if refundable in some states)
Timeline:
- Application to approval: 1тАУ2 months
- Installation after payment: 15тАУ30 days
- Total process time: 2тАУ3 months, depending on location
Conclusion
With rising electricity costs and unreliable irrigation power in many rural regions, switching to solar is no longer a luxuryтАФitтАЩs a necessity. The PM-KUSUM scheme is a game-changing initiative that lets farmers reduce operational costs, avoid power cuts, and even earn money by selling excess solar power.
If youтАЩre eligible, donтАЩt miss this opportunity to apply for the solar pump subsidy PM-KUSUM. The application is simple, the benefits are huge, and the impact on your farming income can be transformative.
By following this guide step-by-step, you can confidently navigate the process, select the right vendor, and begin your solar-powered journey towards more sustainable and profitable farming in 2025.
FAQs
Who is eligible for the PM-KUSUM solar pump scheme?
Any Indian farmer, especially small and marginal landholders, with valid land ownership documents and water access.
Is there a deadline to apply for the PM-KUSUM scheme?
The scheme is ongoing, but each state has its own registration cycles and batch limits. Apply early in the fiscal year.
Can I convert my diesel pump to a solar pump under PM-KUSUM?
Yes, under Components B and C of the scheme, farmers can retrofit or replace diesel pumps with solar units.
How much subsidy is provided under PM-KUSUM?
Up to 90% of the total system cost is subsidized by the central and state governments combined.
Do I need a large area of land to install a solar pump?
No, the setup requires minimal space near the borewell or pump site. Vendors can assess your land suitability.
Where can I find my state’s PM-KUSUM registration link?
Visit your stateтАЩs renewable energy department or nodal agency website. MNRE also lists state contacts at mnre.gov.in.
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