PM-KUSUM (Syllabus: GS Paper 3 – Agriculture)

Context: A report by the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) reveals that the PM KUSUM scheme has reached only 30% of its targets after six years.

PM-KUSUM (Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha Evam Uttham Mahabhiyan)

• About: It  envisages income generation for farmers from their infertile land with the establishment of solar power plants.

o While the farmers can sell the power generated from the solar plants to the power distribution companies, the solar pumps can also be installed for irrigation of agricultural land.

• Origin: It was launched in 2019 by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE).
• Aim: To help farmers access reliable daytime solar power for irrigation, reduce power subsidies, and decarbonise agriculture. 
• State wise targets or fund allocation is not made under PM-KUSUM as it is a demand driven scheme.

Three Components

• Component A: 10,000 MW of Decentralized Ground Mounted Grid Connected Renewable Power Plants of individual plant size up to 2 MW.
• Component B: Installation of 14 lakh standalone Solar Powered Agriculture Pumps of individual pump capacity up to 7.5 HP.
• Component C: Solarisation of 35 Lakh Grid-connected Agriculture Pumps of individual pump capacity up to 7.5 HP.

Report of Centre for Science and Environment (CSE)

• The Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) conducted surveys in Haryana, Punjab, Rajasthan, and Chhattisgarh.
• The scheme has achieved only 30% of its targets after six years, with the 2026 deadline approaching.
• States like Haryana, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, and Uttar Pradesh are leading in implementation.
• Farmers who switched to solar water pumps report satisfaction due to easier daytime irrigation and fewer power cuts.
• An example from Aterna village in Haryana highlights the scheme's positive impact on farming efficiency.
• Financial Recommendations

o The CSE suggests allowing farmers to pay for solar pumps in instalments to enhance financial viability.

o The central government should increase financial support to states to cover rising solar module costs post-Covid.