New Delhi. The PM-Kusum scheme of the Central Government is considered very important for reducing the cost of irrigation in farming and connecting farmers with solar energy. Through this scheme, farmers can install solar pumps and reduce the expenditure on electricity or diesel. In some cases, solar energy can also open the way for additional earnings.
Financial assistance is available on solar pump
Under PM-KUSUM scheme, eligible farmers can get government assistance for solar pumps and solar energy related projects. The level of subsidy may vary as per the project, state and applicable rules. This helps farmers in reducing the initial cost of installing solar pumps.
Diesel and electricity costs will be less
Solar pumps generate electricity from sunlight to irrigate fields. This can reduce dependence on diesel pumps and also save on electricity costs. In the long run it can help farmers control irrigation expenses.
earning opportunity from vacant land
Under a part of the scheme, farmers can participate in projects related to setting up solar power plants on their barren or unusable land. There may also be an option to sell the power generated to discoms under prescribed arrangements. This can create a way for additional income from land.
Three main parts of the plan
Component A provides for the installation of solar power plants on land. Component B involves installation of standalone solar agriculture pumps, while Component C focuses on connecting already existing grid-connected agriculture pumps with solar energy.
Farmers must check the information related to application, eligibility and subsidy from the relevant agency of their state and the official information of the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy.