Government’s solar pumps scheme for farmers creates job losses among EPC contractors

The Government’s Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha Evam Utthan Mahaabhiyan (PM-KUSUM) scheme was launched to encourage farmers to use solar electricity pumps instead of high-emitting diesel pumps.  The scheme also has a target to install 17.50 lakh solar pumps in Indian farms by 2022. The scheme creates lots of job losses among EPC contractors of agricultural solar pumps. Impact of job losses was more visible on players who were forced to lay off their employees and cut their total strength. The first tender was floated by EESL in August.  The scheme has a target to install 17.50 lakh solar pumps in Indian farms by 2022.  System integrators have barred and only manufacturers of solar pumps and panel are eligible to bid for the tenders.