PM-KUSUM scheme – Recent Updates

August 8, 2024

The PM-KUSUM scheme, started in 2019 to introduce solar energy in Indian agriculture, is facing difficulties. According to a report by the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE), only 30% of the scheme’s targets have been met. With the 2026 deadline approaching, improvements are urgently needed.

Overview of the PM-KUSUM Scheme

The scheme has three main parts:

Component A: Installing mini-grids on barren lands.
Component B: Replacing diesel water pumps with off-grid solar water pumps.
Component C: Replacing electric water pumps with on-grid solar pumps and creating mini-grids for agricultural solarisation.

Progress and Successes

Component B has made good progress in states like Haryana, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, and Uttar Pradesh. By replacing diesel pumps with solar-powered ones, farmers are saving up to Rs 55,000 annually. This also helps them avoid power cuts, making irrigation more reliable.

Challenges in Implementation

Cheap Electricity: The availability of inexpensive electricity makes farmers less interested in switching to solar pumps.
Pressure to Buy Larger Pumps: Farmers are often pressured to buy bigger pumps than they need, which increases their costs.
Centralisation: The centralized implementation process is inefficient and varies by state.

Recommendations for Improvement

The CSE report suggests several strategies to improve the scheme’s success:

Decentralisation: Allow local agencies with expertise to manage implementations more effectively.

Financial Viability: Offer installment payment options for upfront costs to make solar pumps more accessible to farmers.

Increased Central Assistance: Provide more financial support tailored to state-specific needs and solar module prices to reduce the financial burden on farmers.

These steps aim to make the PM-KUSUM scheme more effective and help meet its goals by the 2026 deadline.

« Previous Post Next Post »