Nilanjan
The Kusum Yojana, initiated in 2023, aims to provide solar-powered pumps to farmers for irrigation. Under this scheme, the central and Rajasthan state governments will convert 3 million petrol and diesel irrigation pumps into solar energy pumps. This transition will significantly impact farmers who previously used fossil fuels to power their pumps, making them more environmentally friendly and cost-effective.
In the first phase of the Kusum Yojana, 1.75 million such pumps will be converted to solar energy. Rajasthan’s farmers stand to benefit significantly from this scheme, with an initial budget allocation of Rs. 50,000 crores dedicated to installing solar pumps and promoting solar products in the state.
What are the features of Kusum Yojana 2023?
- Solar Pump Distribution: The first phase of the scheme involves the successful distribution of solar-powered pumps in collaboration with various government departments.
- Solar Energy Plants: The establishment of solar energy plants capable of producing sufficient electricity.
- Tubewell Installation: The setup of tubewells to generate electricity.
- Modernization of Existing Pumps: Older pumps will be replaced with new solar pumps.
Who are the beneficiaries of Kusum Yojana 2023?
The Kusum Yojana will benefit:
- Farmers
- Farmer groups
- Cooperative societies
- Panchayats
- Farmer producer organizations
- Water consumer associations
Kusum Yojana Application and Fee 2023
Applicants can apply online or offline for the Kusum Yojana. The application fee for solar energy plant installation is Rs. 5,000 per megawatt, plus applicable GST. The fee can be paid through a demand draft in favor of the Rajasthan Akshay Urja Nigam Ltd. Applicants with land leases will be listed on the official website, and registered applicants can apply for solar plant installation.
The Kusum Yojana offers significant financial assistance, with the central and state governments contributing 30% of the total cost. The remaining 30% can be financed through loans from NABARD or other financial institutions. Additional earnings can be obtained by selling surplus electricity to the grid.
This scheme not only provides affordable electricity to farmers but also empowers them to earn additional income by generating and selling electricity. Rajasthan leads the way in implementing this solar energy initiative, which promises to bring prosperity and sustainability to the agriculture sector.
The Kusum Yojana 2023 is a government scheme in India that provides benefits to farmers. Here are some of the benefits and eligibility criteria for the scheme:
What are the benefits of Kusum Yojana 2023?
- Solar Irrigation Pumps at Subsidized Prices: The scheme provides solar irrigation pumps at subsidized rates to farmers, helping them switch from diesel-powered pumps to solar-powered ones.
- Solarization of Agricultural Pumps: Under this scheme, around 10 lakh agricultural pumps connected to the grid will be solarized, reducing diesel consumption and promoting sustainable farming practices.
- Improved Agricultural Practices: By using solar energy to power pumps, farmers can have easier and more reliable access to irrigation, leading to improved crop yields and agricultural practices.
- Additional Electricity Generation: The scheme aims to generate excess electricity from solar panels, which farmers can sell to government or non-government electricity departments. This additional income can support their farming endeavors.
- Financial Assistance: Farmers are eligible for financial assistance to install solar panels. The government provides 60% of the financial support, while banks offer 30% as a loan, and the remaining 10% is the farmer’s contribution.
- Suitable for Drought-Prone and Electrification-Challenged Areas: The scheme is particularly beneficial for regions that face drought and those with electricity supply issues, as it ensures continuous power supply for irrigation.
- Land Utilization: Solar panels can be installed in barren land, enabling farmers to utilize such land and generate additional income from it.
MP Kusum Yojana Eligibility Criteria 2023
- The applicant must be a permanent resident of India.
- Applicants can apply for solar energy systems with a capacity ranging from 0.5 Megawatts to 2 Megawatts.
- The applicant can apply based on their land’s capacity or the capacity specified by the distribution company, whichever is lower. Typically, for every Megawatt of capacity, around 2 hectares of land is required.
- No specific financial eligibility is required, and the scheme is open to those who wish to invest their own funds or work with developers.
Important Documents:
To apply for the Kusum Yojana, applicants typically need to provide the following documents:
- Aadhar card
- Ration card
- Registration copy
- Authorization letter
- Land title copy
- Net worth certificate issued by a chartered accountant (if using a developer for the project)
- Mobile number
- Bank account details
- Passport-size photographs
How to apply for MP Kusum Yojana 2023 online?
To apply for the Kusum Yojana in various states like Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Haryana. Interested candidates can follow the process given below:
1. Visit the Official Website:
Visit the official website of the Kusum Yojana for the specific state you are inquiring about.
2. Navigate to Registration:
On the home page, look for an option related to registration or online application.
3. Fill in the MP Kusum Yojana Application Form:
Click on the “Online Registration” or “Apply for Kusum Yojana” link.
Fill in all the required information in the application form. This typically includes details like your name, address, Aadhar card number, mobile number, and other relevant information.
4. Upload Documents:
You will usually be required to upload important documents, such as Aadhar card, ration card, registration copy, authorization letter, land title copy, and other documents as specified.
5. Submit the Kusum Yojana 2023 Application:
After completing the form and uploading the necessary documents, click the “Submit” button.
6. Await Approval:
Once you submit your application, it will be reviewed. If your application is approved, you will receive instructions on how to proceed.
7. Installation of Solar Pump:
In a few days or weeks, depending on the specific state’s procedures, the solar pump will be installed in your fields.
How to Fill Grievances under the MP Kusum Scheme?
- Visit the official website of the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy.
- On the homepage, look for the “Public Grievance and Complaint Redressal Mechanism” option.
- On the “Public Grievance and Complaint Redressal Mechanism” page, enter your name, email ID, address, grievance details, and other required information.
- Review the information you’ve provided for accuracy.
- Click on the “Submit” option to file your grievance.
How to Provide Feedback?
- To provide feedback, return to the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy’s official website.
- On the homepage, locate the “Feedback” option.
- In the “Feedback” section, enter your name, email ID, subject, and the feedback you want to provide.
- Double-check the information you’ve entered.
- Click on the “Submit” option to provide your feedback.
How to Use the Solar Rooftop Financial Calculator?
- Visit the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy’s official website.
- On the homepage, find the “Solar Rooftop Financial Calculator” option.
- Access the solar rooftop financial calculator.
- Select the rooftop area, state, consumer category, and other relevant details as required.
- Click on the “Calculate” option to generate the financial information you need.
MP Kusum Yojana Helpline Number
- Contact Number: 011-243600707, 011-24360404
- Toll-Free Number: 18001803333
Conclusion
The Kusum Yojana 2023 represents a significant step towards transforming the agricultural landscape of India, particularly in states like Rajasthan. This ambitious government scheme introduces solar-powered irrigation pumps to provide sustainable and cost-effective energy solutions to farmers. The benefits are manifold, not only reducing dependence on fossil fuels but also fostering improved agricultural practices and additional income sources.
The application process is relatively straightforward, allowing farmers to access financial assistance from both the central and state governments, as well as financial institutions. With the support of this initiative, the agriculture sector in Rajasthan is poised for prosperity and sustainability, demonstrating a commitment to green energy and economic empowerment.
As the Kusum Yojana 2023 continues to gain momentum, it serves as a shining example of how innovative government schemes can positively impact the lives of farmers and contribute to the broader goals of sustainability and environmental responsibility. This visionary program not only illuminates fields with solar power but also illuminates the path towards a brighter and more prosperous future for India’s agriculture.
