Govt to Launch Updated PM KUSUM Yojana 2.0 in India

The government is preparing to launch a new, enhanced version of the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan, popularly known as PM KUSUM 2.0. This updated scheme will bring a significant new focus on agri-PV (agricultural photovoltaic) systems, allowing farmers to generate electricity directly from their fields while continuing agricultural activities on the same land. This is a crucial development for farmers looking to reduce irrigation costs, earn additional income by selling surplus power, and embrace sustainable farming practices across rural India.

What is PM KUSUM Yojana?

Launched in 2019 with an outlay of Rs 34,422 crore, the PM KUSUM scheme aims to integrate renewable energy into the agriculture sector. Its primary goals include:

• Encouraging the use of solar energy for irrigation.
• Helping farmers reduce their dependency on diesel pumps and costly grid electricity.
• Adding 34,800 MW of solar capacity by March 2026.
• Providing financial stability to farmers by enabling them to sell surplus solar power to the grid.

Under the original scheme, significant progress has been made, with more than 10 lakh standalone solar agricultural pumps installed and over 13 lakh grid-connected agricultural pumps solarised nationwide. These initiatives have empowered countless farmers to manage their irrigation needs more efficiently and sustainably.

PM KUSUM 2.0: The New Focus on Agri-PV

Union Minister Pralhad Joshi announced that the government is preparing for PM KUSUM 2.0, responding to requests from various states and the nearing deadline of the current scheme. The second version is expected to feature higher targets and a larger financial outlay, with a landmark addition:

• A dedicated 10 GW agri-PV component to promote the co-location of solar panels with crops.

This innovative agri-PV approach will allow farmers to utilize their land for both agriculture and solar power generation simultaneously, maximizing land productivity and creating a new model for decentralized renewable energy generation in rural India.

Key Features of PM KUSUM 2.0 (Expected)

While specific guidelines for PM KUSUM 2.0 are awaited, based on the minister’s statements and the scheme’s objectives, key features are likely to include:

• Higher Targets: Increased goals for solar capacity addition in the agriculture sector.
• Enhanced Outlay: A larger budget to support the expanded scope and new components.
• Agri-PV Integration: Direct support and incentives for farmers to install solar panels on their farmland without hindering cultivation.
• Decentralized Energy Generation: Strengthening rural energy independence and grid stability.
• Continued Support for Solar Pumps: Ongoing installation of standalone and grid-connected solar pumps.

Benefits for Farmers

The launch of PM KUSUM 2.0 with its strong focus on agri-PV promises multiple benefits for farmers:

• Reduced Irrigation Costs: Farmers can significantly cut down on expenses associated with diesel or electricity for irrigation pumps.
• Additional Income Source: Selling surplus electricity generated from agri-PV systems to the grid can provide a stable, supplementary income.
• Sustainable Farming: Promotes environmentally friendly practices by reducing carbon footprint and conserving energy.
• Energy Security: Ensures a reliable power supply for agricultural activities, especially in remote areas.
• Optimal Land Utilization: Agri-PV allows for dual use of agricultural land, enhancing overall productivity.
• Financial Stability: Schemes like Kisan Credit Card and new avenues for income via solar energy contribute to farmer welfare.

Who is Eligible for PM KUSUM?

While the precise eligibility criteria for PM KUSUM 2.0 will be detailed upon its official launch, the original scheme generally included:

• Individual Farmers
• Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs)
• Panchayats
• Co-operative Societies
• Water User Associations (WUAs)

The scheme typically supports farmers in replacing existing diesel pumps with solar pumps, or solarizing grid-connected pumps. Land availability for solar panel installation is a key factor.

How to Apply for PM KUSUM

The application process for PM KUSUM 2.0 is expected to follow a similar structure to the existing scheme, likely involving online registration through designated state portals. Farmers should keep the following ready:

• Land Documents: Proof of land ownership or lease.
• Aadhaar Card: For identity verification.
• Bank Account Details: For subsidy disbursement.
• Existing Pump Details: If replacing or solarizing an old pump.

Detailed application guidelines, including the specific documents required and the official portal for apply online, will be announced by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) and state implementing agencies once PM KUSUM 2.0 is officially rolled out. Farmers are advised to look for official notifications from their state agriculture departments. For broader farmer support, schemes like PM Kisan also offer significant benefits.

Kisan Portal Analysis: What This Means for Farmers

The impending launch of PM KUSUM 2.0 marks a significant step forward in India’s journey towards sustainable agriculture and rural energy independence. The dedicated 10 GW agri-PV component is a game-changer, moving beyond just solarizing pumps to integrating solar power generation directly into the farming landscape. This offers farmers not just energy savings but a viable new income stream, potentially transforming agricultural economics in many regions. It aligns with the broader vision of doubling farmer incomes and providing comprehensive support, much like the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana protects against crop losses. Farmers should actively engage with state agencies as soon as the detailed scheme guidelines are released to understand how they can leverage this opportunity for both agricultural productivity and energy self-sufficiency.

Looking Ahead

PM KUSUM 2.0 is poised to be a pivotal scheme for Indian agriculture, fostering energy transition while enhancing farmer livelihoods. Farmers are encouraged to stay updated with official announcements from the MNRE and their respective state governments for details on eligibility, application procedures, and the benefits tailored for them under this ambitious new phase of the PM KUSUM scheme.