Punjab Energy Development Agency (PEDA) has announced the installation of 20,000 solar pumps for farmers throughout the state under the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthan Mahabhiyan (PM-KUSUM) scheme, marking a significant step toward promoting sustainable agriculture and reducing reliance on diesel pumps.
Online Applications Now Open
Farmers can now apply online for solar pumps ranging from 3 to 10 horsepower (HP) at www.pmkusum.peda.gov.in between September 9th and September 30th, 2024. The allocation of pumps will be on a first-come, first-served basis. The scheme covers both surface and submersible pumps, designed for a variety of irrigation needs.
Subsidies for Farmers
To make the transition easier for farmers, the government is offering a substantial subsidy. General category farmers can avail of a 60% subsidy on solar pump installations, while Scheduled Caste (SC) farmers are eligible for an 80% subsidy. This subsidy applies to all types of irrigation systems, including traditional open irrigation and micro-irrigation setups like drip and sprinkler systems.
Special Provisions for SC Farmers and Panchayats
Out of the 20,000 pumps, 2,000 units are reserved exclusively for SC farmers, and 3,000 units are allocated to Gram Panchayats. The scheme particularly targets areas classified as dark zones, where groundwater is over-exploited. In these regions, farmers who already have micro-irrigation systems in place will be given priority for pump installations.
Eligibility Criteria
Farmers using diesel pumps for irrigation, including water sourced from village ponds, farm ponds, and canal diggies, are eligible to apply. Additionally, farmers looking to install new bore wells or who are currently using diesel-powered systems will also benefit from the scheme.
However, farmers who already have Punjab State Power Corporation Limited (PSPCL) electric motor connections or have installed solar pumps in their name or the name of their family members are not eligible for this scheme.
How to Apply
Interested farmers can visit the official website www.pmkusum.peda.gov.in to access more information, check their eligibility, and download the scheme's brochure. Applications will be accepted until September 30th, 2024, so farmers are encouraged to act quickly to take advantage of this opportunity.
This initiative represents a golden opportunity for Punjab's farming community to adopt sustainable energy practices, reduce input costs, and contribute to a greener future for agriculture in the state.
