Scheme Overview & Objective
Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan (PM-KUSUM) is a flagship initiative of the Government of India aimed at promoting solar energy adoption on agricultural lands. The scheme seeks to reduce the cost of irrigation for farmers, enhance the reliability of power supply, and contribute to the nation’s renewable energy targets. By enabling solar pumps, solar power plants, and solar-based irrigation, PM-KUSUM creates a sustainable energy ecosystem that benefits both the agrarian sector and the broader economy.
Eligibility Criteria & Scope
Eligibility for PM-KUSUM is defined by the official notification released each financial year. While the exact parameters may be updated, the following broad categories are consistently recognised:
- Primary beneficiaries: Individual farmers, farmer producer organisations (FPOs), self-help groups (SHGs), and cooperatives that own or operate agricultural land.
- Secondary beneficiaries: Private entities, NGOs, and state-run agencies that partner with farmers to install solar pumps or solar power plants on leased or owned agricultural land.
- Geographic scope: All states and union territories of India, with a focus on regions where irrigation costs are a significant burden.
- Project size: Solar pump capacity up to 7.5 kW per unit and solar power plant capacity up to 2 MW per project, as stipulated in the scheme guidelines.
- Land use: The land on which the solar equipment is installed must be agricultural land that is either owned or legally leased by the applicant.
Applicants are advised to consult the latest PM-KUSUM notification or the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) website for any year-specific amendments.
Key Financial & Growth Benefits
PM-KUSUM offers a range of financial incentives designed to lower the capital barrier for solar adoption. While the precise subsidy percentages may vary, the scheme typically provides:
- Capital subsidy: A substantial portion of the project cost is covered, reducing the out-of-pocket expense for the beneficiary.
- Low-interest term loans: Partnered banks extend loans at concessional rates, often linked to the subsidy disbursement schedule.
- Revenue generation: Excess power generated can be sold to the grid under the Feed-in-Tariff (FiT) mechanism, creating an additional income stream.
- Long-term reliability: Solar infrastructure lowers diesel and electricity costs over a 25-year lifecycle.
Required Documents Checklist 2026
To successfully apply for the PM-KUSUM scheme in 2026, applicants must compile a comprehensive set of documents. Ensure all documents are verified and current:
- Identity Proof: Aadhaar Card, Voter ID, or PAN Card of the applicant.
- Address Proof: Ration Card, Electricity Bill, or Utility Bill showing current residence.
- Land Ownership / Lease Documents: Updated land registry papers (ROR / Khatauni) or a registered lease agreement.
- Bank Account Details: Cancelled cheque and passbook copy of the primary applicant linked with Aadhaar.
- Passport-size Photographs: Recent photographs of the applicant.
- No Objection Certificate (NOC): Required from co-owners or financial institutions if the land is mortgaged.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Applying for the PM-KUSUM scheme involves a structured digital process managed through state-level portals or the national MNRE portal. Follow these steps:
- Step 1: Registration: Visit the official state portal designated for PM-KUSUM and register using your mobile number and Aadhaar.
- Step 2: Form Submission: Fill out the application form with accurate personal, land, and pump requirement details.
- Step 3: Document Upload: Upload scanned copies of all mandatory documents, including land records and identity proof.
- Step 4: Verification: Local authorities and DISCOM officials will verify the land details and technical feasibility.
- Step 5: Subsidy Approval & Installation: Upon approval, pay your beneficiary share to the empanelled vendor who will then complete the installation.
Compliance & Technical Specifications
Compliance with technical standards ensures safety, longevity, and seamless grid integration. Ensure your system meets the following standards:
- All solar panels and inverters must comply with Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) specifications.
- Pumps must be tested at designated MNRE testing centers.
- Net metering compliance must be established with the local electricity distribution company (DISCOM).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who is eligible for the PM-KUSUM scheme?
Individual farmers, groups of farmers, FPOs, and cooperatives owning or leasing agricultural land are eligible.
What is the subsidy percentage under PM-KUSUM?
The central and state governments typically provide up to 60% of the cost as a subsidy, while banks offer low-interest loans for a major portion of the remaining amount.
Can I sell excess electricity back to the grid?
Yes, under Component A of the scheme, farmers can set up solar power plants and sell surplus power to the local grid.
