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Understanding the KUSUM Scheme: A Solar Initiative for Farmers

Empowering Agriculture through Renewable Energy

Understanding the KUSUM Scheme: A Solar Initiative for Farmers

  • 23 May, 2024
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What is the KUSUM Scheme?

The Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan (KUSUM) scheme is an initiative by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) aimed at promoting the use of renewable energy in India's agricultural sector. It focuses on assisting farmers in installing solar power systems for irrigation and other agricultural operations. This initiative fosters sustainable agriculture and enhances energy security in rural areas.

Key Components of the KUSUM Scheme

KUSUM consists of three main components:

  • Component-A: Supports the installation of solar-powered irrigation pumps to replace diesel-powered and electric pumps.
  • Component-B: Encourages farmers to install solar power plants on barren or fallow lands, allowing them to generate additional income by selling surplus electricity.
  • Component-C: Aims at solarizing existing grid-connected agricultural pumps, enhancing energy efficiency and ensuring a reliable power supply.

Benefits of the KUSUM Scheme for Farmers

The KUSUM scheme provides several benefits to farmers, including:

  • Reduced Dependency: Solar pumps help decrease reliance on diesel and electric grids, which are often unreliable.
  • Lower Operational Costs: Utilizing solar energy reduces the costs associated with running irrigation systems and other farm operations.
  • Additional Income: Farmers can earn extra income by selling surplus power generated from solar plants installed on their land.
  • Environmental Benefits: The scheme promotes clean energy use, contributing to a reduced carbon footprint in agricultural practices.

Applying for the KUSUM Scheme

Farmers interested in applying for the KUSUM scheme can do so through the official portal provided by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy or local agricultural offices. They must submit land details, identification documents, and other relevant information during the application process.

Financial Assistance under the KUSUM Scheme

Under KUSUM, farmers receive substantial subsidies and financial support for setting up solar power systems. The central and state governments share the costs involved in deploying solar panels and other necessary infrastructure. Specific financial details may vary depending on the state and the component of the scheme.

Eligibility Requirements for the KUSUM Scheme

Eligibility for the KUSUM scheme typically requires being a farmer or owning suitable land for solar power installations. For instance, Component-B requires having fallow or barren land available for solar power plants.

Role of State Governments in Implementing the KUSUM Scheme

State governments play a crucial role in the successful implementation of the KUSUM scheme. They coordinate with the central government, assist in subsidy distribution, manage local disbursement, and ensure that renewable energy infrastructure integrates effectively with existing agricultural practices.

Contribution of the KUSUM Scheme to Environmental Sustainability

By promoting solar energy usage, the KUSUM scheme helps reduce reliance on fossil fuels, decreases greenhouse gas emissions, and promotes cleaner air. This aligns with broader environmental goals and India’s commitments to combat climate change. The KUSUM scheme is a significant effort by the Indian government to ensure a sustainable, prosperous future for its rural and farming communities by integrating renewable energy solutions into everyday agricultural practices.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is the main objective of the KUSUM scheme?
Answer: The primary objective of the KUSUM scheme is to promote the use of renewable energy in the agricultural sector by enabling farmers to install solar power systems for irrigation and other operations.

Q2. How do farmers benefit financially from the KUSUM scheme?
Answer: Farmers benefit financially by receiving subsidies for solar power systems and can generate income by selling excess electricity produced from their solar installations.

Q3. Are there specific eligibility criteria for the KUSUM scheme?
Answer: Yes, eligibility typically requires being a farmer or owning land suitable for solar power installations, particularly barren or fallow land for certain components of the scheme.

Q4. What role do state governments play in the KUSUM scheme?
Answer: State governments coordinate with the central government, manage subsidies, oversee local disbursement, and ensure the integration of renewable energy infrastructure within agricultural practices.

Q5. How does the KUSUM scheme contribute to environmental sustainability?
Answer: The KUSUM scheme promotes solar energy use, reduces fossil fuel reliance, and helps lower greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to cleaner air and alignment with climate goals.

UPSC Practice MCQs

Question 1: What does KUSUM stand for?
A) Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan
B) Kisan Udyog Suraksha Mahabhiyan
C) Kisan Udyami Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan
D) Kisan Urja Suraksha Mahabhiyan
Correct Answer: A

Question 2: Which component of KUSUM supports solar-powered irrigation pumps?
A) Component-B
B) Component-C
C) Component-A
D) None of the above
Correct Answer: C

 

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