- By Kamakshi Bishnoi
- Thu, 12 Jun 2025 04:08 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
In a move to promote clean energy and improve irrigation facilities for farmers, the Uttar Pradesh Agriculture Department has proposed the installation of 45,000 solar pumps in the state under the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha Evam Utthan Mahabhiyan (PM-KUSUM) scheme for the current financial year.
The proposal has been sent to the state government for approval. The PM-KUSUM scheme, which began operating in Uttar Pradesh in 2019–20, offers farmers a subsidy of up to 60 per cent on solar pumps ranging from 2 HP to 7.5 HP.
For 10 HP pumps, the subsidy is provided equivalent to the 7.5 HP category. This initiative aims to reduce farmers’ dependence on conventional electricity for irrigation and lower their irrigation costs.
So far, the adoption of solar pumps has brought significant relief to farmers facing irregular electricity supply, while also helping to cut down on electricity consumption. In the 2024–25 financial year, 28,811 farmers have already benefited from the scheme by installing solar pumps.
The department is keen on accelerating the use of solar pumps and has proposed the increased target of 45,000 installations for this year to further support sustainable agriculture and ensure reliable irrigation solutions across the state. Once approved, applications from farmers will be invited under the scheme.