Solar Pump Subsidy & Government Schemes (PM KUSUM Explained)
What is the PM KUSUM Scheme and How It Supports Solar Pumps?
The Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan (PM-KUSUM) is a flagship initiative by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE). Its primary goal is to “de-dieselize” the farm sector. The PM Kusum scheme subsidy provides a massive financial cushion, allowing farmers to install a solar power pump without bearing the full heavy cost.
By 2026, the scheme aims to add over 34,800 MW of solar capacity. For the individual farmer, this means access to a reliable solar pumping system that works during the day, removing the need to irrigate at night when grid power is typically available.
Solar Pump Subsidy in India: Eligibility, Benefits & Financial Assistance
The Solar Pump Subsidy is designed to be inclusive, targeting small, marginal, and large-scale farmers alike.
- Financial Assistance: In most states, the Central Government provides 30%, and the State Government provides 30% as a PM Kusum subsidy. This leaves the farmer to pay only 40% of the cost.
- Special Regions: In North-Eastern states, Hilly regions, and Islands, the Solar Pump Subsidy can cover up to 90% of the total cost.
- Eligibility: Individual farmers, Water User Associations (WUAs), and FPOs are eligible. A key requirement is having valid land records and an existing water source, like a borewell for a solar submersible pump.
PM KUSUM Components (A, B & C) Explained in Simple Terms
The scheme is divided into three parts to cover every type of solar need:
1. Component A: Focuses on setting up small solar power plants (up to 2 MW) on barren land to sell power to the grid.
2. Component B: This is the most popular for irrigation. It supports the installation of standalone off-grid solar pumps (up to 7.5 HP) to replace diesel pumps.
3. Component C: Focuses on “Solarizing” existing grid-connected pumps. Farmers can use the power for a solar motor pump and sell the excess back to the government.
Step-by-Step Process to Apply for Solar Pump Subsidy Under PM KUSUM
Securing your Solar Pump Subsidy involves a clear, verified process:
- Step 1: Registration: Visit your state’s official PM-KUSUM portal or the MNRE website.
- Step 2: Documentation: Upload your Aadhaar card, land ownership papers (Khasra-Khatauni), and bank details.
- Step 3: Vendor Selection: Choose an empaneled vendor like Morca for your solar pump installation.
- Step 4: Contribution: Pay your 10% to 40% share after the application is approved.
- Step 5: Installation: The vendor installs the solar panel pump and solar pump controller, followed by a government inspection to release the final subsidy.
State-Wise Solar Pump Subsidy Updates and Latest Government Policies
In 2026, states like Maharashtra, Haryana, and Rajasthan lead the way in solar pump for agriculture adoption. Many states have now simplified the “Direct Benefit Transfer” (DBT) process, where the Solar Pump Subsidy is adjusted directly against the vendor’s invoice, so farmers don’t have to wait for months for a refund.
Additionally, new 2026 policies now allow for higher-capacity pumps (up to 15 HP in some regions) to be covered under the solar pumping system umbrella, catering to larger estates and deep-well requirements.
FAQ's
You can apply through your State Renewable Energy Development Agency (SNA). Ensure you choose an MNRE-approved solar pump inverter and motor system to qualify for the funds.
Any Indian farmer with cultivable land and a water source is eligible. Groups like Panchayats and Cooperatives can also apply for larger solar power pump projects.
It is the PM-KUSUM scheme, which provides a Solar Pump Subsidy to help farmers transition from diesel and grid-based pumping to clean solar energy.
A high-quality solar powered submersible pump from Morca has a lifespan of 12–15 years, while the solar panels are designed to last for 25 years.
