PM-KUSUM (Solar Pumps for Farmers)
PM-KUSUM helps farmers replace diesel and electric pumps with solar. The central government pays up to 30% of the cost of a solar pump (50% in hill and North-East states), the state usually adds its own share, and farmers can also earn by setting up small solar plants on unused land.
What is PM-KUSUM?
PM-KUSUM (Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan) is run by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE). It aims to stop diesel use on farms and raise farmers' income through solar power. It is implemented by departments of each state government, not directly by the centre.
The three parts of the scheme
- Component A: farmers, groups of farmers, FPOs, cooperatives and panchayats can set up grid-connected solar power plants of up to 2 MW on barren or fallow land and sell the power to the DISCOM at a tariff fixed by the state regulator.
- Component B: standalone (off-grid) solar pumps for farmers, mainly where there is no grid power or where diesel pumps are used.
- Component C: solarising existing grid-connected pumps, either one pump at a time (IPS) or a whole agricultural feeder (FLS). Extra power can be sold to the DISCOM.
How much subsidy?
- The central government gives up to 30% of the cost for standalone solar pumps and pump solarisation, and up to 50% in North-East, hill and island states and UTs.
- The state government usually adds its own subsidy, and the farmer pays the rest. Part of the farmer's share can often be a bank loan.
- The exact share, pump sizes (HP) and price are fixed by your state. Check the state-wise vendor list and rate card on the PM-KUSUM portal.
Status in 2026
How to apply
- Contact your state nodal agency: NREDCAP in Andhra Pradesh, TGREDCO in Telangana, or your district agriculture or horticulture office. Links to state portals are on pmkusum.mnre.gov.in.
- Apply when the state opens applications. Usually you need Aadhaar, land records (pattadar passbook), bank details and a photo.
- After approval, pay only your share, and only to the state agency or the empanelled vendor named by it.
Also see: PM Surya Ghar (rooftop solar for homes), Kisan Credit Card and PM-KISAN.
Frequently asked questions
How much subsidy is given for a solar pump under PM-KUSUM?
The centre gives up to 30% of the cost (50% in North-East, hill and island states). The state usually adds its own share and the farmer pays the rest.
Where do I apply for PM-KUSUM?
Through your state's nodal agency (NREDCAP in AP, TGREDCO in Telangana) or the district agriculture office. Not on private websites.
Is PM-KUSUM still open in 2026?
MNRE has extended the time to complete projects already sanctioned. A new phase has been reported but not officially notified as of 24 October 2026. Ask your state agency whether new pumps are being sanctioned.
Can I earn money from PM-KUSUM?
Yes. Under Component A you can set up a solar plant of up to 2 MW on barren land and sell power to the DISCOM, and under Component C you can sell extra power from a solarised pump.
A website is asking for a PM-KUSUM registration fee. Is it real?
No. MNRE has warned about fake PM-KUSUM websites. Don't pay; call 1800-180-3333.
Sources
- PM-KUSUM national portal (MNRE): scheme details, subsidy, fake website warning
- Ministry of New and Renewable Energy