“The Uttar Pradesh government is empowering farmers with over 54,000 subsidized solar pumps under the PM-KUSUM scheme for 2024-25, promoting sustainable irrigation. Offering up to 60% subsidies, the initiative reduces reliance on diesel, cuts costs, and enhances eco-friendly farming across 18 divisions.”
Uttar Pradesh Empowers Farmers with Solar Pump Subsidies
In a transformative move for sustainable agriculture, the Uttar Pradesh government has rolled out a scheme to provide over 54,000 farmers with subsidized solar pumps for the fiscal year 2024-25 under the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan (PM-KUSUM) scheme. This initiative, aimed at reducing dependency on diesel-powered irrigation and promoting renewable energy, is set to revolutionize farming practices across the state’s 18 administrative divisions.
Farmers can choose from nine types of solar pumps, ranging from 2 HP to 10 HP, tailored to diverse agricultural needs. The pumps, both DC and AC models, are offered at heavily subsidized rates, with the central and state governments sharing the financial burden. For instance, a 2 HP DC surface pump, priced at ₹1,71,716, receives a combined subsidy of ₹1,03,030 (₹59,291 from the state and ₹43,739 from the central government), leaving farmers to pay ₹63,686 after a ₹5,000 token deposit. Similarly, a 10 HP AC submersible pump, costing ₹4,13,570, benefits from a total subsidy of ₹2,66,456, with farmers covering the remaining ₹1,47,114.
To participate, farmers must apply online at www.agriculture.up.gov.in between February 27 and February 29, 2025, based on their respective divisions. The application process, designed on a first-come, first-serve basis, requires a ₹5,000 token payment. Specific divisions, including Chitrakoot Dham, Varanasi, Meerut, Prayagraj, Bareilly, and Kanpur, opened applications on February 27, while Saharanpur, Moradabad, Ayodhya, Lucknow, Mirzapur, and Basti followed on February 28. Farmers from Agra, Jhansi, Aligarh, Gorakhpur, Azamgarh, and Devipatan divisions could apply on February 29. Registration is mandatory, and borewell specifications must align with pump capacity—4-inch for 2 HP, 6-inch for 3-5 HP, and 8-inch for 7.5-10 HP. Failure to meet these criteria or deposit the remaining amount within 14 days results in forfeiture of the token amount.
The scheme, as highlighted by R.K. Singh, nodal officer, aims to replace diesel pumps, which have driven up farming costs due to frequent power disruptions. By adopting solar pumps, farmers gain a reliable, cost-effective irrigation solution, free from electricity bills and fuel expenses. Additionally, the Agriculture Infrastructure Fund (AIF) offers loans with interest benefits to ease the financial load. Once installed, pumps cannot be relocated, and existing electricity connections may be disconnected to ensure compliance, with penalties for transferring or selling subsidized pumps.
This initiative aligns with India’s broader renewable energy goals, with the PM-KUSUM scheme, launched in 2019, targeting 14 lakh standalone solar pumps nationwide. Uttar Pradesh’s push complements efforts in states like Punjab, Haryana, and Madhya Pradesh, where similar subsidies—ranging from 60% to 80%—are transforming agricultural landscapes. The state’s move also supports environmental sustainability, reducing carbon emissions and groundwater overuse through integration with micro-irrigation techniques like drip systems, in line with the Prime Minister’s “per drop, more crop” vision.
The Uttar Pradesh government’s commitment to solarizing agriculture underscores its focus on energy independence and climate-friendly farming. By equipping farmers with affordable, eco-friendly irrigation solutions, the state is paving the way for enhanced productivity, reduced costs, and a greener future for its agricultural sector.
Disclaimer: This article is based on recent news reports and official announcements from the Uttar Pradesh government and the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy. Information is sourced from reputable outlets, including Energetica India, Times of India, and the UP Agriculture Department’s official portal. Readers are advised to verify details through official channels like www.agriculture.up.gov.in for application processes and eligibility.