Kusum Yojana in Today’s Time: A Necessary Move or an Outdated Policy?
Kusum Yojana in Today’s Time: A Necessary Move or an Outdated Policy?
Blog Article
The Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan (KUSUM) Yojana, launched by the Indian government in 2019, was a visionary scheme aimed at empowering farmers with solar energy. By promoting the installation of solar pumps and grid-connected renewable energy systems, the scheme sought to reduce dependence on costly diesel-powered irrigation and increase farmers’ incomes through sustainable energy use.
But as we stand in 2025, one critical question arises: Should the Kusum Yojana continue in today’s time?
Let’s explore the current relevance of the scheme, its challenges, and why it may or may not still be necessary.
The Original Intent of Kusum Yojana
The Kusum Yojana had three core components:
- Component A: Installation of solar power plants (up to 2 MW capacity) on barren lands.
- Component B: Standalone solar pumps to replace diesel irrigation systems.
- Component C: Grid-connected solar pumps to feed excess power back into the grid.
The goal was to provide clean, affordable energy to rural India while helping farmers become energy producers instead of just consumers.
Why Kusum Yojana Still Matters Today
1. Rising Diesel Prices and Unpredictable Electricity Supply
Many Indian farmers still rely on diesel engines for irrigation, which are expensive and polluting. Grid electricity is often unavailable or unreliable in rural regions. Solar pumps under the Kusum Yojana offer a cost-effective, clean, and independent solution to this issue.
2. Climate Change and Water Crisis
With increasing concerns about climate change, the need for eco-friendly energy is stronger than ever. Solar irrigation can reduce carbon emissions and help in sustainable groundwater use through better pump control and scheduling.
3. Doubling Farmers’ Income
The scheme allows farmers not only to reduce their input costs but also to earn extra income by selling surplus power to the grid. In a time when many farmers are struggling financially, this income diversification is highly relevant.
4. Employment and Local Development
Kusum Yojana promotes rural employment, especially in installation and maintenance of solar systems. It also supports India's broader "Atmanirbhar Bharat" (self-reliant India) goal by promoting solar manufacturing and renewable energy adoption.
Challenges That Need Attention
While the scheme has benefits, it faces several challenges in today's scenario:
- Low Awareness and Implementation Hurdles
Many farmers are still unaware of the scheme or don’t understand how to apply. Also, bureaucratic delays, lengthy paperwork, and limited access to subsidies have slowed down implementation.
- High Upfront Costs
Even with subsidies, many small and marginal farmers struggle to arrange their share of the upfront cost. There’s a need for easier loan facilities and financial support.
- Grid Connectivity Issues
For Component C (grid-connected pumps), many rural areas lack grid infrastructure to support the solar systems, making the benefit of selling surplus energy inaccessible.
What Needs to Change?
To make Kusum Yojana more effective in today’s context, the following changes are essential:
- Simplify the Application Process: A user-friendly online portal, local language support, and mobile apps can help more farmers apply easily.
- Targeted Awareness Campaigns: Farmers need guidance and training through local agricultural departments and extension services.
- Better Financial Support: Banks should provide zero-collateral loans, and subsidy disbursement must be fast and transparent.
- Strengthen Grid Infrastructure: The government should invest in improving grid access in rural areas to realize the full potential of the scheme.
Conclusion: Yes, Kusum Yojana Should Continue—with Upgrades
The Kusum Yojana remains highly relevant in 2025, especially in the context of sustainable agriculture, renewable energy adoption, and farmer empowerment. However, it needs serious restructuring and efficient execution to meet today’s realities.
With improved implementation, the Kusum Yojana can become a cornerstone of India’s rural transformation—paving the way for a future where every farmer is energy-independent and economically secure. Report this page