The Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan (PM-KUSUM) is a flagship initiative by the Government of India aimed at empowering farmers through renewable energy. Launched in 2019 by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), the scheme seeks to harness solar power to address energy needs in agriculture, reduce dependency on diesel and grid electricity, and boost rural incomes. As we step into 2026, with the scheme's deadline approaching on March 31, PM-KUSUM continues to evolve, incorporating new guidelines and pushing for accelerated implementation amid post-pandemic recoveries. This article delves into the latest updates for 2026, eligibility criteria, application process, benefits, challenges, and future prospects, providing a comprehensive guide for farmers and stakeholders.
In a country where agriculture employs over 40% of the workforce and faces escalating energy costs, PM-KUSUM represents a paradigm shift. By promoting solar pumps and grid-connected power plants, it not only ensures energy security but also contributes to India's net-zero ambitions by 2070. With a target of adding 34,800 MW of solar capacity by March 2026 and central financial support of ₹34,422 crore, the scheme has already installed millions of solar pumps and solarized thousands of agricultural feeders. However, as the deadline looms, questions about extensions and enhancements like a potential PM-KUSUM 2.0 are gaining traction.
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Understanding PM-KUSUM: Objectives and Components
At its core, PM-KUSUM is designed to de-dieselize the farm sector, provide reliable daytime power for irrigation, and enable farmers to generate additional income from surplus solar energy. The scheme's objectives include reducing environmental pollution, lowering irrigation costs, and promoting sustainable agriculture. It aligns with broader goals like the National Solar Mission and Atmanirbhar Bharat by emphasizing domestic manufacturing in solar components.
The scheme is divided into three main components, each tailored to different aspects of solar integration in farming:
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| Pradhan Mantri Kusum Yojana |
Component A: Decentralized Grid-Connected Solar Power Plants
This allows individual farmers, groups, cooperatives, panchayats, Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), or Water User Associations (WUAs) to set up renewable energy-based power plants (REPP) ranging from 500 kW to 2 MW on barren, uncultivable, or agricultural land within 5 km of a substation. The generated power is sold to distribution companies (DISCOMs) at a feed-in-tariff (FiT) approved by the State Electricity Regulatory Commission (SERC). Farmers can also lease their land to developers, earning a mutually agreed lease rent. As of December 31, 2025, 720.91 MW has been installed against a sanctioned 10,000 MW, highlighting steady progress.
Component B: Standalone Solar-Powered Agriculture Pumps
Targeted at off-grid areas, this component supports the installation of standalone solar pumps up to 7.5 HP capacity. Farmers receive subsidies to replace diesel or electric pumps, ensuring reliable irrigation without fuel costs. By end-2025, 9,75,227 pumps have been installed out of 13,15,190 sanctioned. This is particularly beneficial in remote regions with erratic power supply.
Component C: Solarization of Grid-Connected Agriculture Pumps
Divided into Individual Pump Solarization (IPS) and Feeder Level Solarization (FLS), this component solarizes existing grid-connected pumps. Under IPS, 11,781 out of 55,392 sanctioned pumps have been solarized, while FLS has achieved 11,89,787 out of 35,27,492. It reduces DISCOM losses and provides daytime power, with central subsidies up to 30-50% of the cost.
These components collectively aim to transform agriculture into a solar-powered ecosystem, with a focus on small and marginal farmers.
Maharashtra Smart Solar Scheme
PM Kusum Yojana Highlights
| Aspect | Key Highlights |
|---|---|
| Full Form | Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan |
| Objective | Promote solar energy in agriculture, reduce diesel/grid dependency, lower irrigation costs, generate extra income for farmers |
| Total Target | Add ~34,800 MW solar capacity by 2026 |
| Central Funding | ₹34,422 crore |
| Duration | Extended till March 31, 2026 (some projects extended to March 2027; PM-KUSUM 2.0 proposed) |
| Component A | 10,000 MW decentralized grid-connected solar plants (0.5–2 MW) on barren/farm land |
| Component B | ~14–17.5 lakh standalone solar pumps (off-grid areas) |
| Component C | Solarization of ~10–35 lakh grid-connected agriculture pumps + Feeder Level Solarization |
| Benefits | Subsidy up to 30–60%, reliable daytime power, extra income by selling surplus power, job creation |
| Eligibility | Individual farmers, groups, cooperatives, Panchayats (apply via state nodal agencies) |
Pradhanmantri Gram Sadak Yojana
Pradhan Mantri KUSUM Yojana – Latest Updates (April 2026)
The Pradhan Mantri KUSUM Yojana is a government scheme to help farmers use solar energy for irrigation. It reduces electricity and diesel costs and gives farmers extra income. The main phase of the scheme is ending in March 2026, but some projects have been extended till March 2027.
Important Latest Updates:
| Update | Details |
|---|---|
| Deadline Extension | Some projects extended till 31 March 2027 (for PPAs/LOIs signed by 31 Dec 2025). Financial closure extended to Sept 2026 in many cases. |
| Overall Scheme | Current phase ends March 2026. Committed liabilities will be carried forward into PM-KUSUM 2.0. |
| PM-KUSUM 2.0 | Under preparation. Likely to include 10 GW Agri-PV (Agrivoltaics) component – solar panels on farmland with continued crop cultivation. May add battery storage for better reliability. |
| Progress Achieved | > 10 lakh standalone solar pumps installed > 13 lakh grid-connected pumps solarised Benefited over 20 lakh farmers |
| Recent Addition (FY 2025-26) | 13.94 lakh pumps installed/solarised adding 7,672 MW capacity |
As of January 2026, PM-KUSUM remains active until March 31, with no official announcement of an extension beyond this date or the launch of PM-KUSUM 2.0. However, the MNRE has issued key guidelines to ensure quality and domestic sourcing. A notable Office Memorandum (OM) dated May 30, 2025, mandates compliance with the Quality Control Order (QCO) 2017 for solar modules and inverters. Additionally, Domestic Content Requirement (DCR) norms for solar PV cells have been reinforced to promote 'Make in India'.
Budget allocations for 2025-26 have seen additional releases to expedite installations, addressing delays from the COVID-19 era. State-wise, Telangana is aggressively pursuing Component A, targeting 4,000 MW through applications from farmers and developers. In Rajasthan and Haryana, leading states in decentralized solar deployment, new incentives include performance-based incentives (PBI) for completed projects, payable after one year of commissioning.
The national dashboard on pmkusum.mnre.gov.in shows impressive traction: over 11 million pumps solarized or installed across components. Recent press releases from MNRE emphasize monitoring via joint metering reports and lease rent receipts for PBI claims. With the fiscal year ending soon, states are urged to fast-track approvals, potentially leading to a surge in applications before the deadline.
Eligibility Criteria
Eligibility under PM-KUSUM is inclusive, focusing on rural stakeholders. Key requirements include:
- Applicants: Individual farmers, groups of farmers, cooperatives, panchayats, FPOs, WUAs, Self-Help Groups (SHGs), or their federations. Developers can participate via lease agreements.
- Land Ownership: Own or leased land. For Component A, land must be barren/uncultivable or suitable for stilt-mounted plants without affecting cultivation.
- Technical Specifications: Pumps up to 7.5 HP for Component B; plants 500 kW-2 MW for A; existing grid pumps for C.
- Other Conditions: Applicants must have a valid Aadhaar card, bank account, and land records. Priority is given to small/marginal farmers and women-led groups. No outstanding electricity dues for grid-connected components.
States may add local criteria, such as in Uttar Pradesh, where online registration mandates specific documents. Eligibility checks are conducted by State Nodal Agencies (SNAs) like TGREDCO in Telangana.
PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana
Application Process: Step-by-Step Guide
Applying for PM-KUSUM is digitized for transparency and ease. Here's a detailed process:
- Visit the Official Portal: Go to pmkusum.mnre.gov.in or your state's SNA website (e.g., for Telangana, tgredco.telangana.gov.in).
- Registration: Create an account using basic details like name, address, Aadhaar, mobile number, and land particulars. Select the component (A, B, or C).
- Document Submission: Upload scanned copies of Aadhaar, land records (e.g., pattadar passbook), bank details, and photographs of the site. For Component A, include lease agreements if applicable.
- Feasibility Check: The SNA verifies eligibility and site feasibility, often involving a physical inspection.
- Payment and Vendor Selection: Pay 10% of the cost as a deposit to the allotted vendor. The government assigns empaneled suppliers for quality assurance.
- Installation and Commissioning: Post-approval, installation occurs within stipulated timelines. For Component A, sign a power purchase agreement with DISCOM.
- Status Tracking: Use the portal's dashboard to monitor application status, from submission to commissioning.
Offline options exist at local agriculture offices, but online is preferred. Processing time varies from 30-90 days, with toll-free helplines (e.g., 1800-200-2001) for support.
Benefits and Subsidies
PM-KUSUM offers substantial financial incentives:
- Subsidies: Central Financial Assistance (CFA) covers 30% for general areas and 50% for special category states (e.g., Northeast). States contribute equally, leaving farmers with 20-40%. For solar pumps, this translates to 60-90% subsidy in some cases.
- Income Generation: Under Component A, farmers can earn ₹50,000-₹1 lakh per MW annually from power sales, plus lease rents of ₹20,000-₹50,000 per acre.
- Cost Savings: Diesel savings of ₹50,000-₹1 lakh yearly per pump; reduced electricity bills.
- Environmental Impact: Reduces CO2 emissions by millions of tons, promoting green farming.
Loans from banks like Bank of Baroda are available for the farmer's share.
Challenges and Implementation Issues
Despite successes, challenges persist. Delays in approvals, land acquisition issues, and DISCOM reluctance to buy power due to financial strains have slowed progress. Quality concerns led to the 2025 QCO mandates. In 2026, with the end nearing, there's pressure to meet targets, potentially straining resources. Awareness gaps in rural areas and high initial costs for farmers remain hurdles.
Success Stories and Case Studies
In Rajasthan, a farmer group installed a 1 MW plant under Component A, earning ₹8 lakh annually while irrigating 50 acres sustainably. Uttar Pradesh has solarized over 100,000 pumps, cutting diesel use by 30%. These stories underscore PM-KUSUM's transformative potential.
Conclusion
As PM-KUSUM nears its March 2026 culmination, it stands as a beacon for sustainable agriculture. With robust eligibility, streamlined applications, and generous subsidies, farmers are encouraged to apply promptly. While no extensions are confirmed, the scheme's legacy will likely inspire future iterations. For the latest, visit pmkusum.mnre.gov.in or contact your SNA. Embracing solar isn't just an energy choice—it's a step toward empowered, resilient farming in India.
| Official Website | Click Here |
|---|---|
| Central Govt Scheme | Click Here |
| Sarkari Yojana | Click Here |
| Join Telegram | Telegram |
FAQs on Pradhan Mantri KUSUM Yojana (PM-KUSUM) 2026
Q. What is the current deadline for PM-KUSUM Yojana?
The Pradhan Mantri KUSUM scheme is extended until March 31, 2026. This is the latest deadline set by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) after previous extensions due to COVID-19 delays and implementation challenges. As of January 2026, the government is still pushing for accelerated installations, and some reports suggest a further extension might be considered if targets remain unmet, but no official announcement has confirmed this yet.
Q. Who is eligible to apply under PM-KUSUM?
Individual farmers, groups of farmers, cooperatives, panchayats, Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), Water User Associations (WUAs), and Self-Help Groups (SHGs) are eligible. For Component A (grid-connected solar plants), barren, fallow, or cultivable land near substations can be used. Priority is often given to small and marginal farmers. Applicants need valid Aadhaar, land records, and a bank account. No major electricity dues should be pending for grid-connected components.
Q. What are the three main components of the scheme?
Component A allows setting up 500 kW to 2 MW solar power plants on own or leased land, with power sold to DISCOMs for income. Component B provides standalone off-grid solar pumps (up to 7.5 HP) to replace diesel/electric pumps. Component C focuses on solarizing existing grid-connected agriculture pumps, either individually (IPS) or at feeder level (FLS), to ensure reliable daytime power and reduce bills.
Q. What subsidies are available under PM-KUSUM in 2026?
The central government provides 30% subsidy (50% in special category states like Northeast) on benchmark costs. Many states add matching subsidies, so farmers often pay only 20–40% of the total cost (sometimes as low as 10%). For solar pumps, this can mean 60–90% effective support in practice. Additional incentives include performance-based payments for Component A projects after commissioning.
Q. How can I apply for PM-KUSUM Yojana?
Visit the official portal at pmkusum.mnre.gov.in or your state's implementing agency website (e.g., TGREDCO for Telangana). Register with Aadhaar, mobile, and land details, select the component, upload documents (Aadhaar, land records, bank passbook, site photos), and submit. The State Nodal Agency verifies eligibility and feasibility. Pay your share (if required) to the assigned vendor. Track status online. Helpline: 1800-180-3333.
Q. What documents are required for application?
Key documents include Aadhaar card, land ownership proof (e.g., Khasra-Khatauni, pattadar passbook), bank account details/passbook, recent passport-size photo, and site photographs. For leased land or group applications, include lease agreements or group resolutions. States may ask for additional local proofs like caste/income certificates for priority categories.
Q. Can I earn income from PM-KUSUM under Component A?
Yes. Farmers or groups installing 500 kW–2 MW solar plants can sell generated power to the local DISCOM at a tariff set by the State Electricity Regulatory Commission. This can generate ₹50,000–₹1 lakh per MW annually. Landowners can also lease land to developers and earn fixed rent (₹20,000–₹50,000 per acre/year) while the project operates.
Q. Is the scheme still open for new applications in January 2026?
Yes, applications are still being accepted and processed. With only about two months left until the March 31, 2026 deadline, states are urging quick submissions and fast-tracking approvals. Progress is ongoing (e.g., over 9 lakh standalone pumps installed, 720 MW under Component A), but targets are behind schedule, so apply soon via the official portal to avoid missing out.
Q. What if my application is delayed or rejected?
Common reasons include incomplete documents, land feasibility issues, or vendor availability. Contact your State Nodal Agency or use the portal's grievance section. The toll-free helpline (1800-180-3333) provides support. Beware of fake websites/apps claiming to process applications—only use pmkusum.mnre.gov.in or verified state portals.
Q. Will there be a PM-KUSUM 2.0 or major changes after March 2026?
No official launch of PM-KUSUM 2.0 has been announced as of January 2026. The current scheme focuses on meeting the 34,800 MW target by the deadline. Discussions about extensions or a new phase continue due to under-achievement, but farmers should apply under existing guidelines now. Check mnre.gov.in or pmkusum.mnre.gov.in regularly for updates.