Farmers Can Avail Up to 80% Subsidy on Solar Energy Systems; Lower Costs and Boost Self-Reliance

Farmers across the country are rapidly adopting solar energy for irrigation, moving away from diesel and grid-powered systems. Under a joint initiative of the Central and State governments, farmers are being offered up to 80% subsidy for installing solar pumps and solar energy systems. This shift is not only reducing electricity expenses but also helping make agriculture more sustainable and environment-friendly.

Rising Adoption of Solar Energy in Agriculture:

According to data released by the Central Government, 499 farmers availed the solar subsidy in 2023. In Jammu & Kashmir, a large number of farmers still rely on diesel pumps or grid electricity for irrigation—both of which increase input costs and harm the environment.

Solar pumps serve as an effective solution:

• Enable irrigation without electricity bills
• Help farmers save thousands of rupees annually
• Reduce pollution caused by diesel use

PM-KUSUM Scheme: A Big Relief for Farmers:

Government of India’s PM-KUSUM (Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha Evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan), farmers in Jammu & Kashmir are receiving special incentives to adopt solar pumps. 

The subsidy structure is as follows:

• 50% subsidy by the State Government
• 30% contribution by the Central Government
• Only 20% cost to be paid by the farmer

Farmers can install solar pumps on up to 3 hectares of land, making it an affordable and long-term solution for irrigation.

JAKEDA’s Efforts Make the Process Easier:

The Jammu & Kashmir Energy Development Agency (JAKEDA) has simplified the application process. Hundreds of farmers in districts such as Kathua, Samba, Udhampur, and Anantnag have already benefited from the scheme. Reports indicate that after installing solar pumps, farmers have seen a 70–80% reduction in electricity bills.

How to Apply for a Solar Pump:

1.  Register on the official website of JAKEDA or the Agriculture Department:

2.  Upload required documents:

• Aadhaar Card
• Land ownership proof
• Bank passbook
• Passport-size photograph

3.  After approval, technical inspection is conducted:

4.  Once the pump is installed, the subsidy amount is directly transferred to the farmer’s bank account:

Additional Benefits of Solar Energy for Farmers:

Farmers using solar power enjoy multiple advantages:

• Reduced dependence on electricity and diesel
• Significant reduction in carbon emissions
• Environment-friendly and sustainable farming
• Low maintenance and minimal operating cost

Experts believe that widespread adoption of solar pumps could help Jammu & Kashmir move rapidly toward becoming a Green Energy State. The government aims to install over 10,000 solar pumps in the next two years, which is expected to boost farmers’ income and strengthen the rural economy.

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