Yogi Government’s Solar Boost: Big Relief for Farmers
The Yogi government has announced a major step to support the agricultural sector in Uttar Pradesh. A new subsidy plan under the PM Kusum scheme will provide up to 90% financial support to farmers for installing solar pumps.
This move is designed to reduce the dependency on electricity and diesel, which are both costly and polluting. It also helps in promoting green energy and sustainable farming in the state.
Up to 90% Subsidy for Small and Marginal Farmers
Under the new proposal, small and marginal farmers will receive 90% subsidy, while large farmers will get 80% subsidy. The goal is to make solar-powered irrigation accessible and affordable.
Small farmers need to pay just 10% of the cost of the solar pump. Large farmers will contribute 20%. This is a major increase from the existing 60% subsidy provided earlier.
Yogi Govt Aims to Empower 238 Lakh Farmers
Uttar Pradesh has around 238.22 lakh farmers. Of these, over 93% are small or marginal. This move by Yogi is expected to benefit the majority of the state’s farming community.
The idea is to replace electric and diesel pumps with solar pumps, which are efficient, environment-friendly, and reduce long-term irrigation costs.
Solar Pumps to Range from 2HP to 10HP
Farmers can choose solar pumps ranging from 2 Horse Power (HP) to 10 HP. These will be useful for various irrigation needs depending on farm size.
A 2HP solar pump costs around ₹1.80 lakh, and a 5HP pump can go up to ₹4.80 lakh. With the subsidy, a small farmer would only pay ₹18,000 for a 2HP pump.
Boring Work Must Be Done by Farmers
While the government will subsidize the pump, farmers must carry out boring themselves. All equipment, including motor and solar panels, will be provided by approved vendors listed under the scheme.
This condition ensures the state focuses its subsidy purely on renewable energy components and not on land-specific expenses.
Plan Awaits Cabinet Approval but Implementation Is Near
The plan has already been drafted and will soon be sent to the state cabinet for final approval. After that, the scheme will open for registration.
The move comes at a strategic time, with panchayat elections approaching. The Yogi administration sees this as an opportunity to highlight its farmer-centric policies.
Yogi’s Green Push to Cut Pollution and Costs
Yogi’s focus has always been on clean energy, reducing emissions, and boosting farmer income. The solar pump subsidy aligns well with this agenda.
By shifting away from diesel and grid electricity, the government aims to lower pollution and cut down recurring costs for irrigation.
PM Kusum Scheme Gains Momentum in Uttar Pradesh
Since 2017-18, 79,516 solar pumps have already been installed under the PM Kusum scheme. The state aims to install 45,000 more pumps in the year 2025-26.
Currently, 70% of irrigation in the state is done using groundwater. Switching to solar will reduce electricity demand and groundwater overuse by promoting efficient pumping.
How to Apply for the Solar Pump Scheme
Farmers must register on the Agriculture Department portal. The PM Kusum folder will contain the application form. Selection will be based on either a lottery system or first-come-first-serve basis.
District and state-level selection committees will be formed to oversee the process and ensure fair distribution of solar pumps.
Yogi Government Plans for Long-Term Agricultural Growth
Yogi’s plan is not limited to just subsidies. It includes a wider vision for sustainable farming, better irrigation, and farmer self-reliance.
This approach is designed to empower rural communities, provide better income opportunities, and reduce the risks associated with unreliable electricity.
Focus on Simplicity and Transparency in Allocation
To avoid confusion and corruption, the government will ensure transparent allocation using automated selection systems. Farmers will be guided through each step of the application.
Help centers may be set up at the block and district levels to assist farmers who are not familiar with online procedures.
Vendors to Be Government Approved
Only vendors approved under the scheme will be allowed to supply pumps and panels. This ensures standard quality and pricing, and protects farmers from fraud.
A detailed vendor list will be uploaded on the portal, and payments will be routed via official channels.
Yogi’s Vision: Low Cost, High Output Farming
By investing in solar irrigation, Yogi wants farmers to spend less and earn more. The plan is part of a broader strategy to double farmer income, a national goal.
Through this, the administration also promotes the use of renewable energy in the agriculture sector, aligning with national climate goals.
Why This Move Matters Now
The rising cost of electricity and diesel has been a burden. By offering 90% subsidy, Yogi has made solar pumps extremely affordable.
This decision could set an example for other states, especially those with high groundwater irrigation and large farming populations.
Boost to Rural Economy and Employment
The large-scale installation of solar pumps will create new jobs, including installation, maintenance, and training. This could stimulate the rural economy in multiple ways.
It will also push local solar component manufacturing under the Make in India initiative.
Conclusion: A Gamechanger by the Yogi Government
With this bold subsidy plan, the Yogi government has once again shown its commitment to farmer welfare. The solar pump initiative under the PM Kusum scheme could transform agriculture in Uttar Pradesh.
As the state waits for the cabinet’s green light, farmers are hopeful that the move will help reduce costs, boost productivity, and ensure a greener future.
Stay tuned for updates on how to register and benefit from this scheme once it is officially launched.