PM-KUSUM Scheme Phase 4 Launched to Solarize 20 Lakh Additional Farmers
The government has launched Phase 4 of the PM-KUSUM scheme, aiming to provide solar pumps and solarize existing grid-connected pumps for 20 lakh more farmers.
2-Minute Summary (TL;DR)
- PM-KUSUM Phase 4 launched on May 5, 2026, by MNRE to solarize 20 lakh additional farmers by 2028.
- The scheme aims to reduce farmer dependence on diesel for irrigation pumps.
- Farmers can sell surplus solar power generated to the grid, creating an additional income stream.
- Subsidy increased to 50% for North-Eastern and Himalayan states to promote regional equity.
- PM-KUSUM comprises three components: small solar plants, standalone solar pumps, and solarization of existing pumps.
- The scheme, initiated in 2019, is crucial for renewable energy adoption in agriculture and farmer welfare.
- Phase 4 targets enhanced irrigation reliability and economic empowerment for farmers.
- Key objectives include reducing carbon emissions from diesel use and boosting farmer incomes.
How This Topic is Tested in Competitive Exams
| Exam | Frequency | Approx. Marks | What Gets Asked |
|---|---|---|---|
| SSC (CGL / CHSL / MTS) | Very High | 5–8 | Government schemes are one of the most tested topics in SSC CGL and CHSL GK sections. |
| State PCS / PSC | Very High | 6–10 | Both central and state schemes are tested extensively in state PCS papers. |
| UPSC / State PCS | High | 8–12 | UPSC tests implementation, target beneficiaries, and outcomes — not just scheme names. |
Key Facts to Remember: PM-KUSUM Scheme Phase 4 Launched to Solarize 20 Lakh Additional Farmers
- PM-KUSUM Phase 4 launched on May 5, 2026, by MNRE to solarize 20 lakh additional farmers by 2028.
- The scheme aims to reduce farmer dependence on diesel for irrigation pumps.
- Farmers can sell surplus solar power generated to the grid, creating an additional income stream.
- Subsidy increased to 50% for North-Eastern and Himalayan states to promote regional equity.
- PM-KUSUM comprises three components: small solar plants, standalone solar pumps, and solarization of existing pumps.
- The scheme, initiated in 2019, is crucial for renewable energy adoption in agriculture and farmer welfare.
- Phase 4 targets enhanced irrigation reliability and economic empowerment for farmers.
- Key objectives include reducing carbon emissions from diesel use and boosting farmer incomes.
Practice Questions
Q1. What is the primary objective of Phase 4 of the PM-KUSUM scheme?
- To provide subsidies for traditional farming equipment.
- To solarize an additional 20 lakh farmers by installing solar pumps and solarizing existing ones.
- To promote the use of diesel-powered irrigation systems.
- To develop large-scale solar power plants for industrial use.
Explanation: Phase 4 of PM-KUSUM specifically aims to extend solar energy benefits to 20 lakh more farmers by focusing on solar pumps and solarizing existing grid-connected pumps. This directly addresses the need for sustainable irrigation solutions.
Q2. Which ministry is responsible for the implementation of the PM-KUSUM scheme?
- Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare
- Ministry of Power
- Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE)
- Ministry of Rural Development
Explanation: The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) is the nodal ministry responsible for the formulation and implementation of the PM-KUSUM scheme, focusing on promoting solar energy in the agricultural sector.
Q3. What is a key financial incentive provided to farmers under the PM-KUSUM scheme?
- Interest-free loans for purchasing tractors
- The ability to sell surplus solar power generated to the electricity grid
- Direct cash transfers for crop insurance
- Subsidies for chemical fertilizers
Explanation: A significant benefit of the PM-KUSUM scheme is that farmers can sell any excess solar electricity they generate back to the grid, providing them with an additional source of income beyond just powering their irrigation needs.
Q4. For which regions has the subsidy component for the PM-KUSUM scheme been increased to 50%?
- Southern and Western India
- North-Eastern and Himalayan states
- Coastal regions only
- All states equally
Explanation: To ensure equitable development and address specific regional challenges, the government has increased the subsidy component to 50% for the North-Eastern and Himalayan states, making solar solutions more accessible in these areas.
Q5. Which of the following is NOT one of the main components of the PM-KUSUM scheme?
- Installation of standalone solar pumps
- Solarization of existing grid-connected pumps
- Setting up small solar power plants (up to 2 MW)
- Subsidies for purchasing diesel generators
Explanation: The PM-KUSUM scheme focuses exclusively on promoting solar energy. Subsidies for diesel generators are contrary to the scheme's objectives of reducing reliance on fossil fuels and promoting renewable energy in agriculture.
How to Prepare Government Schemes for Government Exams — PM-KUSUM Scheme Phase 4 Launched to Solarize 20 L…
Create a scheme log: Name | Ministry | Target | Key Feature. Add every new scheme as it appears. Review this weekly.
Focus on 'Flagship' schemes: PM-KISAN, PMAY, Ayushman Bharat, PM SVANidhi. These generate the most questions.
For UPSC, understand the policy objective behind the scheme — income support, housing, health insurance. The 'why' matters more than the name.
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