In a significant move towards sustainable agriculture, the Yogi Adityanath government of Uttar Pradesh has unveiled plans to provide subsidised solar pumps to over 54,000 farmers in the upcoming fiscal year 2024-25.
In an effort to promote sustainable agriculture practices and reduce dependency on conventional power sources, the Yogi Adityanath government of Uttar Pradesh has announced a new initiative to provide subsidised solar pumps to farmers. This move, part of the PM-KUSUM Scheme, aims to empower farmers with affordable access to renewable energy solutions.
Overview of the PM-KUSUM Scheme
The Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan (PM-KUSUM) Scheme was launched by the Government of India to support farmers in installing solar pumps and grid-connected solar power plants. The scheme aims to provide reliable and cost-effective irrigation to farmers and promote the use of solar energy in agriculture.
Details of the Solar Pump Subsidy Scheme in Uttar Pradesh
Eligibility Criteria
Under the scheme, farmers from all 18 divisions of Uttar Pradesh are eligible to apply for subsidised solar pumps. The eligibility criteria include owning agricultural land and having a valid Aadhaar card.
Application Process
Farmers can apply online through the official website ‘www.agriculture.up.gov.in‘. The application window opens from February 27 to 29, with a token payment of Rs 5000 required for registration.
Subsidy Details
The scheme offers nine varieties of solar pumps at reduced rates subsidised by both the Central and State Governments. Substantial subsidies are provided to make solar pumps affordable for farmers.
Pump Varieties and Capacities
The scheme offers a range of pump capacities, ensuring suitability for various agricultural needs. From 2 HP DC and AC surface pumps to larger pump sizes ranging from three to 10 HP, farmers have a variety of options to choose from.
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Timeline and Division-wise Application Dates
The registration for the scheme follows a structured timeline. Farmers from different divisions can apply on specific dates: February 27 for Chitrakoot Dham, Varanasi, Meerut, Prayagraj, Bareilly, and Kanpur divisions; February 28 for Saharanpur, Moradabad, Ayodhya, Lucknow, Mirzapur, and Basti divisions; and February 29 for Agra, Jhansi, Aligarh, Gorakhpur, Azamgarh, and Devipatan divisions.
Subsidy Structure for Different Pump Capacities
For instance, for 2 HP DC and AC surface pumps, the combined subsidy from state and central governments amounts to Rs 1,03,030, with farmers responsible for a token amount of Rs 5000 and the remaining balance.
Government’s Commitment to Sustainable Agriculture
This initiative underscores the government’s dedication to promoting sustainable agricultural practices and empowering farmers with renewable energy solutions. The scheme’s emphasis on solar energy aligns with the broader goal of reducing carbon emissions and mitigating climate change.
Conclusion
The Yogi Adityanath government’s initiative to provide subsidised solar pumps to farmers in Uttar Pradesh marks a significant step towards harnessing renewable energy for agricultural development. By encouraging the use of solar energy in agriculture, the government is not only reducing the carbon footprint but also ensuring a sustainable future for farming communities.
FAQs
- Who is eligible to apply for the subsidised solar pumps?
- Farmers who own agricultural land in Uttar Pradesh and have a valid Aadhaar card are eligible to apply.
- What is the application process for the scheme?
- Farmers can apply online through the official website ‘www.agriculture.up.gov.in‘ during the specified dates.
- What are the benefits of the PM-KUSUM Scheme for farmers?
- The scheme provides affordable access to renewable energy solutions, reducing dependency on conventional power sources.
- How are the solar pumps subsidised?
- The central and state governments provide subsidies to make solar pumps affordable for farmers.
- What is the government’s long-term vision for sustainable agriculture in Uttar Pradesh?
- The government aims to promote the use of renewable energy in agriculture and reduce the carbon footprint of farming practices.
