Prayagraj: The Prime Minister Kusum Yojana (Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha Evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan) that promotes the use of solar energy has proved to be a boon for Prayagraj farmers who have adopted the renewable energy to bring down irrigation costs substantially.Deputy director (agriculture) Pawan Kumar Vishwakarma said Prayagraj had a target of 254 under the scheme for 2025-26, which was achieved 100%. He said 302 farmers have taken tokens to avail the benefits of the scheme. He said Yogi govt was promoting the use of solar energy among farmers and consumers across Uttar Pradesh. In the new state budget, Rs 1,500 crore has been allocated for PM Kusum and PM Solar Energy initiatives. Under PM Kusum, farmers receive up to 90% govt assistance for installing solar panels. The scheme provides a 30% subsidy from the Centre, 30% from the state and 30% from financial institutions, leaving only 10% to be paid by farmers. A marginal farmer from Harbari Lakhapur village in Meja, Neetu Mishra, said: “Electricity and diesel expenses were a major burden. Through PM Kusum, I got two solar units installed in my farm, covering tubewell and polyhouse power needs without additional cost.” Seeing the benefits, more farmers in the village are opting for the scheme. Solar pumps can be used for irrigation as well as power generation. Farmers can also sell surplus electricity to distribution companies, and existing electric or diesel pumps can be converted to solar-powered pumps under the scheme.
