Running a farm is no easy job — and high fuel bills or unreliable electricity only make it harder. To help farmers reduce their costs and depend less on diesel and grid power, the Indian government has launched several solar schemes for agriculture. These programs help farmers install solar pumps and solar-powered systems with heavy subsidies.

If you’re a farmer or know someone in agriculture, this guide will explain everything about the Government Solar Scheme for Farmers, who can apply, how it helps, and what steps to take.

Also Read: Solar Water Pump

Why the Government is Promoting Solar Energy in Farming

Farming needs electricity — for irrigation, lighting, storage, and more. But in many villages, power supply is irregular or completely unavailable. Diesel is expensive, and pollution from generators is harmful.

That’s why the government is pushing solar energy as a clean, low-cost, and long-term power source for farms. Solar works well during the day — exactly when most farming operations happen.

Also Know: Solar Water Pumps in Agriculture

Main Government Solar Scheme for Farmers – PM-KUSUM Yojana

The PM-KUSUM Scheme (Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan) is the main national solar program for farmers in India. It was launched to help farmers shift to solar energy and reduce their reliance on diesel or electricity for irrigation.

PM-KUSUM has 3 key parts:

Component A – Solar Power Plants on Farmland

  • Farmers or groups can set up small solar plants (up to 2 MW)
  • Install them on unused land or even over canals
  • Extra power generated can be sold to the local DISCOM (power company)
  • Helps farmers earn additional income

Also Read: Solar Power Solutions

Component B – Standalone Solar Pumps

  • Solar-powered water pumps for irrigation
  • Best for areas with no power grid or limited electricity
  • Ideal for small and marginal farmers
  • Works well in daylight, no battery required

Component C – Solar Pumping with Grid Connection

  • Grid-connected solar pumps that can send extra electricity back to the grid
  • Farmers use solar energy during the day and sell surplus power
  • Helps reduce electricity bills and creates a second source of income

Benefits of Government Solar Schemes for Farmers

Benefit

What It Means

Reduced Fuel Cost

No need for diesel or electricity from the grid

Free Energy from Sun

Solar power is clean and free to use

Increased Income

Sell extra power to DISCOMs

Government Subsidy

Big part of cost covered under the scheme

Less Pollution

No smoke or harmful emissions

Works in Remote Areas

Ideal for villages with poor power access

Who Can Apply for the Solar Scheme?

The scheme is open to:

  • Individual farmers
  • Farmer producer groups (FPOs)
  • Cooperatives and panchayats
  • Water user associations
  • Small and marginal landowners

Both grid-connected and off-grid farmers can apply, depending on the component and state-specific rules.

Also Read: Solar Tubewell System 

What Can You Use the Solar Setup For?

Under government schemes, farmers can use solar power for:

  • Water pumping through tubewells and borewells
  • Drip irrigation and sprinkler systems
  • Storage of perishable crops in solar-powered cold rooms
  • Solar fencing for crop protection
  • Solar lights for field and farm security

Documents Required to Apply

To apply under the scheme, farmers usually need:

  • Aadhaar Card
  • Land ownership proof
  • Bank account details (linked with Aadhaar)
  • Passport-size photo
  • Mobile number
  • Copy of land revenue receipt or land map

The required documents may vary slightly depending on the state. It’s always better to check with your local renewable energy agency or contact the KLK Ventures team for help.

How to Apply for the Government Solar Scheme

Here’s a simple step-by-step process:

  1. Visit your state’s official renewable energy website
  2. Find the PM-KUSUM or Solar Agriculture Scheme section
  3. Fill in the online application form
  4. Upload required documents
  5. Wait for verification and approval
  6. Once approved, the subsidy amount is adjusted directly with the system provider
  7. Installation is done by an approved vendor

KLK Ventures helps farmers with the entire process — from application to installation.

State-wise Support and Variations

While PM-KUSUM is a national scheme, many states offer additional incentives or faster processing. For example:

  • Rajasthan – One of the most active states under PM-KUSUM
  • Madhya Pradesh & Uttar Pradesh – Strong solar pump adoption
  • Maharashtra & Gujarat – Additional top-up subsidies
  • Punjab & Haryana – Special focus on small landholders

Each state has its own quota, timeline, and selection process.

KLK Ventures – Making Solar Easy for Farmers

At KLK Ventures, we work closely with farmers across India to help them benefit from government solar schemes. Our team supports you in every step:

  • System selection (solar pumps, fencing, lighting)
  • Application filing and documentation support
  • System supply and professional installation
  • After-sales service and regular maintenance
  • Pan-India support with local engineering teams

Whether you’re in a small village or managing a large farm, KLK ensures a smooth solar experience from start to finish.

FAQs 

Q1. Can I get a solar pump through the government scheme?
Yes, under PM-KUSUM, you can apply for a subsidized solar water pump.

Q2. What is the subsidy percentage?
Subsidy usually covers 60–90% depending on your state and the scheme component.

Q3. Do I need to own land to apply?
Yes, land ownership or lease documents are required.

Q4. Can I earn money by selling power to the grid?
Yes, under Component A and C, you can sell excess solar power and earn.

Q5. Does KLK help with subsidy applications?
Absolutely. KLK Ventures supports farmers with the complete process.

Q6. Is the solar system safe and durable?
Yes, systems come with strong build quality and long-term warranties.

Q7. How long does it take from application to installation?
Usually between 30–60 days, depending on the approval speed and location.

Conclusion

The Government Solar Scheme for Farmers is a golden opportunity to reduce farming costs, save energy, and make agriculture more sustainable. With solar power, farmers don’t just save money — they also gain freedom from unreliable electricity and fuel.

With the help of trusted partners like KLK Ventures, it’s easy to shift to solar with expert support and access to government benefits.

If you're a farmer looking for better power options, solar is the way forward.