Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 24 March 2025
The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has sanctioned 34 stand-alone solar pumps and 436 individual grid-connected solar pumps under the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthan Mahabhiyan (PM-KUSUM) scheme for the Andaman and Nicobar Islands for the financial year 2024-25. The scheme, launched in March 2019, aims to reduce diesel dependency in the agricultural sector and boost farmers’ income by promoting solar energy adoption.
The scheme will be implemented by the Electricity Department of the Andaman and Nicobar Administration, focusing on two key components:
Component B: Stand-alone Solar Pumps:
Under this component, farmers in off-grid areas will receive assistance to install stand-alone solar agricultural pumps or replace existing diesel pumps. Priority will be given to small and marginal farmers, especially those using micro-irrigation systems.
– Pump Capacity: Solar PV capacity in kW will be capped according to the pump capacity in HP, as per MNRE guidelines. For instance, a 3 HP pump can have a solar capacity of up to 3 kW.
– Financial Assistance: Farmers will receive 50% of the benchmark or tender cost (whichever is lower) as Central Financial Assistance (CFA), with 20% of the cost borne by the farmer through self-financing or bank loans. Additionally, a 30% subsidy from the Union Territory (UT) Administration is expected to be notified, subject to approval.
Component C: Individual Pump Solarisation (IPS):
This component focuses on solarisation of grid-connected agricultural pumps to ensure reliable day-time solar power for farmers. The initiative aims to incentivize farmers to conserve water by enabling them to sell surplus solar power to the Electricity Department.
– Solar Capacity: Farmers can install solar PV systems with a capacity up to twice that of their pump capacity in kW. This will allow them to meet their irrigation needs while earning additional income from surplus solar power.
– Financial Assistance: Similar to Component B, 50% of the benchmark or tender cost will be provided as CFA. Farmers will contribute 20% of the cost, with the option of self-financing or availing a bank loan. Additionally, a 30% subsidy from the Union Territory (UT) Administration is expected to be notified, subject to approval.
How to Apply:
Interested farmers, Water User Associations, and UT-based irrigation systems can contact the Office of the Executive Engineer (NRSE), Electricity Department, Opp. Marine Hall, Mohanpura, Sri Vijaya Puram, A&N Islands – 744101 for further details. The office can be reached at Ph: 03192-230276 during working hours.
The PM-KUSUM scheme is expected to significantly contribute to the adoption of renewable energy in the islands, reducing carbon emissions and ensuring a sustainable future for the agricultural sector. (Story Based on PR)