Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 18 February 2025
The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has sanctioned solar pump projects under the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthan Mahabhiyan (PM-KUSUM) scheme for the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The scheme, launched in March 2019, aims to reduce dependence on diesel-powered agricultural pumps and boost farmers’ income through solar energy adoption. The Electricity Department of the Andaman & Nicobar Administration is implementing the scheme, which includes 34 standalone solar pumps under Component-B and 436 individual grid-connected solar pumps under Component-C (Individual Pump Solarisation – IPS) for the financial year 2024-25.
Component-B supports the installation of standalone solar agricultural pumps or the replacement of existing diesel irrigation systems in off-grid areas. Priority is given to small and marginal farmers, particularly those using micro-irrigation. Pumps above 7.5 HP may be permitted, but the Central Financial Assistance (CFA) will be limited to the subsidy applicable for a 7.5 HP pump. The maximum solar PV capacity (in kW) is limited according to the pump capacity (in HP), per MNRE specifications.
Component-C aims to solarize grid-connected agricultural pumps to provide reliable daytime power to farmers. Under this component, farmers can generate additional income by selling surplus solar power to the Electricity Department. It allows the installation of solar PV capacity up to twice the pump’s power capacity, enabling both irrigation and surplus energy sale.
The financial assistance structure of the scheme includes a 50% central subsidy of the benchmark or tender cost (whichever is lower), with farmers required to contribute 20% through self-financing or a bank loan. Additionally, a 30% Union Territory (UT) subsidy is expected to be notified upon approval, further reducing costs for farmers.
Interested farmers, Water User Associations, and UT-based irrigation systems can obtain more details by contacting the Office of the Executive Engineer (NRSE), Electricity Department, Opp. Marine Hall, Mohanpura, Sri Vijaya Puram, Andaman & Nicobar Islands – 744101, or calling 03192-230276 during working hours. (Story Based on a PR)