23-04-2025
State to initiate talks with Centre to implement KUSUM-A scheme: Min
Chikkamagaluru:
Energy Minister KJ George
said that the state govt is planning to initiate talks with Union govt to implement the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha Evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan scheme (KUSUM-A). The scheme is designed to promote local generation and consumption of solar power, particularly among farmers and rural communities.
George disclosed this during the inauguration of the Amrit Mahotsava programme at the TAPCMS in Kadur. He mentioned that the KUSUM-B scheme (solar-powered agricultural pumpsets) and the KUSUM-C scheme (solarisation of agricultural feeders) are being implemented in the state. In addition, there are plans to introduce the
KUSUM-A scheme
as well.
He stated that the KUSUM-A scheme allows farmers, farmer groups, cooperative societies, panchayats, farmer producer organisations, and water user associations to set up solar power plants with capacities ranging from 500 kilowatts to a maximum of two megawatts, located within 5 kms of electricity substations. They can use the electricity generated, and the govt will purchase any surplus. This initiative will help address power shortages and provide farmers with additional income. Discussions will be held with Union ministers to implement the KUSUM-A scheme, he said.
"The KUSUM-B scheme, which offers solar pumpsets to farmers through subsidies, is already in progress. Farmers are required to drill a borewell and, if water is found, apply online. After verification, the scheme will be rolled out, and 12 contractors have been selected for this task. The contractors will install the borewell's motor, panel, and pipes. Farmers will bear 20% of the total cost, while the state govt will contribute 50%. The central govt will cover the remaining amount. The central govt approved the installation of 40,000 pumpsets by the end of December," George added.
"To promote power generation, plans are under way to set up an additional solar park on 10,000 acres, complementing the existing 2,050-megawatt solar park in Pavagada. With this expansion, Pavagada Solar Park will once again become the largest solar park in the world," the energy minister said.
"It is essential to establish more farmers' markets (Raitha Bazaars) to ensure farmers receive fair prices for their produce. Given the high demand for organic products in international markets, farmers should focus on cultivating these crops. Govt will fully support this initiative," George added.
Kadur MLA KS Anand chaired the event. Bhadra-CADA chairman KP Amshumanth, municipal council president Bhandari Srinivas, and other municipal members were present.
