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Bhopal, Nov 18 (IANS) In a significant boost to farmers struggling with unreliable power and high irrigation costs, the Madhya Pradesh Cabinet has amended the PM Krishak Mitra Scheme to provide a whopping 90 per cent subsidy to temporary low capacity irrigation pump connection holders to upgrade to 7.5 horse power (HP) solar pumps.
Announcing the decision after the cabinet meeting, Deputy Chief Minister Rajendra Shukla said that about 3 lakh farmers of the state with temporary electricity connections will be given priority.
These farmers, who often use 3 HP or 5 HP pumps, will now bear only 10 percent of the installation cost, making solar irrigation highly economical.
“The scheme, launched on January 24, 2025, aims to transition farmers from irregular grid power or diesel dependence to clean, reliable solar energy,” Shukla told reporters.
“Limited central subsidies previously restricted coverage, but by shifting to solar pumps, both temporary and permanent connection holders will benefit immensely.”
Under the revised rules, eligible temporary connection holders can opt for 7.5 HP solar pumps at concessional rates.
Farmers will have to contribute only 10 per cent of the total cost, the rest will be covered through central and state subsidies, including support from schemes like PM-KUSUM.
There are around 20 lakh permanent irrigation connection holders in Madhya Pradesh and Shukla assured that the scheme will be extended to them also in the later phases. The move is expected to reduce electricity subsidies in the state while promoting renewable energy in agriculture.
This initiative addresses the long-standing problems of farmers in remote areas with intermittent connections, who face frequent power cuts and high operating costs. Solar pumps will ensure day time irrigation without dependence on the grid, thereby increasing crop yields and income.
Officials said the energy department will soon issue guidelines for applications with verification through the existing farmer database. This is in line with the Centre’s efforts for solarization of agriculture and Madhya Pradesh’s goal of sustainable farming.
The decision has been welcomed by farmer unions, who see it as a game-changer for small and marginal farmers.
With abundant sunlight, the state is set to take the lead in solar-powered irrigation, cutting carbon emissions and empowering the rural economy.
–IANS
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