Q. With reference to the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan (PM-KUSUM) Scheme, consider the following statements:
1.It aims to provide financial subsidies for the purchase and use of electric farm equipment, promoting sustainable agriculture.
2.Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare is responsible for implementing the scheme.
3.It also provides uninterrupted power supply to farmers.
Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct?
Explanations –
Statements 1 and 2 are incorrect. The PM-KUSUM Scheme primarily focuses on promoting solar energy in agriculture through the installation of solar-powered pumps and renewable energy plants. It provides financial assistance for solar pumps and solarization of grid-connected pumps to reduce dependence on diesel and grid electricity. The PM-KUSUM Scheme is implemented by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE).
Statement 3 is correct. The scheme ensures a dependable source of power for farmers through solar energy, which can lead to uninterrupted power supply for irrigation purposes. It also allows farmers to generate surplus solar power that can be sold back to DISCOMs, enhancing their income while ensuring energy security.
Source: AIR
