NEW DELHI: The Government is yet to formalise the funding process for the ‘Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan (KUSUM), the Centre’s flagship scheme to distribute solar power pumps.
The Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Power and Renewable Energy, R K Singh, informed the Lok Sabha that the Government is still in the process of formulating KUSUM. “Details on funds and mode of implementation will be decided on approval of the scheme,” he said.
This scheme was announced over a month ago in the Union Budget 2018-2019. KUSUM will enable setting up of grid-connected solar power plants, and standalone off-grid solar water pumps. Solarisation of existing grid-connected agriculture pumps along with tube-wells and lift irrigation projects of Government sector are also covered under this scheme.
The scheme aims to make farmers independent of grid supply and also enable them to sell surplus solar power to Discoms and get an extra income. Solar water pumps are to be installed in remote areas for irrigation needs.
Source: thehindubusinessline
