How can the PM-KUSUM scheme be made more effective in promoting sustainable agriculture?

The PM-KUSUM (Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan) scheme was launched to promote solar energy in agriculture by providing farmers with solar pumps and supporting decentralized solar power plants. While the scheme has the potential to encourage sustainable agriculture, it faces several implementation challenges. Enhancing its effectiveness requires addressing these issues and making design improvements.

• Streamlining Subsidy Disbursement: Delays in subsidy release discourage farmer participation. Simplifying and speeding up the process through direct benefit transfer (DBT) can improve uptake.
• Awareness and Capacity Building: Many farmers, especially small and marginal ones, lack awareness about the scheme and its benefits. Conducting targeted awareness campaigns and training programs can increase participation.
• Customizing Solutions for Small Farmers: The current scheme often benefits larger farmers. Introducing smaller capacity pumps and group-based solar plants can make the scheme more inclusive for small and marginal farmers.
• Ensuring Reliable Grid Connectivity: Inadequate grid infrastructure in rural areas hampers the sale of surplus solar power. Upgrading rural grid infrastructure and providing assured buy-back mechanisms can incentivize farmers.
• Promoting Water-Use Efficiency: Solar pumps can lead to over-extraction of groundwater. Linking the scheme with micro-irrigation and promoting water-saving practices can ensure resource sustainability.
• Encouraging Private Sector Participation: Involving private players in installation, maintenance, and financing can improve efficiency and reduce costs.
• Monitoring and Evaluation: Establishing robust monitoring mechanisms and feedback systems can help identify bottlenecks and make timely corrections.
• Ease of Access to Credit: Many farmers face difficulty in accessing institutional credit for upfront costs. Facilitating easy and affordable credit through banks and cooperatives can boost adoption.
• Integration with Other Schemes: Synergizing PM-KUSUM with schemes like PMFBY (crop insurance) and PMKSY (micro-irrigation) can maximize benefits and promote holistic sustainable agriculture.