How Does the MP Cabinet's Amendment to the PM Krishak Mitra Yojana Benefit Farmers?
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Synopsis
Discover how Madhya Pradesh's cabinet has amended the PM Krishak Mitra Yojana, providing a stunning 90% subsidy for farmers to upgrade to solar pumps. This initiative promises to revolutionize irrigation practices and bolster the agricultural sector, addressing long-standing electricity issues while promoting renewable energy.
Key Takeaways
- 90% subsidy for solar pump installation.
- Targeted at 300,000 farmers with temporary connections.
- Farmers contribute only 10% of the cost.
- Initiative aims to promote renewable energy in agriculture.
- Future phases will cover 2 million permanent connection holders.
Bhopal, Nov 18 (NationPress) In a major enhancement for farmers facing challenges with inconsistent electricity and soaring irrigation expenses, the Madhya Pradesh cabinet has revised the PM Krishak Mitra Yojana to offer an impressive 90 percent subsidy for users of temporary low-capacity irrigation pump connections, facilitating their upgrade to 7.5 horsepower (HP) solar pumps.
After the cabinet meeting, Deputy Chief Minister Rajendra Shukla announced that priority will be extended to the state's approximately 300,000 farmers with temporary electricity connections.
Farmers currently utilizing 3 HP or 5 HP pumps will now only have to cover 10 percent of the installation costs, rendering solar irrigation exceptionally affordable.
Shukla informed reporters, "Initiated on January 24, 2025, this scheme aims to transition farmers away from erratic grid power or diesel reliance towards clean, reliable solar energy."
Previously limited central subsidies have hindered coverage, but the switch to solar pumps will greatly benefit both temporary and permanent connection holders.
According to the new regulations, qualifying temporary connection holders can choose 7.5 HP solar pumps at subsidized rates.
Farmers are required to pay just 10 percent of the total cost, with the rest funded through central and state subsidies, including assistance from programs like PM-KUSUM.
Madhya Pradesh has about 2 million permanent irrigation connection holders, and Shukla assured that the scheme will be expanded to them in future phases. This initiative is anticipated to decrease electricity subsidies in the state while fostering renewable energy in agriculture.
The endeavor addresses long-standing challenges faced by farmers in remote areas with temporary connections who often encounter power outages and elevated operational costs. Solar pumps will guarantee daytime irrigation without reliance on the grid, enhancing crop yields and farmers' income.
Officials indicated that the Energy Department will soon release guidelines for applications, with verification conducted through existing farmer databases. This aligns with the Centre's initiative for solarizing agriculture and Madhya Pradesh's objective of sustainable farming.
The decision has garnered positive feedback from farmer unions, who regard it as a transformative measure for small and marginal cultivators.
With abundant sunlight, the state is set to excel in solar-powered irrigation, reducing carbon emissions and empowering rural economies.
Point of View
The government is addressing critical challenges faced by farmers. This initiative not only promotes renewable energy but also aims to improve crop yields and farmers' livelihoods. As such, it deserves recognition and support from all stakeholders involved in the agricultural sector.
NationPress
18/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the PM Krishak Mitra Yojana?
The PM Krishak Mitra Yojana is a government initiative aimed at providing financial support to farmers in Madhya Pradesh, enabling them to access reliable irrigation solutions.
How much subsidy is provided for solar pumps?
Farmers can receive a subsidy of 90 percent for upgrading to 7.5 HP solar pumps.
Who is eligible for this subsidy?
The subsidy is available for farmers with temporary low-capacity irrigation pump connections in Madhya Pradesh.
What percentage of the installation cost do farmers have to pay?
Farmers are required to pay only 10 percent of the total installation cost.
How does this initiative benefit farmers?
By upgrading to solar pumps, farmers can ensure reliable irrigation without depending on the grid, which can help increase crop yields and reduce operational costs.
