Farmers in Prayagraj are witnessing significant relief in irrigation costs under the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha Evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan, a flagship solar initiative aimed at promoting renewable energy in agriculture.
Deputy Director of Agriculture Pawan Kumar Vishwakarma said the district achieved 100 per cent of its 2025–26 target of installing 254 units under the scheme, with 302 farmers already taking tokens to avail its benefits. He added that the Government of Uttar Pradesh is actively promoting solar adoption among farmers and consumers, allocating Rs 1,500 crore in the latest state budget for PM Kusum and related solar initiatives.
Under the scheme, farmers receive up to 90% government assistance, 30% subsidy each from the Centre and the state, along with 30% support through financial institutions, leaving only 10 % as their contribution.
Neetu Mishra, a marginal farmer from Meja, shared that installing two solar units has eliminated electricity and diesel expenses for her tubewell and polyhouse. Solar pumps not only support irrigation but also enable farmers to sell surplus power to distribution companies, while existing diesel and electric pumps can be converted to solar-powered systems.
