PM-KUSUM Scheme Extended to 2028 with Enhanced Subsidies
The Union Government has extended the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan (PM-KUSUM) until March 2028.
Key Points for Quick Revision
- PM-KUSUM extended until March 2028 to meet original targets.
- The scheme aims to add a solar capacity of 34.8 GW by the end of the period.
- It consists of three components: A, B, and C, targeting different solarization needs.
- Farmers can sell surplus power generated from solar plants back to the grid.
How This Topic is Tested in Competitive Exams
| Exam | Frequency | Approx. Marks | What Gets Asked |
|---|---|---|---|
| SSC (CGL / CHSL / MTS) | Very High | 5–8 | Government schemes are one of the most tested topics in SSC CGL and CHSL GK sections. |
| Banking (IBPS / SBI) | High | 4–6 | Financial inclusion schemes, Jan Dhan, PMSBY, and credit guarantee schemes are key banking exam topics. |
| UPSC / State PCS | High | 8–12 | UPSC tests implementation, target beneficiaries, and outcomes — not just scheme names. |
| State PCS / PSC | Very High | 6–10 | Both central and state schemes are tested extensively in state PCS papers. |
What to Memorize from This Topic
- Scheme: full name, ministry, launch date, objective
- Financial figures: allocation, beneficiaries reached so far
- Eligibility: who can benefit (age, income, gender, area)
- Implementing agency: central, state, or both
- Related amendments or extensions: any recent modifications to the scheme
Practice Questions
Q1. What is the primary objective of the PM-KUSUM scheme?
- To provide free seeds to farmers
- To solarize the agricultural sector and provide energy security
- To build cold storage facilities
- To provide crop insurance
Explanation: PM-KUSUM focuses on providing solar-powered irrigation and energy security to farmers.
Q2. Which ministry is responsible for the implementation of the PM-KUSUM scheme?
- Ministry of Agriculture
- Ministry of Rural Development
- Ministry of New and Renewable Energy
- Ministry of Power
Explanation: The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) implements the PM-KUSUM scheme.
How to Prepare Government Schemes for Government Exams
Create a scheme log: Name | Ministry | Target | Key Feature. Add every new scheme as it appears. Review this weekly.
Focus on 'Flagship' schemes: PM-KISAN, PMAY, Ayushman Bharat, PM SVANidhi. These generate the most questions.
For UPSC, understand the policy objective behind the scheme — income support, housing, health insurance. The 'why' matters more than the name.