PM-KUSUM Scheme Phase 4 Launched to Solarize 20 Lakh Additional Farmers
The government has launched Phase 4 of the PM-KUSUM scheme, aiming to provide solar pumps and solarize existing grid-connected pumps for 20 lakh more farmers.
Key Points for Quick Revision
- Phase 4 of PM-KUSUM launched on May 5, 2026.
- Target to solarize 20 lakh additional farmers by 2028.
- Increased subsidy for North-Eastern and Himalayan states.
- Aims to provide energy security and additional income to farmers.
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. |
| State PCS / PSC | Very High | 6–10 | Both central and state schemes are tested extensively in state PCS papers. |
| UPSC / State PCS | High | 8–12 | UPSC tests implementation, target beneficiaries, and outcomes — not just scheme names. |
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
- To build rural roads
- To provide crop insurance
Explanation: PM-KUSUM aims to provide energy security to farmers through solar power.
Q2. Which ministry is responsible for the implementation of PM-KUSUM?
- Ministry of Agriculture
- Ministry of New and Renewable Energy
- Ministry of Power
- Ministry of Rural Development
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.