The “Magel Tyala Saur Krushi Pump Yojana” is a progressive initiative by the Government of Maharashtra to empower farmers with sustainable and independent irrigation facilities through solar-powered agricultural pumps. This scheme ensures reliable daytime power for farming, reducing dependence on traditional electricity and eliminating issues like load shedding.
Objective of the Scheme
Due to inconsistent electricity supply in many rural areas, farmers in Maharashtra often face difficulties with timely irrigation. To solve this, the government has launched several solar pump schemes over the years, such as the Atal Saur Krushi Pump Yojana, Mukhyamantri Saur Krushi Pump Yojana, and PM Kusum Yojana – Component B. The latest addition, Magel Tyala Saur Krushi Pump Yojana, ensures any farmer with an assured water source can apply for a solar pump.
As of September 6, 2024, a total of 2,63,156 solar pumps have been installed under various solar pump schemes across Maharashtra.
Salient Features of the Scheme
- Self-reliant and sustainable irrigation for farmers.
- Only 10% cost for general category farmers; the rest is subsidized by Central & State Governments.
- Only 5% contribution required for SC/ST farmers.
- Solar pumps available in 3 HP, 5 HP, and 7.5 HP capacities based on landholding.
- Five-year maintenance warranty including insurance.
- No electricity bills, no fuel costs, no load shedding worries.
- Reliable daytime electricity for irrigation.
- One-time investment for long-term savings.
Benefits of the Scheme
- Daytime irrigation without power cuts.
- No more electricity or diesel bills.
- Low maintenance and free warranty for 5 years.
- Safe, environment-friendly, and cost-effective.
- Boosts crop yield with timely irrigation.
How Does a Solar Pump Work?
A solar pump consists of solar panels, a motor, and a control unit. The panels absorb sunlight and convert it into DC power, which drives the motor to lift water from the ground or nearby sources. If an AC motor is used, the system includes an inverter to convert DC to AC. This setup works efficiently during daylight hours and eliminates the need for grid power.
Beneficiary Selection Criteria
- 3 HP Pump: For farmers owning up to 2.5 acres of agricultural land.
- 5 HP Pump: For 2.51 to 5 acres.
- 7.5 HP Pump: For more than 5 acres.
- Farmers with fewer land holdings can also opt for lower capacity pumps if desired.
Additional eligibility:
- Must have an assured water source like a well, borewell, farm pond, or land near a perennial river/stream.
- Water conservation reservoirs are not allowed as sources.
- Farmers who have not availed benefits from earlier schemes (Atal Saur Krushi Pump Yojana 1 & 2, Mukhyamantri Saur Krushi Pump Yojana) are eligible.
- Individual or group ownership of water sources is accepted.
How to Apply?
Eligible farmers can apply online through the official MSEDCL portal:
https://www.mahadiscom.in/solar_MTSKPY/index.php
Fill in the A-1 application form and upload the required documents.
Once the application is submitted, the farmer receives a unique beneficiary number via SMS.
Updates on each step of the process are sent via SMS.
Applicants can track the status online.
Documents Required
- 7/12 land extract (must show the water source).
- Aadhaar card of the applicant.
- Caste certificate for SC/ST farmers.
- No Objection Certificate (NOC) if the land or water source is not in the applicant’s name.
- NOC from Ground Water Survey Department if the borewell is in a dark zone.
- Mobile number and email ID for communication.
Where Should the Solar Pump Be Installed?
- Solar panels should be placed in an open, shadow-free location.
- Keep panels clean and safe from bird droppings and dust.
- Install panels close to the water source for efficient setup.
- The pump should be within the same vicinity for seamless operation.
Pump Capacity Eligibility Table
| Land Holding | Eligible Pump Capacity |
|---|---|
| Up to 2.5 acres | 3 HP |
| 2.51 to 5 acres | 5 HP |
| Above 5 acres | 7.5 HP |
Note: Farmers can request a pump with lower capacity than eligible if preferred.