How do I apply for a solar pump under PM-KUSUM and what is the order of steps?

For a standalone off grid solar pump you are looking at PM-KUSUM Component B, while Component C is for solarising an existing grid connected pump and Component A is for larger ground or barren land solar plants. Most individual farmers apply under Component B. The steps are: register on your state nodal agency or DISCOM portal when the application window opens, since many states run it in batches rather than always open. Keep ready Aadhaar, land record, bank passbook, photo, and any water source or pump capacity proof the state asks. Choose the pump capacity that matches your water requirement, usually based on your land and crop. Pay your farmer share, which is commonly in the range of about 30 to 40 percent of the benchmark cost after the central and state subsidy, though the split varies by state. After selection and payment, an empanelled vendor installs the panels and pump and the agency verifies it before commissioning. The benchmark cost, the exact farmer share, the open or closed status of the window, and the approved vendor list all differ by state and change over time, so confirm the current scheme details and empanelled vendors on your state PM-KUSUM portal before applying.